Ford Escape vs Nissan Xterra
For 2005–2015 models, the Nissan Xterra has 62.0 owner complaints per 10,000 sold, against 67.2 for the Ford Escape. 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 Escape
67.2 complaints per 10,000 sold
about the same as the Nissan Xterra
- Complaints
- 16,483
- Sold
- 2,451,388
- Recall campaigns
- 32
- Open NHTSA investigations
- 2
Most complaints: 2008–2010. Fewest: 2007 and 2012. Every year →
Most-reported problems
-
Stalling and no-start
Typically around 56,500 mi
-
Head gasket and cylinder head
Typically around 85,000 mi · repair $1,620–$3,010
-
Electric power steering motor and module
Typically around 110,984 mi · repair $750–$2,230
-
Doors, windows, latches, seats and trim
Typically around 52,000 mi
-
Cooling system: radiator, water pump, thermostat, fan
Typically around 80,200 mi · repair $260–$1,910
Nissan Xterra
62.0 complaints per 10,000 sold
about the same as the Ford Escape
- 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 Escape or the Nissan Xterra?
For 2005–2015 models, the Nissan Xterra has 62.0 owner complaints per 10,000 sold and the Ford Escape has 67.2, counting the same model years for both.
What is the most common problem on the Ford Escape?
The most-reported problem on the Ford Escape is stalling and no-start, typically around 56,500 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 Escape and Nissan Xterra years have the most complaints?
Relative to each vehicle's typical year: Ford Escape: 2008–2010; 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.