Nissan Xterra problems
Social links
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
-
Vehicle year: 2011
The Xterra is an exceptional SUV, however, the tires could be improved. During my first 4-wheeling experience, I lost a tire and I believe that the soft, jelly bean tires are not suitable for such a rugged vehicle. Additionally, these tires negatively impact the gas mileage. I highly recommend switching them out as soon as possible to enhance the overall performance of the Xterra.
-
Vehicle year: 2004
I bought my Xterra used in 2008 with only 12k miles on it, and now I've put 70k miles on it. I've been using full synthetic oil, and maintenance has been surprisingly cheap. In fact, I've only had to do basic maintenance with no repairs in 58k miles! The stock tires aren't great, but if you invest in a decent set of all terrains, this truck can't be beat for the price. While the acceleration is lacking, you sacrifice some power for better fuel economy. I've been able to get up to 20mpg with no problem. The AC and heater work great, and the 4wd is fantastic. I've taken it through creeks, mud, and water up to the doors, and it pulls through it all (as long as you know how to drive off-road properly).
-
Vehicle year: 2013
My spouse and I were searching for a 5-seater 4x4 truck that is reliable and affordable. The Xterra is undoubtedly the best option in that category. After 2010, the SMOD and timing chain issues were resolved, making the Xterra highly dependable. We adore its unique design, practical interior (which is not extravagant at all), and decent power. The 280ft-lb of torque is available within the first 1/4
-
Vehicle year: 2007
I love this truck! Although, the snow builds up on the roof due to that storage compartment and the rails, which can be a pain when it turns to ice and starts to slide around up there. However, the MPG is as advertised and living in the snow, this vehicle can get me anywhere I need to go.
-
Vehicle year: 2010
I noticed the Xterra after purchasing an Altima for my wife last year. This year, I traded in my old Explorer and considered the smaller Escape before driving over to the Nissan dealership. I'm so glad I did because I absolutely love this vehicle! The 4.0L 6cyl engine performs superbly and the ride is incredibly smooth thanks to the 17
Are you having problems with your Nissan Xterra?
Harmon Rutherford 2025-02-18
Vehicle year: 2005
I purchased my car from a dealer and was excitedly planning my next purchase of a brand new X-Terra in a few years. Unfortunately, I ended up spending $2k on repairs and then at 95k miles, the transmission failed due to a well-known radiator leak into the transmission. Despite this being a known design flaw/defect, Nissan dealers won't help and even cut the trade value in half, leaving loyal consumers with a car they can't afford to fix and are too upside down to trade in affordably. It's disappointing that Nissan hasn't taken any remedial action on this defect, which statistically fails well after their 80k mile warranty. As a result, I have lost faith in the brand and will not be a returning customer. I strongly advise anyone considering purchasing a Nissan to be aware of this issue.
Raoul Trantow 2025-02-13
Vehicle year: 2003
The Xterra is an SUV built on a truck base. One of the best things about this car is the great room from the ground to the undercarriage, which makes driving in the snow very easy. There is a huge difference in driving the Xterra XE in the snow versus a smaller car. Additionally, the car has excellent space with 6 stereo speakers and multiple USB ports. I installed a JVC radio and it looks and sounds terrific. Kids can plug in cell phones or chargers anywhere. The vehicle is also not bad looking and touch up paint works very effectively. Overall, the paint has held up quite well. However, there are some downsides to the car. The timing belt at 105K is very expensive and the car can be shaky at times, but it is important to remember that it is a truck you are driving, not a car. Gas mileage is pretty tough, with only 16/22 miles per gallon, but it can use regular 87 gas. The windshield gets foggy pretty quickly and the engine is not easy to work on. Overall, it is a safe car that can be used for a lot of things, whether it be taking your kids and their friends somewhere or putting golf clubs or construction equipment in the back. It is a very versatile vehicle.
Ola Bayer 2025-02-06
Vehicle year: 2001
I purchased the car new and was initially thrilled with it. However, at 37,000 miles, all four automatic windows stopped working. Despite being only 1,000 miles out of warranty, Nissan refused to cover the cost of repairs, leaving me to foot the bill. Additionally, at 42,000 miles, the suspension became very rough and despite multiple trips to the mechanic, it remains unfixed. Unfortunately, at 50,000 miles, the air conditioning failed and the back window wiper stopped working. Due to these issues, I have decided to trade in the car for a Toyota at the end of this month.
Eldon Cummerata 2025-01-22
Vehicle year: 2007
I recently traded in my 2005 F150 for a used 2007 Xterra this winter, as I needed more space for my baby. Unfortunately, the stock BFG tires with just over 30k miles were completely worn out. I decided to upgrade to Firestone Destination A/T's and have been very happy with the results. At 31k miles, I had to replace the front brake pads/rotors. I have experienced some issues with the SLIP/ABS/VDC light coming on, but unfortunately, my local Nissan dealers have not been very helpful in determining the issue. Despite this, the engine is strong and performs well, although it can be a bit noisy when accelerating heavily. The gas mileage is average for an SUV of this size. The 4 wheel drive system is excellent and performs well in moderate snow, heavy rain, and off-road conditions. The Xterra is very versatile with numerous cargo configurations, and even as a tall person (I'm 6'4
Ellis Abshire 2025-01-16
Vehicle year: 2006
I purchased my 2006 Xterra brand new and absolutely loved it. The design was impressive and the powerful engine made for a thrilling ride. Although it was a bit rough, as expected from a truck, it was still comfortable overall. Despite some issues that arose after the first 3 years and 65K miles, such as the fuel sensor malfunctioning and the driver windows stopping working, I remained confident in my vehicle. However, after reaching 100K miles, the transmission fluid leaked into the radiator and vice versa, causing some major problems. Although I spent $1500 to replace the radiator and flush the transmission, I was informed that I needed a new transmission which would cost between $4-$5K. Unfortunately, I was unable to afford the repair and had to trade it in at a loss.