🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Nissan

Model:

Versa

Year:

2012

Chassis Code:

N17 (Sedan), E11 (Hatchback - Not applicable to 2012 North American model, which is N17 generation)

Generation:

Second Generation (North America)

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The 2012 Nissan Versa is positioned as an affordable subcompact car, offering value and practicality for budget-conscious consumers and first-time car buyers.

Competitive Analysis:

Competes with other subcompact vehicles such as the Honda Fit, Toyota Yaris, Ford Fiesta, Chevrolet Sonic, Hyundai Accent, and Kia Rio. The Versa often emphasizes interior space and fuel economy within its segment.

Key Features:

Excellent fuel efficiency, spacious interior for its class, comfortable ride, user-friendly controls, available in sedan and hatchback body styles (though North American 2012 is primarily sedan).

Target Audience:

DIY enthusiasts, independent repair shops, and Nissan Versa owners seeking to perform their own maintenance and repairs.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

Engine, Transmission (Automatic & Manual), Drivetrain, Brakes, Suspension, Steering, Electrical System, HVAC, Body & Chassis, Interior Trim, Diagnostics, Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Wiring Diagrams

Page Count:

Digital Access (Yearly Subscription)

Manual Type:

Official Service & Repair Manual Software

Language:

English

Format:

Online Access (Web Browser)

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine Mechanical (HR16DE), Engine Control System, Fuel System, Cooling System, Exhaust System, Ignition System, Starting & Charging Systems, Automatic Transmission (CVT/4-Speed Automatic), Manual Transmission (5-Speed Manual), Clutch System, Driveshaft & Differential, Suspension System (Front MacPherson Strut, Rear Torsion Beam), Steering System (Electric Power Steering), Brake System (Front Disc, Rear Drum), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Parking Brake, Wheels & Tires, Body Exterior, Body Interior, Climate Control (HVAC), Safety Systems (Airbags, Seatbelts), Lighting System, Wiper & Washer System, Power Accessories (Windows, Locks), Instrumentation & Driver Information, Audio System, Navigation System (if equipped), Wiring Diagrams (complete electrical schematics)

Procedures Included:

Routine Maintenance (Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Fluid Checks), Scheduled Maintenance, Engine Diagnosis & Repair, Fuel System Diagnosis & Repair, Ignition System Diagnosis & Repair, Cooling System Repair, Exhaust System Repair, Transmission Service & Repair (CVT & Automatic Fluid, Manual Clutch), Brake System Service & Repair (Pad/Rotor Replacement, Bleeding), Suspension Component Replacement (Shocks, Struts, Bushings), Steering System Repair (EPS Components), Electrical System Troubleshooting, HVAC System Diagnosis & Repair, Body Panel Repair & Replacement, Interior Trim Removal & Installation, Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) Interpretation & Resolution, Wiring Harness Repair, Software Updates & Reprogramming (ECU/BCM), Tire Rotation & Balancing, Wheel Alignment Specifications

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive Factory-Level Diagnostics, Detailed Step-by-Step Repair Procedures, Torque Specifications, Component Removal & Installation Instructions, Exploded Views and Diagrams, Diagnostic Flowcharts, Electrical Schematics, Troubleshooting Guides for Common Issues, Component Specifications and Tolerances, Special Tool Recommendations

Diagnostic Procedures:

Includes procedures for diagnosing engine performance issues, transmission faults (including CVT specific diagnostics), electrical system faults using DTCs, and chassis component issues. Employs systematic troubleshooting trees.

Component Replacement Procedures:

Detailed instructions for replacing major and minor components, including engine, transmission, brakes, steering rack, suspension arms, fuel pump, starter, alternator, A/C compressor, radiator, and more.

Wiring Diagrams Coverage:

Extensive wiring diagrams covering all vehicle systems, including power distribution, engine control, body controls, lighting, chassis electronics, and audio systems. Includes component locations and connector pinouts.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

Web-Based Software (Accessible via Browser)

Print Quality:

N/A (Digital Access - High-Resolution Content)

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Access)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Access)

Access Requirements:

Requires an internet connection and a compatible web browser. Compatible with PC, laptop, smartphone, and tablet.

