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: 2007
Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I wanted to share an update on my Xterra - it's been a great vehicle for me so far! It currently has 36,000 miles on it and has been very reliable. I did have to replace the fuel level sending unit and tank seal at 29,500 miles, but since then it's been smooth sailing. Recently, I replaced the original battery and adjusted the toe-in at 35,000 miles. The BF Goodrich Long Trail tires and brake pads are approaching replacement time, but that's to be expected with regular use. I've taken my Xterra on some back roads and it handles them like a champ! While I haven't tested it on anything too rugged, I'm confident it would perform well. I've been diligent about following the maintenance schedule, including filter and fluid replacement as required on time. Overall, I'm a happy Xterra owner and would definitely recommend it to others!
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Vehicle year: 2015
I was gifted a 2013 Nissan Xterra 'Off Road' 4WD on my birthday, and it has been the best vehicle I have ever owned! Although living in California means that I hardly need the 4WD for snow, I do have rental property in South Lake Tahoe which gets a lot of snow. Driving this vehicle on paved roads, dirt roads, or snow was truly enjoyable. It never let me down when I was on the road, and other than the normal maintenance, I never had to spend extra money getting something fixed! A few years ago, I moved to Oregon, Off Grid!! My Xterra was wonderful! However, one day on my way into town on a dirt road, I had a rear tire blowout, and I rolled my poor Xterra four times! Thankfully, I had my seatbelt on as usual, and I came out of that with not even a scratch, but all of the side airbags deployed, both passenger and driver side! I miss my Xterra greatly! I bought a new 2016 Jeep Renegade, but I have been so disappointed in it that I am looking for a used Xterra!!
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Vehicle year: 2013
I'm 60 years old and have owned lots of other vehicles, but I have to say that the Xterra is the best. It can do it all! It's great in the mountains, rides and handles great, and tows our boat with no problem. There's lots of room and it's fun to drive. We go everywhere in it and my only regret is that I didn't buy one years ago. We have a 2011 Xterra S 2WD and it goes everywhere we want to go. I can only imagine what a 4x4 is like!
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Vehicle year: 2010
This vehicle is amazing! Since I purchased the Off Road version, I was worried that I would have to compromise ride quality and overall comfort. But, I was pleasantly surprised to find that nothing could be further from the truth. The ride quality is surprisingly comfortable, the seats are well-designed, and the Rockford Fosgate system is fantastic. The utility features of the vehicle are some of the best in the market, making it a great choice for anyone who needs a reliable and versatile vehicle. I've even done a little of my own testing off road, and this thing is amazing in the dirt and rocks. The 4LO and locking rear differential are easy to use and get you out of just about anything. Engine performance is impressive for an SUV, with the V6 being plenty powerful, quiet and buttery smooth. I can't say enough good things about this vehicle!
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Vehicle year: 2003
I've been the proud owner of my 2003 Xterra for three months now. During the purchase, I negotiated with the salesman and paid $24,600 for a Silver 4x4 SE, complete with floormats and a microcabin filter. The Xterra has proven to be a reliable vehicle with adequate power and great features. I have yet to encounter any problems or have any complaints. The ride is incredibly smooth, with the wheels absorbing any potholes or bumps with ease. Additionally, the cabin noise is minimal, making for a peaceful driving experience. The instrument panel is well laid out, and I particularly appreciate the radio controls on the steering wheel. The Xterra is a sturdy vehicle that provides an excellent view of the road, and its acceleration allows me to merge and pass traffic with ease.
Are you having problems with your Nissan Xterra?
Freeman Jast 2025-03-28
Vehicle year: 2003
2002 6 cyl. Super Charged. Specs say15/18 est. milage. I get 10 mpg and 7mpg towing. The service departmentsaid everything is within specs. Did Iget a lemon? I am under the 12/12000.Domestic v8's get better milage thanthis. This is the 4th Nissan I haveowned, and the last if this isn'tresolved. I love the Xterra, this is thesecond one I have owned, but the milageis KILLING ME!
Major Reilly 2025-03-27
Vehicle year: 2001
This was my first SUV. At first, I loved how it handled the snow and how high up I sat. However, I did notice that the front driver and passenger windows vibrated when rolled down an inch or so. Despite being told by three different dealerships that this was normal, it was a bit of a disappointment. After about a year, the novelty of the SUV wore off and I began to notice that it was a bit of a bumpy ride and a gas-guzzler. The interior plastic also felt a bit cheap. Don't get me wrong, it looks great, but it just doesn't drive as well as I had hoped. If you're looking for an SUV around $25,000 and need off-road prowess, this is probably the way to go. However, if you don't plan on doing much off-road activity and want decent mileage, comfort, and handling, I would recommend trying the Escape, CRV, RAV4, or Liberty.
Joel Bernhard 2025-03-27
Vehicle year: 2006
Although the Xterra had been a reliable vehicle for me, I encountered a series of issues about a year ago that required significant financial investment. These included problems with the fuel level sensor, fuel pump, and electrical system. Unfortunately, the most severe issue occurred recently when the transmission fluid leaked into the coolant system, resulting in an estimated repair cost of almost $10,000 for the cooling system and transmission replacement. While Nissan has extended the warranty to cover this known issue, it may not be sufficient for most drivers. It is worth noting that Xterra transmission system issues are a top result when searching online. (I worked hard to use other sources and get the cost to $5000.)
Jamar Hahn 2025-03-14
Vehicle year: 2007
My truck has had several issues, including a new computer, transmission problems, and a malfunctioning solenoid that caused it to get locked in park. Additionally, the air conditioning drain was draining into the front passenger floor, which caused mold and required the replacement of all the carpeting. Despite these issues, I have been able to trade it in for 15,000 after just over a year, which is a testament to its value. While I have been hesitant to take it on long trips due to its history of leaving me stranded, I have put 18,500 miles on it so far.
Wellington Dare 2025-03-09
Vehicle year: 2001
I purchased this car about 2 years ago with 100k miles on it. Although I maintain the vehicle regularly, I have had to replace several parts such as the timing belt, fog lights, A/C fan, leaf springs, head gasket, front grill, and 4 small suspension parts. Unfortunately, some of these parts appear to be cheap and fall apart easily, causing rattles and squeaks on every bump. The bumpers are also poorly built and fading. Despite these issues, the car is great off-road. However, the poor quality of some parts makes it less appealing. Overall, I have spent about $3000 in repairs on top of regular maintenance in the 2 years I've had the vehicle.