NISSAN PRIMASTAR (2012)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 983 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
66%
Total Tests (2024)
983
Avg Mileage
136,981 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£1,927
Is the 2012 NISSAN PRIMASTAR reliable?
Below average reliability. Budget extra for maintenance and repairs. That's 16 points below the national average of 82%. It falls below the NISSAN brand average of 81%.
At 12 years old, 66% of NISSAN PRIMASTARs from 2012 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 983 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 136,981 miles.
How does the 2012 NISSAN PRIMASTAR compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2012 NISSAN PRIMASTAR has 136,981 miles on the clock, which is well above the expected 88,800 miles for a 12-year-old car. Check service history carefully, as high-mileage cars need consistent maintenance to stay reliable.
Best year to buy a NISSAN PRIMASTAR?
The most reliable year is the 2009 model with a 69% MOT pass rate, while the 2002 model has the lowest at 63%. The 2012 sits between the two at 66%.
How much does a 2012 NISSAN PRIMASTAR 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 PRIMASTAR by Year
| Year | Pass Rate | Tests | Avg Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2014 | 69% | 908 | 121,231 mi |
| 2013 | 68% | 1,048 | 130,256 mi |
| 2012 | 66% | 983 | 136,981 mi |
| 2011 | 67% | 1,866 | 136,762 mi |
| 2010 | 65% | 872 | 141,695 mi |
| 2009 | 69% | 1,470 | 141,757 mi |
| 2008 | 68% | 1,765 | 144,508 mi |
| 2007 | 68% | 2,551 | 150,502 mi |
| 2006 | 68% | 2,109 | 151,442 mi |
| 2005 | 68% | 1,914 | 152,431 mi |
| 2004 | 68% | 1,531 | 155,712 mi |
| 2003 | 67% | 932 | 154,552 mi |
| 2002 | 63% | 70 | 149,766 mi |
Checking a specific NISSAN PRIMASTAR?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2012 NISSAN PRIMASTAR
The 2012 NISSAN PRIMASTAR is a family car with a 1870cc diesel engine. 983 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a less common model in the UK market. It sits in the bottom 98% of 2012 cars for MOT pass rates.
With an average of 136,981 miles at 12 years old, NISSAN PRIMASTAR owners cover more miles than the average driver. High-mileage examples should be checked carefully for wear on suspension, brakes, and drivetrain components.
2012 NISSAN PRIMASTAR Fuel Costs
The 1870cc diesel engine offers a reasonable balance between performance and economy. Expect around 48 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,037 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 PRIMASTAR?
Total estimated annual running cost is £1,927 (£161/month), broken down as £1037 fuel, £135 road tax, £55 MOT, and £700 predicted repairs. The higher repair estimate reflects the 66% MOT pass rate. Cars in this bracket tend to need work on suspension, brakes, and emissions components.
NISSAN PRIMASTAR Reliability Trend
The NISSAN PRIMASTAR has maintained consistent MOT pass rates across model years, varying by only 0 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2012 NISSAN PRIMASTAR
At 12 years old, the NISSAN PRIMASTAR 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 2009 model has the highest pass rate at 69%.
Alternatives to the 2012 NISSAN PRIMASTAR
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 (+11%) from 211,536 tests
- VOLKSWAGEN GOLF (2014) 87% pass rate (+21%) from 120,417 tests
- VAUXHALL ASTRA (2013) 79% pass rate (+13%) from 101,969 tests
- AUDI A3 (2014) 86% pass rate (+20%) from 77,639 tests