2003 Nissan Xterra problems
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Common 2003 Nissan Xterra problems
Based on complaints from owners of the 2003 Nissan Xterra, several common problems have been identified:
- EVAP Clogs and Gas Spills:
- Another common problem is related to the EVAP system, causing gas splash back at the pump due to clogs. This issue can affect the vehicle's fuel efficiency and overall performance.
- Engine Cooling System:
- The radiator mounts on the Xterra are prone to rusting out, leading to potential overheating issues. Owners have experienced radiator failures, necessitating repairs to prevent engine damage .
- Valve Cover Gasket Leaks:
- The valve cover gaskets in the 3.3-liter engine are known to leak, causing oil to drip onto the starter and potentially leading to starter failure. Replacing these gaskets requires significant labor due to the location of the gaskets .
- Knock Sensor Malfunction:
- Knock sensors are a common problem in the 2003 Xterra, often resulting in engine performance issues. Relocating the knock sensor can be a solution to prevent recurring problems .
- Lower Steering Column Joint Corrosion:
- Some Xterra vehicles, including the 2003 model, have experienced corrosion in the lower steering column joint, which can limit movement and potentially lead to cracking of the steering shaft. This issue requires attention to ensure safe driving conditions.
- General Wear and Tear:
- Owners have reported various minor issues like power window failures, headliner falling down, and electrical problems with window switches. These issues, although not major, can contribute to the overall reliability and satisfaction with the vehicle.
By addressing these common problems, potential buyers of the 2003 Nissan Xterra can make informed decisions and be prepared for maintenance and repairs that may be needed to ensure the longevity and performance of the vehicle.
What is the major problem of Nissan Xterra?
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. A few common problems of the Nissan Xterra include a faulty fuel level sensor, radiator leaks, and transmission failure.
How many miles can you put on a 2003 Nissan Xterra?
On average, a well-maintained Nissan can last between 200,000 to 300,000 miles.
Why did Nissan stop the Xterra?
The Xterra was discontinued in the U.S. after the 2015 model year. Poor fuel economy, declining sales, and mandated upgrades to safety and emissions were cited as reasons.
What year was the best year for the Nissan Xterra?
Below are the standout models in reliability.
- 2009 Nissan Xterra. If you're going for a second-gen Xterra, we recommend skipping the first four models, namely the 2005, 2006, 2007, and 2008 years. ...
- 2013 Nissan Xterra. There's a lot to love about the 2013 Nissan Xterra. ...
- 2015 Nissan Xterra.
2003 Nissan Xterra car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Nissan Xterra problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Steering problems
- Service brakes problems
- Fuel system problems
- Gasoline problems
- Air bags problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2003 Nissan Xterra vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 2003 Nissan Xterra
The NHTSA has received 72 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2003 Nissan Xterra. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2003 Nissan Xterra vehicles.
2022-09-26
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-09-24
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 5n1ed28y63c
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: My son missed a sharp turn going approx 40 mph. Went up an embankment, off a 4 ft retaining wall and struck a guard rail with the front passenger side of the xterra. Airbags failed to deploy.
