2004 Nissan Xterra
Safety record from NHTSA: recalls, owner complaints, investigations and service bulletins.
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Vehicles › Nissan › Xterra › 2004
These records cover every 2004 Nissan Xterra. To see whether one car still needs a recall repair, decode its VIN or check it with NHTSA.
Recalls
3 recalls name the 2004 Nissan Xterra. Newest first.
Nissan IS recalling certain model year 2002-2004 frontier vehicles manufactured from july 9, 2001 through october 20, 2004, and model year 2002-2004, xterra vehicles manufactured from july 9, 2001, through january 6, 2005. over time corrosion may form in the lower steering column joint and limit movement of the joint. the limited movement of this joint…
Risk and remedy
Risk
The shaft may break which could result in loss of steering control during these low speed maneuvers increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
The steering column shaft and joint will be replaced with a shaft of a different design. this service will be performed free of charge. the recall began on december 13, 2010. owners may contact nissan at 1-800-647-7261.
Certain hopkins aftermarket trailer brake control connection harnesses sold for use on certain models of nissan vehicles which are listed above. the internal part numbers within hopkins are: 1010476025, 1040376025, 1110476025, 1170376025, 1290376025, 1010476035, 1040376035, 1110476035, 1170376035, and 1290376035. a wire may have been placed in an…
Risk and remedy
Risk
This harness would result in power from the trailer brake controller going to the towing vehicle dash light circuit rather than the trailer brakes. this result would be the lack of trailer braking when the towing vehicle brakes were applied. it would also result in the towing vehicles dash lights being activated when the vehicle brakes were applied. the failure of the application of the trailer brake could result in reduced ability to stop and contribute to a possible crash.
Remedy
Hopkins will notify owners and replace the original harness with a revised harness free of charge. the recall began august 17, 2007. owners can contact hopkins at 800-835-0129.
On certain sport utility vehicles, the accessory tow hitch attachment bolts may not have been tightened to the proper specification.
Risk and remedy
Risk
This could cause the tow hitch to loosen or separate from the vehicle which could result in a crash without warning.
Remedy
Dealers will tighten the tow hitch. the recall began on january 3, 2005. owners should contact nissan at 1-800-647-7261.
Owner complaints
84 complaints10 involved a crash3 involved a fire7 injuries
What owners report most
Latest complaints
- Air bags
I have been in three accidents, of decent speed, and my airbags never deployed. I was told to report that.
- Engine
Water pump went out replace water pump motor blown
- Steering
I took my xterra to get inspected 12/27/2024. I was informed I have a recall on this vehicle.
- Air bags
My vehicle has been in 3 accidents. Being rear-ended at 70MPH, again six months later at 60MPH, then the forward vehicle slammed their brakes, and I hit them at around 30MPH. In any of these accidents, NONE of my airbags deployed.
- Unknown or other
UNKNOWN. Wanting to make a recall appointment that was reported on my SMOG check.
- Steering
The steering weal it's becoming stiff and IS becoming hard to maneuver around and it might affect my driving and I'm scared I might crash and this IS the only vehicle I have and own and have no other means to purchase another car. I was heading to work and I tried turning on the corner and it just became hard to steer the steering weal.
- Steering · Suspension · Wheels
Speeds over 60 hits a bump and starts rocking and bouncing
- Electrical system · Engine · Steering
When driving my xterra, it loses power and cuts out on me. this IS very dangerous and cuts completely off when I'm accelerating. there IS a declaration and then the vehicle won't crank or start leaving me stranded. this IS not the first time over years that the xterra has cut off on me. all dashboard systems stop completely when it happens. I have no control over the car when it happens.
- Power train
Coolant in transmission! Bought new in march of 2015. Was driving on I-10 in biloxi and it started smelling like a burnt rubber smell and it started smoking! pulled over and got out of it! Left me and my daughter stranded on the side of the highway! *tr
- Electrical system · Fuel/propulsion system
Fuel gauge registering improperly. Only shows 3/4 tank upon filling tank full and will not drop upon usage of fuel. Gauge has only dropped once since I have owned the vehicle.
