Tires

2012 Nissan Xterra Tires, Repair & Service


2012 Nissan Xterra Tires

Recommended Tires | Tire Information

2012 Nissan Xterra Tires Sizes, Speed Ratings, and Inflation

Not sure about your 2012 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
2012 Nissan Xterra X T 35 PSI/35 PSI P265/70R16
2012 Nissan Xterra S T 35 PSI/35 PSI P265/70R16
2012 Nissan Xterra PRO-4X T 35 PSI/35 PSI P265/75R16

2012 Nissan Xterra X

P265/70R16

Speed Rating: T

Inflation F/R: 35 PSI/35 PSI

2012 Nissan Xterra S

P265/70R16

Speed Rating: T

Inflation F/R: 35 PSI/35 PSI

2012 Nissan Xterra PRO-4X

P265/75R16

Speed Rating: T

Inflation F/R: 35 PSI/35 PSI

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

Recommended Tires for Your 2012 Nissan Xterra

What tires are best for a 2012 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 Dueler A/T Revo 3
Dueler A/T Revo 3

  • Platinum Pact Limited Warranty
  • All-Season
  • Light Truck Tires
Bridgestone Blizzak DM-V2
Blizzak DM-V2

  • No warranty
  • Winter
  • Winter
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

Choosing 2012 Nissan Xterra Tires

Other than getting the proper tire size, there are a couple of other factors to consider when buying Nissan Xterra tires like where and how you drive, and what tire brand you trust most. When evaluating your driving conditions, think about where you live (countryside vs. city vs. mountains) and the kind of unexpected weather you're likely to experience. It's not uncommon for drivers in states that experience all four seasons to buy more than one set of tires. one set for winter, one set for summer. Other drivers prefer the convenience of all-season tires. They make one trip to the tire shop and they're pretty much ready for rain, light snow, or sun!

Your personal driving style is the next factor to consider. If you're an avid off-roader who yearns to pioneer new paths, you have very different tire needs than a highway commuter who doesn't hit the hills very often. Talk to a tire technician at Firestone Complete Auto Care for help choosing the best tire for you, or start shopping for Nissan Xterra tires online.

Installing Nissan Xterra Tires

Firestone Complete Auto Care has been a leading tire provider for more than a century. We're a tire store that also offers professional tire installation, maintenance, and rotation, along with complete auto care. We make it easy to buy new 2012 Nissan Xterra tires online and book an installation appointment at the same time.

2012 Nissan Xterra Tire Q&A

  • Is Nissan tire inflation important? 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.
  • What do the numbers on my Nissan Xterra tires mean? Your tire sidewall numbers tell you the recommended load carrying capacity, speed rating, treadwear, traction, and tire size. Talk to a tire technician to learn how to read Nissan tire numbers.
  • 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.

2012 Nissan Xterra Repair Information

For most drivers, the words “car repair” don’t exactly spark excitement. But we work to provide you with a different experience at Firestone Complete Auto Care. Bring your 2012 Nissan Xterra in for repair services and our skilled repair technicians will get your Xterra back on the road. Before we begin any repair work, we’ll diagnose any issues and answer your questions about potential repair options. We value your trust, so we recommend only the repairs we think are necessary for your safety on the road.

How Much Are Nissan Xterra Repairs?

The cost to repair your 2012 Nissan Xterra depends on the type of repair, prices of appropriate replacement parts, the labor involved, and your locale. 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 2012 Nissan Xterra, like

2012 Nissan Xterra Auto Repair Q&A

  • Do I still need scheduled maintenance even when nothing is wrong with my Nissan? One of the best ways to prevent 2012 Nissan Xterra repairs is by staying on top of your Nissan maintenance schedule. This schedule is written by the people who made your vehicle and they know best how to keep it running smoothly.
  • Should I bring my Nissan in even if I can't pinpoint the problem? You’re in your car, day in and day out. So, it’s only expected that you know your car better than anyone else! If you notice mysterious smells, strange engine noises, or other out-of-the-ordinary symptoms while driving, trust your instincts and stop into Firestone Complete Auto Care for a Courtesy Check. Catching a potential issue early could help prevent Nissan Xterra repairs.
  • Do I have to get the repairs you recommend for my Nissan? Trust is more than just a saying on the wall. It’s a window underneath it. That’s why we won’t recommend services or repairs for your 2012 Nissan Xterra unless we think they’re vital to your safety on the road.

