Nissan Xterra problems
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Nissan Xterra model years
Common Nissan Xterra problems
Based on complaints from Nissan Xterra owners, several common problems have been reported with these vehicles:
- Defective Fuel Level Sensor: Many Xterra owners have experienced inaccurate fuel gauge readings due to faulty fuel level sensors. This can lead to engine stalling and poses a risk of accidents. The problem is common in Xterras produced between 2001 and 2011, with specific recalls issued for 2006-2008 models.
- Transmission Failure: Transmission failure is a significant concern, especially in the 2005 model year. This issue is often linked to radiator leaks, where coolant mixes with transmission fluid, causing corrosion and overheating. Replacing or rebuilding the transmission is complex and costly, emphasizing the importance of monitoring radiator leaks to prevent this problem.
- Timing Chain Issues: Another common problem reported by Xterra owners is related to the timing chain. Defective timing chains can lead to a high-pitched whine from the engine, indicating a problem with the timing chain tensioner guide wear. This issue was particularly notable in earlier model years and required replacement of the tensioner guides and chain.
- Fuel Injector Failure: Some Xterra models have experienced issues with bad fuel injectors, leading to symptoms like engine misfires, loss of power, hesitation when accelerating, and excessive vibrations. A failed fuel injector can trigger the check engine light and necessitate repairs to address these performance issues.
These common problems highlight the importance of regular maintenance and prompt attention to any symptoms to prevent more severe issues with Nissan Xterra vehicles.
What is the problem with Nissan Xterra?
Fuel injector failure – Several Xterra models have struggled with bad fuel injectors. A failed fuel injector may cause symptoms like engine misfires, loss of power, hesitation when accelerating, and excessive vibrations. The check engine light will come on when the vehicle detects a bad fuel injector.
What year was the best year for the Nissan Xterra?
The Nissan Xterra has a reliability rating of 3.9 out of 5.0 on RepairPal, and a reliability score of 3.0 out of 5.0 on Consumer Reports. Many drivers consider the 2015 model year the best in terms of performance, reliability, and relative modernity. The 2012 and 2014 Nissan Xterra models also get good marks.
Is a Nissan Xterra a good vehicle?
Nissan Xterra Ratings Overview
The average rating is a 3.9 out of 5 stars. The Nissan Xterra Reliability Rating is 4.0 out of 5. It ranks 9th out of 32 for all car brands.
What is the average life of a Nissan Xterra?
The Xterra is one of those vehicles you drive “till the wheels fall off,” thanks to its impressive life expectancy. On average, a Nissan Xterra can last for about 200,000 miles. However, with consistent and diligent maintenance, some Xterra vehicles can even surpass the 300,000-mile mark.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Nissan Xterra years
We have researched Nissan problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Nissan Xterra cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Nissan Xterra model years:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Nissan Xterra model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Nissan Xterra years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Nissan Xterra car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Nissan Xterra , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Power train problems
- Fuel system problems
- Gasoline problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Engine problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Nissan Xterra vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Xterra model years
A total of 124 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Xterra model years
There were a total of 35 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Xterra model years
There were a total of 118 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with deaths by Xterra model years
There were a total of 4 complaints that resulted in a death. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 3122 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Nissan Xterra . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Nissan Xterra vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Nissan Xterra 2006
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-26
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-10
- VIN: 5N1AN08U76C
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2006 Nissan Xterra. The contact stated that there was an abnormal sound coming from the front passenger's side air bag intermittently. The front passenger's side air bag warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where the contact was provided a cost for a diagnostic test. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 145,000.
Nissan Xterra 2000
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-03
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-22
- VIN: 5N1ED28Y5YC
- Components: STEERING,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: Unknown
Nissan Xterra 2000
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-11
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-16
- VIN: 5N1ED28Y5YC
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: My car keeps stalling out like it's not getting gas.
Nissan Xterra 2000
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-15
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-15
- VIN: 5N1ED28Y5YC
- Components: STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: My car dies out while driving. I've replaced so many parts already and it keeps leaving me stranded.