2021-08-07
STEERING,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-06-15
- VIN: 5n1ed28y33c
- Components: STEERING,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: Fuel pump power steering abs O2 sensors yes it's available for inspection upon requests car shut off while driving at 70 miles an hour on a highway due to fuel pump because my VIN number is not with all the other 2003 Nissan xterra's that have recalls on all of the same problems I have just for some reason my car has zero recalls which is ridiculous and not believable so yes my life was put at risk I took it to an independent service my mechanic because I can't take it to a dealer because all the parts that are broken and that need replacement that have been recalled on every other 2003 does not apply to my VIN so I've had to pay for labor and parts and the headache that I could have had this all replaced and fixed due to the recall and I would have taken it to the dealership immediately after purchasing the car in 2019 and since the previous owner didn't have any recalls why would he bother either I will not pass inspection if they do not fix this evap O2 sensor and now my fuel pump I would like to be reimbursed on that was purchased through Nissan dealership the gauge is no longer working just put in brand new part so I would like someone from the dealerships take a look at my car and replace everything that's wrong with it with every other 2003 Nissan Xterra regardless of my VIN number and I have check engine light on forever for evac leak replace catalytic converters exhaust system O2 sensors power steering fuel pump ABS sensors I would just like to take the best care of this vehicle that I can and that would be done through the dealership replacing all of the recalled parts on this make model of the Xterra 2003 3.3 l V6 non supercharged. The vehicle stalled while driving due to the fuel pump check engine light's been on for EVAP code for the fuel tank cap gas cap small leak and O2 sensors which I've been replaced but codes are still there no code has popped up pertaining to fuel pump car died at 70 miles an hour on a Thruway at midnight not fun.7Codes remaining
2020-10-10
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-07-24
- VIN: 5N1ED28Y53C
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: ENGINE OVERHEATING ALL COOLING PARTS HAVE BEEN REPLACED STILL OVERHEATING WITH NO KNOWN ISSUE FOUND VERY COMMON IN THE 2000 TO 2004 MODELS AND YET NO RECALLS TO FIX THE ISSUE AND KEEPS BLOWING RADIATOR HOSES
2019-01-24
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-01-21
- VIN: 5N1ED28T73C
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 NISSAN XTERRA. AFTER THE VEHICLE WAS FILLED WITH FUEL, IT WOULD NOT RESTART. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHO STATED THERE WAS A CRACK IN THE FUEL SENDING UNIT. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. THE DEALER AND MANUFACTURER WERE NOT CONTACTED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 180,000.
2018-01-31
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-10-01
- VIN: 5N1ED28T43C
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 NISSAN XTERRA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THERE WAS A PREMATURE FAILURE OF COOLANT LEAKING INTO THE RADIATOR, WHICH IMPACTED THE TRANSMISSION. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED BY A DEALER. THE INDEPENDENT MECHANIC REPLACED THE RADIATOR AND FLUSHED THE TRANSMISSION. THE MANUFACTURER STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED IN A RECALL CAMPAIGN AND PROVIDED NO SOLUTION. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS NOT AVAILABLE.
2017-11-13
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-11-10
- VIN: 5N1MD28Y63C
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 NISSAN XTERRA. WHILE DRIVING 20 MPH, THE VEHICLE STALLED WITHOUT WARNING. IN ADDITION, THE POWER STEERING AND BRAKES FAILED. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS SERVICED AT CASA NISSAN (5855 MONTANA AVE, EL PASO, TX) PER NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 04V230000 (FUEL SYSTEM) THREE TIMES PREVIOUSLY. THE DEALER INSPECTED THE VEHICLE AND ADDED SEALANT TWICE BEFORE; HOWEVER, THE FUEL TANK WAS REPLACED DURING THE FINAL VISIT. THE REMEDIES FAILED TO REPAIR THE VEHICLE OVER THE PAST THREE YEARS. THE VEHICLE WAS DRIVEN TO NISSAN OF LAS CRUCES (1801 S MAIN ST, LAS CRUCES, NM, 88005), BUT WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED AND PROVIDED CASE NUMBER: 28820775. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 190,000.
2016-10-14
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-10-14
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 5N1ED28T43C
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 NISSAN XTERRA. WHILE DRIVING 55 MPH, THE CONTACT CRASHED INTO THE REAR OF ANOTHER VEHICLE. THE AIR BAGS FAILED TO DEPLOY. THE CONTACT SUSTAINED NECK AND BACK INJURIES, BUT DID NOT REQUIRE MEDICAL ATTENTION. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A TOWING LOT. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 160,000.