- Exterior lighting
When vehicle IS started, the brake lights will stay lit as if you were pressing the brake even when engine IS off, cruise control will not set either so you can turn it on but will not engage. It may have something to do with the cruise control switch located by the brake pedal. I've fashioned a…
When vehicle IS started, the brake lights will stay lit as if you were pressing the brake even when engine IS off, cruise control will not set either so you can turn it on but will not engage. It may have something to do with the cruise control switch located by the brake pedal. I've fashioned a spacer to slide in between the brake and switch so they'll go off when I'm not driving. I was just curious as if there IS a recall to this or if I have to actually replace the part my self.
- Steering
TL* the contact owns a 2004 nissan xterra. The contact stated that the vehicle was towed to courtesy nissan (1777 n central expy, richardson, tx 75080) to be repaired per nhtsa campaign number: 10v554000 (steering). After retrieving the vehicle from the dealer, it was discovered that the steering…
TL* the contact owns a 2004 nissan xterra. The contact stated that the vehicle was towed to courtesy nissan (1777 n central expy, richardson, tx 75080) to be repaired per nhtsa campaign number: 10v554000 (steering). After retrieving the vehicle from the dealer, it was discovered that the steering wheel was loose. The contact stated that the steering wheel was able to turn three inches to the right or left, but the wheels failed to move. The contact also stated that a loud noise was heard coming from the front driver's side tire. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and informed the contact to take the vehicle to another dealer because courtesy nissan had lost the vehicle for several days. The approximate failure mileage was 212,000.*pm consumer stated dealer wanted the vehicle to be left a the dealer for 2 weeks but consumer could not, without a loaner, due to work.*jb
- Unknown or other
I have changed my fuel pump 11 times in two years something ain't right
- Electrical system · Unknown or other
Got into my car one day and upon trying to crank it , when turning the key it hesitated to crank and finally did so. when I reached my destination, when I left my car would just not crank. No clicks. Lights work fine. Nothing IS wrong with security, battery. Just replaced the starter around oct of last year.
- Engine
TL* the contact owns a 2004 nissan xterra. While driving 55 mph, the engine stalled. The vehicle was not taken to a dealer to be diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 145,000.
- Steering
TL* the contact owns a 2004 nissan xterra. The contact stated that the steering wheel seized while driving. The contact had to use extra strength just to turn the steering wheel. In addition, the ABS and check engine warning indicators illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a local mechanic where…
TL* the contact owns a 2004 nissan xterra. The contact stated that the steering wheel seized while driving. The contact had to use extra strength just to turn the steering wheel. In addition, the ABS and check engine warning indicators illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a local mechanic where the catalytic converter was replaced, but the failure recurred. The manufacturer and dealer were not notified. The failure mileage was 155,000.
- Electrical system · Electronic stability control (esc) · Engine
2004 xterra had been low on radiator fluid and needed topping up each week, then each day. after filling with water and coolant night before car began to overheat on hwy. car sat in sun all day, then overheated in traffic. had towed to work on it. replaced split radiator hose where dripping…
2004 xterra had been low on radiator fluid and needed topping up each week, then each day. after filling with water and coolant night before car began to overheat on hwy. car sat in sun all day, then overheated in traffic. had towed to work on it. replaced split radiator hose where dripping occurs and refilled car radiator, no leaking apparent. next day, drove on hwy to work. at 65-75 mph car began making clicking/tapping noises from engine. went uphill towards interchange and car shook violently, steam (or smoke) came from under hood as I carefully crossed freeway to exit, all lights came on on dash and smoke or steam poured into the car through air vents. I had lost all power and power steering, but I steered it safely to hwy service road street with parking lot. car was smoking under hood, steam or smoke was coming out of vents and all lights remained on on the dash. under the hood, the a/c condenser or radiator has a 5" break on top of it. when I put water in the radiator it pours through several places where hoses connect (gaskets and seals, I presume). had the car towed home and I'm afraid to drive it ever again, but now I can't get to work or pick my kids up from school anymore and I can't afford to fix it or pay for repairs since I can't get to work.
- Steering
Steering IS sloppy. steering wheel has excessive play. there IS a lot on this topic across the internet forums.
