NISSAN PATHFINDER (2012)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 832 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
71%
Total Tests (2024)
832
Avg Mileage
110,588 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£2,050
Is the 2012 NISSAN PATHFINDER reliable?
Average reliability. Expect some repairs as it ages. That's 11 points below the national average of 82%. It falls below the NISSAN brand average of 81%.
At 12 years old, 71% of NISSAN PATHFINDERs from 2012 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 832 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 110,588 miles.
How does the 2012 NISSAN PATHFINDER compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2012 NISSAN PATHFINDER has 110,588 miles on the clock, which is above the expected 88,800 miles for a 12-year-old car. Higher-mileage cars often have more motorway miles, which is generally less harmful than stop-start urban driving.
Best year to buy a NISSAN PATHFINDER?
The most reliable year is the 2014 model with a 75% MOT pass rate, while the 2007 model has the lowest at 67%. The 2012 sits between the two at 71%.
How much does a 2012 NISSAN PATHFINDER cost to run?
Higher than average due to low pass rate
Based on 7,400 miles/year (UK average), current fuel prices, and repair likelihood from MOT pass rate data. Insurance not included.
NISSAN PATHFINDER by Year
Checking a specific NISSAN PATHFINDER?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2012 NISSAN PATHFINDER
The 2012 NISSAN PATHFINDER is a large car with a 2488cc diesel engine. 832 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a less common model in the UK market. It sits in the bottom 92% of 2012 cars for MOT pass rates.
With an average of 110,588 miles at 12 years old, NISSAN PATHFINDER owners cover more miles than the average driver.
2012 NISSAN PATHFINDER Fuel Costs
The 2488cc diesel engine offers a reasonable balance between performance and economy. Expect around 40 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,245 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 PATHFINDER?
Total estimated annual running cost is £2,050 (£171/month), broken down as £1245 fuel, £250 road tax, £55 MOT, and £500 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 71% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
NISSAN PATHFINDER Reliability Trend
Newer NISSAN PATHFINDERs show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 4 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2012 NISSAN PATHFINDER
At 12 years old, the NISSAN PATHFINDER 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 2014 model has the highest pass rate at 75%.
Alternatives to the 2012 NISSAN PATHFINDER
If reliability is your priority, there are 4 similar cars with a higher MOT pass rate. Here are comparable diesel cars with similar engines:
- BMW 3 SERIES (2013) 85% pass rate (+14%) from 71,326 tests
- FORD TRANSIT (2014) 77% pass rate (+6%) from 59,048 tests
- VAUXHALL INSIGNIA (2014) 78% pass rate (+7%) from 47,126 tests
- MERCEDES E (2014) 84% pass rate (+13%) from 44,780 tests