2006 Nissan Xterra Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.46/5 Average
103 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

For 2006, a new entry-level X model debuts, and the Power package is now standard on the S trim. All models get a lighted locking glovebox.

Pros:
  • One of the most powerful V6s in the class, above average off-road capability, solid passenger room, innovative cargo features.
Cons:
  • Still not what we would call refined on the street, lots of hard plastic in the cabin.

User Reviews:

Showing 61 through 70 of 103.00
  • A Rolling Money Pit - 2006 Nissan Xterra
    By -

    Theres a very good reason why this truck has been rated as one of the worst used cars to buy. We bought our 2006 new. Mechanically things were fine for about 40k miles, and after that the truck simply fell apart even with constant maintenance. After warranty expired I replaced: Windshield. Both window lift assemblies and controls. The bearings and control arms on all 4 wheels. The rear differential. Rear lift arms. Alternator. Spark plugs and wires. Catalytic converters. But worst of all was the radiator/transmission cooler failure. That allowed the coolant to mix with the tranny fluid killing the transmission. It is a known problem - so avoid this truck and the heartache it brings.

  • Very Mediocre - 2006 Nissan Xterra
    By -

    We just traded our 2006 Nissan Xterra S. We did not entertain buying another Nissan based on our experience with this Nissan. It was not a bad vehicle, decent power - horrible mileage. We previously had a Ford Explorer that consistently got 18 MPG. Once in a while we would hit 17 with the X, but usually it was 14-16. My wife commuted in the car and it was not used off road. We had no major problems with the Xterra, but did have to take it back to the dealer for a loose exhaust shield - which is now loose again (or was when we traded it). Rust was starting on the rear passenger door. Brakes made a horrible sound when TC kicked in and brakes were applied. Paint scratched easily.

  • Xterra to the max! - 2006 Nissan Xterra
    By -

    i have had the xterra for almost a week, this friday, and i have had no problems at all! the xterra is a solid suv. there is a substancial feeling to the controls, layout, quality and safety and standard features that the 4runner (2 seater sr-5) envies about. the engine is responsive and its 4.0L V6 power throughout the powerband and it has a nice exhaust note that you think it was a minature V8. it is comfortable and easy to manuever around town and it gets decent gas mileage for its size (filled it up only $31.00 that is amazing!). and the X rides well for its size, not bouncy or jarring, like the 2wd sr-5 4runner 2 seater, and it is a sporty and fun suv to drive. great job nissan!

  • Great SUV - 2006 Nissan Xterra
    By -

    I owned a 2003 Xterra and it was ok. I traded that in for the 06 and what a difference. I love its off road capability. This SUV is very capable on road and the ride is much smoother than the older body style. I would recommend this vehicle to anyone.

  • Function over Form - 2006 Nissan Xterra
    By -

    Had it for 10 months (17,000 mi), and I love it just as much as the day I drove it off the lot. This vehicle is for "outdoorsy" pragmatists who crave functionality and are willing to give up some bells and whistles (leather, GPS, etc.) for performance at a great price. Other than lack of auxiliary jack, gas mileage (I get 17 city/20 hwy) is only real drawback, but you get a whole lot of performance for it. Many have knocked all the hard plastic in the cockpit, but Id rather have extra money in my wallet than upgraded trim. The Xterra offers excellent visibility, ground clearance, handling, and acceleration, which make it fun to drive both on and off-road. The consumer ratings say it all.

  • Great SUV - 2006 Nissan Xterra
    By -

    I recently purchased my Xterra, so I do not know much about "true" reliability yet. My experience so far has not had anything to suggest that reliability will be poor, so I am giving it the benefit of the doubt in that area. The Xterra has done exactly what I have asked it to do so far. I have put 1600 miles on the vehicle in a short time. In that time I have been impressed by the ground clearance as well as overall 4X4 capability. The Xterra was able to go places that other vehicles couldnt (or wouldnt). I was able to pull a full size truck out of the mud with no trouble at all (the truck was stuck in a stretch of mud that the Xterra just went through). Has full size power, midsize thirst!

  • Bought another one - 2006 Nissan Xterra
    By -

    I love how it handles, and I feel good in the xterra. It has masculine lines, and gives me confidence in my surroundings. The gas milage is good if you know how to drive the Exterra. I had a 2006 Exterra and traded it in for a FX35 Infinity which is smaller that i thought. But great car. just not for me. The cost of the Exterra is well worth the money. I purchased another one just this week, and I hope they will still make them in the future.

  • 2006 Fuel Gage Faulty - 2006 Nissan Xterra
    By -

    2006 Nissan XTerra - At 35K+ miles fuel gauge faulty. After filling up gas, gauge reads empty. Nissan is NOT issuing a recall for the 2006 models. 2000-2004 have received a recall for the same problem. Cost to fix is approx. $500.

  • Absolutely awesome - 2006 Nissan Xterra
    By -

    Ive never been so eager to drive. This truck is fun both on and off road! Perfect for camping, traveling or just daily driving, and the base price is a lot of bang for your buck.

  • For the True Outdoors - 2006 Nissan Xterra
    By -

    Very happy with the Xterra. This vehicle design really does have function. Very rugged and can go anywhere! I decided on the 6spd manual because its more fun to drive and has a very tall 6th for hwy cruising. I do a lot of whitewater kayaking and this vehicle gets me to all the knarly put-ins. The Xterra has excellent build quality. It is also very surefooted in offroad situations. This is modern mans "old school bronco." I considered the Toyota FJ Cruiser, but decided the massive blind spots over the shoulder were a nuisance and a safety concern. Get out and live a little!

Nissan Xterra Reviews By Year:
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