This info gets posted in almost every welcome thread to help people new to Xterras and the Forum out. I thought I'd try to condense this a bit so we can only link one thread or refer them to it in this forum.
First things first!
The 2011-2015 Xterras are widely reguarded to be the more trouble-free of the years that Nissan produced the 2nd Generation Xterra. The issues with SMOD, the secondary timing chain tensioners and other production issues were mostly behind us by then. There are still a few issues that have to be dealt with as with any aging vehicle. Hopefully this info will help you enjoy many years of service from your Xterra!
Catalytic Converters
Rear Diff Breather Mod
If you feel like I got something wrong or need to add anything, please PM me instead of posting to keep the thread concise! -Terry
First things first!
WELCOME To TheNewX!!!
After you have read through these threads, have a look at our Frequently Asked Xterra Questions FAXQ thread where you can find other good info on the Second Gen Xterra in general and maybe get a few ideas of early mods!
The 2011-2015 Xterras are widely reguarded to be the more trouble-free of the years that Nissan produced the 2nd Generation Xterra. The issues with SMOD, the secondary timing chain tensioners and other production issues were mostly behind us by then. There are still a few issues that have to be dealt with as with any aging vehicle. Hopefully this info will help you enjoy many years of service from your Xterra!
Catalytic Converters
There have been many instances of the converters coming apart inside and clogging up the secondaries and causing lost power and stalling. It's believed by some that this can also lead to engine loss due to the nature of the EGR function of our engine.
Replacement Converter Tracking and Info Thread
Replacement Converter Tracking and Info Thread
Rear Diff Breather Mod
This affects all years of the Second Gen Xterra. The factory rear differential breather is a small plastic cap on a nipple screwed into the passenger side axle tube. It gets clogged with dirt and road debris very easily and will not allow the differential to properly vent excess pressure caused by heat. This leads to blown out axle seals and the appearance of differential oil on your rear brakes which limits their function. Since it is also not above the axle, it's an easy place for water to enter your rear axle and cause damage to the internals. This mod is considered very important and I think all members here would say that you need to do it regardless of how you intend to use your Xterra.
Rear Diff Breather Mod How-To
Rear Diff Breather Mod How-To
If you feel like I got something wrong or need to add anything, please PM me instead of posting to keep the thread concise! -Terry