Three problems related to automatic transmission torque converter have been reported for the 2005 Nissan Xterra. The most recently reported issues are listed below. Please also check out the statistics and reliability analysis of the 2005 Nissan Xterra based on all problems reported for the 2005 Xterra.
The contact owns a 2005 Nissan Xterra. The contact stated that while driving 40 mph, the vehicle shook violently. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was found that the torque converter, radiator and the transmission had failed. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was not contacted about the failure. The failure mileage was 94,200. Updated 06/18/lj updated 06/21/2013.
When leaving parking lot at work, Xterra lost all power when accellerator was depressed. Car would not go forward nor in reverse. Come to find out the coolant from the radiator tubing had leaked into the transmission compartment causing complete transmission failure. There were no warning signs or any other issues before complete failure. Costs to repair due to defect in coolant tubing is estimated to be $4100 - requiring transmission rebuild, torque converter and valve component to be replaced.
I just recently started experiencing a 'shudder' under mild acceleration between 40-60 mph with my 05xterra, v6 4x4 (~120k miles). Feels like my rear wheels are going over a rumble strip and only lasts a few brief moments. Took my Xterra back to dealer and they indicated possibility of transmission cooler leak allowing antifreeze to enter torque converter and transmission causing slippage; although they checked my fluids and no cross contamination was evident. They recommended replacing torque converter, transmission and radiator. . . To the tune of ~$5000. . . There's got to be better answer. . . And accountability on their part. . . I searched on line and found that I'm not alone with this issue. . . A number of folks have experienced the same issue. . . Nissan has even acknowledged a problem and has extended their warranty on the radiator, but not the torque converter, but my milage exceeds the extended period; if they know of the issue, why isn't there a re-call. . . If the torque converter fails while driving, it will most certainly cause an accident. . . Problem is getting worse and more frequent. . . There needs to be action by Nissan to correct this condition before someone is seriously injured due to a known problem. . .