2015 Nissan Xterra problems
Social links
Common 2015 Nissan Xterra problems
The Nissan Xterra, a popular off-road-ready SUV, has been praised for its performance, reliability, and affordability. However, like any vehicle, it is not immune to common problems. Here are some of the most frequently reported issues with the 2015 Nissan Xterra, based on complaints from owners:
- Leaky Radiator: The 2005 Xterra model has been particularly affected by this problem. If not addressed promptly, a leaky radiator can lead to transmission failure. The radiator leak may still occur even after tightening the cap, and it may require repairing the lower intake manifold. This issue is primarily caused by the radiator defect, which can also affect the transmission system if not addressed in time.
- Transmission Failure: The 2005 Xterra model year has been plagued by transmission failure, primarily due to the radiator defect. Rebuilding or replacing the transmission is a costly repair, and it can significantly impact the vehicle's overall performance and reliability. This issue can be particularly problematic for off-road enthusiasts who rely on their Xterra's robust transmission to handle challenging terrains.
- Fuel Injector Failure: Several Xterra models have struggled with bad fuel injectors, which can cause 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. This issue can significantly impact the vehicle's performance and fuel efficiency, making it a critical concern for Xterra owners.
- Heat Issues: Some Xterra owners have reported issues with the vehicle's heating system, particularly in the 2005-2015 models. This issue can cause the blower motor to blow air through an area that is not as hot as it's supposed to be, affecting the vehicle's overall comfort and driving experience .
While the Nissan Xterra is generally considered a reliable vehicle, these common problems can significantly impact its performance and reliability. It is essential for potential buyers to be aware of these issues and consider them when purchasing a used Xterra. Regular maintenance and inspections can help prevent these problems from occurring or worsening, ensuring that the Xterra remains a reliable and capable off-road vehicle.
Is the 2015 Nissan Xterra reliable?
The 2015 Nissan Xterra has a predicted reliability rating of 3.5 out of five from J.D. Power & Associates, which is above average for a compact SUV .
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 will a 2015 Nissan Xterra last?
between 200,000 and 300,000 miles
However, Nissan Xterras are known for their durability and can often last for a high number of miles with proper care. On average, you can expect a Nissan Xterra to last between 200,000 and 300,000 miles or more before experiencing major mechanical issues if it is well-maintained.
Does Xterra have transmission problems?
When the transmission heats up, it can cause damage to various parts and components, which can be costly to repair. In some cases, the cooling problem with the transmission on a Nissan Xterra may be caused by a faulty radiator, which can fail to effectively cool the transmission fluid.
2015 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:
- Power train problems
- Suspension problems
- Structure problems
- Service brakes problems
- Unknown or other problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2015 Nissan Xterra vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
2015 Nissan Xterra complaints
The NHTSA has received 10 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2015 Nissan Xterra.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-01-03
- 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.
SUSPENSION,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-04-25
- VIN: 5N1AN0NW8FN
- Components: SUSPENSION,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: Leaf spring snapped. Large piece of metal was found in the road. Rear shocks were replaced under warranty several years prior. Known weak point of xterras. Dealer replacement costs were astronomical so I upgraded the equipment for the same cost and did the work myself as I am now slightly out of warranty.
SUSPENSION,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-02-25
- VIN: 5N1AN0NW1FN
- Components: SUSPENSION,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: The following is an email that I had sent to CSX Risk Management describing what happened with my vehicle on Friday, 2.25.2022. I suspect that a defective leaf spring could have contributed to my accident. This is the passenger side leaf spring. I say this because I had to replace the same leaf spring on a 2011 Nissan Xterra PRO-4X before. I now have a 2015. -- I went over the CSX Railroad Tracks on Three Oaks Road (Northbound, just before Old M-11) in Sawyer last night -- approximately 9:13PM EST. Upon going over the bumpy tracks, it caused my passenger rear wheel to be pushed back into wheel well. The tire was rubbing on the wheel well and it smelled like burning rubber. I'd stopped right away and saw white smoke from the tires. It's looks like the bumpy tracks caused the leaf spring to be damaged or out of place. I can't tell if there are any other damages. My car had to be towed, as it was not drivable. Chikaming Township Police assisted. The police officer, Sargeant Brandon Jones, and tow truck driver said that the bumpy tracks have been in need of repairs for maybe seven years! Why has the tracks not been repaired in such a long time?!! I wasn't the first casualty, and won't be the last. A police report was made. I have an incident # that I have attached to this email. And, a few pictures. More photos of the track will be included in the police report, as Sargeant Brandon Jones went to look at the tracks to investigate. My car was towed to my home in Benton Harbor, Michigan -- as there are no shops to take it to oven the weekend. It will then be towed again to a shop next week. I am officially putting in a claim for property damage to my vehicle.