2016-06-12
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-06-12
- VIN: 5N1ED28Y64C
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: JUNE 12 2016 AT THE TRI-PAR IN SLINGER, WI I WAS FILLING UP THE GAS TANK, WHEN GAS BEGAN SPILLING OUT OF THE VEHICLE'S WHEEL WELL. I IMMEDIATELY STOPPED IT AFTER I NOTICED IT. THE STATION ALONG WITH THE SLINGER FIRE DEPARTMENT ESTIMATED A GALLON WAS SPILT. IT APPEARS THE VEHICLE'S GAS TANK NECK HAS RUSTED OUT. THEY DEEMED THE VEHICLE NOT SAFE TO DRIVE AND RECOMMEND WE HAVE IT TOWED HOME, WHICH WE DID.
2016-03-07
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-12-02
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 5N1ED28T93C
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: I WAS DRIVING TO WORK ONE DAY AND WHILE I WAS TURNING CORNERS I FELT IT WAS GETTING HARDER TO STEER. I STOP AT THE RED LIGHT AND WHEN DROVE OFF AGAIN I WAS GOING MAYBE 5-10 MPH, I TURNED LEFT AND I WAS GOING TO STRAIGHTEN THE CAR UP THE CAR STARTED TO SWURVE AND BEAR TO THE LEFT. I TRIED TO REGAIN CONTROL BUT THE CAR WOULD NOT RESPOND I ENDED UP CRASHING INTO A POLE.
2016-01-14
STRUCTURE,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-01-08
- Components: STRUCTURE,ENGINE
- Summary: NISSAN XTERRA FRAME RUSTED BEYOND ANY SAFETY JUSTIFICATION. OIL LEAKS FROM ENGINE UP TWO 2 QUART A DAY LEAD TO ENGINE SEIZED UP WITHOUT WARNING.
2015-03-22
STRUCTURE,TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-03-22
- Components: STRUCTURE,TIRES
- Summary: CALLED ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE TO CHANGE A TIRE. THE SPARE TIRE RUBBER WAS BURNED IN THREE OR MORE PLACES FROM THE HEAT SPREADING UNDER THE VEHICLE, AND THE CHAR/MELTING/BURNING WENT THROUGH THE VEHICLE BODY FROM THE BOTTOM OF THE VEHICLE OUTSIDE TO THE FLOOR INSIDE. THE MAN CHANGING MY TIRE SUGGESTED IT WAS A FIRE WAITING TO HAPPEN AND THAT THERE COULD BE A RECALL FOR THIS SORT OF ISSUE. I CHECKED AND DO NOT SEE ANYTHING LISTED. MY TIRED IS NOW DAMAGED FROM THE HEAT MELTING THE RUBBER, AND MY VEHICLE IS CHARRED IN PLACES. *TR
2014-09-05
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-03-04
- VIN: 5N1ED28T13C
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 NISSAN XTERRA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE REAR DRIVER AND PASSENGER SIDE CATALYTIC CONVERTERS FAILED. THE CONTACT ALSO MENTIONED THE EGR SYSTEM FAILED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 120,000.