Nissan Xterra 2010
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-12
- VIN: 5N1AN0NW9AC
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: After getting the air bag control module reprogrammed per the recall, I was on a dirt road and the rollover airbags deployed when they shouldn’t have. The dealership I got the recall done at is claiming the airbag system registered “rollover conditions”. When I asked what the conditions were they told me they were unable to provide them. I am concerned either their reprogramming didn’t fix the issue or that they never actually reprogrammed it. Either way my airbags deployed when I was no where near a roll over situation and luckily no one was injured in this instance
Nissan Xterra 2011
- Date Of Incident: 2023-01-15
- Date Complaint: 2024-07-30
- VIN: 5N1AN0NU3BC
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: The contact owns a 2011 Nissan Xterra. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked, an engine oil leak was present. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a local independent mechanic where it was diagnosed that the oil connector bolt and O-ring seal needed to be replaced. The local dealer was contacted, but the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The vehicle was not replaced. The contact was aware of NHTSA Campaign Number: 11V592000 (Engine and Engine Cooling); however, the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 140,000.
Nissan Xterra 2011
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-17
- Date Complaint: 2024-06-17
- VIN: 5N1AN0NW2BC
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: The vehicle was driving just fine, then about a month later the heat gauge started to fluctuate, i replaced the radiator caps, thermostat...it ran good for another month, started to overheat....i made sure water was in radiator and overflow...about a month went by the gauge started to fluctuate again, now there is water in my oil, meaning a cracked head gasket...this is the 2nd vehicle ive purchased that the same thing has hapoened to.
Nissan Xterra 2007
- Date Of Incident: 2023-04-12
- Date Complaint: 2024-06-17
- VIN: 5N1AN08U27C
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: The vehicle was driving just fine, then about a month later the heat gauge started to fluctuate, i replaced the radiator caps, thermostat...it ran good for another month, started to overheat....i made sure water was in radiator and overflow...about a month went by the gauge started to fluctuate again, i had it towed to sayre auto parts in sayre, al to have a water pump installed and the mechanic told me their is now there is water in my oil, meaning a cracked head gasket...the vehicle never got over the 3/4 mark on gauge and this is the 2nd vehicle ive purchased that the same thing has happened to.
Nissan Xterra 2006
- Date Of Incident: 2024-04-28
- Date Complaint: 2024-04-28
- VIN: 5N1AN08U86C
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: THE TIMING CHAIN HAS CAUSED MY VEHICLE TO DIE ON ME IN THE MIDDLE OF A BUSY HIGHWAY I WAS ALMOST HIT BY A FEW CARS. i HAD TO DRIVE MY CAR GOING ONLY 40 MPH ALL THE WAY BECASUE THAT IS ALL IT WOULD DO. IT HAS A VERY LOUD NOISE AND IT IS UNSAFE TO DRIVE ON THE ROAD ANYMORE. I HAVE READ AND NISSAN SHOULD REPLACE THESE BECAUSE ALOT OF PEOPLE HAVE HAD PROBLEMS WITH THEM YES MY CAR IS AVAILABLE FOR IMSPECTION i HAVE REGULAR KEPT MAINTENENCE ON IT NO THERE WERE NO WARNING LAMPS AT ALL JUST LOUD NOISE AND THEN NO COMPRESSION
Nissan Xterra 2007
- Date Of Incident: 2017-04-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-03-18
- VIN: 5N1AN08W47C
- Components: STEERING,STRUCTURE
- Summary: My 07 Xterra has extreme rust in the door jams and rear panels. The rack-n-pinion, power steering system leaks fluid.
Nissan Xterra 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2023-01-03
- Date Complaint: 2024-03-04
- VIN: 5N1AN0NW6FN
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: Rear passenger side door will not open from the inside or outside. This is apparently a widespread problem for Nissan Xterra rear doors. It creates a safety problem as passengers cannot leave the vehicle in case of an accident.