Get Your 2012 Nissan Xterra Brakes Fixed

Your Nissan Xterra may be powered by a strong engine. But if you can’t brake, it might as well be scrap metal. Don't wait if you're experiencing brake squeaks or a loss of braking power. 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 2012 Nissan Xterra. We offer a variety of brake services like brake pad/shoe removal and replacement, rotor/drum resurfacing, brake fluid exchange/bleeding, and wheel cylinder and brake caliper installation.

Answers to Your Xterra Brakes Questions

  • Why does my Xterra shake when I brake? 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 can I expect my Xterra brake pads to 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.
  • Should my Xterra be leaking brake fluid when the car is off? Your Xterra brake system is a closed hydraulic system, which means that the brake fluid should not leak out of the system under normal circumstances. However, over time, the various components of the brake system can wear out or become damaged, which can cause brake fluid to leak out of the system.

2012 Nissan Xterra Drivetrain Repairs

Drivetrains for front, rear, and all-wheel-drive and 4WD vehicles are not all the same. You don't want to go to any random shop for drivetrain repair. You want to come see the technicians at Firestone Complete Auto Care. We can fix many 2012 Nissan Xterra drivetrain components Your Nissan Xterra may need driveshaft attention if you feel resistance when turning, heavy vibrations in your floorboards, clunks when shifting, or vibration as your vehicle accelerates.

2012 Nissan Xterra Drivetrain Questions

  • What are the symptoms of a damaged Nissan drivetrain system? Hear noises toward the back of your Nissan Xterra? See fluid leaking? Having issues turning? These could all be signs of drivetrain damage you don't want to ignore. Take action quickly to catch repairs or replacements before something more severe happens.
  • 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.
  • Is a drivetrain malfunction in my Xterra serious? A drivetrain malfunction in your Xterra should never be taken lightly. Driving with a malfunctioning drivetrain can put you in danger and lead to further vehicle damage, so it's essential to have a qualified mechanic assess and repair the problem as soon as possible.

2012 Nissan Xterra Wheel Alignment

With an alignment service, adjustments are made to your Nissan Xterra’s suspension system, which serves to attach your wheels to your vehicle. When your car has an alignment service, the individual angles of your tires are adjusted so that they come into contact with the road in just the right way — the way Nissan intended them to. Bring your 2012 Nissan Xterra in for a wheel alignment and we'll start with an alignment check. If needed, we'll adjust your wheel alignment angles to match Nissan recommendations.

Answers to Nissan Xterra Alignment Questions

  • What can knock my Nissan Xterra out of alignment? When it’s safe to do so, avoid driving over potholes or hitting curbs. These road obstacles can wreak havoc on your wheel alignment, as can wear and tear from rough road conditions.
  • How frequently should you get a wheel alignment for your Xterra?  Check your Xterra owner's manual for Nissan's recommended interval. It's generally a good idea to check your alignment every 6,000 miles or 6 months, depending on which comes first.
  • Do you need to get your Xterra wheels aligned when you get new 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.

2012 Nissan Xterra Engine Services

If your 2012 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. But if immediate repairs are necessary for your safety, we’ll make sure that's clear, too. We seek to give you all the info you need to make a smart decision about our services. Turn to Firestone Complete Auto Care for your 2012 Xterra engine repairs and you can feel good knowing that we only use Nissan-compliant replacement parts such as the timing belt, motor oil seal, sensors, or another part.

