2002 Nissan Xterra Reliability ReportKeepScore 75/100 · top failure points · buy or avoid
Quick Facts · 2002 Nissan Xterra
- Scores 7 points below the strongest nearby year — the 2001 Nissan Xterra earns a 82.
- The system most likely to surface first: frame and undercarriage rust (critical severity).
- Has 6 NHTSA recalls on record — the most notable involves the steering:column.
2002 Nissan Xterra: Buy or Avoid?
The 2002 Nissan Xterra is a rugged, body-on-frame SUV that can be a highly dependable adventure vehicle, provided you're diligent about addressing its well-known weak points. While mechanically robust in many areas, specific age-related issues and a significant rust propensity in certain climates mean a thorough pre-purchase inspection is non-negotiable to ensure long-term satisfaction. This is a capable vehicle, but it demands proactive ownership.
Biggest Strengths
- Rugged body-on-frame construction
- Capable 3.3L V6 engines (NA and SC)
- Simple, proven drivetrain components
2002 Nissan Xterra — Known Trouble Spots
The systems that break first on the 2002 Nissan Xterra. Mileage windows, repair costs, and fix-before-you-buy notes are in the full report.
Safety Recalls on the 2002 Nissan Xterra
6 recalls on record from NHTSA. Check your VIN atnhtsa.gov to see if the repair was performed.
STEERING:COLUMN
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.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
CERTAIN PRO-A MOTORS CORNER LAMPS, TURN SIGNALS, AND HEADLIGHTS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS THAT ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.
What breaks on the 2002 Nissan Xterra?
Full reliability breakdown — engine, transmission, rust, electrical. With repair costs and mileage danger zones.
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Nissan Xterra — Year-by-Year Comparison
Compare KeepScores across nearby years of the Nissan Xterra. Click any year for its full report.
Competing 2002s Worth a Look
Similar class, similar year range — ranked by KeepScore.
Relevant Products for Your 2002 Nissan Xterra
Parts and accessories matched to your 2002 Nissan Xterra
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Frequently Asked Questions
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