NISSAN NOTE (2012)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 20,521 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
76%
Total Tests (2024)
20,521
Avg Mileage
76,223 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£1,595
Is the 2012 NISSAN NOTE reliable?
Average reliability. Expect some repairs as it ages. That's 6 points below the national average of 82%. It falls below the NISSAN brand average of 81%.
At 12 years old, 76% of NISSAN NOTEs from 2012 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 20,521 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 76,223 miles.
How does the 2012 NISSAN NOTE compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2012 NISSAN NOTE has 76,223 miles on the clock, which is in line with the expected 88,800 miles for a 12-year-old car, suggesting normal everyday use.
Best year to buy a NISSAN NOTE?
The most reliable year is the 2018 model with a 98% MOT pass rate, while the 2006 model has the lowest at 70%. The 2012 sits between the two at 76%.
How much does a 2012 NISSAN NOTE cost to run?
Based on 7,400 miles/year (UK average), current fuel prices, and repair likelihood from MOT pass rate data. Insurance not included.
NISSAN NOTE by Year
| Year | Pass Rate | Tests | Avg Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2019 | 98% | 43 | 39,991 mi |
| 2018 | 98% | 62 | 40,813 mi |
| 2017 | 89% | 7,657 | 42,760 mi |
| 2016 | 89% | 16,078 | 45,984 mi |
| 2015 | 86% | 22,450 | 55,402 mi |
| 2014 | 83% | 34,283 | 63,474 mi |
| 2013 | 79% | 20,222 | 70,202 mi |
| 2012 | 76% | 20,521 | 76,223 mi |
| 2011 | 75% | 20,258 | 83,533 mi |
| 2010 | 74% | 24,367 | 89,800 mi |
| 2009 | 73% | 26,137 | 93,247 mi |
| 2008 | 72% | 27,120 | 98,188 mi |
| 2007 | 72% | 21,313 | 101,557 mi |
| 2006 | 70% | 15,962 | 105,489 mi |
Checking a specific NISSAN NOTE?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2012 NISSAN NOTE
The 2012 NISSAN NOTE is a small family car with a 1461cc diesel engine. 20,521 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it one of the most commonly tested cars on UK roads. Among all cars from 2012, the average MOT pass rate is 78%, and this model falls short of that benchmark.
With an average of 76,223 miles at 12 years old, NISSAN NOTE owners drive about as much as the UK average.
2012 NISSAN NOTE Fuel Costs
The 1461cc diesel engine offers a reasonable balance between performance and economy. Expect around 55 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £905 per year at current diesel prices of 148p per litre (based on 7,400 miles per year). Diesel cars of this age should have their DPF (diesel particulate filter) checked, as replacements can be costly.
What does it cost to own a 2012 NISSAN NOTE?
Total estimated annual running cost is £1,595 (£133/month), broken down as £905 fuel, £135 road tax, £55 MOT, and £500 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 76% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
NISSAN NOTE Reliability Trend
Newer NISSAN NOTEs show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 13 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2012 NISSAN NOTE
At 12 years old, the NISSAN NOTE is firmly in budget territory. Purchase prices are low, but check for rust, worn suspension bushes, and electrical gremlins. A full service history is especially valuable at this age. If you're flexible on year, the 2018 model has the highest pass rate at 98%. With 20,521 MOT tests in our data, there's strong statistical confidence in these figures.
Alternatives to the 2012 NISSAN NOTE
If reliability is your priority, there are 4 similar cars with a higher MOT pass rate. Here are comparable diesel cars with similar engines:
- FORD FIESTA (2013) 77% pass rate (+1%) from 211,536 tests
- VOLKSWAGEN GOLF (2014) 87% pass rate (+11%) from 120,417 tests
- VAUXHALL ASTRA (2013) 79% pass rate (+3%) from 101,969 tests
- VOLKSWAGEN POLO (2014) 80% pass rate (+4%) from 81,831 tests