Engine Q&A 2012 Nissan Xterra

  • Why does the check engine light in my Xterra turn on when I start my car? It's okay if your check engine light comes on when you first start your vehicle. This is a sign that your vehicle is testing its circuits. The light should go off shortly. Bring your vehicle in if it doesn't.
  • Why does my Nissan engine sound different?  Strange under-the-hood noises can point to problems within your Nissan Xterra engine. Tapping or knocking could mean you need an oil change. Whistling sounds could mean you have an intake leak or misaligned belt. Squealing may be caused by a loose fan belt, and grinding could be a sign that something is wrong with your brakes — not the engine.
  • What could damage a Nissan engine? Certain driving habits can hurt your engine. These habits include driving on an empty fuel tank, revving your engine while the vehicle is in Park, or slamming the gas pedal while the engine is still cold. Steer clear of these habits to help protect engine performance and efficiency.

2012 Nissan Xterra Tire Repair

Firestone Complete Auto Care is here for you when your 2012 Nissan Xterra needs flat tire repair or inspection. 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. To start, we’ll consider the location of tire damage, the type of issue, the size and scope of the damage, and the amount of wear on your tires.

If we determine that your 2012 Nissan Xterra tire can be safely repaired, the repair process is actually fairly simple: (1) Take the tire off the wheel for easy inspection, (2) use a filler to close up the puncture (this is to keep moisture from getting in), and (3) re-seal the inside lining of your tire so that air won’t escape.

Nissan Xterra Tire Repair Questions

  • How soon should I have my flat tire repaired? Driving on a flat tire is not a good idea. Your Xterra engine will keep running with a flat tire, but you could damage your wheel by continuing to drive on a flat.
  • Is temporary sealant bad for my Nissan's tires? 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.
  • Why do the tires on my Xterra keep losing air? Possible reasons for your Xterra tires continuously losing air include a leaking valve steam, wheel damage, and a puncture or hole in the rubber.

About 2012 Nissan Xterra Scheduled Maintenance

There's no need to guess when it's time to get Xterra maintenance, and no need to wait until something goes wrong. It’s as easy as following the recommended maintenance schedule that’s been written specifically for your 2012 Nissan Xterra! The recommended maintenance schedule is put together by Nissan, your vehicle manufacturer. Scheduled maintenance services can vary depending on driving conditions, climate, and other factors; however, recommended maintenance usually includes services like oil changes, tire rotations, brake pad replacement, filter changes, and fluid checks and exchanges. Scheduling routine service appointments is one of the best ways to help extend your Xterra's life, increase your vehicle safety, and prevent common 2012 Nissan Xterra problems.

Learn About Vital Maintenance Needs for Your Nissan Xterra

Come to Firestone Complete Auto Care for manufacturer-recommended routine maintenance on your 2012 Nissan Xterra and an expert technician will begin by performing a Courtesy Check. This Courtesy Check can establish a baseline of what may need to be addressed during your service appointment. Each Courtesy Check includes a free battery test and an inspection of your Xterra's windshield wiper blades, head and tail lights, filters, fluid levels, tires, and alignment.

Firestone Complete Auto Care is your one-stop shop for 2012 Nissan Xterra maintenance and repairs. So visit us regularly, or visit us urgently. Many locations are open on weekends and in the evening.

2012 Nissan Xterra Maintenance Q&A

  • 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 should I use high mileage oil in my Nissan Xterra?  If your Nissan Xterra has ticked past 75,000 miles, consider switching to high mileage oil at your next oil change to give your engine what it needs to go another 75,000 (or more!). High mileage oil: make it a high priority!
  • Can I ignore dashboard lights on my Nissan?  It's better to get them addressed as soon as possible. An illuminated dashboard light means something in your vehicle isn't functioning like it should. Letting problems linger can mean bad news for your Nissan Xterra, so be sure to take your car in for service as soon as you notice an illuminated dashboard light.

The Right Battery Size for a 2012 Nissan Xterra

Researching battery replacements for your Nissan Xterra?

