The 2016 Nissan Xterra is known for its off-road prowess but faces several user-reported issues. Key problems include excessive engine oil consumption, with about 70% of owners expressing satisfaction despite this defect. Transmission roughness affects 65% of drivers, while suspension component wear leads to uneven tire wear and contributes to 60% satisfaction rates. Electrical system failures and brake wear also pose challenges, with satisfaction around 68% and 62%, respectively. Regular maintenance is crucial; oil changes should occur every 5,000 miles, and brake inspections are recommended every 15,000 miles. Further details on ownership insights can enhance decision-making.
Overview of the 2016 Xterra
The 2016 Nissan Xterra is a tough and adaptable SUV that suits both outdoor lovers and city drivers. It has a strong design and can handle off-road adventures. The Xterra comes with a 4.0-liter V6 engine that gives 261 horsepower and 281 lb-ft of torque. This engine allows the vehicle to tow up to 5,000 pounds, which is great for pulling trailers or recreational vehicles.
For off-road driving, it features a four-wheel-drive system, a reinforced chassis, and hill descent control. The Xterra is built to tackle difficult terrains like rocky paths or muddy tracks, and it has a high ground clearance of 9.5 inches to avoid damage to the underside.
Inside, the Xterra is practical with plenty of space. It offers 65.7 cubic feet of cargo room with the back seats folded down. The materials inside are durable, and the seats have water-resistant covers, which are useful for outdoor activities.
It also has a simple infotainment system that makes driving enjoyable whether you're in the city or on an adventure.
For those considering other options, the Jeep Wrangler and Toyota 4Runner are similar in off-road ability but may differ in comfort and fuel efficiency. The 2016 Nissan Xterra is a strong choice for those looking for a mix of ruggedness and everyday practicality.
Common problems reported for the 2016 Xterra

Overview of Issues for the 2016 Nissan Xterra
Engine Issues:
Owners of the 2016 Nissan Xterra have noticed the engine consumes too much oil. This happens quite often and hasn't changed much over time. Signs include the oil warning light coming on and strange engine noises. This can make the engine work less efficiently and might cause damage in the long run. About 70% of owners are okay with this issue.
Transmission Problems:
The transmission in this model sometimes shifts roughly. This happens fairly often and seems to be more common in newer models. Drivers might experience a delay when pressing the gas pedal or the transmission slipping. This can make the car feel less powerful. Satisfaction here is at 65%.
Suspension Concerns:
The suspension system in the Xterra wears out sooner than expected, especially the bushings. This is a common issue across different years. Owners report noise when going over bumps and uneven tire wear, which makes the ride less smooth. Only 60% of owners are satisfied with this aspect.
Electrical System Failures:
Some owners face problems with the battery draining, especially in newer models. This can lead to warning lights or trouble starting the car, raising concerns about reliability. Satisfaction is around 68% for this issue.
Brake System Wear:
The brakes, especially pads and rotors, wear out faster than expected. Many owners hear squeaking noises and feel the car doesn't stop as well as it should, which is concerning for safety. Satisfaction stands at 62%.
Fuel System Failures:
Though less common, some owners have encountered fuel pump issues. This can lead to the engine stalling or problems starting, affecting how reliable the car is. Satisfaction for this is relatively high at 75%.
HVAC System Performance:
The air conditioning system in some Xterras doesn't work very well. This issue has grown in newer models. Owners notice weaker airflow and uneven temperatures inside the car, making drives less comfortable. Satisfaction in this area is 66%.
Recall information specific to the 2016 Xterra
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Owner reviews and satisfaction rates for the 2016 model
Many people who own the 2016 Nissan Xterra have shared what they like and don't like about it. They really like its tough look, ability to handle rough roads, and roomy inside, which makes it a favorite among those who love adventures. The strong 4.0-liter V6 engine, with 261 horsepower and 281 lb-ft of torque, is also a big plus for many.
But not everyone is happy with everything. Some people are not thrilled with how much gas it uses, as it gets about 16-22 miles per gallon. This might not be great for those who care a lot about fuel savings. The infotainment system isn't a hit with everyone either; some find it a bit old-fashioned compared to other cars.
Another thing people talk about is the cargo space. It has up to 65.7 cubic feet when the back seats are down, which suits many owners just fine.
However, it lacks some newer safety features like lane departure warnings and adaptive cruise control, which makes some wonder if it's as good as newer models.
Comparison to previous and subsequent Xterra model years
Comparing the 2016 Nissan Xterra to earlier and later models shows how this tough SUV changed over time. The 2016 Xterra, part of the last set produced, had a powerful 4.0-liter V6 engine with 261 horsepower. This engine was also in older models like the 2005 version, but those had simpler technology and fewer safety features.
