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: 2008
133000 mi, never tuned up, just oil changes. Runs great, buy it!
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Vehicle year: 2008
I've owned several Jeeps from 1951 to 2001 models. This Xterra is definitely a winner!
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Vehicle year: 2013
This car is very dependable mechanically and holds its resale value well.
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Vehicle year: 2003
I really love my Xterra! The only downside is the gas mileage. Despite having all of my services done on time, the gas mileage continues to diminish. During a recent 500 mile trip, we only got 11 miles to the gallon on the highway. Unfortunately, I've had to park my truck for the past 2 months due to the cost of driving it. It's difficult to justify keeping something that's so expensive to operate. The biggest challenge I'm facing is finding a vehicle that I like as much as my Xterra, as there aren't many options out there.
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Vehicle year: 2006
I previously owned a gen 1 before purchasing my gen 2. When I bought my gen 1, the odometer had failed and I was unsure of the mileage, but it still ran fine despite the previous owner never changing the oil (which I did). After driving it for two years, I sold it. My 06 second gen has been absolutely amazing. The only issue I have had is with the universal joint in the back, which tends to wear out quickly. This is likely due to the fact that mine is an off-road edition with a higher lift, causing the transmission input angle to be higher and leading to premature failure of those bearings. However, I have driven this vehicle through everything from snow and ice to mud, and it has never let me down. In fact, I have even pulled people out of snow banks on the side of the highway with it. It is comfortable, fun to drive, and offers reasonable gas mileage. With 200k on the odometer, it is still running strong and I plan to keep it until it dies (which will probably never happen).
Are you having problems with your Nissan Xterra?
Braeden Rodriguez 2025-07-28
Vehicle year: 2010
The Xterra is an amazing off-road capable SUV! We've put about 6k miles on ours and it has been fantastic so far. We chose the Xterra because we were looking for a true 4wd that could eventually replace my aging Toyota Tacoma. After test driving many vehicles, we knew the Xterra was the one for us and we have no regrets! The pros are that it's fun to drive, well-appointed, and the V6 is incredibly powerful. It's also the perfect 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 can scratch easily, which can be a little annoying.
Robin Rosenbaum 2025-07-28
Vehicle year: 2007
The vehicle has some drawbacks that may not be suitable for everyone. The fuel mileage is poor, and the cabin can be drafty in winter. It may require frequent repairs, and the trim paint coating is not very durable. The warranty coverage is also not very comprehensive. However, it is important to note that the TPMS system may not be very reliable, and the stock tires and brakes may wear out quickly. While it was not my first choice, there are better vehicles on the market. If you are looking for a reliable SUV, the Hyundai Santa Fe is a great option. It is important to consider the drive ratio for the engine size and the transmission. The heat and defrost system may also need some improvement.
Stan Pfeffer 2025-07-24
Vehicle year: 2003
The car has some major power steering issues that make for a less than smooth ride. However, the sound system is excellent. It is important to note that the supercharged model requires premium gas for optimal performance. In my experience, the extra cost of the supercharged model is not justified compared to the regular model. On average, I get 16.2 mpg between city and freeway driving.
Donnell Runte 2025-07-17
Vehicle year: 2011
I recently traded in my 2001 Xterra XE with 108k miles for a 2011 Xterra SE. It's a great SUV that I feel safe in. The 2011 model is quite comfortable, but there are a few things that I wish it had for the price, such as a temperature gauge, a better stereo, and a carpeted cargo area to prevent items from sliding around. It would also be nice to have power seats, a multi-CD changer, and Sirius radio, as well as better interior upholstery and plastic that doesn't stain so easily. Despite these minor issues, the drive is solid, fairly quiet, and performs well in the mountains.
Freeman Orn 2025-07-13
Vehicle year: 2008
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!