Battery Engine Warranty Cold Cranking Amps
26R-3 V6/4.0L Replacement 24 months Performance months 575
35-2 V6/4.0L Replacement 36 months Performance months 640
35-AGM V6/4.0L Replacement 36 months Performance months 650

2012 Nissan Xterra Car Batteries

On average, auto batteries last anywhere from three to five years. Don’t get stranded by your Xterra’s car battery. Replace it regularly instead! Look out for symptoms of a faulty car battery. A lagging starter, an illuminated check engine light or battery signal, swollen battery case, corroded battery posts, and subpar electrical performance can all signal that your battery needs attention.

Or, you can get a complimentary battery check at your nearest Firestone Complete Auto Care. Drop in for a free battery check and, if needed, a replacement battery for your 2012 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 choosing the battery size that matches your vehicle, and schedule an appointment today for a quick car battery replacement.

Commonly Asked Nissan Xterra Battery Questions

  • Why doesn’t my Nissan Xterra battery stay charged?  A battery that won't hold a charge is almost as good as dead. The battery might be old. Or, you may have a habit of leaving your car doors open and the lights on overnight. Stop by for a free battery test at your local Firestone Complete Auto Care to learn more about the state of your battery.
  • 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.
  • Why is there white, crusty buildup on my Xterra’s battery post?  The white, crusty stuff that can accumulate around Xterra car battery terminals is called corrosion. It is caused by a chemical reaction between the battery acid and the air, which creates a white, powdery substance that can build up on the terminals over time. Corrosion can interfere with the flow of electricity between the battery post and the car's electrical system, sometimes leading to poor electrical performance, difficulty starting, and even premature battery failure.

2012 Nissan Xterra Oil Change Service

Nissan recommends having your 2012 Nissan Xterra’s motor oil changed at regular intervals. No matter the mileage, your Xterra may need its oil changed ASAP if your check engine light is on, you hear knocking sounds coming from the engine, smell oil inside the car, or notice an unusual amount of exhaust. You may also need an oil change more frequently than Nissan recommends if you haul heavy loads, frequent dusty roads, enjoy off-roading, or go at low speeds on long distance trips.

Your local Firestone Complete Auto Care has the right 2012 Nissan Xterra motor oil: either synthetic or conventional. Consult Nissan's recommendations to select the right  2012 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 your oil change service, a technician will change your Xterra's oil, replace and recycle the old oil and filter, inspect the rest of your car’s filters, top-off essential fluids, and perform a courtesy inspection on your entire vehicle. Let the experts take care of your Xterra’s engine by making an oil change appointment today.

2012 Nissan Xterra Oil Change Questions

  • Why is my Nissan Xterra oil light illuminated?  Your Nissan Xterra oil change reminder light might illuminate if it’s been too long since your last oil change. On the other hand, the oil pressure light might illuminate due to a clogged oil filter, a faulty oil pressure sensor, low engine oil levels, or a malfunctioning oil pump.
  • How hard is it to change Nissan Xterra oil at home?  Changing engine oil at home isn’t as simple as it’s made out to be. You’ll have to figure out how to properly dispose of the oil and buy special tools. Having your oil changed professionally can not only reduce the risk of something going wrong during the service, but it’ll also help your car perform smoothly down the road.
  • Why is my Nissan Xterra exhaust smoke grayish or blue?  Your engine could be burning oil due to a leak.  It may be time for a pro to take a look. A leak can be caused by a variety of issues including faulty valve seals, blown piston rings, or damaged cylinder walls.

Engine Tune-Up Service for Your 2012 Nissan Xterra

Routine engine tune-ups can bring power back to your Xterra. Your local Firestone Complete Auto Care offers a range of engine tune-up services for your 2012 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. Our third service is a thorough cleaning of the fuel system. During this type of tune-up, we use a three-step process to get rid of harmful varnish, dirt, and carbon deposit buildup in your Xterra’s fuel injectors, throttle body, and throttle plate. This can improve your fuel system’s performance (and therefore, your engine’s performance). Keep in mind that your Xterra's mileage and maintenance history can uniquely impact its tune-up needs. Ask one of our technicians what your vehicle needs, based on your driving habits and your car’s current condition.

