Nissan Xterra ReliabilityAll Years Ranked (2000–2014)
Side-by-side AutoScores, 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 AutoScore
80/100
Best Year
2013 Nissan Xterra
Score 87
Weakest Year
2007 Nissan Xterra
Score 72
Every Nissan Xterra Ranked
Sorted by AutoScore. 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
Xterra vs. the Competition
Head-to-head reliability comparisons with the Xterra's main rivals.
Sell your car for what it's worth.
Every receipt, every service, one signed PDF you hand the buyer. OSC is the paperwork trail your resale price depends on.
- OSC Transfer PDF — every receipt
- Snap-a-receipt AI log
- Fuel & mileage tracker
- Shareable buyer view link
Recommended Products
Quality parts and tools for your vehicle
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.