Tires

2003 Nissan Xterra Tires, Repair & Service


2003 Nissan Xterra Tires

Recommended Tires | Tire Information

2003 Nissan Xterra Tires Sizes, Speed Ratings, and Inflation

Not sure about your 2003 Nissan Xterra tire size? Use the following chart to find information on tire size, speed rating, and inflation.

Trim Level Speed Rating Inflation in PSI F/R Tire Size
2003 Nissan Xterra SE* T 35 PSI/35 PSI P265/70R16
2003 Nissan Xterra SE* T 35 PSI/35 PSI P265/65R17
2003 Nissan Xterra XE* S 35 PSI/35 PSI P265/70R16
2003 Nissan Xterra XE* S 35 PSI/35 PSI P265/70R15

2003 Nissan Xterra SE*

P265/70R16

Speed Rating: T

Inflation F/R: 35 PSI/35 PSI

2003 Nissan Xterra SE*

P265/65R17

Speed Rating: T

Inflation F/R: 35 PSI/35 PSI

2003 Nissan Xterra XE*

P265/70R16

Speed Rating: S

Inflation F/R: 35 PSI/35 PSI

2003 Nissan Xterra XE*

P265/70R15

Speed Rating: S

Inflation F/R: 35 PSI/35 PSI

* Note: these models have different tire sizes depending on vehicle options.

Recommended Tires for Your 2003 Nissan Xterra

What tires are best for a 2003 Nissan Xterra? Check out the following tire brands and types.

Bridgestone ALENZA AS ULTRA
ALENZA AS ULTRA

  • No warranty
  • All-Season
  • Light Truck Tires
Bridgestone Blizzak DM-V2
Blizzak DM-V2

  • No warranty
  • Winter
  • Winter
Bridgestone Dueler A/T Revo 3
Dueler A/T Revo 3

  • Platinum Pact Limited Warranty
  • All-Season
  • Light Truck Tires
Firestone Destination A/T2
Destination A/T2

  • Gold Pledge Limited Warranty
  • All-Season
  • Light Truck Tires
Firestone Destination LE3
Destination LE3

  • No warranty
  • All-Season
  • Light Truck Tires
Firestone Winterforce 2 UV
Winterforce 2 UV

  • No warranty
  • Winter
  • Winter
SUREDRIVE ALL-TERRAIN
ALL-TERRAIN

  • No warranty
  • All-Season
  • Light Truck Tires
SUREDRIVE HIGHWAY
HIGHWAY

  • No warranty
  • All-Season
  • Light Truck Tires
Toyo OPEN COUNTRY A/T III
OPEN COUNTRY A/T III

  • No warranty
  • All-Season
  • Light Truck Tires
Toyo OPEN COUNTRY HTII
OPEN COUNTRY HTII

  • No warranty
  • All-Season
  • Light Truck Tires

About 2003 Nissan Xterra Tires

Other than getting the proper tire size, you also want to consider a handful of other factors when buying new Nissan Xterra tires like which tire brands you like most and where you drive. Think about where you live (countryside vs. city vs. mountains) and the kind of unexpected weather you're likely to experience when evaluating your driving conditions. Many drivers who live in states that experience all four seasons choose to purchase two sets of tires: one set for winter, one set for summer. Other drivers buy one set of all-season tires instead. That way they don't have to return to the tire shop and their vehicle is always ready for sun, rain, and light snow!

Next, consider your driving style. If you're a diehard off-roader, you have very different tire needs than a highway commuter who doesn't leave the paved path. Visit your local Firestone Complete Auto Care for help selecting the tire that's right for you, or get started by browsing tires that fit your Nissan Xterra.

2003 Nissan Xterra Tire Installation & Rotation

Firestone Complete Auto Care has been a leading tire provider for more than a century. We're your one-stop shop for tire installation, rotation, and ongoing maintenance! Buy 2003 Nissan Xterra tires online and schedule your installation when it's convenient for you.