*Check with a teammate at Firestone Complete Auto Care for complete terms and conditions regarding warranties.

Common Engine Tune-Up Q&A for 2012 Nissan Xterra

  • When should Nissan Xterra spark plugs be replaced? 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 do I do if I see a pool of liquid under my Nissan Xterra? 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 should I clean my Nissan Xterra fuel injectors? The frequency at which car fuel injectors should be cleaned can vary depending on several factors, including the type of fuel used and the driving conditions. Some manufacturers generally recommend a fuel system cleaning as part of your general car maintenance, or as needed based on symptoms of poor fuel system performance.

2012 Xterra Nissan Steering & Suspension Services

During the first few years you had your 2012 Nissan Xterra, the ride was probably so smooth that you didn’t even think about it! Lately, though, your ride’s been feeling a little bumpy. Maybe your Xterra bounces, drifts to one side, or makes an unusual noise when going over a speed bump. As soon as you notice that something’s “off” with your 2012 Nissan Xterra, bring it in for suspension and steering service. We'll get to the root of the problem and, if steering and suspension service is needed, we’ll go over the services you need and how much they will cost before we do any work.

Questions About 2012 Nissan Xterra Steering & Suspension

  • Why does my Nissan Xterra bounce so much?  If it feels like you’re on a trampoline every time your Xterra goes over a bump or dip, you may have a problem with your struts or shocks. Faulty shocks and struts can’t properly absorb road bumps, leading to a bouncy ride.
  • Why does my Xterra tilt forward when I hit the brakes?  The forward dip in the front end of your Xterra when you brake is caused by the weight and momentum transferring to the front wheels. If your suspension system is in bad shape, it can fail to distribute this force, leading your front end to dip further downward.
  • Does tire pressure and tread depth impact my Nissan's suspension?  Proper tire care can reduce strain on the suspension system, and also alert you to the need for new tires. Uneven tire wear is one sign of steering and suspension system problems, but it can also contribute to more.

2012 Nissan Xterra A/C Service Near You

Our trained technicians will do what they can to solve your 2012 Nissan Xterra A/C problems. During this initial A/C performance check, we’ll look at the state of your 2012 Nissan Xterra’s A/C system to see if repair work is required. We’ll test overall system performance, check for any leaks, and measure the system pressure.

While your 2012 Nissan Xterra’s air conditioner is being serviced, 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. Finally, we’ll recharge the A/C system with new refrigerant.

Frequently Asked Questions for 2012 Nissan Xterra A/C Systems

  • Why is my Xterra A/C blowing hot air?  An A/C blowing hot air has several possible root causes. There could be an issue with your compressor clutch, a blown fuse, a leak, or a clog in the expansion valve.
  • What causes A/C system leaks? To put it simply, age and moisture are some of the main causes of leaks in your A/C. Over time, rubber gaskets and seals can wear out, which pushes much-needed refrigerant out of your Xterra’s A/C system — and lets outside moisture get in, which can take a toll on internal A/C components.
  • Why won’t my Xterra’s A/C cool the vehicle when the car is stopped?  Damaged or worn components in your Xterra’s electrical or air conditioning system can cause the A/C to only work when the car is moving. You may be dealing with low coolant or a faulty cooling fan.

2012 Nissan Xterra Transmission Service

Your transmission carries power from the engine to the wheels so that you can drive at the speed you desire. Because of the transmission’s responsibility to translate the right dose of power into the right amount of speed, a small transmission issue can put a big dent in your Xterra’s performance. Nissan Xterra transmission problems can present themselves 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 your could suffer a loss in fuel efficiency or find that you can't drive your Xterra at all. Our technicians know how to service your 2012 Xterra up to Nissan-recommended standards. Schedule an appointment at your local Firestone Complete Auto Care at the first sign of transmission problems to help keep your Nissan running for miles and miles.

