Nissan Xterra ReliabilityAll Years Ranked (2000–2014)
Side-by-side reliability scores, risk levels, and owner-cost projections for every Nissan Xterra we've analyzed. Identify the best years to buy, the ones to avoid, and the problems that follow the Xterra across generations.
Average Score
80/100
Best Year
2013 Nissan Xterra
Score 87
Weakest Year
2007 Nissan Xterra
Score 72
Every Nissan Xterra Ranked
Sorted by reliability score. Each link opens the full year-specific report.
A supremely capable and mechanically sound SUV, ideal for adventure seekers willing to overlook minor age-related quirks.
Top risks: Rust and Corrosion · HVAC System · Rear Axle & Differential Seals
A supremely capable and reliably simple SUV, the Xterra offers dependable performance with minimal common faults.
Top risks: Fuel System (Sending Unit) · Front Suspension & Steering · HVAC Blower Motor & Resistor
A tough, honest SUV that delivers adventure but demands careful attention to its specific mechanical and structural weak points.
Top risks: Engine Timing System · Frame and Undercarriage Rust · Rear Differential Failure
A tough, go-anywhere SUV that offers great value, provided you address its predictable age-related wear points upfront.
Top risks: Exhaust System (V6) · Rear Leaf Springs · Automatic Transmission (RE4R01A)
A tough, honest SUV that delivers reliable utility, provided you address common age-related wear.
Top risks: Fuel Level Sending Unit · Frame and Body Rust · Exhaust Manifold Bolts
A formidable off-roader, but non-negotiable pre-purchase scrutiny is required to dodge two major bullet points.
Top risks: Automatic Transmission · Engine Timing Chain · Rust and Corrosion
A go-anywhere SUV that rewards diligent maintenance but can punish neglect with costly component failures.
Top risks: Emissions System (Catalytic Converters) · Electrical (Fuel Level Sender) · Electrical (IPDM/ER - Intelligent Power Distribution Module)
A tough, adventure-ready SUV that requires a thorough pre-purchase inspection and commitment to preventative maintenance to be a reliable partner.
Top risks: Automatic Transmission · Engine (Timing Belt - V6) · Fuel Level Sender Unit
A tough, go-anywhere SUV that requires proactive rust management and attention to age-related component wear to remain dependable.
Top risks: Exhaust System · Chassis/Body Rust · Power Steering System
A rugged outdoor enthusiast's dream, but a major transmission flaw and rust concerns make careful inspection paramount.
Top risks: Automatic Transmission · Engine (VQ40DE Timing Chain) · Frame and Undercarriage Rust
A tough, go-anywhere SUV, but specific, costly vulnerabilities necessitate a thorough pre-purchase inspection and preventative action.
Top risks: Automatic Transmission · Rust and Corrosion · Engine (Timing Chain)
A robust, adventurous companion, but one that demands a meticulous pre-purchase inspection and proactive maintenance to mitigate its significant known mechanical flaws.
Top risks: Transmission Cooling System · Engine Timing Chain System · Fuel System (Sensor)
A rugged, capable off-roader if you diligently inspect for SMOD and rust, but requires a cautious approach.
Top risks: Automatic Transmission / Cooling System · Engine (VQ40DE) Timing Chain Guides · Chassis and Body Corrosion
A robust, no-nonsense SUV that offers solid off-road value, but requires careful rust inspection and attention to its common age-related issues.
Top risks: Frame and Undercarriage Rust · Exhaust Manifold Studs · Fuel Sending Unit
A robust adventurer with a major Achilles' heel in its automatic transmission that requires immediate attention.
Top risks: Automatic Transmission (RE5R05A) · Frame and Undercarriage · Engine (Timing Chain Guides/Tensioners)
Problems That Follow the Xterra Across Generations
Issues that appear in the top-3 risks across multiple model years — the cost of ownership you can actually predict.
Automatic Transmission
Appears in 4 model years · 27% of generations
Frame and Undercarriage Rust
Appears in 3 model years · 20% of generations
Rust and Corrosion
Appears in 3 model years · 20% of generations