SUSPENSION,PARKING BRAKE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-11-23
- VIN: 5n1an0nw1fn
- Components: SUSPENSION,PARKING BRAKE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2015 Nissan Xterra. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked with the emergency brake activated, the emergency brake button was stuck. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, and it was diagnosed that the axles were leaking oil and needed to be replaced. However, there were no axles available for replacement and that there probably not be any available in the future. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 66,000.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-01-15
- VIN: 5N1AN0NWXFN
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: VEHICLE STARTED SHOWING SIGNS OF CLUTCH SLIPPING AT 50,000 MILES: ENGINE WOULD REV UP WHILE CLUTCH PEDAL WAS FULLY OUT, THEN YOU WOULD FEEL IT RE-ENGAGE COMPLETELY AFTER A FEW SECONDS OF WHINING AND SPINNING. I'M A LIFETIME CLUTCH DRIVER (NEARLY 20 YEARS), AND EVERY VEHICLE GOT IN EXCESS OF 150,000 MILES BEFORE NEEDING A NEW CLUTCH. THE SECOND GENERATION XTERRA MANUAL TRANSMISSION CLUTCH IS UTTERLY JUNK. DON'T EVER BUY THIS VEHICLE IN MANUAL, OR ANY NISSAN. AFTER OWNING 3 XTERRAS IN MY TIME I WILL NEVER OWN ANOTHER NISSAN AGAIN. THIS PREMATURE FAIL IS A MANUFACTURING/OEM DEFECT. PLEASE RECALL!!!
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-03-22
- VIN: 5N1AN0NW4FN
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: BOUGHT MY X-TERRA BRAND NEW AND WAS TOLD IS HAS A BUMPER TO BUMPER 36,000 MILE WARRANTY, AT 22,000 THE CAR WOULD NOT SHIFT INTO GEAR. HAD IT TOWED TO A NISSAN DEALERSHIP THAT IS SAYING THE CLUTCH IS BAD FROM NORMAL WEAR AND TEAR AND NOT COVERED UNDER THE WARRANTY. WE'VE READ A LOT OF OTHER REVIEWS OF THIS HAPPENING TO OTHER PEOPLE AS WELL AND WANT TO REPORT IT. BOTH DRIVERS IN OUR HOUSEHOLD ARE EXPERIENCED CLUTCH DRIVER WITH A COMBINED 20+ YEAR EXPERIENCE. I CALLED NISSAN CUSTOMER SERVICE TO FURTHER INVESTIGATE AND THEY CALLED THE DEALERSHIP AND JUST "TOOK THEIR WORD FOR IT" NOTHING WAS REALLY INVESTIGATED AT ALL. POOR CUSTOMER SERVICE ON BOTH ENDS. I CALLED THE DEALERSHIP WE BOUGHT IT FROM THAT IS 4+ HOURS AWAY FROM OUR CURRENT HOME AND THEY SAID THEY WOULD'VE TAKEN CAR OF IT AND FIXED IT UNDER THE WARRANTY. WE CAN'T HAVE IT TOWED 4+ HOURS AWAY AFTER BEING TAKEN APART. BOTTOM LINE NISSAN HAS SOMETHING GOING ON WITH THEIR CLUTCHES, AND IS BLAMING IT ON THE CONSUMERS AND NOT ABIDING TO THEIR WARRANTY.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-05-20
- VIN: 5N1AN08U05C