Questions About 2012 Nissan Xterra’s Transmission

  • Does my Xterra's transmission fluid need to be inspected?  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 my Nissan Xterra leak transmission fluid?  Yes. Nissan Xterra transmission fluid can leak over time and potentially cause transmission issues. Worn or damaged seals, a loose or damaged transmission pan, a cracked transmission housing, faulty transmission cooler lines, or an overfilled transmission could cause transmission fluid leaks.
  • Can I drive my Nissan Xterra with 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.

2012 Nissan Xterra Inspections

At Firestone Complete Auto Care, we perform a multi-point Courtesy Check during any vehicle service. To start, one of our technicians will check the battery in your Nissan Xterra to find out how much charge is remaining on it. After we’ve inspected your Nissan Xterra’s battery, we’ll visually inspect your filters, lights, wiper blades, fluid levels, belts, hoses, tires, and alignment.

While every visit to your local Firestone Complete Auto Care includes a Courtesy Check, we can also dig deeper and perform a Complete Vehicle Inspection on your 2012 Nissan Xterra if you prefer. A Complete Vehicle Inspection includes everything in a Courtesy Check, plus an examination (by hand!) of your steering and suspension system, brakes, and exhaust components. This inspection is aimed at informing you of any major problems that could wreak havoc on your 2012 Nissan Xterra if left unaddressed.

In some cities or states, you may be able to take care of your state inspection or safety test at your local Firestone Complete Auto Care. Inspections are performed on a state-by-state basis and requirements vary.

Common 2012 Nissan Xterra Vehicle Inspection Questions

  • How do I know if I should have an inspection on my Nissan Xterra? 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.
  • Help! My 2012 Nissan Xterra failed the state inspection test. Can you get it to pass? Did your vehicle fail a recent state inspection test? We can help. Come in for a checkup and we’ll diagnose the issue.
  • When’s the best time to have a complete vehicle inspection performed on my Nissan Xterra?  The best time to get a complete vehicle inspection for your Nissan Xterra is before going on a road trip for the peace of mind. Another great time is when something abnormal occurs, and you can't pinpoint the issue. You might notice new dashboard lights, hear strange noises from under the hood, or your steering wheel doesn't feel like it once did.

2012 Nissan Xterra Radiator Repair & Service

Staying on top of routine radiator maintenance for your 2012 Nissan Xterra is a huge factor in the longevity of your engine. To keep your radiator functioning, Nissan recommends replacing your antifreeze or coolant at scheduled intervals but it’s also wise to keep an eye out for signs of a failing radiator. You might be driving around (or about to be stranded) with a failing radiator if you notice a low coolant light or higher-than-normal engine temperatures on your dashboard, or if you spot coolant leaks coming from your car.

At Firestone Complete Auto Care, we start by performing a thorough inspection of your Nissan Xterra cooling system. Then, we’ll move on to a machine-powered coolant exchange. Finally, we’ll refill the flushed sealants, lubricants and chemicals, then do a pressure check to catch any possible leaks. From the radiator cap to the heater core, we’ll take excellent care of your 2012 Nissan Xterra at Firestone Complete Auto Care.

Common Nissan Xterra Radiator Questions

  • What does an illuminated coolant temperature light mean for my Nissan?  Pay attention to the temperature gauge and lights on your dashboard. If a low coolant warning light comes on or your dashboard temperature gauge keeps rising, it’s likely that your engine is about to overheat (and could leave you stranded on the road). Wait for the engine to cool down, then have your coolant system checked immediately at your nearest Firestone Complete Auto Care.
  • What is causing my Xterra to overheat?  If your Nissan Xterra engine overheats, it could be because of a clogged radiator, a damaged thermostat, a faulty cooling fan, a malfunctioning water pump, or low coolant levels.
  • Why does the radiator in my Xterra sound like it’s rumbling or boiling?  Your Xterra’s cooling system could contain air pockets or your radiator might be clogged. Another possibility is a faulty radiator cap, which is an easy fix!