NISSAN SERENA (2012)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 779 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
89%
Total Tests (2024)
779
Avg Mileage
72,979 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£1,867
Is the 2012 NISSAN SERENA reliable?
Good reliability. Occasional issues but generally solid. That's 7 points above the national average of 82%. It also outperforms the NISSAN brand average of 81%.
At 12 years old, 89% of NISSAN SERENAs from 2012 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 779 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 72,979 miles.
How does the 2012 NISSAN SERENA compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2012 NISSAN SERENA has 72,979 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 SERENA?
The most reliable year is the 2013 model with a 94% MOT pass rate, while the 2005 model has the lowest at 78%. The 2012 sits between the two at 89%.
How much does a 2012 NISSAN SERENA 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 SERENA by Year
| Year | Pass Rate | Tests | Avg Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | 94% | 31 | 62,927 mi |
| 2021 | 78% | 188 | 90,206 mi |
| 2020 | 85% | 159 | 90,524 mi |
| 2019 | 89% | 263 | 99,774 mi |
| 2018 | 84% | 334 | 69,297 mi |
| 2017 | 89% | 364 | 75,853 mi |
| 2016 | 90% | 208 | 78,845 mi |
| 2015 | 90% | 262 | 84,995 mi |
| 2014 | 90% | 519 | 73,359 mi |
| 2013 | 94% | 1,275 | 70,695 mi |
| 2012 | 89% | 779 | 72,979 mi |
| 2011 | 89% | 443 | 76,726 mi |
| 2010 | 84% | 563 | 78,267 mi |
| 2009 | 86% | 376 | 76,005 mi |
| 2008 | 86% | 352 | 87,771 mi |
| 2007 | 81% | 247 | 103,672 mi |
| 2006 | 78% | 125 | 110,825 mi |
| 2005 | 78% | 65 | 116,815 mi |
| 2004 | 80% | 35 | 100,029 mi |
| 1999 | 74% | 38 | 98,386 mi |
| 1997 | 67% | 30 | 103,215 mi |
| 1995 | 56% | 36 | 112,824 mi |
Checking a specific NISSAN SERENA?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2012 NISSAN SERENA
The 2012 NISSAN SERENA is a family car with a 1999cc petrol engine. 779 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a less common model in the UK market. It ranks in the top 21% of all 2012 cars for reliability.
With an average of 72,979 miles at 12 years old, NISSAN SERENA owners drive about as much as the UK average.
2012 NISSAN SERENA Fuel Costs
The 1999cc petrol engine offers a reasonable balance between performance and economy. Expect around 36 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,327 per year at current petrol prices of 142p per litre (based on 7,400 miles per year).
What does it cost to own a 2012 NISSAN SERENA?
Total estimated annual running cost is £1,867 (£156/month), broken down as £1327 fuel, £135 road tax, £55 MOT, and £350 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 89% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
NISSAN SERENA Reliability Trend
Newer NISSAN SERENAs show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 4 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2012 NISSAN SERENA
At 12 years old, the NISSAN SERENA 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 2013 model has the highest pass rate at 94%.
Alternatives to the 2012 NISSAN SERENA
The NISSAN SERENA is actually the most reliable option among similar petrol family cars from this era. Here are comparable petrol cars with similar engines:
- FORD FOCUS (2013) 78% pass rate (-11%) from 132,292 tests
- NISSAN QASHQAI (2013) 72% pass rate (-17%) from 84,989 tests
- MERCEDES C (2012) 79% pass rate (-10%) from 59,235 tests
- MINI MINI (2010) 80% pass rate (-9%) from 59,218 tests