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2013 Nissan Xterra Report

Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Updated Jun 15, 2026·Ethan Miller
2013 Nissan Xterra Report

Overall Score

6.7/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • The 4.0L V6 engine provides ample power for towing and off-roading.
  • A high TSB count (69) suggests potential for minor component issues requiring attention.
  • No recalls or complaints were reported, indicating a generally stable safety record.
  • Fuel economy is modest, with a combined EPA rating of 17 MPG.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2013 Nissan Xterra

The 2013 Nissan Xterra is a rugged, body-on-frame SUV built for adventure. Its 4.0-liter V6 engine and available 4-wheel drive make it a capable off-road and towing machine. While it boasts a strong public reliability score, a significant number of TSBs suggest potential for non-critical component issues that require owner attention and proactive maintenance. No recalls or complaints were logged in the provided data, but the TSB count of 69 indicates areas where Nissan addressed known issues.

Critical Failure Risk

The 4.0L V6 engine can be susceptible to cooling system issues, including radiator leaks, hose failures, and water pump problems, potentially leading to overheating. This is a common area addressed by TSBs.

Early detection can help you avoid a $400-$1,200 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls0
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

0

No primary complaint themes found.

Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency
Combined
17
MPG
City
15
MPG
Highway
20
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

9.7/ 10

Practicality

5.0/ 10

The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Drivers seeking a durable, off-road-capable SUV for light to moderate trail use.

+3 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Commuters prioritizing fuel efficiency and low running costs.

+3 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2013 Nissan Xterra Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2013 Nissan Xterra.

  • Recall TimelineOfficial safety notices
  • Owner ComplaintsReal driver reports
  • Failure AnalysisKnown part defects

Limited reliability records are available for this model year.

Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Regular
Transmission
Automatic 5-spd
Drivetrain
4-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Crossover
EPA Combined MPG
17

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Most Common Issues

1. Cooling System Leaks/Overheating

Most reported

Usage data observed

2. Exhaust System Corrosion

Usage data observed

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Fluid Level Checks (Coolant, Brake, Power Steering)

Est. shop cost: $100 - $150

5,000 mi

Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist
Complete maintenance schedule (5 service intervals)
Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context
Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it
Full specs and trim-level context
Full safety recall details
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2013 Nissan Xterra reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2013 Nissan Xterra is 9.7/10. Reliability score is 9.7/10. NHTSA recalls: 0. Owner complaints: 0.

How practical is the 2013 Nissan Xterra for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 5.0/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 17 MPG.

What is the overall score for the 2013 Nissan Xterra?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2013 Nissan Xterra is 6.7/10. Overall score is 6.7/10 (Good). Confidence 55%. Maintenance 8.7/10. Practicality 5.0/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2013 Nissan Xterra?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Fluid Level Checks (Coolant, Brake, Power Steering) at 5,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $600 - $900. Repair prediction highlight: Cooling System (Radiator, Hoses, Water Pump) (typical at 80,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $400 • Max: $1,200).

What engine is in the 2013 Nissan Xterra?▾

Engine specs list 6 • 4.0.

What transmission does the 2013 Nissan Xterra use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2013 Nissan Xterra, transmission is Automatic 5-spd. The paired drivetrain is 4-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2013 Nissan Xterra?▾

EPA combined estimate is 17 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2013 Nissan Xterra?▾

1 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Tire Pressure Monitoring System.

What body style is the 2013 Nissan Xterra?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2013 Nissan Xterra, body style is crossover.

What drivetrain does the 2013 Nissan Xterra use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2013 Nissan Xterra, drivetrain is 4-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic 5-spd.

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2013 Nissan Xterra?▾

NHTSA ratings: Rollover 3/5.

Start Here

Maintenance guide

Costs + intervals

Recall report

Campaigns + remedy notes

Owner complaints

Issue volume + categories

In this guide

  1. 01Overview
  2. 02Who This Car Is For
  3. 03Reliability & Problems
  4. 04Vehicle Specs
  5. 05Unlock Full Report
  6. 06FAQ

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