2003 Nissan Xterra Tire Questions

  • Why check Nissan tire inflation? Even a tiny decrease in tire pressure could impact your safety and fuel economy. Maintaining proper tire pressure can help increase fuel economy, improve braking time, and boost tire lifespan.
  • Why are there numbers on the side of my Nissan Xterra tires? The numbers on your tire sidewall give you information about tire speed rating, traction, treadwear, tire size, and load carrying capacity. Chat with a tire technician to learn how to read the numbers on your Nissan tires!
  • How do I check the tread depth on my Nissan tires? Stay on top of your tire tread depth to help avoid a dangerous drive. You can check tread depth with a penny. Hold the penny so that Abraham Lincoln is facing you, then place your penny into a tread groove upside down. If you can see the top of Abe’s head, your tread is shallow and it might be time for new Nissan Xterra tires. Grab a penny. Hold the so that Abe Lincon's head is facing you and his hair is pointing toward the ground. Then, place the penny into a tread groove. If you can see the top of Abe’s head, your tread is shallow and it might be time for new Nissan Xterra tires.

Get Repairs for Your 2003 Nissan Xterra

No driver looks forward to car repairs. But at Firestone Complete Auto Care, we strive to give you the excellent repair experience you deserve. When it’s time for 2003 Nissan Xterra repair services, head to your nearest Firestone location and rest easy knowing that your Xterra is in capable hands. We’ll start by assessing what repairs may be needed, and we’ll provide you with a detailed explanation of what we recommend. If a repair isn't necessary, we won't recommend it.

How Much Does Nissan Xterra Repair Cost?

The cost to repair your 2003 Nissan Xterra depends on the type of repair, the cost of any replacement parts, the labor involved, and the state you live in. But regardless of where you’re located, check out our website for repair coupons and offers that could save you some cash.

A few different aspects can influence repair costs for your 2003 Nissan Xterra, like

2003 Nissan Xterra Auto Repair Q&A

  • Can scheduled maintenance help me avoid repairs? The cheapest 2003 Nissan Xterra repair is the one that isn’t necessary in the first place! Staying up-to-date with your car’s scheduled maintenance services is a great way to keep future repair costs low.
  • What's wrong if something feels 'off' in my Nissan? You know your vehicle. You also know when something feels 'off' with your vehicle. Pay attention when things don't run like they used to and stop by for a Courtesy Check when you notice an unusual sign, smell, or sensation. We might be able to help you prevent Nissan Xterra repairs!
  • Are the repairs you recommend for my Nissan actually needed? Talk to your technician. We'll never recommend a service or repair for your 2003 Nissan Xterra that we don't think is necessary for your safety.

2003 Nissan Xterra Brake Repair

You might have a strong and reliable engine in your Nissan  Xterra. But if you can't stop it, then it's scrap metal. If you’re experiencing squeaky brakes or a loss of braking power, don’t wait! Unresponsive brakes make it tough to give the road your best. What's more, waiting for things to figure themselves out can result in more damage to your brakes and your wallet. Visit Firestone Complete Auto Care for the right brake repair for your 2003 Nissan Xterra. We offer many affordable brake repairs like brake pad/shoe removal and replacement, brake rotor/drum resurfacing, brake fluid exchange, and wheel cylinder and brake caliper installation.

Answers to Your Xterra Brakes Questions

  • What can cause my Xterra to shake when I apply the brakes? Feeling shaking or vibrating in your Xterra as you brake might indicate a few different problems, including worn brake pads or rotors, loose suspension components, damaged brake calipers, or warped rotors. Book an appointment for a free brake inspection as soon as you notice a problem with your brakes.
  • How long should my Xterra brake pads last? In general, brake pads can last from 30,000 to 40,000 miles. Certain factors, like driving on highways mostly and braking smoothly, can help your brake pads last longer. Hauling heavy loads and riding your brakes can shorten brake pad lifespan.
  • Is it bad if my Xterra is leaking brake fluid when off? Your Xterra has a closed hydraulic brake system, meaning you should not have a brake fluid leak under normal conditions. However, parts of your brake system can wear out over time or become damaged, which can lead to a brake fluid leak.

Repairing Your Nissan Xterra Drivetrain

Drivetrains for front, rear, and all-wheel-drive and 4WD vehicles are quite different, so you don't want to go to just anyone for drivetrain repair. You want to come see the technicians at Firestone Complete Auto Care. We can help repair all of your 2003 Nissan Xterra drivetrain components Your Nissan Xterra may need driveshaft attention if you feel heavy vibrations in your floorboards, clunks when shifting, resistance when turning, or vibration as your vehicle accelerates.

