2012 Nissan Altima
VIN: 1N4AL2AP1CN403663 | 2012 | Nissan North America, Inc. | CANTON, MISSISSIPPI, UNITED STATES (USA)
2012 Nissan Altima — 2.5L 4 Cyl, 4x2, Automatic. Sedan/Saloon.
C
65/100
Safety & Recall Score: Fair
This score reflects NHTSA safety data only — recalls, complaints, and crash ratings. It does not include title status, accident history, or odometer records. Verify hidden history with VIN Pro Plus →
Composite rating based on recalls, complaints, crash ratings, and vehicle age.
⚠ 4 recall campaigns
⚠ 426 owner complaints (high)
✓ VIN fully verified
VIN Decoded
VIN Verified- Official VIN decode record located
- Type: PASSENGER CAR
- Body: Sedan/Saloon
- Plant: CANTON, MISSISSIPPI, UNITED STATES (USA)
NHTSA Recalls
4 Recall Campaigns- NISSAN IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2012 ALTIMA AND...
- NISSAN IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2012 NISSAN ALTIMA...
- Nissan is recalling certain model year 2012-2013 Altima vehicles...
Owner Complaints
426 filed with NHTSA- am submitting a formal safety defect report regarding the...
- Took the car to a repair shop to get...
Fuel Economy
26 MPG Combined- City: 23 MPG
- Hwy: 32 MPG
- Combined: 26 MPG
- Fuel: Gasoline
Technical Specifications
Vehicle Overview
VIN
1N4AL2AP1CN403663
Model Year
2012
Make
Nissan
Model
Altima
Body Style
Sedan/Saloon
Vehicle Type
PASSENGER CAR
Doors
4
Seats
Not reported by manufacturer
Seat Rows
Not reported by manufacturer
Drive Type
4x2
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Transmission
Automatic
Engine
2.5L 4 Cyl
Manufacturer
Nissan North America, Inc.
Plant Location
CANTON, MISSISSIPPI, UNITED STATES (USA)
Country of Origin
UNITED STATES (USA)
VIN Breakdown
Position 1 — WMI Region
1 → United States
Position 2 — Manufacturer
N → Nissan North America, Inc.
Position 3 — Vehicle Type
4 → PASSENGER CAR
Positions 4–8 — Descriptor
AL2AP → Altima Not available
Position 9 — Check Digit
1 → ✓ Valid
Position 10 — Model Year
C → 2012
Position 11 — Plant Code
N → CANTON, MISSISSIPPI, UNITED STATES (USA)
Positions 12–17 — Serial
403663 → Production sequence
Engine & Powertrain
Cylinders
4 Cyl
Displacement
2.5 L
Displacement CC
2500.0
Displacement CI
152.55936023683
Horsepower
170 hp
Drive Type
4x2
Fuel Type Primary
Gasoline
Fuel Economy & Environmental Impact
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Combined MPG
26 MPG
City MPG
23 MPG
Hwy MPG
32 MPG
Annual Fuel Cost
$2,450
5-Yr Fuel Cost
$12,250
CO₂ Emissions
341.8 g/mi
Barrels/Year
11.44
Safety & Driver Assistance
ABS
Not reported in manufacturer data
ESC
Not reported in manufacturer data
Traction Control
Not reported in manufacturer data
TPMS
Standard (Federal Req.)
Forward Collision Warn
Not reported in manufacturer data
Lane Departure Warning
Not reported in manufacturer data
Lane Keep System
Not reported in manufacturer data
Blind Spot Monitoring
Not reported in manufacturer data
Blind Spot Intervention
Not reported in manufacturer data
Rear Cross Traffic Alert
Not reported in manufacturer data
Adaptive Cruise Control
Not reported in manufacturer data
Parking Assist
Not reported in manufacturer data
Dynamic Brake Support
Not reported in manufacturer data
Pedestrian AEB
Not reported in manufacturer data
Rear Auto Braking
Not reported in manufacturer data
Auto Reverse System
Not reported in manufacturer data
Daytime Running Lights
Not reported in manufacturer data
Adaptive Driving Beam
Not reported in manufacturer data
Keyless Ignition
Not reported in manufacturer data
Auto High Beams
Not reported in manufacturer data
Front Airbags
1st Row (Driver and Passenger)
Side Airbags
1st Row (Driver and Passenger)
Curtain Airbags
1st and 2nd Rows
Knee Airbags
Not reported in manufacturer data
Seat Belt Type
Manual
Pretensioner
Not reported in manufacturer data
Brake System
Not reported in manufacturer data
Steering Location
Not reported in manufacturer data
Vehicle Dimensions & Weight
GVWR
Class 1: 6,000 lb or less (2,722 kg or less)
Doors
4
Towing & Utility
GVWR
Class 1: 6,000 lb or less (2,722 kg or less)
Drive Type
4x2
Wheels & Tires
TPMS
Standard (Federal Req.)