Nissan Xterra 2012
- Date Of Incident: 2012-10-14
- Date Complaint: 2024-01-25
- VIN: 5N1AN0NW9CC
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: 1) Rubber stopper under clutch pedal has failed multiple times, preventing vehicle from starting in various locations, usually parking lots and mostly after dark which presents potential safety concerns. This is a rubber part that allows vehicle to start only when clutch is depressed. I request that several/multiple of these be provided at no cost to keep in glove compartment since the poor quality of part manufacturing will most definitely cause future failure of each in the future. In addition, an explanation and instructions for removing broken part and replacing with new part is difficult for one person since you have to crawl up under the dashboard, locate the part, remove the broken part and correctly replace with a new part. I have purchased 7 pieces which have all broken and been charged approximately $7 each. The first time was the date of purchase and there have been more than 5 additional incidents since. Rubber stopper 46512-9bp1c purchased 9 between 10/14/12 and 4/6/22. Photos of those purchased just in the last couple of years
Nissan Xterra 2012
- Date Of Incident: 2021-12-22
- Date Complaint: 2024-01-25
- VIN: 5N1AN0NW9CC
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: Clutch burnt out with 5 min between 1st incidence of barely slipping and total failure leaving me stranded on roadside with little notice and nowhere safe to pull off.
Nissan Xterra 2012
- Date Of Incident: 2016-04-04
- Date Complaint: 2024-01-25
- VIN: 5N1AN0NW9CC
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: Extreme smell of gas after filling gas tank while out of town. Odor was so strong it required all windows to be down to drive without feeling affected by fumes and I was terrified that someone would fluck a cigarette out of a car somewhere, especially at a stop light, and cause an explosion. Once the gas tank was only half full or less, the odor diminished. Dealership found that this issue had been reported on other vehicles but did not qualify as a recall. Dealership found faulty gasket INSIDE gas tank and required the entire tank be replaced at a cost to me of more than $2000. I can get receipts from Charlottesville Nissan Dealership.
Nissan Xterra 2007
- Date Of Incident: 2013-12-03
- Date Complaint: 2023-12-31
- VIN: 5N1AN08W47C
- Components: SUSPENSION,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,STRUCTURE
- Summary: There is usual rust on body of truck. There is some kind of electrical problem rather it’s the security system or wiring. There’s a clicking sound coming from dash area. There is a suspension problem, has to change leaf springs, struts and shocks often.
Latest 5 recalls Nissan Xterra
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 58 recalls for different components of the Nissan Xterra.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Nissan Xterra 2009
- Report Received Date: 2023-02-10
- Manufacturer: Nissan North America, Inc.
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL
- Summary: Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2008-2011 Titan, Frontier, Xterra, Pathfinder, Armada, and 2008-2009 Quest vehicles. The resin emblem on the driver's air bag cover may develop cracks and detach during air bag deployment.
- Consequence: A detached emblem can become a projectile during air bag deployment, increasing the risk of injury to vehicle occupants.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the drivers airbag cover. Owner letters were mailed December 8, 2023. Owners may contact Nissan's customer service at 1-800-867-7669. Nissan's number for this recall are PC944, PC945, and PC946.
- Model: Nissan Xterra 2010
- Report Received Date: 2023-02-10
- Manufacturer: Nissan North America, Inc.
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL
- Summary: Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2008-2011 Titan, Frontier, Xterra, Pathfinder, Armada, and 2008-2009 Quest vehicles. The resin emblem on the driver's air bag cover may develop cracks and detach during air bag deployment.
- Consequence: A detached emblem can become a projectile during air bag deployment, increasing the risk of injury to vehicle occupants.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the drivers airbag cover. Owner letters were mailed December 8, 2023. Owners may contact Nissan's customer service at 1-800-867-7669. Nissan's number for this recall are PC944, PC945, and PC946.
- Model: Nissan Xterra 2011
- Report Received Date: 2023-02-10
- Manufacturer: Nissan North America, Inc.
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL
- Summary: Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2008-2011 Titan, Frontier, Xterra, Pathfinder, Armada, and 2008-2009 Quest vehicles. The resin emblem on the driver's air bag cover may develop cracks and detach during air bag deployment.
- Consequence: A detached emblem can become a projectile during air bag deployment, increasing the risk of injury to vehicle occupants.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the drivers airbag cover. Owner letters were mailed December 8, 2023. Owners may contact Nissan's customer service at 1-800-867-7669. Nissan's number for this recall are PC944, PC945, and PC946.