Questions About 2003 Nissan Xterra

  • What are signs my Nissan drivetrain is damaged? Your Nissan Xterra drivetrain might be damaged if you notice strange noises from the rear of your vehicle, see fluid leaking, or have issues turning.
  • What causes a Xterra’s malfunction indicator light (MIL) to illuminate? If your Xterra has its malfunction warning light (more commonly called the check engine light) illuminated, it could indicate engine troubles, problems with the transmission, electrical issues, malfunctioning sensors, connector problems, or misfire issues.
  • How worried should I be about a drivetrain malfunction in my Xterra? Don't ignore a drivetrain malfunction in your Xterra. As soon as you notice a problem, have it checked by a professional mechanic to diagnose the issue and carry out any necessary repairs. Driving with a faulty drivetrain is risky and may further damage your Xterra.

2003 Nissan Xterra Wheel Alignment

Alignment services involve precise adjustments to your Nissan Xterra’s suspension system, which serves to attach your wheels to your vehicle. When your car has an alignment service, your tire angles are adjusted according to measurements recommended by Nissan. Why? So that your tires can make contact with the road at the best possible angle. When you bring in your 2003 Nissan Xterra, we’ll perform an alignment check first. Then, we’ll adjust the angles as needed until they match recommended measurements from Nissan.

Answers to Nissan Xterra Alignment Questions

  • What can knock my Nissan Xterra out of alignment? Hitting a pothole or curb can alter your wheel alignment. So can general wear and tear over time.
  • How often should you get a wheel alignment for your Xterra? Generally, it’s wise to have your alignment looked at around every 6,000 miles or 6 months, whichever happens first. You should check your Xterra owner’s manual to verify Nissan’s suggested interval.
  • Do you need an alignment with new Xterra tires?  It’s not mandatory to get an alignment after installing new tires on your Xterra, but it can be a smart decision! Proper alignment from the jump can help improve handling, fuel efficiency, and tire wear.

Engine Repairs for Your 2003 Nissan Xterra

When your Nissan Xterra engine needs repairs, our expert techs will let you know what needs to be done and why before they get started. We never do any work without your sign-off. If a service can wait, we’ll make sure you know. We'll also tell you if it's necessary for your safety. We want to give you all the details you need to make an informed decision about your engine repairs. By choosing Firestone Complete Auto Care for Xterra engine repairs and you can drive easy knowing that we use Nissan-approved parts and fluids — serpentine belt, valve guide seal, fuses, or a different component.

2003 Nissan Xterra Engine Q&A

  • Why does the check engine light come on when I start my Xterra? It’s usually normal for your check engine light to turn on upon ignition. This is just your Xterra testing its circuits. The dash light shouldn't stay on. If it does, you might want to bring your vehicle in for service.
  • Why does my Nissan engine sound different? Unusual noises can signal a problem with your Nissan Xterra engine. Tapping or knocking could mean you're low on oil. Whistling could mean a belt is misaligned or there's an intake leak. Squealing can indicate a loose fan belt, and grinding might be coming from the brakes, not the engine.
  • What could damage a Nissan engine? Certain driving habits can damage your engine and should be avoided. These habits include 'running on fumes,' revving the engine while still in Park, or pushing 'the pedal to the metal' before the engine has warmed up. Help sustain your engine’s performance and efficiency by staying miles away from these bad driving practices.

2003 Nissan Xterra Tire Repair

If your 2003 Nissan Xterra is in need of a tire inspection or possible flat tire repair, Firestone Complete Auto Care has your back. There’s a chance your tire could be plugged and patched (rather than replaced). Our technicians can inspect your tire and let you know if it is safe to repair. We’ll begin by taking a look at where the damage is, the type and extent of the tire damage, and how all of your tires are wearing.

If your 2003 Nissan Xterra tire puncture can be repaired, we’ll get to work on the steps to fix it: (1) Remove the tire from the wheel for inspection and repair, (2) fill in the area that’s been punctured to prevent damage from moisture, and (3) seal the inner liner with a repair unit to prevent air loss.