Licensing Status:

Officially Licensed, derived from OE (Original Equipment) materials.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Primary Engine:

HR16DE

Engine Type:

Inline 4-Cylinder, DOHC, 16-Valve

Displacement:

1.6 Liters (1598 cc)

Horsepower:

109 hp @ 6000 rpm

Torque:

107 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm

Fuel System:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), Sequential Multi-Point

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (87 Octane Recommended)

Engine Codes:

HR16DE

Engine Management System:

Nissan EC (Engine Control) Module, utilizing CAN (Controller Area Network) communication.

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

5-Speed Manual

Optional Transmission:

Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)

Transmission Features:

CVT features Xtronic technology for smooth acceleration. Manual transmission offers efficient gear changes.

Cvt Fluid Capacity:

Approximately 5.7 US quarts (5.4 L) for CVT fluid.

Manual Transmission Fluid Capacity:

Approximately 2.0 US quarts (1.9 L) for manual transmission fluid.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

170.1 inches (Sedan)

Width:

66.1 inches

Height:

59.4 inches (Sedan)

Wheelbase:

102.4 inches

Curb Weight:

Approx. 2,475 - 2,660 lbs (depending on trim and transmission)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Overall Rating:

4/5 Stars (for Sedan models in some configurations - check specific model year reports)

IIHS Front Crash Rating:

Good

IIHS Side Crash Rating:

Good

Active Safety Features:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA)

Tire Pressure Monitoring System:

TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System) is standard on all models.

Passive Safety Features:

Driver and Front Passenger Airbags, Front Side-Impact Airbags, Roof-Mounted Curtain Airbags (Side and Head Protection), Three-Point Seatbelts with Pretensioners and Load Limiters, LATCH System (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children)

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment Features:

Standard AM/FM/CD audio system with auxiliary input jack. Optional upgrades may include satellite radio, Bluetooth hands-free phone system, and a navigation system on higher trims.

Driver Assistance Features:

Rear parking sensors (optional). Standard features focus on fundamental vehicle operation and safety.

Connectivity:

Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling and audio streaming available on some trims. USB port may be present on higher-end audio systems.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 5,000 miles or 6 months (whichever comes first) for severe driving conditions, or 7,500 miles or 12 months for normal conditions, using synthetic blend or full synthetic oil.

Air Filter Replacement:

Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed (typically every 30,000 miles).

Engine Coolant Replacement:

First replacement at 105,000 miles or 7 years, then every 60,000 miles or 5 years thereafter. Use Nissan Genuine Super Long Life Coolant (or equivalent blue silicate-free, OAT coolant).

Engine Oil Specification:

SAE 0W-20 (API SN or ILSAC GF-5 certified)

Engine Oil Capacity:

4.0 US quarts (3.8 L) with filter change

Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:

NS-3 CVT Fluid (for CVT models)

Manual Transmission Fluid Type:

API GL-4, SAE 75W-85 Gear Oil

Brake Fluid Type:

SAE J1703 or FMVSS No. 116 DOT 3

Power Steering Fluid:

Uses Electric Power Steering (EPS) system; no hydraulic fluid required.

Coolant Type:

Nissan Genuine Super Long Life Coolant (Blue) or equivalent.

Known Issues:

Some owners report occasional CVT transmission shudder or hesitation (particularly in earlier CVT implementations). Minor electrical issues like window motor failures or switch malfunctions can occur. Check for proper braking system performance and potential wear on suspension components over time due to typical usage.

Common Repair Items:

Brake pads and rotors, front suspension components (bushings, tie rods), exhaust hangers, and spark plugs.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Nissan is a Japanese multinational automobile manufacturer founded in 1933. Known for a wide range of vehicles from compact cars to performance sports cars and SUVs. Has a strong reputation for reliability and innovation.

Model Evolution:

The Versa was introduced in North America for the 2007 model year, replacing the Sentra in some subcompact markets. The 2012 model represents the second generation of the Versa (N17 platform), launched in 2011 for the 2012 model year. It was redesigned with improved styling, a larger interior, and updated powertrains, including the more efficient HR16DE engine and CVT.

Production Location:

Aguascalientes, Mexico; Kanda, Japan (early models/specific markets)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

Consistently recognized for its value and affordability. Often cited in 'best car for the money' lists within the subcompact segment. Received positive safety ratings from NHTSA and IIHS for its class.