Used 2002 Nissan Xterra Consumer Reviews
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mom43bz
mom43bz, 09/22/2003
2002 Nissan Xterra XE 4WD 4dr SUV (3.3L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
watch out for rear window switches abs light may not come on while it is malfunctioning
Love this SUV
cmontoya, 10/05/2003
2002 Nissan Xterra XE 2WD 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This SUV is tight. This truck does not lack power even though it's a 4 cylinder. It's geared for low end power so it's not too much fun in stop & go but I've proven it can climb hills with ease. Excellent control in snow without 4x4 also. I was already rear ended and slambed into the car infront of me. The car behind went under and only damaged the bumper. This truck is SAFE! I owned a Nissan truck before this with the same 2.4 motor for 12 years. 198,000 miles and it was a performer with no problems. Sold it to a friend and he loves it.
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Sluggish '02 XTerra
SeaDweller, 11/18/2003
2002 Nissan Xterra SE 2WD 4dr SUV (3.3L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Vehicle looks great and is fun to drive. The Solar Yellow turns alot of heads as well! It is perfect for my lifestyle with the real-truck features I need with relative comfort for its class. Not much pep, however. It is sluggish on acceleration.
Nissan Xterra
MMR, 12/17/2003
2002 Nissan Xterra XE 4WD 4dr SUV (3.3L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
fun to drive; always
Great car
kaz, 12/24/2005
2002 Nissan Xterra XE-V6 2WD 4dr SUV (3.3L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Great car to drive, great wd system, safe due to the ways it sits high
Nissan
ringrose69, 02/02/2004
2002 Nissan Xterra XE 4WD 4dr SUV (3.3L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Not bad but heavy on gas!!!
My Xterra
Kaykamaka, 01/30/2004
2002 Nissan Xterra SE 2WD 4dr SUV (3.3L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I love my Xterra, but am thinking of trading it in for a new car after our recent ice storm. I know that all cars have problems on ice, but I could not even get traction in my driveway. I felt very unsafe in it even after the roads cleared a little. The noise from the road is bothersome while on highway. Should come equipped with rainguards on the window. Basic interior, awesome exterior. Really sporty and fun to drive. Hard to clean interior for messy drivers (like me).
Family of Xterras
tex500, 02/20/2004
2002 Nissan Xterra SE 2WD 4dr SUV (3.3L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
purchased this 2002 Xterra, 11 months after purchasing the previous years model for my wife. I have driven many miles in this Xterra, shooting photos at race tracks across America. It has has been down some of the roughest roads, and not skipped a beat. The (e)Xterior, when washed, looks as good as the day I drove it off the lot. I even use it to pull a cargo trailer at times. Before the trailer, we amazed ourselves at how much equipment we could fit in the back with the seats folded down. Highway mileage is about 18-19 mpg. Not what I expected when I bought the first Xterra, but actually an improvement over the 2001 model.
Great Buy!
Jason, 03/25/2006
2002 Nissan Xterra XE 4WD 4dr SUV (3.3L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This vehicle has all of the functionality you look for in an SUV. Great 4x4 performance and ground clearance, nice features, rugged, and extremely low maintenance. In the course of 2 years I have changed the windshield wipers! Highly recommend!!
Love My Hot Lava
heinz57luvr, 03/13/2004
2002 Nissan Xterra SE 4WD 4dr SUV (3.3L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
When looking for a 4x4 I saw this Xterra siting on the used car lot and fell in love. I have liked the body style since they first came out. Even thought i love the yellow and silver I opt for what they call Molten Lava. I nicknamed her Hot Lava. It was the only car I test drove or even looked at and bought her that night. I traded in a 1999 Cavalier Z24 which I loved but Hot Lava is slowly winning over my heart. I like all the room but hate the lack of power when passing or taking off from a stand still the one thing I do miss from my Z24. Overall I'm happy with my choice and hope to have many good years together.
02 X
HokieX, 03/23/2004
2002 Nissan Xterra SE 4WD 4dr SUV (3.3L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Picked up my Xterra in Aug 03' as a certified used. I have put about 16,000 miles on it since then and have had absolutly no problem with it. Very affordable, low maitenence vehicle. Lots of fun to drive. Rugged truck with the feeling it could go just about anywhere.
Great 4wd Beach Vehicle
Tony, 07/06/2006
2002 Nissan Xterra XE 4WD 4dr SUV (3.3L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Just an fyi for any interested. I have been driving on the Outer Banks Beaches for almost 20 years. My Xterra is as good a beach vehicle as you can ask for. Avon, Buxton, Oregon Inlet, it will go... NO PROBLEM. 20 lbs of air in those 265/60/16's and this vehicle is great on the beach.
Thisrty machine...
