Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2007 Nissan Xterra
The 2007 Nissan XTERRA has notable issues with its power train, with many complaints. Recalls include airbags and front suspension components. Complaint data is robust, particularly against the power train. Conduct thorough checks during inspection due to the number of complaints.
NHTSA data on file today
The 2007 Nissan Xterra has 2 NHTSA recall campaigns and 557 owner complaints on file as of . Recall data is refreshed daily from NHTSA.
Recall campaigns on file
- NHTSA #10E019000 LOWER LINK REPLACEMENT PARTS NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #08V690000 FRONT CRASH ZONE SENSOR HOUSING/ROAD SALT NHTSA notice
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Power Train 231 complaints
- Fuel System, Gasoline 136 complaints
- Engine 85 complaints
- Engine and Engine Cooling 75 complaints
- Fuel/Propulsion System 63 complaints
- Fuel System, Other 32 complaints
Of the 557 complaints on file, 3 report a crash and 3 a fire; across all 557 complaints, owners report 5 injuries (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).
Known issues to inspect
Transmission failures reported
How to check: Shift through all gears and check for slipping or strange noises.
Engine cooling issues reported
How to check: Inspect for overheating signs like steam or coolant smells.
Various electrical issues
How to check: Test all electrical components for proper operation.
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Listen for unusual noises from engine.
Red flag: Loud knocking or ticking sounds
- 02
Initial acceleration
What to check: Check if transmission shifts smoothly.
Red flag: Transmission slips or jerks
- 03
Highway acceleration
What to check: Ensure smooth power delivery at high speeds.
Red flag: Hesitation or lack of power
- 04
Steady highway speed
What to check: Observe for engine or transmission noise.
Red flag: Persistent whine or grind
- 05
Braking
What to check: Verify brakes engage smoothly without noise.
Red flag: Vibrations or grinding
- 06
Parking
What to check: Confirm gears engage easily and smoothly.
Red flag: Difficulty shifting into park
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Has the airbag recall been addressed?
- Any history of transmission repairs?
- Have engine cooling issues been resolved?
- Are there any current electronic faults?
- Was the suspension recall relevant to this vehicle?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Proof of airbag recall service
- Service records detailing repairs
- Transmission repair history
- Engine repair and maintenance records
- Current vehicle registration
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2007 Nissan Xterra at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
Looking at a specific 2007 Nissan Xterra? Check the actual car
This checklist covers the model. From your free try.vin dashboard you can go further — paste the seller's listing for a deal score, or drop their photos for an AI condition report.