Nissan Xterra Tire Repair Questions

  • How soon should I have my flat tire repaired? A flat tire that’s not addressed can take a terrible toll on the rest of your car. Until you have it repaired or replaced, drive your Xterra as little as possible to reduce your risk of damage to the wheels and alignment – or further damage to that already struggling tire!
  • Will a temporary sealant fix my Nissan's flat tire? Temporary sealants will solve your problem… for a little bit. If you’ve seen temporary or emergency tire sealant before (it usually comes in a can), it can be tempting to turn to this as a solution for your flat tire. Keep in mind that these fixes could buy you some time to get to Firestone Complete Auto Care for a proper repair, but they could also cause some harm in the process (for example, damage to your TPMS). Plus, using a product like this could void your tire warranty.
  • What can cause Xterra tires to keep losing air? Your Xterra tires might keep losing air due to a leaking valve stem, puncture or hole in the tire tread or sidewall, or damaged wheel.

Guide to 2003 Nissan Xterra Scheduled Maintenance

Instead of waiting for an issue to arise with your Xterra, you can stay ahead of problems before they even begin. Just follow your 2003 Nissan Xterra maintenance schedule! The recommended maintenance schedule is put together by Nissan, your vehicle manufacturer. Driving conditions, climate variations, and other variables can affect which scheduled maintenance services you’ll need; in most cases, though, recommended maintenance will consist of services like tire rotations, vital fluid checks/exchanges, filter changes, brake pad replacement, and oil changes. Scheduling routine service appointments is one of the best ways to help extend your Xterra's life, increase your vehicle safety, and maybe even save you the headache of dealing with common 2003 Nissan Xterra problems in the future.

Learn About Vital Maintenance Needs for Your Nissan Xterra

Come to Firestone Complete Auto Care for manufacturer-recommended routine maintenance on your 2003 Nissan Xterra and a skilled technician will start the appointment with a Courtesy Check. A Courtesy Check helps "set the stage" for your service and catch any small problems before they turn into big repairs. Every Courtesy Check will include a visual inspection of your Xterra. We’ll check your head and tail lights, fluid levels, filters, tires (and their alignment!), and windshield wiper blades. We’ll also perform a free battery check to determine your battery’s charge level.

Firestone Complete Auto Care is your spot for 2003 Nissan Xterra maintenance. So visit us regularly, or visit us urgently. Many locations are open on weekends and in the evening.

2003 Nissan Xterra Maintenance Questions

  • What do I do if I hit a pothole in my Nissan Xterra?  Check your car for pothole damage! If you’ve recently hit a pothole (or even if you don’t remember hitting one… they can be sneaky!) check your tire treads, tire sidewalls, and wheels for damage. Potholes can also knock your car out of alignment, so have your alignment checked if you suspect you’ve driven over a rough patch of road lately.
  • When does my Nissan Xterra need high mileage oil?  Do you have more than 75,000 miles on your Nissan Xterra? If so, request to switch to high mileage oil at your next oil change. This type of oil is specially formulated to keep aging engine parts in the best possible condition.
  • Why are my Nissan dashboard lights on? Because there might be a problem under the hood. Those warning lights are there for a reason! As soon as you notice that one’s illuminated, take your Nissan Xterra to Firestone Complete Auto Care so you can address any small problems long before they worsen.

The Right Battery Size for a 2003 Nissan Xterra

Need more info about Nissan Xterra batteries?

Battery Engine Warranty Cold Cranking Amps
25-1 V6/3.3L Replacement 24 months Performance months 550
25-1 L4/2.4L Replacement 24 months Performance months 550

2003 Nissan Xterra Batteries

Generally, car batteries last from three to five years. Don’t get stranded by your Xterra’s car battery. Replace it regularly instead! Pay attention to clues that your battery is on its way out. A sluggish engine start, a blinking battery or check engine light, bloated battery case, corroded battery terminals, or faded headlights may all indicate that your battery needs attention.

You can also get a Free Battery Test at your local Firestone Complete Auto Care. Stop by for a free battery test and, if needed, a replacement battery for your 2003 Nissan Xterra. Car batteries are one of our many specialties! Our technicians are familiar with Nissan-specific recommendations for Xterra battery CCAs and reserve capacity. Get help identifying the type and size of battery that matches your vehicle, and schedule an appointment today for a quick car battery replacement.