2014-07-04
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-06-28
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 5N1ED28T83C
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: WE WERE DRIVING ON VACATION AND THE CAR STOPPED. IT STARTED BACK UP AND THEN AFTER A COUPLE OF MILES STOPPED AGAIN. WE WERE STRANDED AND DIDN'T GET HOME FOR THREE DAYS.I HAVE TAKE CODES OFF THE ENGINE AND IT SHOWED A 0462 CODE. WENT BACK TO GET XTERRA WITH A CAR DOLLY AND DOLLY BROKE AND CAR CAME UNDONE. THIS UNFORTUNATE INCIDENT WAS A DIRECT RESULT OF A BAD SENDING UNIT. *TR
2014-06-26
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-06-11
- VIN: 5N1ED28Y73C
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,STRUCTURE
- Summary: RADIATOR IS FALLING OUT OF TRUCK ,DUE TO SERIOUS RUST ON FRAMING, HOOD LATCH IS STARTING TO BREAK FREE HOOD COULD FLY UP ONTO WINDSHIELD . *TR
2014-04-24
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-04-20
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: DURING A DRIVE HOME FROM A WEEKEND IN THE COUNTRY, MY XTERRA BEGAN TO OVERHEAT. A FAINT POP, LIKE A BACKFIRE, HAPPENED. AFTER I HEARD THE NOISE, A CONSISTENT TICKING OR PINGING SOUND STARTED COMING FROM THE RIGHT FRONT SIDE OF MY XTERRA. THE SOUND IS CONSISTENT WITH THE ACCELERATION. ONCE I GOT HOME, I STARTED TO RESEARCH THE ISSUE ONLINE. FOUND THAT 2000-2004 XTERRAS HAVE A VERY COMMON PROBLEM WITH THE EXHAUST MANIFOLD CRACKING DUE TO WEAK MATERIAL. I AM AN ACTIVE MEMBER ON WWW.CLUBXTERRA.ORG AND MANY OTHER MEMBERS REPORT THE SAME ISSUE. THIS IS QUITE A SET BACK FOR MOST PEOPLE AND CAN CAUSE SERIOUS DAMAGE TO THE ENGINE IF IT IS NOT TAKEN CARE OF IN A TIMELY MANNER. NISSAN SHOULD RECOGNIZE THAT THIS IS A MANUFACTURING FAULT AND ISSUE A RECALL. EVERYONE I KNOW THAT OWNS AN XTERRA HAS OR HAD THIS ISSUE. *TR
2014-02-04
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-12-30
- VIN: 5N1ED28T73C
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: WHEN I BOUGHT THE CAR THE ADJUSTER FOR THE STEERING WHEEL LEVER TO LOWER OR LIFT UP THE WHEEL IS STUCK IN THE DOWN POSITION & WON'T MOVE. THE WHEEL IS HARD TO MOVE BUT THE STEERING FLUID IS FULL. *TR
2014-01-19
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-01-17
- VIN: 5N1ED28Y13C
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: DRIVING 30 MPH ON STREET AND HIT A POTHOLE AND THE CAR GEARED TOWARDS THE RIGHT AND WAS VERY DIFFICULT TO CONTROL THE STEERING WHEEL. I HAD TO HOLD THE STEERING WHEEL WITH TWO HANDS WITH CONSTANT PRESSURE TO HOLD IT IN A STRAIGHT POSITION. I ARRIVED AT MY BROTHERS HOUSE AFTER TEN MINUTES BUT I WAS UNABLE TO PARK IN THEIR DRIVEWAY. THE CAR WOULD NOT TURN LEFT AND THE STEERING WHEEL WAS VERY STIFF. ABOUT TWO MONTHS PRIOR MY HUSBAND CHECKED THE POWER STEERING FLUID CAUSE I COULD PARK ON THE LEFT OF ANY STREET. BECAUSE OF THE STIFF STEERING WHEEL AND CRANKING NOISE COMING FROM THE BOTTOM OF THE VEHICLE. I FEEL LIKE I WILL BE LOSING CONTROL OF THE CAR SOON. SO I WILL BE TAKING IT TO OUR MECHANIC ON MONDAY. *TR
2013-09-12
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-09-07
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: I WAS PUMPING GAS AND IT BACKED UP AND SPLASHED ALL OVER MY EXPOSED SKIN AND CLOTHING. BECAUSE THE FUEL PUMP FUEL LEVEL SENDER IS MALFUNCTIONING GAS SPILLS WHEN I ATTEMPT TO FILL MY TANK. *TR
