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 | 0 | 8 | — | — | 88 | Excellent |
| 2014 | 0 | 5 | — | — | 95 | Excellent |
| 2013 | 0 | 1 | — | — | 96 | Excellent |
| 2012 | 0 | 7 | — | — | 90 | Excellent |
| 2011 | 0 | 9 | — | — | 86 | Excellent |
| 2010 | 4 | 31 | 3 | — | 71 | Good |
| 2009 | 2 | 12 | — | — | 71 | Good |
| 2008 | 3 | 88 | 5 | — | 71 | Good |
| 2007 | 0 | 423 | 4 | — | 71 | Good |
| 2006 | 2 | 561 | 23 | — | 71 | Good |
Reliability scores are proprietary to VinCheckEngine and incorporate multiple weighted safety signals.
How the Xterra Compares to Similar Vehicles
The Xterra scores 17 points above the average suv — a strong result.
Known Nissan Xterra Reliability Issues
The following components appear most frequently in owner complaints filed with NHTSA:
Based on 1145 owner complaints across recent model years.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Nissan Xterra reliable?+
The Nissan Xterra scores 86/100 on our reliability index — rated "Excellent." Across 10 recently analyzed model years, it accumulated 11 recall campaigns and 1145 owner complaints in the NHTSA database.
What year Xterra is most reliable?+
Among the years analyzed, the 2013 Xterra achieved the highest reliability score of 96/100 with 0 recalls and 1 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.
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