Top Nissan XterraCar Battery Questions

  • Why won't my Nissan Xterra battery stay charged? A battery is in its final hour when it will no longer hold a charge. The battery may be too old. Or, you may have been leaving your car doors ajar and the cabin light at night. Stop by for a complimentary battery check at your favorite Firestone Complete Auto Care and get a handle on your car battery’s health.
  • What is the average lifespan of a car battery?  A car battery normally lasts three to five years, but this number can vary based on battery type, your driving habits, and battery maintenance.
  • What is the white, crusty substance accumulating on my Xterra’s battery post?  The white, flaky stuff that can build up around your Xterra’s battery terminals is known as corrosion. Acid leaking from your vehicle’s battery post can have a chemical reaction with the air, leading to an accumulation of the white, powdery substance over time. Corrosion can affect the flow of electricity between your battery and the electrical system in your Xterra, possibly causing issues with electrical performance and starting. If left unaddressed for long enough, it may even cause your battery to prematurely fail.

Oil Changes for 2003 Nissan Xterra

Nissan recommends changing your 2003 Xterra’s oil at regular intervals. Your Xterra may need an oil change right away if your check engine/oil change light is on, you hear knock knock knock coming from the engine, smell oil inside the vehicle, or notice excess vehicle exhaust. You might need an oil change more frequently than what’s recommended by Nissan if you regularly haul heavy loads, frequent dusty roads, go off-roading a lot, or go at low speeds on long distance trips.

Whether you need high mileage oil, synthetic oil, or conventional oil, you'll find the right 2003 Nissan Xterra motor oil at Firestone Complete Auto Care. Consult Nissan's recommendations to select the right  2003 Xterra oil and talk with a teammate to learn more about our oil options: Quaker State® Advanced Durability™ conventional oil, Pennzoil® High Mileage Vehicle® motor oil, Pennzoil Platinum® Full Synthetic motor oil with PurePlus™ Technology, and Shell Rotella® heavy-duty engine oil. During an oil change, a technician will change your Xterra's oil, replace and recycle your used oil and oil filter, inspect all of your other filters, refill vital car fluids, and visually inspect the rest of the vehicle. Make an appointment for an oil change service today and let the oil experts take care of your Xterra's engine.

2003 Nissan Xterra Oil Change Q&A

  • What does it mean if my Nissan Xterra oil light comes on?  The oil change light in your Nissan Xterra could be triggered by an overdue oil change. However, if the oil pressure light is on, you may be dealing with low engine oil, a failing oil pump, a clogged oil filter, or a malfunctioning oil pressure sensor.
  • Can I change my Nissan oil on my own?  First off, changing your own oil isn’t as easy as you’d think. You’ll have to buy special tools and figure out a way to recycle the old oil properly. Getting a professional oil change reduces the risk of something going wrong during the service, but also helps your car perform down the road.
  • Why is my Nissan exhaust smoke gray or blue?  You could have an oil leak and have a case of burning oil. Looks like it’s time for a professional to take a look. The leak could be the result of worn valve seals, fried piston rings, or old cylinder walls.

2003 Nissan Xterra Engine Tune-Ups & Maintenance

Regular engine tune-ups can optimize your Xterra’s power on the road. Your local Firestone Complete Auto Care offers a range of engine tune-up services for your 2003 Nissan Xterra. The first is the standard Firestone Tune-Up. It includes a complete visual inspection of engine components, installation of new spark plugs, and a lifetime warranty on parts*. A second service option replaces the air and fuel filter in your Xterra. The third tune-up option is a fuel system cleaning service, which is a three-step process that removes varnish, dirt, and carbon deposits on your Xterra's fuel injectors, throttle body, and throttle plate. This goes a long way in boosting your fuel system’s overall performance. Consider this when choosing a tune-up service for your Xterra: your vehicle’s maintenance record and mileage can determine which service is best. Ask one of our technicians what your vehicle needs, based on your driving habits and your car’s current condition.

*Talk to a Firestone Complete Auto Care teammate for full terms and conditions on warranties.