2013-02-17
STEERING,AIR BAGS,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-01-21
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 5N1ED28Y53C
- Components: STEERING,AIR BAGS,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: I WAS DRIVING ALONG A SLIGHTLY SNOW COVERED ROAD WITH A LITTLE BIT OF ICE. MY SPEED WAS LOW ABOUT 15-20 MILES PER HOUR. THE CAR STARED SLIDING SIDEWAYS TOWARD ANOTHER CAR HEADING TOWARD ME. MY FOUR-WHEELED DRIVE WAS ENGAGED WHILE DRIVING. I MANAGED TO STEER THE CAR OUT OF THE WAY OF THE OTHER CAR BUT I COULD NOT GAIN CONTROL OF MY VEHICLE. THE BRAKES DID NOT HELP AND THE STEERING WOULD NOT RESPOND. I TRAVELED AT LEAST 80 FEET HITTING TREES AND BUSHES UNTIL A SET OF TREES STOPPED MY CAR. THE CRASH TOTALED MY CAR. *TR
2012-12-28
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-08-26
- VIN: 3N1BC13EX7L
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON IN 09. VEHICLE FAILED EMISSIONS DUE TO PROBLEM WITH EVAC SYSTEM. GASKET AT FUEL TANK WAS REPLACED. WITHIN A YEAR, ENGINE LIGHT CAME BACK ON. THERE WAS ANOTHER PROBLEM WITH THE EVAC SYSTEM. AFTER $ 862.00 DOLLARS THAT WERE SPENT ON VEHICLE FOR O RING AND GASKET REPAIRS, VEHICLE PASSED EMISSIONS. WITHIN 8 MONTHS, ENGINE LIGHT WAS BACK ON DUE TO EVAC SYSTEM. MECHANIC STATES THAT THERE IS MAJOR CORROSION OF THE FUEL TANK AND THAT HE HAS SEEN THE SAME THING ON MANY NISSAN VEHICLES OF THIS AGE DUE TO THE MATERIAL USED TO CONSTRUCT THE FUEL TANK AND BELIEVES THAT IT IS A WIDESPREAD PROBLEM THAT SHOULD HAVE BEEN RECALLED AND THAT NISSAN STARTED USING A DIFFERENT MATERIAL ONCE THE PROBLEM WAS KNOWN. THE ENTIRE INTERIOR OF THE VEHICLE SMELLS OF GASOLINE AND MECHANIC STATES THAT ANYONE IN CLOSE PROXIMITY OF VEHICLE COULD CAUSE AN EXPLOSION IF A SPARK WAS CREATED. *TR
2012-11-09
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-11-09
- VIN: 5N1ED28Y63C
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: THE TRANSMISSION IN MY 2003 NISSAN XTERRA NEEDS TO BE REPLACED. THE RADIATOR FLUID HAS LEAKED INTO THE TRANSMISSION FLUID CAUSING DAMAGE TO MY TRANSMISSION. THIS IS A WIDESPREAD PROBLEM AND SHOULD BE HANDLED BY THE NISSAN DEALERSHIP. *TR
2012-06-04
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-06-02
- VIN: 5N1ED28Y23C
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: I WAS NEGOTIATING A CURVE WITH AROUND 45 MPH AND SUDDENLY LOST STEERING CONTROL. THE VEHICLE STARTED TURNING TO THE RIGHT SIDE, I PANICKED AND TRIED TO STEER IT TO THE LEFT ,AND THE VEHICLE TOOK A U TURN AND CAME TO A STOP FACING THE INBOUND VEHICLES. LUCKILY THERE WAS NO OTHER CARS AND I MANAGED TO TAKE DRIVE IT AGAIN. IT NEVER HAPPENED BEFORE AND I HAVE NO IDEA WHAT CAUSES IT. IT WAS REALLY SCARY AND I AM NOT SURE WHAT TO DO ABOUT IT. PLEASE ADVICE. THANKS *TR
2012-05-30
STEERING,STRUCTURE,WHEELS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-03-16
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 5N1ED28Y63C
- Components: STEERING,STRUCTURE,WHEELS