- Electrical system · Steering · Suspension
I took my vechicle to ace auto and he claim he fixed it gave me a list the second time but not the first time it sat there for a year than I got it out for 2 months back in again its goes real slow back fires now and sterring wheel locked one day now its acting like it dont have power to it.everytime you go sppeed limit the steering locks it shakes and not enough power to go barely go up the hill too.
- Service brakes · Vehicle speed control
On 9/11/2016, while attempting to park my 2004 nissan xterra, there was a terrible accident. I pulled in front of a maechanics bay at firestone in newport news, va. while parking my SUV, with my foot firmly on the brake, the SUV rapidly accelatred and drove through the building and badly injured…
On 9/11/2016, while attempting to park my 2004 nissan xterra, there was a terrible accident. I pulled in front of a maechanics bay at firestone in newport news, va. while parking my SUV, with my foot firmly on the brake, the SUV rapidly accelatred and drove through the building and badly injured a mechanic standing in the bay. I was braking as hard as I could, and the SUV kept accelarting and would not stop. I did not have my foot on the gas pedal. At the time of this accidnet, the SUV was at a total stop while shifitng it into park. it was located in the parking lot of firestone on warwick blvd. In newport news, va. this vechile was in as new condition with only a litte over 12,000 miles. it was a total loss. there was damage to the building, antother vechile in the bay, the driver of the SUV, and severe inuries to the mechanic standing on the floor of the bay. Again, at no point , was the drivers foot on the gas pedal. the driver was braking throughout this incident and coud not stop the vechile. what IS left of this vehicle IS currently located in the geico lot on production drive in yorktown, virginia.
- Wheels
I was drive my nissan xterra in in highway and my car start to shake and with in 15 minute 3 lug nut out of 6 came out and other three about to loose. It was scary. I anyhow approached to car repair shop and learned that my front wheel bearing gone bad. I just found that nissan xterra 2012 has…
I was drive my nissan xterra in in highway and my car start to shake and with in 15 minute 3 lug nut out of 6 came out and other three about to loose. It was scary. I anyhow approached to car repair shop and learned that my front wheel bearing gone bad. I just found that nissan xterra 2012 has recall for similar bearing issue. This IS very disturbing while such incidence on highway and I keep losing faith on such most reliable nissan brand name therefore, I would sincere request to please include xterra 2004 model for this recall too. Thanks
- Fuel/propulsion system
June 12 2016 at the tri-par in slinger, wi I was filling up the gas tank, when gas began spilling out of the vehicle's wheel well. I immediately stopped it after I noticed it. The station along with the slinger fire department estimated a gallon was spilt. It appears the gas tank neck has rusted out, causing the spill. They deemed the vehicle not safe to drive and recommend we have it towed home, which we did.
- Engine
June 12 2016 at the tri-par in slinger, wi I was filling up the gas tank, when gas began spilling out of the vehicle's wheel well. I immediately stopped it after I noticed it. the station along with the slinger fire department estimated a gallon was spilt. it appears the gas tank neck has…
June 12 2016 at the tri-par in slinger, wi I was filling up the gas tank, when gas began spilling out of the vehicle's wheel well. I immediately stopped it after I noticed it. the station along with the slinger fire department estimated a gallon was spilt. it appears the gas tank neck has rusted out, causing the spill. they deemed the vehicle not safe to drive and recommend we have it towed home, which we did.
- Steering
Steering binds when coming to complete left turn, will not return when moving forwrd unless manually assisted, now steering gear starting to leak.
- Fuel/propulsion system
I smell gas inside the car, I took it to a shop and they told me the gas tank IS all rusted on top, causing the gas to spill out. Speaking with nissan they said this IS part of wear and tear of the vehicle, which I do not agree with.
Service bulletins
Technical service bulletins and other communications the manufacturer sent dealers about this vehicle. Ask a dealer for the full document by its number.
- 11004962VEHICLE KEY NOT DETECTED / AUTHENTICATED, ENGINE WILL NOT START This bulletin has been amended. See AMENDMENT HISTORY on the last page. Please discard previous versions of this bulletin.
