Is the Nissan Xterra Reliable?
2000–2015 defect & recall-risk analysis from citable NHTSA data.
The score ranks this model's recall intensity against other suvs — plus systemic-defect concentration and any open federal investigations. It measures defect and recall risk, not long-term mechanical durability, and is deliberately not skewed by how many were sold.
Reliability Score
Own a Nissan Xterra? Check your specific VIN for a full history report.
Nissan Xterra Reliability by Year
| Model Year | Recalls | Complaints | Injuries | Deaths | Reliability Score | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2015 | — | — | — | — | Not enough data | |
| 2014 | — | — | — | — | Not enough data | |
| 2013 | — | — | — | — | Not enough data | |
| 2012 | 1 | 0 | — | — | 57 | Fair |
| 2011 | — | — | — | — | Not enough data | |
| 2010 | 4 | 0 | — | — | 57 | Fair |
| 2009 | 3 | 0 | — | — | 57 | Fair |
| 2008 | 4 | 0 | — | — | 57 | Fair |
| 2007 | 1 | 0 | — | — | 57 | Fair |
| 2006 | 3 | 0 | — | — | 57 | Fair |
Reliability scores are proprietary to VinCheckEngine and incorporate multiple weighted safety signals.
How the Xterra Compares to Similar Vehicles
The Xterra scores 3 points above the average suv — a strong result.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Nissan Xterra reliable?+
The Nissan Xterra scores 72/100 on our reliability index — rated "Good." Across 10 recently analyzed model years, it accumulated 16 recall campaigns and 0 owner complaints in the NHTSA database.
What year Xterra is most reliable?+
Among the years analyzed, the 2012 Xterra achieved the highest reliability score of 57/100 with 1 recall and 0 complaints.
How many miles does a Xterra last?+
With consistent maintenance, most Nissan Xterra owners report 150,000 to 200,000+ miles of service life. Checking the VIN of any specific used Xterra will reveal its actual mileage history and any title events.
More Nissan Xterra Research
Check a Specific Nissan Xterra VIN
Model-level reliability scores show general trends. A VIN-specific report reveals the exact history of any individual vehicle — accidents, odometer records, auction events, and open recalls.
Run a Free VIN Report →