Common Engine Tune-Up Q&A for 2003 Nissan Xterra

  • Will it hurt my Nissan Xterra to drive with old spark plugs? When it’s time to replace the spark plugs, don’t delay. These small (but vital!) parts provide the electric spark that your car needs in order to start, and old spark plugs can prevent your car from starting at all. Replace spark plugs on time or about every 30,000 miles or so.
  • What does a puddle underneath my Nissan Xterra mean? Puddles could indicate that your vehicle is leaking coolant, oil, or brake fluid. Ignoring these leaks can lead to permanent engine damage, so address these symptoms ASAP with a tune-up service.
  • How often do Nissan Xterra fuel injectors need to be cleaned? There is no hard and fast rule on how often fuel injectors should be cleaned, and it can vary based on driving habits and fuel type. Some manufacturers may suggest including a fuel system cleaning in your regular maintenance schedule. Or you may need to clean your fuel injectors as needed if you notice signs of a fuel system problem.

2003 Nissan Xterra Suspension Service & Repair

During the first few years you had your 2003 Nissan Xterra, you probably enjoyed a smooth and steady ride. Now, however, things are starting to feel a little rough. Maybe your Xterra jolts, sways to one side, or makes an unusual noise when going over a speed bump. The first sign of problems is a good time to bring your 2003 Nissan Xterra in for suspension and steering service. We’ll get to the source of your car problems and, if your Xterra suspension system needs repair, we'll explain all of your options and the potential cost.

2003 Xterra Steering & Suspension Q&A

  • Why is my Nissan Xterra bouncing so much?  If your shocks or struts are in bad shape, they can’t dampen road bumps like they should. This can cause your Xterra to bounce more than usual.
  • Why does my Xterra tilt forward when I hit the brakes?  When you brake, the forward momentum combined with your vehicle's weight sends a lot of force to the vehicle's front end. A bad suspension can cause all that weight and force to push the front end downward.
  • Does treadwear and tire pressure impact my Xterra's steering and suspension?  Maintaining your tires can help reduce strain on the suspension, nd also let you know when it's time to replace your tires. A faltering steering and suspension system could lead to uneven tire wear.

Convenient & Local 2003 Nissan Xterra A/C Service

Technicians at Firestone Complete Auto Care are ready to help you address your 2003 Nissan Xterra A/C problems. In this A/C performance inspection, we’ll check out the current condition of your 2003 Nissan Xterra A/C system to see if repair work is required. This check will include an examination of system pressure, a visual inspection, and a leak test.

When we perform an A/C repair on your 2003 Nissan Xterra, we’ll also do an A/C evacuation and recharge. During this process, a technician will remove the old refrigerant from the A/C system. Then, they’ll use Nissan’s specifications to evacuate the system. To finish, we’ll add new refrigerant to recharge the A/C system.

2003 Nissan Xterra A/C System FAQs

  • Why is my Xterra A/C blowing hot air? If your car’s air conditioning isn’t blowing cold air at all (or it tries, then turns warm), you could have a clogged expansion valve, a faulty compressor clutch, a leak, or a malfunctioning fuse in the system.
  • What can cause an A/C system leak?  Over the years, the rubber seals and gaskets in your Xterra’s A/C system naturally degrade. Moisture can get into the system and cause a malfunction, or parts can simply wear out so that your system no longer seals properly.
  • Why does my Xterra’s A/C only work when the car is moving? There could be issues with one or more components in the air conditioning or electrical system. Your Xterra may have a faulty cooling fan or low refrigerant.

Transmission Services for 2003 Nissan Xterra

Your transmission carries power from the engine to the wheels so that you can drive at the speed you desire. Since the transmission has to translate the precise amount of power for your desired amount of speed, a tiny transmission issue can take a major toll on your car’s performance. 2003 Nissan Xterra transmission problems can show up as shifting delays, jumping or grinding during acceleration, the car shaking at any speed, or whistling noises or a burning smell coming from beneath the hood. Let Nissan Xterra transmission problems linger and you might notice your fuel economy decrease or discover that your Xterra’s not even driveable. Our technicians are trained to service 2003  Nissan Xterra transmission systems according to vehicle manufacturer recommendations. As soon as you suspect something’s wrong with your Xterra’s transmission, book an appointment at your local Firestone Complete Auto Care to help keep your Nissan running for miles and miles.