Manufacturing & Identity
Manufacturer
Nissan North America, Inc.
Manufacturer ID
997
Make ID
478
Model ID
1904
Plant Company
Canton Plant
Plant City
CANTON
Plant State
MISSISSIPPI
Plant Country
UNITED STATES (USA)
Vehicle Descriptor
1N4AL2AP*CN
GVWR
Class 1: 6,000 lb or less (2,722 kg or less)
Recall & Safety Summary
Total Recalls
4
Recall Status
Recall campaigns found
Recall Campaigns
4 recall campaigns identified
VIN repair status unknown — verify open recalls with NHTSA or a Nissan dealer.
✅ Pre-Purchase Checklist
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Verify All Recalls Are FixedVisit the Nissan dealer with this VIN to confirm all 4 recalls are resolved.
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Negotiate Using This ReportUse the 4 recall campaigns as leverage for a lower price.
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Estimated Market Value
Based on vehicle age, class, trim & U.S. market conditions
Market estimate
$3,800–$6,000
Based on vehicle class, age, trim, and U.S. market trends. Verify with Kelley Blue Book or Edmunds for mileage-adjusted value.
💡 This is a general estimate, not real data for this specific vehicle. Get the real, transaction-based Verified Market Value with VIN Pro Plus — $4.99 →
📚 Helpful Vehicle Resources
Safety Ratings
Overall Rating
Not available
Front Crash Rating
Not available
Side Crash Rating
Not available
Rollover Risk
5 Stars
Safety Recalls
AIR BAGS:SIDE/WINDOW
NISSAN IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2012 ALTIMA AND VERSA VEHICLES. THESE VEHICLES MAY BE EQUIPPED WITH SIDE CURTAIN AIR BAGS THAT CONTAIN AN INCORRECT PROPELLANT MIXTURE FOR THE INITIATOR COMPONENT USED, RESULTING IN INSUFFICIENT OUTPUT OF COMPRESSED GAS.
Risk: THE SIDE CURTAIN AIR BAGS MAY NOT DEPLOY, INCREASING THE RISK OF INJURY.
Remedy: NISSAN WILL NOTIFY OWNERS, AND DEALERS WILL REPLACE ONE OR BOTH SIDE CURTAIN AIR BAG MODULES, AS NECESSARY, FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL...
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:SENSOR/CONTROL MODULE-INACTIVE
NISSAN IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2012 NISSAN ALTIMA VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM JUNE 15, 2011, THROUGH JUNE 21, 2011 AND MODEL YEAR 2012 NISSAN NV VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM JUNE 23, 2011, THROUGH JUNE 28, 2011 BECAUSE THE AIR BAG CONTROL...
Risk: THE AFFECTED ACU WILL NOT OPERATE AS DESIGNED AND THIS ISSUE MAY CAUSE THE AIR BAGS NOT TO INFLATE IN A CRASH WHEN THEY...
Remedy: NISSAN WILL REPLACE THE AIR BAG CONTROL UNIT FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON AUGUST 22, 2011. OWNERS MAY CONTACT NISSAN AT...
STEERING
Nissan is recalling certain model year 2012-2013 Altima vehicles manufactured from May 10, 2012, through July 26, 2012. These vehicles may have been equipped with transverse link bolts and power steering rack bolts that were not torqued to proper specification.
Risk: The affected bolts could become loose and fall out which may lead to a loss of vehicle control, increasing the risk of a vehicle...