- Model: Nissan Xterra 2008
- Report Received Date: 2023-02-10
- Manufacturer: Nissan North America, Inc.
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL
- Summary: Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2008-2011 Titan, Frontier, Xterra, Pathfinder, Armada, and 2008-2009 Quest vehicles. The resin emblem on the driver's air bag cover may develop cracks and detach during air bag deployment.
- Consequence: A detached emblem can become a projectile during air bag deployment, increasing the risk of injury to vehicle occupants.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the drivers airbag cover. Owner letters were mailed December 8, 2023. Owners may contact Nissan's customer service at 1-800-867-7669. Nissan's number for this recall are PC944, PC945, and PC946.
- Model: Nissan Xterra 2012
- Report Received Date: 2012-09-20
- Manufacturer: Nissan North America, Inc.
- Components: SUSPENSION:FRONT:HUB
- Summary: Nissan is recalling certain model year 2012 Frontier, Pathfinder, and Xterra two-wheel drive vehicles manufactured from June 19, 2012, through July 12, 2012. These vehicles may have been equipped with front wheel hubs that may not meet the design hardness specifications. A wheel hub that was manufactured below hardness specification may wear prematurely and eventually crack.
- Consequence: If the vehicle is driven in this condition, the wheel hub may break, possibly resulting in a vehicle crash.
- Remedy: Nissan will notify owners, and dealers will replaced the left and right side front wheel hub assemblies free of charge. The safety recall began on October 22, 2012. Owners may contact Nissan Customer Service at 1-800-647-7261.
Latest negative Nissan Xterra car reviews
Latest positive Nissan Xterra car reviews
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Vehicle year: 2011
If you're a fan of traditional SUVs, then the 2011 Pro-4X is definitely worth considering. Its 4.0-liter V6 high-output engine provides more than enough power, and the ride is great thanks to the Bilstein performance shocks. The exterior styling is classic SUV, and the leather seats are super comfortable. The Rockford Fosgate head unit sounds great, and the auxiliary and iPod interfaces are major pluses. The side and back windows are nice and big, providing great visibility. I looked at a new FJ and a used H3, but ultimately decided against them due to their size and lack of windows.
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Vehicle year: 2006
This vehicle is a great utility option, with an impressive engine performance. On the road, it averages 20.5 city and up to 24 highway mpg. I have personally carried a large fridge, washer/dryer, and many other home remodeling items with ease. Long road trips are made even better with my wife and two large dogs. While the 4x4 capabilities are not on par with a Jeep off-road, it is a very good starting point and can handle gnarly terrain. The ground clearance and articulation are decent, and it tracks well. However, the departure angle is fair, and the throttle is not sensitive enough in 4 Low. The shocks are okay, but the rear suspension design causes it to bottom out easily. The stock tires are fair, but for serious 4x4, modifications will be necessary. I did have to replace the clutch at 17k, but it was under warranty and no other problems have arisen.
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Vehicle year: 2005
The car seems to be using a bit more fuel than expected, but it's understandable as the teenager is driving it with a bit more enthusiasm than I would.
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Vehicle year: 2005
I recently purchased my vehicle with 143K miles and it has been a great investment. The engine is strong and the vehicle is well-built. Although the interior is not the most luxurious, it is functional. As someone who has exclusively driven European vehicles (BMW) for many years, I can say that I am happy with my purchase. The steering is a bit heavy, but it is forgivable. The 'S' model does not have a rear locker, but it is not necessary. Despite the driver's fabric seat having a rip, I am still happy driving it. I wanted a reliable vehicle that I could take off-road, and this vehicle fits the bill. However, it is important to note that there is a potential issue with the transmission fluid passing through a small radiator/heat exchanger in the bottom of the vehicle's radiator. This can cause the coolant to mix with the transmission fluid, which is known as 'SMOD' or 'Strawberry milkshake of death'. To avoid this issue, it is recommended to research this topic before purchasing the vehicle. Luckily, the previous owner of my vehicle (or Nissan) performed a bypass to prevent this issue. I have also performed a full fluid change on the vehicle to ensure its longevity. Another minor area of concern is the accessory belt tensioner, which can cause a squealing noise as the belt slips on the pulleys. However, this can be easily fixed with a kit from Gates for a reasonable price. Lastly, the hood tends to pull and make noise in heavy frontal winds, but this is a minor issue. Overall, I am very happy with my purchase and would recommend this vehicle to anyone looking for a reliable off-road option.Take a 12mm socket and simply loosen the three hood latch bolts, push the hood latch down, and retighten. That's it! This is a great vehicle, but make sure to do your research. There are reports of people achieving over 360K on the stock vehicle with basic maintenance. With a little TLC, there's no reason you can't achieve the same!
