2003 Nissan Xterra

Introduction:

The 2003 Nissan Xterra is a mid-size SUV powered by a 3.3L V6 engine paired with a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmission. The Xterra is known for its off-road capabilities, comfortable interior, and towing capacity. However, like all vehicles, it has had its share of reported issues.

Engine:

3.3L V6

• Intake manifold gasket failure:
  • Symptoms: Coolant leaks, overheating, rough idle
  • Solution: Replace intake manifold gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found
• Timing chain tensioner failure:
  • Symptoms: Rattling noise from engine, reduced engine power
  • Solution: Replace timing chain and tensioner
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,200
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission:

5-Speed Manual

• No significant issues found

4-Speed Automatic

• Transmission shudder:
  • Symptoms: Vibration or hesitation during acceleration or shifting
  • Solution: Flush transmission fluid, repair or replace transmission solenoid pack
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,200
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension:

• No significant issues found

Electrical:

• Headlight switch failure:
  • Symptoms: Headlights and/or taillights not working
  • Solution: Replace headlight switch
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $150
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery drain:
  • Symptoms: Battery dies prematurely
  • Solution: Locate and repair electrical drain, replace battery
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior:

• Door lock actuator failure:
  • Symptoms: Doors not locking or unlocking properly
  • Solution: Replace door lock actuator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $250
  • Recalls: None Found
• Windshield wiper linkage failure:
  • Symptoms: Wiper arms not moving properly
  • Solution: Replace windshield wiper linkage
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $150
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior:

• Climate control fan motor failure:
  • Symptoms: Blower not working or blowing weakly
  • Solution: Replace blower motor
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found
• Radio display failure:
  • Symptoms: Radio display is blank or malfunctioning
  • Solution: Repair or replace radio head unit
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

Overall, the 2003 Nissan Xterra has some potential issues that owners should be aware of. The most severe and expensive issues include the engine timing chain tensioner failure and transmission shudder. However, many of the other issues are relatively minor and inexpensive to fix.