2008 Nissan Xterra

The 2008 Nissan Xterra is a rugged, body-on-frame SUV known for its off-road capabilities and utilitarian design. It was only available with a 4.0L VQ40DE V6 engine producing 261 horsepower and 281 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options included a 6-speed manual and a 5-speed automatic. Owners often praise its reliability and off-road prowess but note its poor fuel economy and somewhat dated interior.

Engine

4.0L VQ40DE V6

• Timing Chain Rattle
  • Description/Symptoms: A rattling noise from the front of the engine, especially on startup. This is often caused by worn timing chain tensioners.
  • Solution: Replacing the timing chain, tensioners, and guides.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coolant Leaks at Timing Chain Cover
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaking from the front of the engine, near the timing chain cover.
  • Solution: Replacing the timing chain cover gasket and resealing the cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Engine Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Common leak areas include valve cover gaskets and the oil pan gasket.
  • Solution: Replacing the affected gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Valve cover gaskets: $200-$500+, Oil pan gasket: $300-$700+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic Transmission

• SMOD (Strawberry Milkshake of Death)
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant mixing with transmission fluid due to a crack in the radiator. The transmission fluid looks pink/milky (hence “strawberry milkshake”). This can cause transmission failure.
  • Solution: Replacing the radiator, flushing the transmission, and possibly rebuilding or replacing the transmission if damage has occurred.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Radiator replacement $300-$700+, Transmission flush $150-$300, Transmission rebuild/replacement $2,500 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

6-Speed Manual Transmission

No Issues Found

Suspension

• Leaf Spring Sagging/Broken Leaves
  • Description/Symptoms: Rear suspension sagging, reduced ride height, and potential clunking noises. Visual inspection may reveal broken leaf springs.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaf springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Front Strut/Shock Absorber Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, poor handling, excessive body roll, and oil leaks from the struts/shocks.
  • Solution: Replacing the front struts/shocks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• IPDM (Intelligent Power Distribution Module) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent starting problems, stalling, electrical component failures (lights, wipers, etc.).
  • Solution: Replacing the IPDM.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Fuel Gauge Inaccuracy
  • Description/Symptoms: Fuel gauge reading inaccurately or fluctuating wildly.
  • Solution: Replacing the fuel level sending unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust on Undercarriage/Frame
  • Description/Symptoms: Visible rust, especially in areas exposed to road salt. Can lead to structural damage.
  • Solution: Rust repair, rust converter application, or, in severe cases, frame replacement (rare).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies widely, from $100 - $5,000+ depending on severity.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Door Lock Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Door locks not working properly (either not locking/unlocking, or working intermittently).
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty door lock actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+ per door.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2008 Nissan Xterra has a few common issues that prospective buyers should be aware of. The “SMOD” issue is potentially catastrophic, and preventative radiator replacement may be prudent. Timing chain issues can be costly, and rust is a concern in areas with road salt. While these issues can be expensive to repair, the Xterra remains a capable and desirable SUV for those seeking off-road adventures.