Radiator Burst/Cracked

CarComplaints.com Seal Of Avoid Like The Plague

CarComplaints.com Notes: The 2005-2007 Xterra appears to have a widespread defect where coolant leaks into the transmission, causing transmission failure around 90,000 miles. Repair costs are typically upwards of $3,500.

The same defect exists in the Pathfinder & Frontier as well. And according to the New York Times & a class action lawsuit, the defect actually extends through 2010 model year. More info here.

7.7

pretty bad
Typical Repair Cost:
$690
Average Mileage:
122,400 miles
Total Complaints:
6 complaints

Most Common Solutions:

  1. rebuild/replace engine & radiator (2 reports)
  2. replacing radiator and new coolant (2 reports)
  3. not sure (1 reports)
  4. replace radiator and transmission (1 reports)
2005 Nissan Xterra cooling system problems

cooling system problem

Find something helpful? Spread the word.
Get notified about new defects, investigations, recalls & lawsuits for the 2005 Nissan Xterra:

Unsubscribe any time. We don't sell/share your email.

2005 Nissan Xterra Owner Comments

problem #6

Jul 142016

Xterra

  • Automatic transmission
  • 101,000 miles

A D V E R T I S E M E N T S

This problem is very well known and has been under investigation. This is one of two serious problems I know of that Nissan deliberately hid from customers. That is unacceptable.

- Edward H., Nashville, TN, US

Send Comment Add Complaint
problem #5

Mar 312016

Xterra SE V6

  • Automatic transmission
  • 180,000 miles

The well known leaking radiator issue has destroyed my transmission. But of course it is beyond the warranty covered dates. Since this is a known issue. it should be covered 100%, shame on Nissan for ignoring the issue. When sites are posting "Avoid at all cost", should become a federal investigation. I will not purchase another Nissan.

- Randy W., Livermore, CA, US

Send Comment Add Complaint
problem #4

Feb 242016

Xterra S 4.0L V6

  • Automatic transmission
  • 113,852 miles

There seems to be a trend with this particular issue of the radiator bursting sending coolant into the transmission rendering it destroyed and sending you back several thousands of dollars in repairs. Please include me in any other law suits against Nissan. I will never, ever, ever buy another Nissan again.!

- jrodtaclet, Woodbridge, VA, US

Send Comment Add Complaint
problem #3

Oct 142015

Xterra 4.0L

  • Automatic transmission
  • 80,000 miles

A D V E R T I S E M E N T S

After very little research I found out that Nissan has an ongoing issue with cracked radiators, but they would not cover any of the damage on mine. Needless to say I paid everything out of pocket.

- Gary S., Perkasie, US

Send Comment Add Complaint
problem #2

Apr 142015

Xterra S 4.0L V6

  • Automatic transmission
  • 136,250 miles

My 2005 Nissan Xterra S overheated due to the PLASTIC radiator cracking, the engine overheated and the engine then failed catastrophically. The repairs are rough estimated at more then 75% of the Xterra's value. How can a manufacturer knowingly utilize failable materials in critical components.

Nissan must address their products consistent failings. If they continue to refuse to support their customers, then we, the customers, should pursue a viral campaign to obtain restitution.

- Brad M., Charlotte, NC, US

Send Comment Add Complaint

Search CarComplaints.com for these popular complaint phrases...

engine complaint electrical issue heater complaint transmission complaint paint defect Xterra recall
problem #1

Apr 242012

Xterra V6

  • Automatic transmission
  • 123,000 miles

Less than two years ago, at just over 90,000 I replaced the radiator. Less than a year later I replaced it again along with the entire transmission. I'm still paying off in excess of 6000 that it cost to fix, never mind the weeks of rental cars which at $50/day is not a small price in the end. I've talked to Nissan corporate, and I could only go so far as to have them tell me that since my car was out of warranty that they could not help me unless I hired a lawyer, which I could not afford. I've filed complaints with the better business bureau too. Oh and when trying to get answers from Nissan mechanics about WHY this keeps happening they are conveniently unavailable every single time (I've asked to speak to them at least 6 times in person and over the phone).

So as of yesterday, my engine began overheating again. I also felt the transmission get stuck around 45mph. A THIRD TIME? REALLY? Its at the mechanic now and I'm not 100% sure that the radiator is the problem yet, but it sure feels that way. I'll update as soon as I know for sure.

Today i contacted Clark Howard and the attorney general for my state. The Clark Howard rep told me to try picketing the Nissan dealership and I might just take her up on it. I thought about tring to rally as many people in East TN that I can with these same problems . . .

How disgusting and horrible for a company to rip their customers off like they do. All Nissan parts have to be manufactured by Nissan so every time something breaks and gets replaced they make money. Who holds Nissan accountable for their actions?

- Natalie U., Johnson City, TN, US

Send Comment Add Complaint

Not what you are looking for?