- 11001201WINDOW GLASS WARRANTY INFORMATION This bulletin has been amended. See AMENDMENT HISTORY on the last page. Please discard previous versions of this bulletin.
- 11001194REMOVING FOREIGN MATERIAL FROM THE WINDOW GLASS This bulletin has been amended. See AMENDMENT HISTORY on the last page. Please discard previous versions of this bulletin.
- 11001191WINDSHIELD CRACKING This bulletin has been amended. See AMENDMENT HISTORY on the last page. Please discard previous versions of this bulletin.
- 10243708DIAGNOSIS OF VEHICLE PULL (DRIFT) AND/OR STEERING WHEEL OFF-CENTER This bulletin has been amended. See AMENDMENT HISTORY on the last page. Please discard previous versions of this bulletin.
- 10239062SILICONE-BASED LUBRICANT OR GREASE CAN DAMAGE ELECTRICAL COMPONENTS SERVICE INFORMATION Do not apply Silicone-based lubricants or grease to, or around, any interior electrical components. To avoid the risk of death or severe personal injury, do not directly spray Silicone-based lubricant or grease, or inadvertently overspray Silicone-based lubricant or grease onto any interior electrical components. These types of lubricants can be detrimental to the proper operation of electrical components.
- 1023906012 VOLT BATTERY TESTING FOR IN-SERVICE VEHICLES SERVICE INFORMATION The following Service Information lists NNA procedural recommendations for establishing good connections while performing 12V battery testing. These recommendations are expected to promote uniformity during the connection process, therefore reducing the number of incorrect Test with DCA and Replace results. HINT: If 12 volt batteries are allowed to discharge for a prolonged period of time, battery life may be drastically reduced. This condition may lead to premature battery replacement and customer dissatisfaction. IMPORTANT: CPX-900 is now an accepted testing tool to use along with or in place of the DSS-5000 CPX-900 operating instructions are found at: https://nissancpx900.midtronics.com/ DSS-5000 operating instructions are found at: https://nissandss5000.midtronics.com/ DCA-8000 is now a required testing tool to be used for all warranty replacement decisions. The DCA-8000 is also a more efficient charger than previously available, and will charge any available 12 volt lead acid battery safely and accurately as long as all precautions and inputs are made correctly. The DCA-8000 operating instructions are found at: https://nissandca8000.midtronics.com/
- 10235710INTELLIGENT KEY REPLACEMENT OR SWAPPING BETWEEN VEHICLES This bulletin has been amended. See AMENDMENT HISTORY on the last page. Discard all previous versions of this bulletin.
- 10235707VEHICLE KEY NOT DETECTED / AUTHENTICATED, ENGINE WILL NOT START This bulletin has been amended. See AMENDMENT HISTORY on the last page. Please discard previous versions of this bulletin.
- 10232658REMOVING FOREIGN MATERIAL FROM THE WINDOW GLASS This bulletin has been amended. See AMENDMENT HISTORY on the last page. Please discard previous versions of this bulletin.
- 10232657WHEEL BEARING COLLISION DAMAGE This bulletin has been amended. See AMENDMENT HISTORY on the last page. Please discard previous versions of this bulletin.
- 10232656WINDSHIELD CRACKING This bulletin has been amended. See AMENDMENT HISTORY on the last page. Please discard previous versions of this bulletin.
- 10232652DIAGNOSIS OF VEHICLE PULL (DRIFT) AND/OR STEERING WHEEL OFF-CENTER This bulletin has been amended. See AMENDMENT HISTORY on the last page. Please discard previous versions of this bulletin.
- 10206391STRUT AND SHOCK ABSORBER REPLACEMENT GUIDELINES This bulletin has been amended. See AMENDMENT HISTORY on the last page. Please discard previous versions of this bulletin.
- 10192805IF YOU CONFIRM A refrigerant leak at a refrigerant pipe/hose joint location. ACTIONS 1. Inspect the metal surfaces of the pipe/hose joint for damage or contamination. NOTE: Do not replace a refrigerant pipe, hose, or other A/C component if an o-ring seal will solve the leak incident, if it should occur. 2. If no damage is found to the joint metal surfaces, replace the O-ring seal. See this bulletin for further detail.