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: MY NISSAN XTERRA 2005 HAS A TRANSMISSION PROBLEM CAUSED BY COOLANT FLUID IN TRANSMISSION. THEY ARE CHARGING ME FOR A REBUILT TRANSMISSION $6,000.00. THIS IS WHAT MY CAR COSTS. IF THEY HAVE TOLD ME BEFORE ABOUT THE PROBLEM I COULD HAVE FIX IT FOR LITTLE MONEY. NOW THEY DON'T ANSWER MY CALLS. SHOULD I THROW MY CAR IN A JUNKER NOW? THIS IS A MAJOR PROBLEM CAUSED BY A DEFECT FROM THE CAR. THEY NEVER SEND ANY LETTERS REGARDING THIS TRANSMISSION PROBLEM.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-04-11
- VIN: 5N1AN0NW9FN
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: AFTER 30000 MILES NEEDS A NEW CLUTCH BOUGHT USED AT 24000 MILES IN NOV. 2015. IT IS NOT COVERED UNDER FACTORY WARRANTY. SO THE CONSUMER HAS TO PAY FOR THE WEAR AND TEAR ITEM. IT WENT OUT AFTER PARKING AT HOME LUCKLY. THE 2006 XTERRA HAD CLUTCH PROBLEMS AND SOME OF THE OTHER MODLES PATHFINDER HAD SOME CLUCTCH PROBLEMS.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-12-25
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: TRANSMISSION FAILURE DUE TO PAST RADIATOR LEAK, SAME AS COMPLAINT ON FILE
POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC) PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-06-28
- VIN: 5N1AN0NW0FN
- Components: POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
- Summary: NISSAN XTERRA 2015 PURCHASED ON 3/14/2015. ODOMETER AT 4200 MILES. VEHICLE HAS LOSS OF POWER FOR APPROXIMATELY 30 SECONDS. VDC DASH INDICATOR TURNS ON. SOMETIMES ACCOMPANIED BY METALLIC GRINDING NOISE AS IF THE ABS SYSTEM HAS TURNED ON. THIS HAS OCCURRED SEVERAL TIMES ALWAYS ON DRY ASPHALT PAVEMENT. USUALLY AFTER A 90 DEGREE TURN. ALTHOUGH HAS ALSO HAPPENED PREVIOUSLY FOR A SECOND OR TWO WHEN MODERATELY ACCELERATING FROM A STOP CONTROL. CHECKED TIRE PRESSURES AND IT IS WITHIN NORMAL LIMITS (I.E. 38-40 PSI) THIS HAS OCCURRED 3 TIMES PRIOR FOR SHORTER INTERVALS. HOWEVER THE PROBLEM IS GETTING WORSE SINCE IT HAS NOW SUBSEQUENTLY OCCURRED TWO TIMES ON 6/28/2015 FOR APPROXIMATELY 30 SECONDS EACH TIME. NOTE, I HAVE VIDEO RECORD OF BOTH OCCURANCES ON 6/28/2015 OF THE DASH PANEL AND ROADWAY SHOWING THE PROBLEM, VDC INDICATOR LIGHT, ACCOMPANYING GRINDING NOISE, AND LACK OF ACCELERATION. THE SECOND TIME THE VEHICLE WOULD NOT ACCELERATE PAST 10 MPH AND I HAD TO PULL OVER TO THE SHOULDER TO ALLOW A FOLLOWING VEHICLE TO SAFELY PASS. THE VEHICLE SPEED IN INITIATING THE TURN IS USUALLY AROUND 20 MPH. TOOK VEHICLE PREVIOUSLY TO STOCKTON, CA NISSAN DEALER SERVICE DEPARTMENT ON 6/23/2015. THEY HAD THE VEHICLE FOR 3 DAYS. SERVICE TECH TEST DROVE VEHICLE AND REPLICATED PROBLEM, BUT ACCORDING TO THE SERVICE REP FOR ONLY A VERY SHORT TIME AND IN A U-TURN. THIS IS INDICATED ON THE SERVICE PAPERWORK. SERVICE REP SAID NO OBD2 CODES WERE RECORDED. SERVICE TECH CALLED NISSAN TECH LINE WHO TOLD HIM THIS IS "NORMAL". IT SHOULD BE NOTED THAT SERVICE TECH DID NOT GET NOISE AND LOSS OF POWER TO OCCUR FOR 30 SECONDS SO PROBABLY TOLD NISSAN TECH LINE THAT IS WAS ONLY FOR A SHORT TIME IN A U-TURN.
