2004 Nissan X-Trail

The 2004 Nissan X-Trail is a compact SUV known for its practicality and off-road capabilities, especially with its available All-Mode 4x4 system. It came with a 2.5-liter QR25DE inline-4 engine producing approximately 165 horsepower and 170 lb-ft of torque. A smaller 2.0-liter engine was also available in some markets but wasn’t prevalent in North America. Transmission options were primarily a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic. Owners generally appreciate the X-Trail’s spacious interior and reliability. However, common complaints include rust issues, some electrical quirks, and the vehicle’s relatively basic interior.

Engine

2.5L QR25DE Inline-4

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Burning oil at a higher-than-normal rate, blue smoke from the exhaust, needing to add oil frequently.
  • Solution: Replacing piston rings, valve stem seals, or ultimately the engine, depending on the severity.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3000+
• Catalytic Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light on (typically P0420 code), reduced fuel economy, potential for rattling noise.
  • Solution: Replacing the catalytic converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Timing Chain Tensioner Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noise on startup or idle, potential for engine damage if the chain skips.
  • Solution: Replacing the timing chain, tensioner, and guides.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic

• Slipping/Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Delay in shifting, rough shifts, the transmission slipping out of gear.
  • Solution: Performing a transmission flush (may only temporarily alleviate symptoms), replacing solenoids, or rebuilding/replacing the transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 (flush) - $2500+ (rebuild/replace)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering at low speeds, stalling, poor acceleration.
  • Solution: Replacing the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

5-Speed Manual

No Issues Found

Suspension

• Strut Mount Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noise from the front suspension, especially over bumps, poor handling.
  • Solution: Replacing the strut mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ per pair.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Trailing Arm Bushing Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or squeaking from the rear suspension, especially when turning or going over bumps.
  • Solution: Replacing the rear trailing arm bushings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• ABS Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: ABS light illuminated, potential for ABS system not functioning properly.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty ABS sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+ per sensor.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Window Regulator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Window won’t go up or down, or goes up/down very slowly.
  • Solution: Replacing the window regulator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust (Especially around wheel wells and undercarriage)
  • Description/Symptoms: Visible rust spots, potentially structural damage in severe cases.
  • Solution: Rust repair, panel replacement, undercoating.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $2000+ (depending on severity).
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks appearing in the dashboard, especially in hot climates.
  • Solution: Dashboard replacement or dashboard cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Door Lock Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Door will not lock or unlock with the key fob or door switch.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty door lock actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2004 Nissan X-Trail presents a mix of common issues. Engine problems, particularly oil consumption and catalytic converter failure, are concerning due to their potential cost. Transmission issues, like slipping, can also be expensive to address. Rust is a significant concern, especially in regions with harsh winters. While some electrical and suspension issues are relatively minor, they can still contribute to overall maintenance costs. Addressing these common problems proactively can extend the lifespan and reliability of the vehicle.