- Summary: I DROVE THE VEHICLE ON A FREEWAY UNDER CONSTRUCTION WITH ONE FINISHED NEW PAVEMENT LANE. WHEN I WAS CHANGED THE OTHER OLD LANE TO THE NEW ONE, THE WHEEL SUDDENLY GOT OUT OF CONTROL AND SPUN FROM ONE LANE TO THE OTHER AND ENDED IN THE MIDIUM BUMPED INTO BARRIERS. LATELY I CONTACTED WITH NISSAN AND QUESTION IF THIS IS ASSOCIATED WITH THE RECALL R1037. THEY DENIED. *TR
2012-01-13
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-01-09
- VIN: 5N1ED85Y53C
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: NISSAN PUT OUT A RECALL ON THE 2003 FUEL SYSTEMS IN REGARDS TO CORRISON THAT COULD OCCUR TO THE FUEL SYSTEM. OUR VEHICLE WAS NOT PART OF THE RECALL. THE FUEL SYSTEM DID CORRODE, CAUSING US TO PAY OUT OF POCKET FOR A NEW TANK, NEW FUEL PUMP. THIS RECALL WAS FOR SALT AREAS, THAT WOULD BE IN MA. WHAT WAS DONE TO FIX THIS PROBLEM DID NOT. *TR
2011-09-06
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-09-02
- VIN: 5N1ED28Y13C
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: THE CAR DOESN'T SEEM TO BE ACCELERATING PROPERLY DUE TO SOMETHING WRONG WITH THE FUEL SYSTEM OR GASOLINE DELIVERY THERE IS A VIBRATING SOUND AND VIBRATION COMING FROM THE GAS PEDAL. AND THE GASOLINE SMELL IS TERRIBLE. THE GAS PEDAL IS VERY LOOSE AND I DON'T FEEL SAFE DRIVING MY CAR AT THIS TIME. *TR
2003 Nissan Xterra recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 3 recalls for different components of the 2003 Nissan Xterra.
2010-11-11
- Manufacturer: NISSAN NORTH AMERICA, INC.
- Components: STEERING:COLUMN
- Summary: NISSAN IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2002-2004 FRONTIER VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM JULY 9, 2001 THROUGH OCTOBER 20, 2004, AND MODEL YEAR 2002-2004, XTERRA VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM JULY 9, 2001, THROUGH JANUARY 6, 2005. OVER TIME CORROSION MAY FORM IN THE LOWER STEERING COLUMN JOINT AND LIMIT MOVEMENT OF THE JOINT. THE LIMITED MOVEMENT OF THIS JOINT MAY CREATE EXCESSIVE LOAD ON THE LOWER STEERING COLUMN SHAFT. IF THE VEHICLE CONTINUES TO BE DRIVEN IN THIS CONDITION, IT MAY LEAD TO CRACKING OF THE SHAFT DURING LOW SPEED MANEUVERS THAT REQUIRE LARGE STEERING INPUTS.
- Consequence: THE SHAFT MAY BREAK WHICH COULD RESULT IN LOSS OF STEERING CONTROL DURING THESE LOW SPEED MANEUVERS INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
- Remedy: THE STEERING COLUMN SHAFT AND JOINT WILL BE REPLACED WITH A SHAFT OF A DIFFERENT DESIGN. THIS SERVICE WILL BE PERFORMED FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON DECEMBER 13, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT NISSAN AT 1-800-647-7261.
2004-05-24
- Manufacturer: NISSAN NORTH AMERICA, INC.
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
- Summary: ON CERTAIN PICKUP TRUCKS EQUIPPED WITH SIX CYLINDER ENGINES AND SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH FOUR OR SIX CYLINDER ENGINES, THE FUEL PUMP TERMINAL ON THE FUEL-SENDING UNIT CAN DEVELOP A CRACK IN THE PLASTIC MOLDING. THIS CAN CAUSE THE TERMINAL STRIP TO CORRODE UNDER SOME ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS.
- Consequence: IF CORROSION OCCURS, THE TERMINAL STRIP COULD EVENTUALLY BREAK CAUSING THE FUEL PUMP TO STOP OPERATION. THIS WILL RESULT IN NOT BEING ABLE TO START THE ENGINE OR CAUSE THE ENGINE TO STOP RUNNING WITHOUT WARNING, WHICH CAN RESULT IN A CRASH.