- 10192801SERVICE INFORMATION Because of collision damage or other vehicle repair, a replacement "Certification Label" or "VIN Plate / Label" may be needed. These items may be available from Nissan by request if certain criteria are met. This bulletin lists the criteria and provides an application form for such replacements. See this bulletin for further detail.
- 10192677SERVICE INFORMATION Windshield "foreign material" that is on the surface of the glass in some cases can be cleaned off with a very particular type and grade of steel wool. * Most any foreign material on the surface of the Windshield can be cleaned off by using #0000 super fine steel wool. >The #0000 grade super fine steel wool can be found in most hardware stores. Please see this bulletin for further details.
- 10192638SERVICE INFORMATION This bulletin has compiled Tire Pressure Monitor System (TPMS) and Low Tire Pressure Warning System (LTPWS) information for: - Basic diagnosing of TPMS/LTPWS systems - Radio frequency interference causing a "No Data" (C1708, C1709, C1710, C1711) condition - Sensor leaks - Moving TPMS/LTPWS wheel assemblies from one vehicle to another and TPMS/LTPWS sensor registration - Air pressure changes with altitude and ambient temperatures - Aftermarket tire sealers - Aftermarket wheels - Inflating/deflating tires with TPMS/LTPWS sensors See this bulletin for further detail.
- 10192513SERVICE INFORMATION Changes or modifications to the front seat assembly trim materials may affect the proper operation of the Front Seat-Mounted Side-Impact Supplemental Air Bags and Passenger Occupant Classification Sensor and could result in serious personal injury or death. Nissan STRONGLY RECOMMENDS AGAINST making any change to seat trim materials from the factory equipped condition. This specifically applies to replacing the seat trim with non-factory materials; adding leather/cloth seat covers, seat pads, or seat storage pouches, etc. around or over the seat back and the passenger seat cushion. See this bulletin for further detail.
- 10192305SERVICE INFORMATION Information necessary to service the Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) safely is included in the "RESTRAINTS" section of the Electronic Service Manual (ESM) for each vehicle. IMPORTANT: Turn the ignition switch OFF, disconnect both battery terminals, and wait at least 3 minutes before performing any service on the SRS. See this bulletin for further detail.
- 10192233Nissan Original Equipment or Genuine Accessory Alloy wheels, along with their finish coating (clear, chrome, titanium, etc.), are specifically developed to achieve Nissan design and performance standards. These Original Equipment or Genuine Accessory wheels are subjected to testing to ensure they meet Nissan's standards. Nissan Original Equipment Alloy or Genuine Accessory wheels subjected to aftermarket chroming may no longer continue to meet these standards and may be seriously damaged. Therefore, Nissan most strongly discourages, and recommends that these wheels NEVER be subjected to, aftermarket chroming. See this bulletinfor further detail.
- 10192217If YOU CONFIRM: A vehicle needs to have the brake rotors resurfaced (front or rear). ACTION: Use the ProCut PFM Series on-car brake lathe to perform brake rotor resurfacing and follow the tips listed in this bulletin. - The ProCut PFM Series brake lathe has been chosen as the approved tool for rotor resurfacing. - The ProCut PFM Series brake lathe can be ordered from TECH-MATE at 1-800-662-2001. - ProCut technical support or service can be obtained by calling 1-800-543-6618. NOTE: Brake rotors may need to be resurfaced during routine brake repair or for brake "judder" incidents. - Brake judder: A brake pedal pulsation and/or steering wheel shimmy when braking that occurs when there is too much thickness variation of the brake rotors (see NTB00-033). See this bulletin for further detail.
- 10192216SERVICE INFORMATION - This bulletin is to assist you in responding to customer questions about brake operation, and provides diagnostic and repair information for each item listed, if any should occur. - Most brake incidents fall into the following categories: a. Brake Noise: A squeak, squeal, clunk, or groan that occurs when the brakes are applied or released. b. Brake Judder: A vibration that can be felt in the vehicle, steering wheel or brake pedal when the brakes are applied. c. Pedal Feel: The effort needed to operate the brakes is too high or too low. SERVICE PROCEDURE 1. Verify the condition by road testing the vehicle with the customer. 2. Determine the specific brake incident based on the description in the Service Information above. 3. Follow the appropriate repair procedure(s), listed on the following pages, for your specific incident. See this bulletin for further details.