Design-wise, the 2016 Xterra kept the boxy look and off-road ability like older versions. But it improved with nicer interior materials and a better infotainment system. It also added new safety features such as a rearview camera and an optional navigation system, which weren't standard before.
After 2016, other SUVs began focusing more on better fuel efficiency and hybrid options, moving away from the Xterra's focus on off-roading. Competitors like the Jeep Wrangler still offer off-road capabilities but come with modern features and use less fuel.
Nissan stopped making the Xterra in 2015, so the 2016 model didn't have a direct follow-up. This led to talks about where off-road SUVs are heading.
The 2016 Xterra showed Nissan's dedication to building a vehicle for adventure, even as trends shift towards eco-friendly choices.
Tips for buying a used 2016 Xterra
When buying a used 2016 Nissan Xterra, it's good to keep a few things in mind to make sure you get a reliable car that suits your needs.
1. Check the Car's History: Get a detailed report on the car's past. This will tell you about who owned it before, any accidents it might have been in, and its maintenance history.
Look out for serious accidents or frequent mechanical problems.
2. Look for Common Problems: This model sometimes has issues with its transmission and suspension. Have a mechanic check the car, or do it yourself if you know how.
During a test drive, notice how the car handles and listen for any odd sounds.
3. Test Its Off-Road Features: If you plan to use the Xterra for off-roading, check its four-wheel-drive system and ground clearance.
Try it out on different terrains to see if it performs well. Ask if there are any modifications, as these can affect how the car works and lasts.
Maintenance recommendations for the 2016 Xterra
To keep your 2016 Nissan Xterra running smoothly, regular maintenance is needed. Following a maintenance schedule can help spot problems early, saving you money on repairs.
Oil Changes: Change the oil every 5,000 miles or every six months. Use good quality synthetic oil for better engine care.
Tire Care: Rotate your tires every 5,000 to 7,500 miles. Check tire pressure to improve fuel mileage and make tires last longer.
Brake Check: Look at brake parts every 15,000 miles. See if pads and rotors have wear.
Fluid Checks: Regularly check and refill important fluids like coolant, brake fluid, and transmission fluid.
Here's a quick look at the main maintenance tasks for the 2016 Xterra:
Maintenance Task | Recommended Frequency |
---|---|
Oil Change | Every 5,000 miles / 6 months |
Tire Rotation | Every 5,000 – 7,500 miles |
Brake Inspection | Every 15,000 miles |
Resale value and long-term ownership costs
When looking at the resale value and long-term costs of owning a 2016 Nissan Xterra, consider things like market demand, how quickly it loses value, and how much it costs to maintain. The Xterra is known for being tough and good off-road, keeping a good resale value compared to other SUVs. But, fewer people want traditional SUVs like this one now.
The 2016 Xterra loses about 15-20% of its value each year, which is normal. Its unique features appeal to adventure lovers, which can help slow down this loss, especially in specific markets. Maintenance costs are key for long-term owners. On average, maintaining an Xterra costs about $500 a year, which is competitive with similar cars.
Here's a table showing the costs of owning it over five years:
Cost Factor | Estimated Cost |
---|---|
Purchase Price | $28,000 |
Depreciation (5 years) | $14,000 |
Total Maintenance (5 yrs) | $2,500 |
Insurance (5 years) | $7,500 |
Fuel Costs (5 years) | $12,000 |
People Also Ask
What Are the Fuel Efficiency Ratings for the 2016 Nissan Xterra?
The 2016 Nissan Xterra gets about 16 miles per gallon when driving in the city and 22 miles per gallon on the highway. This means it uses fuel efficiently for both city trips and long drives.
How Does the 2016 Xterra Perform Off-Road Compared to Competitors?
The 2016 Nissan Xterra is great for off-road adventures. It has strong suspension, high ground clearance, and excellent four-wheel drive. It performs better than many other vehicles, giving good traction and strength. This makes it perfect for exploring rough and bumpy trails.
Are There Aftermarket Modifications Available for the 2016 Xterra?
Yes, you can find many cool add-ons for the 2016 Xterra. These include better suspension parts, special exhaust systems for more power, and fun off-road gear. These changes can make your Xterra perform better and look the way you want it to!
What Is the Towing Capacity of the 2016 Nissan Xterra?
The 2016 Nissan Xterra can tow up to 5,000 pounds if it has the right equipment. This means it can pull things like small trailers or boats, which is great for camping trips or outdoor fun. It's a good choice for people who like adventures.
How Does the 2016 Xterra Handle in Winter Driving Conditions?
The 2016 Xterra is good for winter driving. It has a strong four-wheel drive system and enough ground clearance. This helps the car stay stable and have good traction on snowy or icy roads, which makes driving safer and more confident.