2003 Nissan Xterra Transmission Q&A

  • How often does my Xterra transmission fluid need to be checked?  Maintaining your Nissan Xterra transmission fluid is one of the best ways to maintain your transmission's health. A general rule of thumb is to have your transmission fluid checked and changed about every 30,000 to 60,000 miles, but that timeline can change if you're hard on your Nissan. Leaks or low transmission fluid are easy to spot and affordable to repair.
  • Can Nissan Xterra transmission fluid leak?  Over time, transmission fluid can leak from your Nissan Xterra, potentially causing transmission problems. A transmission fluid leak may be caused by a damaged transmission pan, faulty transmission cooler lines, worn-out seals, a cracked transmission housing, or an overfilled transmission.
  • Can I still drive my Nissan Xterra if it has a transmission fluid leak?  It’s not advisable to drive your Xterra if it’s leaking transmission fluid. Your transmission system needs transmission fluid to function properly, and a leak can lead to significant problems, such as overheating or reduced performance. You might even experience transmission failure.

Get a 2003 Nissan Xterra Vehicle Inspection

Every service performed at Firestone Complete Auto Care includes a multi-point Courtesy Check. To start, one of our technicians will check the battery in your Nissan Xterra to see how much charge it has left – and determine if it may fail in the near future. We’ll follow the battery inspection with a visual check of your Nissan Xterra’s lights, windshield wipers, filters, hoses, alignment, tires, fluid levels, and belts.

Every service performed at your nearest Firestone Complete Auto Care will include a Courtesy Check, but you can also request a Complete Vehicle Inspection for your 2003 Nissan Xterra if you suspect there may be a bigger problem. During a Complete Vehicle Inspection, we’ll visually check everything that’s on the list for a Courtesy Check. Additionally, we’ll perform an examination (by hand!) of your steering, suspension, brakes, and exhaust system. The goal of this type of inspection is to unearth significant issues that might require preventative maintenance.

Depending on where you live, you may be able to take care of your state inspection or safety test at your local Firestone Complete Auto Care. Specific requirements for these types of inspections vary by state.

Common 2003 Nissan Xterra Vehicle Inspection Questions

  • When does my Nissan Xterra need an inspection? It needs a check-up if something feels 'off' to you, the driver. Your Nissan Xterra could benefit from a Courtesy Check if it has any illuminated dashboard lights, you hear weird noises coming from any part, the engine doesn't start sometimes, or your vehicle pulls to one side.
  • My 2003 Nissan Xterra failed the state inspection test. Can you fix it? Did your vehicle fail a recent state inspection test? We can help. Come in for a checkup and we’ll diagnose the issue.
  • When is the best time to get a complete vehicle inspection for my Nissan Xterra?  It’s generally a good idea to get a complete vehicle inspection for your Nissan Xterra before a road trip and/or when something strange occurs and you are unable to find the cause. Signs something is up include dashboard lights illuminating, odd noises coming from the engine, and your steering feeling loose or tight.

2003 Nissan Xterra Radiator Repair & Service

Staying on top of routine radiator maintenance for your 2003 Nissan Xterra is crucial to keep your engine in the best possible shape for years to come. To keep your radiator functioning, Nissan recommends replacing your antifreeze or coolant at scheduled intervals but you can also take note of any signs your radiator is going bad. Your radiator could be close to causing an engine breakdown if you see coolant leaks under your car, high engine temperatures, or a dashboard light that indicates low coolant.

When you come to Firestone Complete Auto Care, we’ll begin your radiator repair with an in-depth inspection of the cooling system in your Nissan Xterra. We’ll do a machine-powered coolant exchange on the system, and then we’ll top off or replace the fluids that were removed (like chemicals, lubricants, and sealants). Lastly, we’ll perform a pressure check to look for leaks. From the radiator cap to the heater core, we’ll take excellent care of your 2003 Nissan Xterra at Firestone Complete Auto Care.

2003 Nissan Xterra Radiator Q&A

  • What does the coolant light on my Nissan dashboard mean?  Your engine might be about to overheat. If your low coolant light is on, pull over in a safe area and wait for your engine temperature to go down. Once it’s safe to do so, bring your car to your nearest Firestone Complete Auto Care to have the coolant system inspected.
  • Why is my Xterra overheating?  One of the main reasons your Nissan Xterra engine might overheat is because you don’t have enough coolant. Other causes include a clogged radiator, a damaged cooling fan, a malfunctioning thermostat, or a faulty water pump.
  • My Xterra radiator sounds like it's rumbling or boiling! What's up? There could be air pockets in your Xterra’s cooling system. You might also have a clogged radiator or faulty radiator cap (this last one is an easy fix!).