The Good
The 2012 Titan offers strong V8 performance, providing ample power for towing and hauling. Its comfortable interior and smooth ride enhance driving enjoyment. For practical buyers, it provides proven reliability and decent value for the money. The bold design appeals to those wanting a rugged and capable truck.
The Bad
The 2012 Titan's fuel economy is a known weakness, lagging behind some competitors. Some owners have reported issues with exhaust manifolds cracking. The interior, while comfortable, may not feel as modern as some rivals. Rust can also be a concern, especially in areas with harsh winters.
2012 Nissan Titan: Quick Overview
- Engine Options: All 2012 Titans came with a 5.6-liter V8 engine.
- Horsepower: The 5.6-liter V8 produces 317 horsepower and 385 lb-ft of torque.
- Fuel Economy:
- 2WD: 13 mpg city / 18 mpg highway
- 4WD: 12 mpg city / 17 mpg highway
- 0-60 Times: Approximately 7.5 seconds.
- Towing Capacity: Up to 9,500 pounds, depending on configuration.
- Trim-Level Features:
- S: Includes standard features like cloth upholstery, air conditioning, and a basic audio system.
- SV: Adds features like alloy wheels, power windows and locks, cruise control, and upgraded audio system.
- PRO-4X: Designed for off-road use, it includes features like skid plates, electronic locking rear differential, off-road tuned suspension, and unique interior and exterior trim.
- SL: The luxury trim includes leather upholstery, heated front seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, and premium audio system.
- Cab Styles: Available in King Cab and Crew Cab configurations. King Cab offers rear-hinged doors for rear passenger access, while Crew Cab provides full-size rear doors and more rear passenger space.
- Bed Lengths: Offered with different bed lengths depending on the cab style.
- Transmission: 5-speed automatic transmission.
2012 Nissan Titan Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2012 |
| Make | Nissan |
| Model | Titan |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Truck |
| Category | Standard Pickup Truck |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | Nissan Japan Prod. MPV |
| Manufacturing City | CANTON |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | 5556 pounds |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | 7200 pounds |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 5.6-L V-8 |
| Engine Size | 5.6L |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 |
| Transmission | Automatic 5-Speed |
| Transmission Type | Automatic |
| Transmission Speeds | 5-Speed |
| Drivetrain | Four-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | Standard |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | $36,050 |
| Invoice Price | $32,636 |
| Delivery Charges | $995 |
Vehicle History Report
Specifications
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Analysis
What Problems Does the 2012 Nissan Titan Have?
Transmission issues, while not widespread, have also been reported. Owners sometimes experience rough shifting or complete transmission failure, though this is less common than exhaust and rust problems. Electrical issues, such as problems with the gauge cluster or power windows, have been noted by some owners.
Long-term reliability can be affected by these issues. Regular maintenance, including rust prevention and timely repairs of any identified problems, is crucial to maximizing the lifespan of the 2012 Titan. Checking the vehicle's recall history and addressing any outstanding recalls is also important.
How long will the 2012 Nissan Titan last?
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Driver-assistance features are limited. It has standard antilock brakes and electronic stability control. Some trims offer rear parking sensors, but advanced safety features like blind-spot monitoring or lane departure warning were not available.
Safety features include standard front airbags, side-impact airbags, and side curtain airbags. The NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) gave the 2012 Titan Crew Cab 4 stars for overall safety. The IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) ratings vary, but generally, it performed acceptably in crash tests for its class.
Optional features included things like a bed extender, spray-in bed liner, and various towing packages to enhance its utility. While not packed with cutting-edge tech, the 2012 Titan prioritizes functionality and reliability in its feature set.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Interior Colors
2012 Nissan Titan Prices and Market Value
2012 Nissan Titan Cost of Ownership
2012 Nissan Titan Fuel Efficiency
2012 Nissan Titan Safety Rating
NHTSA
IIHS
2012 Nissan Titan Recalls & Defects
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2012 Nissan Titan Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2012 Nissan Titan Compare to Other Truck?
Price-wise, a used 2012 Titan can be more affordable than some competitors, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers. However, considering long-term ownership costs, a well-maintained Ford F-150 or Chevrolet Silverado from the same year might be a better alternative if reliability and fuel efficiency are top priorities. The Ram 1500 offers a more comfortable ride, but reliability can be similar to the Titan.
If off-roading is a key consideration, the Titan PRO-4X is a worthy contender. Ultimately, the best choice depends on individual needs and priorities, but carefully evaluating the Titan's strengths and weaknesses relative to its rivals is essential.
