Four problems related to engine rattling and whining sounds have been reported for the 2006 Nissan Xterra. The most recently reported issues are listed below. Please also check out the statistics and reliability analysis of the 2006 Nissan Xterra based on all problems reported for the 2006 Xterra.
We learned today through our mechanic that the rattling noise we've been hearing is associated with the "timing chains. " our mechanic says the repair is very expensive. We discovered online there was a recently settled class action lawsuit on this same issue, but a recall by Nissan has not been issued. What is the recourse for others who only recently learned of this problem and are now facing high repair costs?.
Whining noise from engine from worn secondary tension guide. Nissan allegedly knew of problem since 2004 and withheld info from public.
I had been noticing a whining noise associated with transmission 'flare' on acceleration for some time, but only in March 2013 was it diagnosed at 96k miles by the dealership as faulty timing chain guides, a known problem with the 4 l engine. The dealer said the faulty parts needed to be replaced soon. I contacted Nissan USA consumer affairs about having Nissan partially cover the cost of replacing the faulty parts. Despite having the dealership's original report and estimate, Nissan's regional rep insisted that the dealership had to reconfirm the diagnosis, which was done. The rep then refused to return my calls, and did not respond to dealership queries about the repairs either. The engine noise was getting worse, and fearing a catastrophic engine failure, I had the dealer repair the vehicle. The dealer said the timing chain was slapping and about to fail. The dealership urged me to report the problem to appropriate federal, local and Nissan officials because the problem is potentially very dangerous.
Engine began to make a whining noise. Was not noticed by the dealership while still under warranty, however, it was noticed after the warranty was up. Was told that the engine noise is due to the plastic timing chain guides that wear down and then the timing chain begins to rub on metal. Failure to change out the entire timing chain kit may result in the timing chain breaking and rupturing the oil pan. I was told by the service department of the local dealership that the plastic guides were a faulty part but it was not a recall, if the car was still under warranty they would have fixed the problem. I don't think any car with less than 100k miles should need such a pricey "wear and tear" fix and I believe this part is faulty and should be recalled. In addition, since I have purchased the car in 2010 I have had a differential seal leak and a rear axle seal leak. All of which I have been told are normal "wear and tear" with a repair price tag of a few thousands of dollars.