Chili Palmer, 06/09/2004
2002 Nissan Xterra SE S/C 2WD 4dr SUV (3.3L 6cyl S/C 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I bought the X new in 2001 - First S/C on the lot. I was impressed with the off-the-line acceleration and overall looks (drastic improvement over previous models). Overall it has been a good vehicle, performed beyond it's means off road (Yes I do own another 4x4 to compare it to...) and has proved reliable in day to day use. I use it to tow a 4,500Lb boat on weekends - No sweat...until I try to pass a gas station. Best mileage to date 16mpg. Average 13mpg. Worst (towing) 9.8mpg. As well, power is great around town but trying to pass on the freeway does not net the same surge in acceleration. I look forward to the 2005's - MORE POWER !
Shirleys Still Smillin
Shirleys Still Smill, 06/21/2004
2002 Nissan Xterra XE 4WD 4dr SUV (3.3L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I love to drive my Xterra.Handles very well.Can't wait to take to the Outter Banks.If I can afford the Fuel.Terrible fuel mileage.
A No-Frills,True Off-Roading Vehicle
JosephF, 07/05/2004
2002 Nissan Xterra XE 4WD 4dr SUV (3.3L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This is a fully capable, no-frills off- roading truck. The 4WD transmission is amazing; This truck can handle almost any off-roading obstacle you throw at it. The low-end torque really comes in handy when traversing perilous trails (I was able to haul my friend's Wrangler out of a good one and a half feet of mud without straining my truck at all). The lack of power in the 4th and 5th gears is to be expected. This is a real truck, not a Ferrari; so don't expect to be winning races with it anytime soon. I would recommend this vehicle to those who want a fully capable off-roader to get them to where they need to go.
Real SUV
4x4Russ, 12/01/2004
2002 Nissan Xterra XE 4WD 4dr SUV (3.3L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I have owned many different 4x4 SUV's (Trailduster, Suburban, Rodeo, Trooper) and have to say my 2002 Nissan Xterra is the best of the bunch. It provides a great balance between off road ability and highway comfort. Towing my boat is painless and my 9'6" longboard fits inside! I have put almost 50,000 miles on mine since without any problems.
Best Suv for the money
Dave T., 04/01/2005
2002 Nissan Xterra SE 4WD 4dr SUV (3.3L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
If you are looking for a real suv, the Xterra is it. From the rugged looks to Nissan reliability, it is the best. I think the over all ride quality is great considering how well it performs off-road. I can drive my Xterra thru the woods of northern Minnesota and not have to worry about breaking anything. Sure, the motor could be stronger, but it is the same motor that made the Pathfinder an award winner in the late 90's. I would trade a few extra horse power for reliability any day.
Just bought
g_dearing, 09/07/2005
2002 Nissan Xterra XE 4WD 4dr SUV (3.3L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I just bought a used 2002 Xterra and I love it. I traded in my 99 Jeep Sahara, and although I miss the open top, the feel and look makes me miss the jeep a little less. It certainly drives smoother, and the stick is easier to manage. Factory sounds system is a heck of a lot better too.
Solid SUV
DesignerX, 02/12/2006
2002 Nissan Xterra XE-V6 2WD 4dr SUV (3.3L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I bought this 4wd truck used almost 4yrs ago, it was a rental car for the first 13k miles and I have added 57k miles. This SUV is solid... I'm not a gentle driver and have had no problems. This truck has endured 2.5 yrs of city driving (short trips and lots of stop and go) and over 4k miles pulling a 3500lb trailer. It's not the most luxurious truck, it's no speed demon and the mpg isn't any better than a Chevrolet Tahoe v8... but to me the cost of ownership, reliability and functionality does the trick!
Great & enjoyable car
B. Murali, 07/18/2006
2002 Nissan Xterra XE 4WD 4dr SUV (3.3L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
After a lot of reserach we went in for this car. It has been a wonderful experience driving to various corners of US and in all different terrains. The reliability has been extraordinary and the drive was always a pleasure. Fairly low maintenance and running on regular unleaded have been great helps.
Dependable
Tommy, 11/29/2006
2002 Nissan Xterra SE 4WD 4dr SUV (3.3L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
My wife and I like our 2002 Xterra. The first thing we did is replace the General tires with Goodyears. The engine could be stronger but it isn't terrible and it is super dependable. I've had to replace a $100 part under the hood in the 3 years we've had it. The one thing I don't like is the cruise control. When I set the speed it takes too long to engage. If I set it for 70 and take my foot off the gas it slows down to 65 or lower and then takes too long to get back up to 70. Very frustrating especially to the guy I just passed. Overall, I like the vehicle and I would recommend it.