Ranks #221 Truck
| 1 | 2023 Toyota Tundra | (5.0★) |
| 2 | 2022 Honda Ridgeline | (5.0★) |
| 3 | 2023 Ford E-Transit Chassis | (0.0★) |
| 4 | 2020 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Cab Chassis | (0.0★) |
| 5 | 2024 Chevrolet Silverado 3500HD | (0.0★) |
| 6 | 2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz | (5.0★) |
| 7 | 2023 Nissan Frontier | (5.0★) |
| 8 | 2024 GMC Sierra 2500HD | (0.0★) |
| 9 | 2023 Ram 4500 | (0.0★) |
| 10 | 2022 Jeep Gladiator | (5.0★) |
| 11 | 2012 Suzuki Equator | (0.0★) |
| 12 | 2009 Mitsubishi Raider | (5.0★) |
| 221 | 2012 Nissan Titan | (5.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2012 Nissan Titan a Good Truck?
Mike on December 2, 2023
Had a 2004, upgraded to 2012This is my second Titan, my first was a 2004 that I wish I still had, but it was destroyed in a roll over accident on black ice. Well, all of the little things wrong with the original design have been fixed, like the front brakes. Bigger and better rotors were added, no more shimmy when they wear out. I took this one step further, and added a high performance brake kit to all 4, with slotted and drilled rotors, ceramic pads, and high performance calipers that are painted powder coat cherry red! Expensive yes (2K), but worth it, because the truck is so fast, you need better brakes to stop. I'm running synthetic Penz. like you other dudes, and a little Dura-Lube oil treatment, so that puppy screams. I will modify the exhaust next with the stainless headers, and the rest of that dual-exhaust kit. I'm running Goodyear ATs with Kevlar. Also looking for ideas on additional high performance parts, but not to crazy. The Titan is the best truck I've seen, it has never failed to start or perform when called to. The one I rolled over saved my life, because I self extricated and walked away from that situation. The Titan was not at fault, the black ice was undetectable until it was to late. I was in the right lane in 4 wheel drive, going 50mph when I flipped over, there was no glass left anywhere on the truck when I crawled out in the snow. My 2012 is greatly improved, and I do plan to keep all 4 wheels on the ground.
Howie on July 17, 2022
Near Perfect TruckI am the original owner of a 2012 4X4 Titan Crew Cab. The truck has 190,000 miles on it, engine is rock solid. I have always used synthetic oil, changed it every 5,000 miles, does not use/burn a drop of oil. The exhaust failed at 85,000 miles was replaced under warrantee, exhaust started to fail again at 150,000 miles I replaced it with stainless steel headers, cats and pipes. Rear axled failed at 90,000 miles and was replaced under warrantee. This is a work truck and always has 500
Hurricane kat on October 3, 2020
I think its a great truck.I Love the Nissan Titan , it's just a well built truck, it's powerful ,lots of leg room , tows easily & lots of extra perks as well and keeps going when others fail.
Fred A. on September 3, 2019
Good truckI bought this truck new and it has never failed me. It’s ready to go anytime I’m ready. Performance is good and it drives like a car instead of a truck. The SL model has everything including sun roof , navigation and DVD. I won’t trade it in for a new.
Truck lover on April 1, 2019
Engine lightAfter taking possession of vehicle she drove nice then I noticed the drive started getting rough and the engine light came on.....3months/3000 miles.....what a joke...!!!!
Kev on February 25, 2019
Very reliableGreat power great to drive. 4x4 is ready when you need it. Does the job. Road worthy on trips as well. One drive and you will enjoy
Sunny D KC on February 17, 2019
Other than gas mileage it’s a stealIf your looking for fuel economy, look elsewhere. If you’re looking for a high performing vehicle that goes beyond the 130,000 mile ‘American made’ vehicle standard, this make and model will meet and/or exceed your expectations. Interior is super spacious, clean but simple. Power is awesome, but you pay for it.
Trave on January 22, 2019
Best purchase I’ve madeI love the feel of driving this truck. 4x4 and very roomy. Stylish interior and exterior while leaving room for my own improvements. Smooth ride as well!
Kracker on August 10, 2018
Best Truck EverI am on my fourth Titan and have loved everyone of them the power is awesome and the interior is way better than reviewers are saying. The Rockford fosgate stereo is awesome though not as good as it could be but you won't notice. I had a 4 door long bed 2008.5 should have kept that one they are hard to find now.
Smoothy333 on August 2, 2018
Beauty & Reliability!What a jewel of a truck! I just adore my HMC SL Titan. Bought it new in 2012 and haven?t had a bit of a problem with it! Customized it to suit my own personal fancy with a sunroof, custom floor mats! Head unit with rear camera! Bug deflector and Michelin tires oh yeah Fiberglas bed top, heck I almost forgot duel exhaust!
Jovan
Jovan specializes in interpreting vehicle records and making sense of VIN data. With over 10 years of experience in the automotive data industry, his work ensures that every report is clear, accurate, and useful for car buyers.