One problem related to engine cooling system has been reported for the 2003 Nissan Xterra. The most recently reported issues are listed below. Please also check out the statistics and reliability analysis of the 2003 Nissan Xterra based on all problems reported for the 2003 Xterra.
I own a 2003 Nissan Xterra 4wd. It has 55,000 miles and only been serviced at Nissan dealership. I noticed a sweet smell coming from the engine when the car was warm so when I took in for oil change asked them to check it out. Told me the heads were warped and needed to be ground down, new gasket, belts and sparkplugs d/t the head leaking. This is the second head gasket problem I've had with a Nissan I've owned. The other one was under warranty and was told it was a freak thing. I believed them, and had no problem buying another Nissan. Now same problem and I have to pay $2,250. 00 for replacement. No one can tell me why. I contacted Nissan corp for reimbursement on this. Im still waiting for a reply, but after searching the net I see that this is a familiar problem with Nissan. I will not be buying another Nissan product.