There isn’t a single universal serpentine belt part number for the 2012 Maxima; most owners replace with aftermarket six-rib belts in the 1820–1830 mm length. Common options are Gates 6PK1825 or 6PK1830 and Dayco 6PK1820 or 6PK1830.
The 2012 Maxima uses a 3.5L V6 (VQ35DE) and relies on a single serpentine belt to drive multiple accessories such as the alternator, power steering pump, water pump, and AC compressor. Because belt length and routing can vary slightly by production batch and accessory configuration, it’s important to verify the exact part number for your car using the current belt markings, your VIN, or a VIN-based parts catalog.
Common replacement belt options
Below are widely used aftermarket options for the 3.5L Maxima. Always confirm fit against your vehicle’s VIN or the current belt markings before purchasing.
- Gates 6PK1825
- Gates 6PK1830
- Dayco 6PK1820
- Dayco 6PK1830
Note: Belt length can vary slightly between manufacturers and routing setups. If you have a dealer-installed kit or a special package, the exact length might differ by a notch or two. Always cross-reference with your vehicle’s year, model, and engine code.
How to verify the correct belt for your car
Use these steps to ensure you buy the correct serpentine belt for your Maxima.
- Check the current belt for printed markings such as 6PK1825 or 6PK1830—the numbers indicate the belt length (in inches converted from millimeters in some catalogs).
- Enter your VIN into an official parts catalog or speak with a Nissan dealer to pull the exact OEM belt specification for your car.
- Use a trusted auto parts retailer: input year, make, model, and engine (3.5L) and compare the options to confirm the correct routing and fit.
- Refer to the hood’s belt routing diagram or the service manual to verify the number of ribs (six) and the correct path around pulleys.
While a six-rib belt in the 1820–1830 mm range is typical for the 2012 Maxima, always confirm with VIN-based data or the current belt markings to ensure proper fit.
Summary
For the 2012 Nissan Maxima, there isn’t a single universal serpentine belt part number. Common aftermarket options include Gates 6PK1825/6PK1830 and Dayco 6PK1820/6PK1830. Always verify the exact part using your VIN, the current belt’s markings, or a trusted parts catalog to ensure the correct fit for your engine configuration.