A Pain
Sara Lee, 12/26/2006
2002 Nissan Xterra SE 4WD 4dr SUV (3.3L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I love my suv! It drives awesome in the snow. I feel really safe and comfortable driving it. I feel like I can go anywhere. But since I have had it I had the wiring for my tail lights and dash lights replaced, at 55,182 miles my motor had to be replaced (crack in the block so on and so on), my exhaust manifold had a crack and was replaced, fuel sending unit replaced TWICE (factory recall). Check engine light keeps coming on and they cant figure out whats wrong. They replaced the wiring harness (wiring throughout the whole truck) but that wasn't it. Going in for one more try this week, while its being figured out Im looking at other vehicles to trade it in. Its been a pain.
Gas pigs need love too
damage case, 04/07/2003
2002 Nissan Xterra SE S/C 2WD 4dr SUV (3.3L 6cyl S/C 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
My 2002 Molten Lava Xterra SC-SE is a cool ride. I test drove an XE and it was quite sluggish compared to the SC. Also, the 17" wheels on the SC really improve an already good look. Spend the extra money and get the SC. BTW, you don't have to use premium fuel in the SC - it is just recommended for maximum performance. Which is important, considering its high (for its size) gas consumption. Also, get the custom neoprene seat covers - great look, and otherwise the interior cloth is a dirt and dog hair magnet.
Best Nissan I ever owned!
Mav63, 04/08/2007
2002 Nissan Xterra SE S/C 2WD 4dr SUV (3.3L 6cyl S/C 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I've had the X for 4 years now and couldn't be more pleased with it. The seats are very comfortable on long drives. The Supercharger gives it enough oomph to push you back in your seat. The paint has held up extremely well. People who have driven it are surprised on how nice it handles and how straight it drives. It is a bit rough, but what do you expect? I haven't had any problems mechanically. I replaced the stock stereo with aftermarket since stock sounds, well, stock! I take it in for service religiously and the service dept is always surprised how clean and new it still looks. I detail it A LOT! Just like they say, "everything you need, nothing you don't!"
Awesome!!
Andi, 03/02/2008
2002 Nissan Xterra XE 4WD 4dr SUV (3.3L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I absolutely love my Xterra. Driving thru snow is now a breeze since I bought my Xterra. I love it!! Best vehicle I have ever owned. Highly recommend this vehicle.
Inexpensive reliablility w/ personality
DesignerX, 05/19/2007
2002 Nissan Xterra XE 4WD 4dr SUV (3.3L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I bought my 4x4 XE Xterra used in April 2002 w/13,000 miles on it, it had been a rental car. I now have over 90k miles and the truck is running solid, the engine and transmission feel tight and it still looks great. I've hauled a 3500 lb trailer about 3k miles. I haven't had a single problem with this truck. In my opinion the Xterra is the Civic of SUVs... it's not the quickest or most swank but it holds it's own especially for the price.
The X-terraThe Ultimate Off-Road Vehicle
jjkrush, 01/10/2003
2002 Nissan Xterra XE 4WD 4dr SUV (3.3L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
The Nissan X-terra XE is the best value if you are going to invest in a midsize SUV. I personaly recommend this SUV to anyone who wants to go off road, It's the best one there !!!
14 - 19 mpg NOT!
Mange, 02/06/2003
2002 Nissan Xterra XE 4WD 4dr SUV (3.3L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
We just bought our XTERRA and the amount of gas it goes through is a disappointment. Nissan declares 14-19 mpg and we're lucky to get 14 mpg highway. Very disappointing. The engine also takes 10-15 minutes to warm up, which means that I'm driving with the engine screaming at 4000 rpm (62 mph). When the engine is finally warm, I'm still at 3000 rpm (62mph). This can't be good. We are looking to trade it in after 4 months.
Fun car---few problems
nocrv4me, 12/12/2002
2002 Nissan Xterra SE 2WD 4dr SUV (3.3L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Very fun to drive...it handles really well off-road and on mud/dirt. I have had a few problems with the quality...I think my speakers are blown in the back- -and I am supposed to have the "premium package." Also, the centerpiece of my wheel (hard to explain)has come off, and I hear things that rattle when I drive???? The dealer is fixing these problems, and I have to say that the customer service has been great.
wish i got 4 wheel drive
cool SUV, 01/03/2003
2002 Nissan Xterra SE 2WD 4dr SUV (3.3L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
cool, except hasn't stopped snowing since i bought it.
Xterra Winner
OlderGenXer, 03/11/2002
2002 Nissan Xterra SE S/C 4WD 4dr SUV (3.3L 6cyl S/C 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I liked the look, drove nice and had less body role than my old car did. I was worried about the power, but the supercharger gives you that extra thrust to get you on the highway much easier. I don't think the gas mileage is the best, but its about the same as my previous car (V6 3.1liter), so I don't notice it as much. Interior is great, wish there was a better place for change (I end up putting it in the cupholder). I have not had that many miles on it but I love it.