Remedy: Nissan will notify owners, and dealers will tighten the bolts to the proper torque specifications. The safety recall is expected to begin during November...
SUSPENSION
NISSAN IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2011-2012 NISSAN ALTIMA SEDAN VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM APRIL 25, 2011, THROUGH JUNE 10, 2011 AT THE CANTON, MISSISSIPPI PLANT. THE TRANSVERSE LINK BOLT MAY NOT HAVE BEEN TORQUED TO THE PROPER SPECIFICATION. THIS CONDITION...
Risk: IF THE BOLT COMES OUT COMPLETELY, THE DRIVER MAY EXPERIENCE DIFFICULTY CONTROLLING THE DIRECTION OF THE VEHICLE WHICH COULD RESULT IN A CRASH.
Remedy: NISSAN WILL REPLACE THE TRANSVERSE LINK BOLTS AND NUTS AND TIGHTEN THEM TO THE PROPER TORQUE SPECIFICATION FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN...
Service bulletins and open investigations aren't part of this report. You can search them for free on NHTSA's site.
Finance & Cost Estimates
🔧 Service & Parts for this 2012 Nissan Altima
$1,430/yr
Estimated Annual Insurance (national avg — varies by driver, location & coverage)
5-Year Cost of Ownership (estimate)
Insurance (5yr)
$7,150
Maintenance (5yr)
$7,500
5-Yr Fuel Cost (EPA)
$12,250
Depreciation (5yr est.)
$2,700
⛽ Fuel Cost Calculator
🏢 Find Nissan Dealers
Get this VIN's recalls resolved, service appointments, and CPO program details from an authorized Nissan dealer.
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Run Free NICB Check for 1N4AL2AP1CN403663 →State Emissions & Lemon Law
Emissions Testing & Lemon Law by State
Select any state to see its current emissions testing requirements and lemon law protections.
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OBD-II Check Engine Code Lookup
🔧 Check Engine Light Code Lookup
Enter a code from your OBD-II scanner, pick from the dropdown, or tap a common code chip below.
Common:
Owner Complaints
am submitting a formal safety defect report regarding the...
am submitting a formal safety defect report regarding the steering system on my 2012 Nissan Altima Coupe. The vehicle exhibits a loose and unstable steering feel, accompanied by...
Took the car to a repair shop to get...
Took the car to a repair shop to get an alignment. Was told that the frame rear cross member was so rusty that it needed to be replaced,...
I was working, and as I was on my...
I was working, and as I was on my way to a location a lady in front of me came to a complete stop since a couple of...
215/60/r16 Driving down, interstate st 70 steering wheel started...
215/60/r16 Driving down, interstate st 70 steering wheel started to shake, then load noise as if running over something, then could see the entire middle tread of the...
I am reporting a potential unintended automatic emergency braking...
I am reporting a potential unintended automatic emergency braking event involving a 2025 Tesla Cybertruck. On 23Mar2026, at approximately 40 mph, I was traveling behind a Tesla Cybertruck...
There is a recall for the manufacturer emissions that...
There is a recall for the manufacturer emissions that the website doesn’t have on this car.
I drove out of town about 40 miles and...
I drove out of town about 40 miles and everything was fine, next day went to leave to come home and immediately noticed high RPMs going about 20MPH....
The vehicle is unsafe to driver and others on...
The vehicle is unsafe to driver and others on the road. The power steering hose has had a leak since it was manufactured and was not fixed by...
Showing 8 of 426 complaints. View all on NHTSA →
Maintenance Schedule
Current
Oil & Filter Change
Every 7,500 mi
Nissan recommended interval
Due Now
Air Filter (Engine)
Every 15,000–30,000 mi
Dirty filter reduces fuel economy by up to 10%
Due Now
Cabin Air Filter
Every 15,000–25,000 mi
Affects AC, heat, and air quality
Current
Tire Rotation
Every 5,000–7,500 mi
Extends tire life by 25–40%
Due Soon
Brake Inspection
Every 12 months or 15,000 mi
Brake pads typically last 30,000–70,000 mi depending on driving
Due Now
Spark Plugs
Every 30,000–100,000 mi
Copper plugs every 30k; iridium/platinum every 60–100k
Due Now
Coolant Flush
Every 30,000 mi or 5 years
Old coolant becomes acidic and damages the cooling system
Due Now
Transmission Fluid
Every 30,000–60,000 mi
Neglected fluid leads to expensive transmission repairs
Due Now
Brake Fluid Flush
Every 2 years
Brake fluid absorbs moisture, lowering boiling point
Due Now
Battery Test
Every 3–5 years
12V batteries typically last 3–5 years
Due Now
Drive Belt Inspection
Every 60,000–100,000 mi
Serpentine belt failure leaves you stranded
This schedule is a general reference based on make, model year, and powertrain. Always follow your owner's manual for exact intervals.