- 10192192As part of an enhanced emissions test for Inspection & Maintenance (I/M), some States may require the System Readiness Test (SRT) status be checked. - The SRT is used to indicate whether the engine control module (ECM) has completed self diagnosis of major emissions systems and components. - In these instances the State may require completion of the SRT before permitting the emissions inspection to proceed. Refer to this Bulletin for further details.
- 10192145SERVICE INFORMATION This bulletin provides information to identify: - A leaking strut or a shock absorber that qualifies for replacement under warranty. - A strut or shock absorber that has slight oil seepage, a condition which is considered normal, does not affect strut/shock absorber operation or performance, and does not require replacement. - A strut or shock absorber that should be replaced due to rod resistance/noise issues. See this bulletin for further detail.
- 10188377STRUT AND SHOCK ABSORBER REPLACEMENT GUIDELINES This bulletin has been amended. See AMENDMENT HISTORY on the last page. Please discard previous versions of this bulletin.
- 10182353VOLUNTARY SERVICE CAMPAIGN FRONT DIFFERENTIAL SIDE FLANGE MOUNTING BOLT Service Campaign ID # P4134 is no longer active. Repair orders opened after this bulletins published date are no longer eligible for reimbursement under Campaign ID # P4134. Please discard all previous versions of NTB04-095.
- 10109211BALL JOINT AXIAL END PLAY PROCEDURE SERVICE INFORMATION When working on the front suspension, use the updated service information in this bulletin along with the Electronic Service Manual (ESM). The updated information in this bulletin is a correction and a supplement to the ESM.
- 10051767Nissan: lock/unlock request button on outside handle does not respond.
- 10043950Nissan: ecm replacement procedures with consult III plus. Applies to all 2004 and later (does not apply to leaf/ev) vehicles.
- 10032628Nissan: the propeller shaft u joint (journal/journal bearings) IS the source of noise and/or vibration on an applied vehicle. Diagnose by evaluating the u joint with the propeller shaft removed. Replace the u joint (journal/journal bearings).
- 10032506Nissan: vent control valve replacement. When replacing the evap canister vent control valve for reason: use the one listed on page 2; for vent control valve replacement procedure, refer to the appropriate section of the electronic service manuals (esm; when installing the new valve, do not add any lube to its o ring; for frontier (D40 series) only, install the protector listed in parts information. Includes 2005-09 frontier. Updated 12/8/10.
- 10032306Nissan: exterior lamp fogging. Occasionally water IS noticed in the exterior lamps. This IS generally not due to a defect. All current exterior lamp assemblies are vented to the atmosphere (not sealed). This IS necessary to allow for expansion and contraction of air from temperature variations (warmer or colder) without damage to the lamp. Moisture in the air sometimes travels into and out of the lamp assembly through these vents. Certain environmental conditions may cause moisture to condense. The fogging/cloudiness should disappear over time when the lamp IS in a dry environment. No models listed. Updated 5/7/10. Updated 12/9/13.
- 10031305Nissan: tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) warning light on/flashing. No models or model years listed. Updated on 08-11-2011.
- 10030165Nissan: the 12 volt battery IS an important part of the vehicle electrical system and IS required to stay connected when the engine IS running. To prevent damage to vehicle electronic components follow the instructions/cautions. No model years listed.
- 10025522Nissan: srs precautions during service;improper maintenance, including incorrect removal and installation of the srs, can lead to a serious injury or death caused by unintentional activation of the srs on all nissan models with the srs systems. Updated 2/21/14.
- 10025003Seat back board removal/installation.
- 10024689Nissan; special automatic transmission fluid requirement. 2004 to current nissan vehicles.
- 10021508Exterior lamp fogging.
- 10019300Malfunction indicator lamp on with diagnostic trouble code u1000 or u1010 stored in engine control unit.
Every Nissan Xterra model year
Bars are owner complaints, dots mark years with recalls. Select a year to open its report.