Negative 2015 Nissan Xterra car reviews
Positive 2015 Nissan Xterra car reviews
-
I really appreciate the fact that this vehicle has a strong engine and is built on a sturdy truck body frame. The high ground clearance is also a great feature. While the gas mileage could be better, I love that the seats fold down perfectly flat or can be removed. Additionally, the traction control button is very useful and I'm thrilled that I can plug my IPAD in and get satellite radio. The only downside is that if the seats in the front are pushed back, it leaves little room for the back passengers. Overall, I'm very happy with my purchase and have no regrets. If I had to do it all over again, I would definitely buy this vehicle again.
-
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!!
-
... good value overall. The 2015 Xterra is more or less unchanged from the previous years. I purchased a brand new Pro-4X in the Night Armour color with the cloth seats. Several aspects of the Xterra attracted me to it in the first place. VALUE: I paid in the low to mid 30's for a relatively powerful 6 Cylinder SUV with 4 wheel drive, off road capability, a navigation system, Bluetooth connectivity, heated seats, and a cool overall look. Granted the car hasn't been redesigned in quite a while but it still looks good. I specifically enjoyed that this is among a small group of cars that you can get heated seats on cloth seats. That makes it nice and cozy in the winter without the experience of hot leather in the summer. INTERIOR/TEHCNOLOGY: Inside, the Xterra offers a very easy to read and operate instrument panel. The infotainment system is basic but it never freezes or gets stuck. The Bluetooth operation is simple and intuitive. The climate and audio controls are easy to use with simple but quality dials. Personally, I love technology, but new cars that have complicated screens have gotten too intricate and they take my attention from the road. The Xterra's technology gives you what you need without the unnecessary complication. The Rockford Fosgate sound system (optional) is one of the best stock sound systems I've ever heard. The heating and air conditioning unit works great in all types of weather. The If Nissan had put a little more time and effort into quality materials, this would easily be one of my favorite automotive interiors. On the outside, the car has a very utilitarian look with nifty cargo spots and steps for accessing the roof. It's important to note that care needs to go into maintaining the exterior plastic trim as it can fade quickly in the sun. To keep it looking good, use an exterior trim gel. Mechanically, the Xterra has a great engine with a sub-par transmission. The 5-speed automatic is incredibly outdated and shows its age. However, the engine has great power for regular driving as well as highway passing and off-roading. While the gas mileage is extremely poor, most people don't buy an Xterra for fuel economy. This SUV is designed to handle anything the road throws at it. The Xterra is amazing in snow, rain, mud, and sand, and it will get you to work when everyone else can't get past the snow in their driveway. The 4-wheel drive system, along with the off-road gadgets in the Pro-4X, make sure this SUV never gets stuck. Furthermore, for an off-road inclined SUV, it has a fairly compliant ride on-road with not an obnoxious amount of road noise on the highway. It is easy to drive and park, and the Pro-4X even has a backup camera to help with parking. Overall, it's a shame that Nissan has pulled the plug on this SUV after the 2015 model year. This is a great fun SUV for the younger crowd that doesn't have kids and/or doesn't need tremendous gas mileage. This car looks and feels sporty and rugged without being too harsh on its occupants. It's a great weekend trip car and has enough technology and entertainment to be competitive in today's tech world.If Nissan could improve gas mileage, interior quality, and give it a fresh redesign, there would be plenty of buyers for a future Xterra, myself included. By the way, I wanted to share my personal experience with my Xterra. I have put 21,000 miles on my car and it has not given me any mechanical troubles. I've had two warranty repairs done on my Xterra, but they were minor issues. The dealership support has slightly improved, and I'm happy with the service. The Xterra still has a good handful of squeaks and rattles on the interior, but they are not a big deal. These noises show up a lot more during the colder winter months and seem to disappear during the warmer summer months as the plastic warms up and softens up. Although my gas mileage is still poor at an average of 17 mpg combined city and highway driving, I'm still satisfied with my Xterra.
