2012 Nissan Cube Problems: 4 Known Issues
2012 model year · 1,035+ owner reports · Updated October 2026
According to Au7o's analysis of 1,035+ owner reports, the 2012 Nissan Cube has 4 documented known issues, with 2 rated critical. The most serious are CVT Transmission Failure and Shuddering ($2,500-$4,500 repair) and Intermittent Engine Stalling While Driving ($150-$700 repair). The most commonly reported issue is Electronic Steering Column Lock (ESCL) No-Start Condition with 450 owner reports. Across all issues with published estimates, repair costs range from $150 to $4,500. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.
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All 4 Known Issues
When Issues Typically Appear
NHTSA Recalls3 recalls
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:SWITCH
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain model year 2014 Versa Sedan vehicles manufactured July 16, 2013, to January 29, 2014, 2013-2014 Cube vehicles manufactured July 3, 2013, to October 21, 2013, and 2013-2014 Juke vehicles manufactured July 3, 2013, to October 22, 2013. When exposed to hot temperatures, the affected vehicles have an engine start/stop button that may stick inside the button housing.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:STORAGE
NISSAN IS RECALLING MODEL YEAR 2009-2010 NISSAN CUBE VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM JANUARY 30, 2009 THROUGH JULY 30, 2010. THESE VEHICLES FAIL TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 301, "FUEL SYSTEM INTEGRITY." WHEN THE VEHICLE WAS ROTATED FOLLOWING A REAR MOVING BARRIER CRASH TEST AS REQUIRED, THE AMOUNT OF FUEL LEAKAGE EXCEEDED THE ALLOWABLE LIMITS.
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2009-2010 Cube vehicles. The driver’s air bag inflator may rupture or detach from the steering wheel during air bag deployment.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common Nissan Cube problems?
According to Au7o's analysis of 1,035+ owner reports, the 2012 Nissan Cube has 4 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: CVT Transmission Failure and Shuddering, Intermittent Engine Stalling While Driving, Electronic Steering Column Lock (ESCL) No-Start Condition. Of these, 2 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.
Is the Nissan Cube reliable?
The 2012 Nissan Cube has 4 known issues documented across 1,035+ owner reports. 2 issues are rated critical: CVT Transmission Failure and Shuddering and Intermittent Engine Stalling While Driving. Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.
How much does it cost to fix common Nissan Cube problems?
Repair costs for known Nissan Cube issues range from $0 to $4,500, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, CVT Transmission Failure and Shuddering, typically costs $2,500-$4,500 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.
What is the 2009-2014 Nissan Cube CVT Transmission Failure and Shuddering?
The Jatco CVT in the Cube is prone to premature failure, typically between 80,000-120,000 miles. Owners report shuddering during acceleration, delayed engagement from Park, and eventual complete transmission failure. Nissan extended the CVT warranty on some models to 10 years/120… Repairs typically run $2,500-$4,500. Severity: high.
What is the 2009-2014 Nissan Cube Intermittent Engine Stalling While Driving?
Multiple owners report the Cube stalling unexpectedly while driving at various speeds, including highway speeds. The engine shuts off without warning, causing loss of power steering and power brakes. In some cases, pumping the accelerator at the moment of stalling can catch the e… Repairs typically run $150-$700. Severity: high.
What is the 2009-2014 Nissan Cube Electronic Steering Column Lock (ESCL) No-Start Condition?
The electronic steering column lock module can fail, preventing the vehicle from starting. Nissan acknowledged this defect on 2009 Cubes equipped with Intelligent Key with voluntary service campaign P1225 (bulletin NTB11-057). The ESCL can become stuck in the locked position, and… Repairs typically run $0-$1,000. Severity: medium.
What is the 2009-2014 Nissan Cube Exhaust System Flange Separation and Heat Damage?
The exhaust system on the Cube is prone to separating at the flange connections. When the exhaust separates, extreme heat from the broken joint can damage the rear bumper and surrounding components. The heat shield coverage does not adequately protect the area near the common sep… Repairs typically run $200-$800. Severity: medium.
Content on this page was compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, owner reports, and public automotive data. While we strive for accuracy, this information may contain errors. Always verify repair procedures and specifications with your vehicle's service manual or a qualified mechanic.