Additional Tools & Information
Estimated depreciation for this 2012 NISSAN Altima based on vehicle class and age. These are projections from today’s general estimate, not past sale prices. Verify with KBB or Edmunds for mileage-adjusted value.
Now
$4,900
+1 yr
$4,300
-12%
+2 yr
$3,800
-22%
+3 yr
$3,300
-32%
Estimates based on vehicle class averages. Actual values vary by mileage, condition, and location.
Estimated annual cost to own this vehicle at average U.S. driving conditions.
Insurance
$1,430/yr
23%
Maintenance
$1,500/yr
24%
Fuel/Energy
$2,450/yr
40%
Depreciation
$540/yr
9%
Registration
$250/yr
4%
Estimated Total Annual Cost
$6,170/yr
National averages. Registration varies by state. Does not include parking, tolls, or loan interest.
7.2
/ 10
Rank #10 overall
36 issues / 100 vehicles
Nissan Reliability
Nissan reliability varies. CVT transmissions on some models have drawn complaints; V6 models generally rate better.
General editorial reference for this manufacturer, not a live or VIN-specific measurement — see the sources below for detailed, current data.
Use this checklist to track which recalls have been resolved. All recall repairs are free at authorized dealerships.
Feb 14, 2012
Sep 8, 2011
Oct 10, 2012
Jul 19, 2011
Vehicles in a similar class to the 2012 NISSAN Altima:
This vehicle is older, so current-market prices for these alternatives wouldn't be a fair comparison — research period-correct pricing for each instead.
Private Party
$3,300–$5,500
No warranty · Lower price · Inspect first
Dealer (Used)
$4,000–$6,600
Some warranty · Financing available
Negotiation tip:
This vehicle model has 4 recall campaigns on file. Use this as leverage — ask the seller to confirm this specific VIN's recalls are resolved, or reduce the price accordingly. Unresolved recalls cost dealers time and money to fix.
Automated checks against common VIN fraud indicators. Always verify with a paid history report and independent inspection.
✓
Check digit (position 9) validates
✓
VIN is exactly 17 characters
✓
No invalid characters (I, O, Q not present)
✓
Year position (pos 10) matches decoded model year
✓
Manufacturer decodes to a known brand
✓
Not a repeated-character test/placeholder VIN
Manual checks to do in person: Compare the VIN on the dashboard (visible through windshield), driver door jamb sticker, engine block, and title — all must match exactly. A cloned or re-VINed vehicle will show inconsistencies.
⚠ Always check the tire placard on the driver door jamb for the exact manufacturer-specified PSI for your vehicle.
Front Tires
32 PSI (typical)
See door jamb
Rear Tires
32 PSI (typical)
See door jamb
Spare Tire
60 PSI (typical)
Check monthly
Rotation Pattern Guide
FWD: Front to rear straight, rear cross to front
RWD: Rear to front straight, front cross to rear
AWD/4WD: Full X-pattern every 5,000–7,500 mi
Staggered: Side-to-side only if non-directional tires
Recommended rotation interval: every 5,000–7,500 miles. Rotate with every other oil change for best results.
❄ Winter Prep
✓ Check antifreeze concentration (minimum -34°F protection)
✓ Test battery — cold temps reduce capacity 30–60%
✓ Verify tire tread depth (4/32" minimum for snow traction)
✓ Consider winter tires if driving in snow or ice regions
✓ Replace wiper blades and refill washer fluid (-20°F rated)
✓ Test heater, front/rear defroster, and heated seats if equipped
✓ Inspect fuel lines and check for water in fuel system
☀ Summer Prep
✓ Check coolant level and test radiator cap pressure seal
✓ Inspect serpentine belt for cracking or glazing
✓ Test A/C system output and replace cabin air filter if needed
✓ Check tire pressure — heat increases PSI (recheck cold in a.m.)