-
I recently bought an 18' runabout with a trailer and decided to trade in my 2004 RAV4 for a used Xterra in 2008. I couldn't be happier with my decision. The Xterra has plenty of power and tows very well. In terms of mileage, I average around 19mpg with 16 being the lowest and 24 being the highest. It's also very practical for carrying loads. In comparison, my RAV4 was very noisy, but when I replaced the tires with the quietest ones available, the Xterra had very little road noise. The interior is basic with little decoration, which I prefer as it means there's no trim to fall off or rattle. I'm a Zen kind of guy and like to keep things simple. Although I sold the Xterra in August 2017 after over 8 years of ownership and just over 100k miles, I immediately regretted it. The exterior finish was still excellent and the durable interior fabrics were close to new. Even though Nissan no longer produces them, I would still consider buying another Xterra if the circumstances were right.
-
As a senior aged 77, I was searching for a vehicle that offered a perfect combination of comfort, convenience, utility, and economy without too many unnecessary gadgets. The xTerra proved to be just that. As a retired veteran, this was my first non-US car and I must say, I was thoroughly impressed. It's a shame that US car manufacturers couldn't match up.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2015 Nissan Xterra problems:
I just bought a 2015 Nissan Xterra PRO-4X anything I should be ...
Aug 8, 2022 ... Heater inlet/outlet connections on the firewall. Brittle plastic and will eventually leak. Common for all the 2nd gen Xterras.
2015 Nissan Xterra Problems | Kelley Blue Book
How reliable is the 2015 Nissan Xterra? See the most common repairs performed and learn if your vehicle is at risk for major repairs in the next 12 months.
A Guide to 2nd Gen Nissan Xterra Common Issues : r/XTerra
Feb 2, 2024 ... A Guide to 2nd Gen Nissan Xterra Common Issues · Strawberry Milkshake Of Death (SMOD): · Timing Chain Tensioner Guide Wear: · Fuel Sending Unit ...
2nd Generation (2005-2015) Xterra Problems
Aug 25, 2011 ... Common 2005-2015 Nissan Xterra Problems · Sunroof Rattles and Explodes · Coolant Leaks Destroy Transmissions · Timing Chain Defects · EVAP Clogs and ...
Any inherent issues with a 2015 Xterra S? : r/XTerra
Jun 26, 2023 ... The only two known problems with Xterras are strawberry milkshake of death (SMOD) and the secondary timing chains can wear out and cause damage.
Other years of Nissan Xterra
Are you having problems with your 2015 Nissan Xterra?
Armando Mills 2024-09-28
I recently purchased this car to replace my 2004 Discovery. While it looks cool, I have to say that it has been a disappointing experience. The handling in snow is the worst I have ever experienced and I had a negative experience with the Nissan dealership in Aurora, Co. I feel like I got ripped off with this certified car. If you're in the market for a new car, I would recommend spending the extra money to get a 4Runner. The interior is not very comfortable and the seats feel cheap and flat. Additionally, there are lots of creaks and vibrations from parts that sound like they're about to fail, but are certified
Micheal Lynch 2024-06-23
After purchasing my Xterra, I took it through a car wash and unfortunately water came through the roof. I immediately took it in for servicing and it turned out that the roof required major repairs. Thankfully, Nissan offered to repurchase the vehicle in accordance with the CO lemon law. However, I was disappointed that they subtracted $945 for only 2 months of driving. Additionally, they refused to refund a few items on the purchase agreement, citing that they were non-Nissan items. Throughout the arbitration process, Denise C. was difficult and unhelpful, claiming that Nissan and the dealership were separate entities. Despite these challenges, I remained persistent in my efforts to recoup my money.
Sigurd Keeling 2024-06-01
Just wanted to share my experience with my car. I've had to replace the clutch and flywheel after putting 6000 miles on it, which was a bit of a surprise. Unfortunately, it wasn't covered under warranty. I've heard of other people having similar issues with earlier models, such as needing a clutch replacement after only 5000 miles or experiencing transmission issues after a couple of years. Despite this, I still feel like I have a nearly brand new car. I did reach out to Nissan to see if they could help, but they were unable to offer any assistance. Just wanted to give a heads up to anyone considering purchasing this car to keep these things in mind. Thanks for reading!