Fun Truck
Taya, 03/13/2002
2002 Nissan Xterra SE 4WD 4dr SUV (3.3L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I love my Xterra but it is a truck as far as I'm concerned. Slips on ice and snow but I think that would be better with more weight in the back as you would do with a pick-up truck. The 4WD gets me through anything the South Dakota weather can throw my way. Not really a good family vehicle because it's too tall for small kids to get in and out of and I find myself missing a 3rd row of seats in order to carry their freinds around in.
Solar Yellow Xterra rocks
leftydog, 03/15/2002
2002 Nissan Xterra SE S/C 4WD 4dr SUV (3.3L 6cyl S/C 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Nice Truck, rotten gas mileage, Super charger is a necessity. Handles well, rides ok on smooth roads, body shudders on tar pits, holes, bumps. Commanding view of road with 17in wheels. Seats are ok. Reasonably good space in the back.
My Xterra
Denise, 03/27/2008
2002 Nissan Xterra SE 4WD 4dr SUV (3.3L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I love this truck. I would by another one in yellow this time. It is one of if not the best vehicle I have ever owned. Only tire and breaks in 4 years. Once suggestion, gas mileage. It is horrible. It states 16-20 I'm lucky if I get 13 mpg. This needs attention especially in today's gas pricey world. Other than that I look forward to another 4 years in this truck. thanks Nissan
2000 SE
socalkid, 03/19/2002
2002 Nissan Xterra SE 2WD 4dr SUV (3.3L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Bought this truck in April 2000. Now have 40,000 miles on it. Very reliable and have never had a problem. Sure, it rides a little rough, but look what you're getting for $23,700...loaded, including 6 disk changer, except for 4 wheel drive. Have been very happy with it the last 2 yrs
A Great Choice
stroblight63, 03/25/2002
2002 Nissan Xterra XE 2WD 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This is a fun, large car to drive, in a good price range
Either love it or hate it
John (Seattle), 03/26/2002
2002 Nissan Xterra SE 4WD 4dr SUV (3.3L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I bought a silve 2002 SE V6 4X4 two weeks ago. Bought it because of it looks more rugged than CRV and RAV4, is more reliable than the domestic offerings. It's actually bigger inside than I thought. Not enough power in base V6 but OK in day to day driving. A little high to get in and out of but that doesn't bother me too much. Build quality is OK but nowhere near Honda quality (for example, the temp control switches feel like it's made in China). Handling is good if you don't drive it like a sports car. Brake is excellent. Sitting very high, which I love. The styling is the best I have seen in all SUVs outthere which is why I bought it.
Great SUV!
Erica, 05/06/2008
2002 Nissan Xterra XE 4WD 4dr SUV (3.3L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I've only had this Xterra for about 2 weeks, but so far, it's great! Only one owner before me, so everything was very well kept. Have not had any problems yet. I'm glad I didn't buy a lemon. Wish the fuel economy was a little better with the high gas prices, but not much else for choices out there with SUVs. I wanted a used SUV with low miles, good reliability and a good price tag. Found all 3 here! I will update if I find some negatives.
Strong
JJ, 12/16/2021
2002 Nissan Xterra XE-V6 2WD 4dr SUV (3.3L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I’ve had an 02 xtera for 10 years, I’ve put that rig through a lot while I’ve owned it, and it was my first car, in the last decade we have put over 150k on it, there was a point where I had it sitting in my yard because I wasn’t driving it, I needed new tires, and it got stuck in the mud😂, trying to get it oht the thing caught on fire😂😂. It got put out, and this thing still runs PERFECTLY, the engine is so strong in this rig, and with regular maintenance, this is probably one of the most efficient and reliable suv’s you can buy., it’s worth it, my baby got 211k miles on it and I’m pushing for 300k, AMAZING CAR, highly recommended, great first car, really dependable suv
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Xterra007
Xterra007, 04/10/2002
2002 Nissan Xterra SE 2WD 4dr SUV (3.3L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 1 people found this review helpful
I bought this car for my wife. For her this was love at first sight. The SUV really looks good. Problems: Just couple of days after we bought the Xterra, I noticed that transmission wasn’t working right (Engine Lights showed up), SUV had stumbling problem while changing gears. I took it to the dealer, they found out that there is a speed sensor, which was not working. They had to order the part, which took couple of days and finally I got the Xterra back, so far it is working fine. This is bad for Nissan reputation.
Very well-built
xterra, 12/18/2005
2002 Nissan Xterra XE 2WD 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 1 people found this review helpful
This is a very attractive and well- built SUV. The interior design is also spectacular. The trunk space is also a nice feature to have.