Ford Explorer vs Nissan Xterra
For 2005–2015 models, the Ford Explorer has 52.3 owner complaints per 10,000 sold, against 62.0 for the Nissan Xterra. Below: what each one’s owners report most, when it shows up, and what it costs to fix.
Both rates cover the same model years (2005–2015), counting each complaint once and dividing by US sales, so the more popular vehicle isn’t penalized for being popular. Years too new to judge are left out. How this is calculated.
Ford Explorer
52.3 complaints per 10,000 sold
16% fewer than the Nissan Xterra
- Complaints
- 8,939
- Sold
- 1,710,143
- Recall campaigns
- 17
- Open NHTSA investigations
- 3
Most complaints: 2011 and 2013–2014. Fewest: 2005, 2007 and 2009. Every year →
Most-reported problems
-
Doors, windows, latches, seats and trim
Typically around 82,000 mi
-
Electric power steering motor and module
Typically around 78,000 mi · repair $750–$2,230
-
Power steering pump, rack and lines
Typically around 77,000 mi · repair $750–$2,230
-
Harsh, delayed or erratic shifting
Typically around 88,300 mi
-
Water leaks and seals
Typically around 60,000 mi
Nissan Xterra
62.0 complaints per 10,000 sold
1.2× the Ford Explorer’s rate
- Complaints
- 2,106
- Sold
- 339,527
- Recall campaigns
- 8
- Open NHTSA investigations
- 0
Most complaints: 2005–2008. Fewest: 2012–2015. Every year →
Most-reported problems
-
Fuel pump and sending unit
Typically around 67,630 mi · repair $630–$1,700
-
Transmission cooler and fluid overheating
Typically around 108,630 mi · repair $200–$600
-
Cooling system: radiator, water pump, thermostat, fan
Typically around 105,000 mi · repair $260–$1,910
-
Automatic transmission internals
Typically around 111,200 mi · repair $2,910–$5,410
-
Harsh, delayed or erratic shifting
Typically around 109,574 mi
Common questions
Which has fewer problems, the Ford Explorer or the Nissan Xterra?
For 2005–2015 models, the Ford Explorer has 52.3 owner complaints per 10,000 sold and the Nissan Xterra has 62.0, counting the same model years for both.
What is the most common problem on the Ford Explorer?
The most-reported problem on the Ford Explorer is doors, windows, latches, seats and trim, typically around 82,000 miles.
What is the most common problem on the Nissan Xterra?
The most-reported problem on the Nissan Xterra is fuel pump and sending unit, typically around 67,630 miles; the repair typically runs $630–$1,700.
Which Ford Explorer and Nissan Xterra years have the most complaints?
Relative to each vehicle's typical year: Ford Explorer: 2011 and 2013–2014; Nissan Xterra: 2005–2008.
Source: NHTSA owner complaints, recalls and investigations; US sales from public industry figures; repair costs from book labor hours and parts pricing at national rates. Complaints are self-reported and not independently verified. Problem lists cover each vehicle’s full history. This is not a recommendation to buy or avoid either vehicle.