- Remedy: IN THE FOLLOWING STATES, DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE FUEL-SENDING UNIT. THESE STATES ARE CONNECTICUT, DELAWARE, ILLINOIS, INDIANA, IOWA, KENTUCKY, MAINE, MARYLAND, MASSACHUSETTS, MICHIGAN, MINNESOTA, NEW HAMPSHIRE, NEW JERSEY, NEW YORK, OHIO, PENNSYLVANIA, RHODE ISLAND, TENNESSEE, VERMONT, VIRGINIA, WEST VIRGINIA, WISCONSIN, AND THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA. IN THE OTHER STATES, THE DEALER WILL INSPECT THE FUEL PUMP TERMINAL ON THE SENDING UNIT FOR CORROSION. IF CORROSION IS PRESENT, THE DEALER WILL REPLACE THE UNIT. IF THERE IS NOT CORROSION, THE DEALER WILL APPLY SEALANT TO THE TERMINAL HOUSING TO HELP PREVENT CORROSION IN THE FUTURE. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN ON JUNE 28, 2004. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT NISSAN AT 1-800-647-7261.
2002-11-12
- Manufacturer: NISSAN NORTH AMERICA, INC.
- Components: SUSPENSION:REAR
- Summary: ON CERTAIN PICKUP TRUCKS AND SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES, WATER MAY ENTER THE REAR AXLE HOUSING DUE TO INADEQUATE SEALING OF THE ANTI-LOCK BRAKING SYSTEM (ABS) SENSOR.
- Consequence: THIS CAN RESULT IN CORROSION AND EVENTUAL FAILURE OF THE WHEEL BEARING. IF THIS OCCURS, THE WHEEL ASSEMBLY COULD SEPARATE FROM THE VEHICLE INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE REAR AXLE FOR WATER INTRUSION AND ANY AFFECTED COMPONENTS WILL BE REPLACED. THE ABS SENSOR WILL BE RESEALED TO PREVENT WATER INTRUSION. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN DECEMBER 10, 2003. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT NISSAN AT 1-800-647-7261.
Negative 2003 Nissan Xterra car reviews
Positive 2003 Nissan Xterra car reviews
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Hi there! I just wanted to share my experience with my SUV. I live in Virginia and bought it specifically to tackle the snowy hills around here. It has been amazing! With 91,000 miles on it, it still performs great both off-road and in regular use. I get around 18.5 mpg in mostly highway driving, which is fantastic. The 5-speed manual makes it really fun to drive and it has exceeded all my expectations. I haven't had any problems with it and would definitely buy another one without hesitation.
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We purchased our Xterra at a public auto auction without any prior knowledge of its history. However, after installing new tires and a battery, it has become one of our most reliable vehicles. We have not experienced any major problems or required any repairs since purchasing it. Although it is a little rough, it runs like a dream. The SUV is narrower and has less distance between wheels, which makes driving a little bumpier, but it does not bother me. The back seat is super comfortable, and the kids love it. It sits higher than the front seats, giving it a safari-like feel. Additionally, it gets great gas mileage. Although we have not driven it in the snow yet, we are looking forward to it. We will definitely consider purchasing a Nissan again.
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The Nissan X-Terra is the best car I have bought so far. It's dependable and fun to drive. I love making long trips with my Nissan. What I especially love is that it's high and lets me see how the traffic is in front of me. I recommend that everybody looking to buy an SUV should really take the Nissan X-Terra into consideration.
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Great SUV! It has good looks, a smooth ride, and great acceleration. Plus, it won't break the bank at the gas station.
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I hope you're doing well! I just wanted to share that I bought my truck brand new 16 years ago and it's still going strong. Of course, there have been some wear and tear breakdowns along the way, but overall I'm really happy with it. Here's hoping it can keep on truckin' for a few more years!
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2003 Nissan Xterra problems:
What to look out for when buying used 03? : r/XTerra
https://www.reddit.com/r/XTerra/comments/wf8wwf/what_to_look_out_for_when_buying_used_03/
Aug 3, 2022 ... I went to go check out the 2003 and I saw too many problems even before scanning the computer. The lower radiator support was completely ...