✓ Inspect brake pads and rotors before summer road trips
✓ Check transmission fluid color and level
✓ Top off all fluids: brake, power steering, coolant, washer
Original Nissan Factory Warranty
Basic / Bumper-to-Bumper
3yr/36k
Has likely ended
Powertrain
5yr/60k
Has likely ended
Corrosion / Rust
5yr/unlimited
Has likely ended
Estimated from the model year only. Factory coverage runs from the vehicle's original sale date, which this report can't confirm, and mileage limits can end coverage sooner. Verify remaining coverage with a Nissan dealer using the VIN.
Third-Party Extended Warranty Options
CARCHEX
Get Quote →
A+ BBB-rated. 6 plan tiers, up to 500k miles.
Endurance
Get Quote →
Direct-pay at any ASE-certified mechanic.
AUTOPOM!
Get Quote →
Month-to-month plans, high-mileage coverage.
Estimate total fuel cost and stops for any road trip in this 2012 NISSAN Altima.
Steps to get the best price when selling this 2012 NISSAN Altima:
📄 Service records
Buyers pay more for documented maintenance history. Even basic oil change receipts add value.
🔍 Resolve all recalls
Unresolved recalls suppress resale value and are easy objections for buyers. Fix them free at any dealership.
🚗 Professional detail
A full detail ($150–$300) typically returns $500–$1,500 in perceived value, especially on dark-colored vehicles.
📷 Photograph in good light
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🗂 Vehicle history report link
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🔍 Price using real comps
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⚠ Check recall status first
This vehicle model has 4 recall campaigns on file. Confirming this specific VIN's recalls are resolved before listing typically increases sale price by more than the time spent.
No model-specific issue notes in our database for this year. The 426 NHTSA complaints filed provide the best available signal — review them in the Owner Complaints section above.
NHTSA offers free recall alerts by VIN. Sign up to be notified the moment a new recall is issued for this vehicle.
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Official government recall notifications. Free, direct from NHTSA. Covers safety recalls, investigations, and bulletins.
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VIN 1N4AL2AP1CN403663:
4 recall campaigns currently on file. Sign up to track when they are resolved.
Get competing insurance quotes for this exact vehicle. Rates vary by 30–60% between carriers for the same driver profile — comparing saves real money.
Estimated national average for this vehicle: $1,430/year. Your actual rate depends on your driving record, location, age, and coverage level.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does VIN 1N4AL2AP1CN403663 decode to?
VIN 1N4AL2AP1CN403663 decodes to a 2012 NISSAN Altima, assembled in CANTON, MISSISSIPPI, UNITED STATES (USA).
How many recalls does this 2012 NISSAN Altima have?
NHTSA shows 4 recall campaigns associated with the 2012 NISSAN Altima. This reflects campaigns issued for this model/year — it does not confirm whether this specific VIN's repairs have already been completed. Contact a NISSAN dealer with this VIN to check.
Is it safe to buy a 2012 NISSAN Altima with recall campaigns on file?
A recall campaign doesn't necessarily mean the vehicle is unsafe to drive, but any unresolved recall should be addressed promptly. Contact a NISSAN dealer with this VIN to confirm which specific recalls apply and whether they've already been completed — repairs are always free of charge.
What is the estimated value of this 2012 NISSAN Altima?
Based on vehicle age, body type, trim level, and U.S. market data, this 2012 NISSAN Altima is estimated at $3,800–$6,000. Verify with Kelley Blue Book or Edmunds for a precise appraisal based on mileage and condition.
Is this VIN check really free?
Yes — the core VIN check on VinForFree is free with no signup required. All data is sourced from public records including NHTSA, the EPA, and official government databases.
What fuel economy does a 2012 NISSAN Altima get?
According to EPA data, the 2012 NISSAN Altima gets approximately 26 MPG combined (23 city / 32 highway). Estimated annual fuel cost is $2,450.
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