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Vehicle year: 2001
I test drove many SUV's before settling on my Xterra. It out-performed everything in its class. I also believe the seats are comfortable, despite some negative reviews. I bought my wife a Pathfinder, but I personally prefer my Xterra.
Are you having problems with your Nissan Xterra?
Lemuel Zulauf 2025-08-18
Vehicle year: 2006
I purchased this Xterra second-hand and it ran well for a few months. However, I began experiencing some electrical issues. Firstly, the fan for the heat/ac stopped working and caused some fuses to blow. I took it to the dealership and they were able to replace it. Unfortunately, a few months later, my reverse camera, reverse lights, and fuel sensor stopped working. The computer showed a high voltage input on the fuel sensor, so I took it to the dealership to get it replaced. It took them 3 days to troubleshoot the issue before they sent me on my way. Today, I noticed the check engine light flashing and there was a noticeable miss. I pulled over and turned the car off to check the fluids, but everything looked okay. When I turned the car back on and headed home, there was no miss and no check engine light. I think I'll have to take it back to the dealership to have it checked out again.
Boyd Beier 2025-08-16
Vehicle year: 2011
The Xterra is a fantastic off-road capable SUV. We've put about 6k miles on ours and it's been great so far. We chose the Xterra because we wanted a true 4wd that could eventually replace my aging Toyota Tacoma. We test drove a lot of vehicles before deciding on the Xterra and we have no regrets. The pros are that it's fun to drive, well-appointed, and the V6 is very powerful. It's also a good size, not too big or too small. The only cons are that it's not very fuel-efficient, with an estimated 20 mpg on the highway and 15 in the city. Additionally, the interior plastics scratch easily, which can be a little annoying.
Jacques Hills 2025-08-15
Vehicle year: 2005
The Xterra is a functional, comfortable and reliable car that drives very well. Although, it has two major issues that should be taken into consideration before purchasing a used one. The fluid leakage problem that causes transmission failure and sludge buildup in the engine. These two issues required a new transmission and a new engine respectively, which cost me a lot of money. However, if you take the car to a Nissan dealership and have them examine the engine with their Nissan certified mechanics and equipment, they will let you know if sludge is building up in the engine. If you determine that the transmission fluid & sludge problems are not going to be issues with the car, then go ahead and buy it, otherwise stay away. Maybe look to some years outside the 2004-2007 period. It is important to note that Nissan lost in court due to their stubbornness in not admitting the problem and working with owners. Overall, the Xterra is a good car, but it is important to be aware of these issues before making a purchase.I'm disappointed with their actions and have decided not to purchase any more Nissan products.
Orland Schaefer 2025-08-15
Vehicle year: 2009
This is a cool looking car with a lot of power, but it may not be the most reliable SUV out there. Unfortunately, there have been some issues reported with this model, such as transmission/radiator cross contamination, rear diff failure, timing chain whine and tensioner, rough idle, etc. These repairs can be quite costly, especially if they occur before 100,000 miles. However, if these major repairs have already been taken care of, then you have yourself a great car!
Enrico Ernser 2025-08-06
Vehicle year: 2001
It's great to hear that you've had a good 3 years with your vehicle! It sounds like you've taken good care of it with regular oil changes, tire rotations, and front brake maintenance. It's impressive that you've been able to tow your pop-up and boat without any issues. Keep up the good work!