Nissan X-Trail DCi (2004–2013)

The NISSAN X-TRAIL DCi is a popular choice in New Zealand, known for its practicality and affordability as a family SUV suited to daily commutes, weekend getaways, and some light off-road adventures. Keeping your X-TRAIL DCi well-maintained will help ensure its reliability for years to come. This guide offers insights into common issues, maintenance schedules, and Warrant of Fitness (WOF) considerations specific to the DCi model.

Parts for the Nissan X-Trail DCi

• Driver Side Blade (17)
• Front Wiper Refills (17)
• Front Wiper Pack (16)
• Suspension Bush Front Control Arm - Lower (6)
• Passenger Side Blade (5)
• Wiper Blade Front (5)
• Rear Wiper Pack (5)
• Rear Single Blade (5)
• Control Arm Front (5)
• Sway Bar Link Rear (4)
• Steering Rack End (4)
• Brake Pads Rear (4)
• Oxygen Sensor (4)
• Camber Bolt Kit Front (4)
• Tie Rod End (3)
• Suspension Bush Front Sway Bar Mount (3)
• Strut Mount Front (3)
• Disc Brake Rotor Rear (3)
• Engine Mount Rubber Buffer (3)
• Oxygen Sensor Post-Catalytic Converter (2)
• Brake Hose Front (2)
• Brake Hose Rear (2)
• Wiper Blade Rear (2)
• Suspension Bush Rear Control Arm (2)
• Sway Bar Link Front (2)
• Brake Shoe Handbrake (1)
• Disc Brake Rotor (1)
• Engine Oil Pan Gasket (1)
• Drive Belt Alternator (1)
• Valve Cover Gasket (1)
• Oxygen Sensor Pre-Catalytic Converter (1)
• Engine Mount Front (1)
• Engine Mount Right (1)
• Wheel Bearing Kit/Hub Front (1)
• Brake Caliper Kit Front (1)
• Manifold Gasket Set (1)
• Master Cylinder Clutch (1)
• Radiator Hose Lower (1)
• Drive Belt (1)
• Brake Pads Front (1)
• Oil Filter (1)
• Air Filter (1)
• Bump Stop Front (1)
• Suspension Bush Rear Control Arm - Lower (1)
• Suspension Bush Rear Sway Bar Mount (1)
• Wiper Blade Front & Rear (1)
• Strut Boot/Hatch/Tailgate (1)
• Disc Brake Rotor Front (1)
• Engine Mount (1)
• Brake Caliper Piston Front (1)
• Brake Caliper Piston Rear (1)
• Brake Caliper Kit Rear (1)
• Brake Pad Fitting Kit Front (1)
• Brake Pad Fitting Kit Rear (1)

Known issues

Owners of NISSAN X-TRAIL DCi models should be aware of these potential issues:
• Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) Clogging: This is a common problem, particularly in vehicles used primarily for short trips. Consider regular longer drives to help regenerate the DPF.
• Injector Failure: Injector problems can lead to poor engine performance and increased fuel consumption.
• Turbocharger Issues: Keep an ear out for unusual noises from the turbocharger, which could indicate a problem.

These problems tend to surface between 120,000 and 200,000 kilometers. Regular servicing can help mitigate these risks.

WOF tips

When taking your NISSAN X-TRAIL DCi for a Warrant of Fitness (WOF) inspection, be mindful of the following common check points:
• Rear Suspension Bushes: These are prone to wear and tear, so ensure they are in good condition.
• Parking Brake Performance: The parking brake must hold securely on an incline.
• Diesel Injector Leaks: Any signs of diesel leakage around the injectors will likely result in a WOF failure.

About the Nissan X-Trail DCi

The NISSAN X-TRAIL DCi has become a familiar sight on New Zealand roads, appreciated as a reliable and versatile SUV. Owners choose it for its practicality, comfort, and capable performance, making it a solid choice for families and those who enjoy exploring.

Maintenance Focus: Regular servicing is key to preventing common issues in the NISSAN X-TRAIL DCi. Consider these points:
• Braking System: Regularly inspect brake pads (front and rear) and hoses (front) for wear. Ensure the handbrake functions correctly. Fitting kits are available for brake pad replacements.
• Steering & Suspension: Check tie rod ends and sway bar links (rear) for any signs of looseness or damage. A camber bolt kit for the front may be needed to optimize wheel alignment.
• Wiper System: Maintain clear visibility with regular replacement of front wiper blades, driver side and passenger side refills/blades, rear wiper blades. Packs containing front or rear wiper blades/refills are available to suit your needs.

Questions owners ask

What are the most common issues with the NISSAN X-TRAIL 2004–2013 DCi in New Zealand?

Owners of the NISSAN X-TRAIL DCi often report issues with Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) clogging, especially with frequent short trips. Injector failure can lead to poor engine performance, and turbocharger issues can manifest as unusual noises. These problems typically surface between 120,000 and 200,000 kilometers.

What should I check on my NISSAN X-TRAIL 2004–2013 before a WOF inspection?

For your NISSAN X-TRAIL DCi's Warrant of Fitness (WOF) inspection, pay close attention to the rear suspension bushes, as they are prone to wear. Ensure your parking brake holds securely on an incline, and check for any signs of diesel leakage around the injectors, as this will likely result in a WOF failure.

Where can I get replacement brake pads and wiper blades for my NISSAN X-TRAIL 2004–2013 in NZ?

CARFIX stocks 126 SKUs for the NISSAN X-TRAIL 2004–2013. You can find front and rear brake pads, front brake hoses, and various wiper system components including front wiper blades (driver and passenger side refills/blades) and rear wiper blades. Fitting kits for brake pad replacements are also available.

How often should I service my NISSAN X-TRAIL 2004–2013?

The recommended service interval for your NISSAN X-TRAIL 2004–2013 is 15,000km. Regular servicing is crucial for preventing common issues like DPF clogging and can help mitigate the risks of injector or turbocharger problems.

What are some common steering and suspension checks for the NISSAN X-TRAIL 2004–2013?

For your NISSAN X-TRAIL 2004–2013, regularly check the tie rod ends and rear sway bar links for any signs of looseness or damage. A camber bolt kit for the front may also be needed to optimise wheel alignment, ensuring proper handling and tyre wear.