2003 Nissan Xterra Problems and Complaints - 6 Issues
https://repairpal.com/2003-nissan-xterra/problems
Problem with your 2003 Nissan Xterra? Our list of 6 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 2003 Nissan Xterra.
Maintenance/Issues common? | Nissan XTerra Forum
https://www.clubxterra.org/threads/maintenance-issues-common.26587/
Jan 22, 2011 ... New to the forum - thinking about purchasing an Xterra for some winter fun in the snow (from northeast USA) - just curious as to the experience ...
Common Problems with 2003 Nissan Xterra: Addressing Coreosion ...
https://www.justanswer.com/nissan/9dzpy-xterra-mike-i-ve-having-issues-nissan.html
Nov 4, 2015 ... Since the drivers door cycling disarms it, this is a good indicator that the tamper switch is good. You can try the same procedure in the ...
Nissan Xterra Questions - Is a 2003 exterra have many problemz ...
https://www.cargurus.com/Cars/Discussion-c3002_ds541994
Mar 13, 2013 ... The 2003 Nissan Xterra did have some degree of major engine problems, including engine cooling. Probably best to avoid. 1 person thinks this ...
Other years of Nissan Xterra
Are you having problems with your 2003 Nissan Xterra?
Keyon Collier 2024-08-25
I based all my ratings on the several SUVs and trucks that I've driven, including an Explorer, Expedition, Tahoe, Denali XL, Jimmy, Ranger, F150, C1500, and CRV. The Xterra, however, stands out as its own unique vehicle. While the mileage and highway driving may not be the most enjoyable, the Xterra's sheer massive truck presence more than makes up for it. Although I do sometimes worry about merging with this car due to its lack of power, it still performs well overall. The hard engine sounds and road noise from cruising at 65mph can be bothersome, especially when I see my gas tank meter drop. Going without a LSD was a big mistake, and while the interior may be shabby, it's important to remember that it is still a truck. Overall, I think the Xterra is a good performing truck, but I'm starting to realize that I prefer smaller cars.
Ulices Fisher 2024-08-20
My main complaint is the engine and transmission. Reliability is good, only replacing the exhaust manifold in 85,000 miles. But the engine is extremely weak (I have SC model), and the 4 speed auto transmission shifts very rough. Engine takes 15 minutes to "warm up" before the engine and trans are even acceptable for use. The supercharged engine only performs well in dry 60-70 degree weather. I live in Michigan, and we rarely have dry 60-70 degree weather. If I ride alone and temp is optimal, the car is fun to drive, but if i carry passengers, its sluggish at best. Gas mileage is unacceptable for a V6! I rarely get over 13mpg in city driving even when i baby it! Highway mileage is no better!
Tremayne Simonis 2024-08-06
The Xterra has proven to be unreliable with just over 99,000 miles on it. Despite its impressive styling and capability, I have had to replace a cracked exhaust manifold and the supercharger, and now I am being told that the head gasket is leaking. It is clear that the 3.3 liter engine was not designed to handle the stresses associated with the supercharger. As an expert in this field, I can confidently say that the Xterra's reliability has not lived up to industry standards.
Van Gulgowski 2024-04-27
The vehicle is reliable and great for hauling goods and passengers. However, it could use some improvement in terms of gas mileage and smoother riding. It may not be the most comfortable option for long trips, and the high step may be a challenge for shorter individuals. Overall, it's a good choice for those who prioritize functionality and dependability.
Robb Sporer 2024-04-14
This is my first time buying an SUV. I initially wanted a Hummer, but it was too expensive for me. I ended up choosing an Xterra because I believe it lives up to its promises. Although I enjoy driving it, I find the front seats to be too small and uncomfortable. Legroom is also insufficient. Additionally, the engine could use more horsepower as 189 HP is not enough for the weight of this SUV. Fuel consumption is also high for its size. I have had one recall and two minor services done so far. However, I have been told that the 2005 model is much improved. Would I buy another one? Absolutely!