Honda
Element
Owner report available
Nissan
Xterra
Owner report available
Honda Element vs Nissan Xterra
The short answer
Based on available data, the Nissan Xterra comes out ahead of the Honda Element on power. Check the specs table and owner sentiment below for the full comparison before deciding between the two. Both are covered by real owner reports on CarWizz.
Specs side by side
What owners say
Element
Overall
Overwhelmingly positive sentiment among long-term owners, characterized by deep affection for the vehicle's unique practicality, durability, and versatility. The Element is consistently praised for its cavernous, configurable interior with a flat, rubberized floor, exceptional cargo capacity (including the ability to hold bicycles upright), and easy-to-clean surfaces ideal for pets, outdoor gear, and work materials. Its boxy design is celebrated for providing excellent outward visibility and a distinctive appearance.
Best version to buy
Insufficient owner data available to declare a definitive "best" model year or trim. Owner discussions reference vehicles from 2003 through 2011 without singling out a specific year as superior, though the 2011 model is noted as the final year produced.
Known issues
- Engine misfires (codes P0302, P0303): recurrent issue linked to ignition coils, spark plugs, or more serious internal problems like valve issues or head gasket failure. Frequency: recurrent.
- Oil consumption/burning: very high oil consumption (2-3 quarts in 500 miles) reported in some high-mileage examples, often accompanied by knocking. Frequency: recurrent.
- Overheating/cooling system problems: coolant overflow, suspected cracked block or head gasket failure, particularly in high-mileage vehicles. Frequency: recurrent.
Xterra
Overall
Sentiment is strongly bifurcated by generation and specific model years. The first-generation (2000-2004) and second-generation (2005-2015) Xterra are widely regarded as rugged, durable, and capable body-on-frame SUVs, often described as "tanks" and "well-built machines" that offer excellent value, particularly when compared to more expensive competitors like the Toyota 4Runner. Long-term owner reports frequently cite reliability, ease of DIY maintenance, and low-cost parts.
Best version to buy
Second-generation (2005-2015) models from 2011 onwards, as these are reported to have factory-addressed the major SMOD radiator and timing chain guide issues. The manual transmission variant is highly recommended to completely avoid SMOD and for perceived greater durability.
Known issues
- "Strawberry Milkshake of Death" (SMOD) Radiator Failure (2005-2010 Automatics): Radiator internal failure mixes coolant and transmission fluid, leading to automatic transmission destruction. Frequency: very frequent.
- Timing Chain Guide/Tensioner Failure (2005-2010): Plastic guides wear out, causing chain slack, potential timing jump, and catastrophic engine interference failure. Typically occurs around 60k-80k miles (97k-129k km). Frequency: recurrent.
- Automatic Transmission Issues (First & Second Gen): Rough shifts between 1st and 2nd gear, transmission failure, and general reliability concerns. Often linked to SMOD or age. Frequency: recurrent.
The verdict
The Nissan Xterra is the better choice for most buyers.
It has more power on its best-equipped version than the Honda Element, based on the data above. If efficiency matters more to you than outright power, the Honda Element is worth a closer look instead.
Explore further
Common problems by model year
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Frequently asked questions
Which is more reliable, the Honda Element or the Nissan Xterra?
Owner reports show similar reliability sentiment for the Honda Element and the Nissan Xterra. Check the known issues listed above for specific differences between the two.
Which is better for families, the Honda Element or the Nissan Xterra?
The Nissan Xterra seats more passengers than the Honda Element on its catalogued best-equipped version. Body type also differs: the Honda Element is classed as a SUV, the Nissan Xterra as a SUV.
Which has better fuel economy, the Honda Element or the Nissan Xterra?
The EPA rates the 2011 Honda Element at 20–22 mpg combined and the 2015 Nissan Xterra at 17–18 mpg, depending on the version.
Which is cheaper to maintain, the Honda Element or the Nissan Xterra?
Exact maintenance costs aren't in our data, but owner reports mention cost-related concerns more often for the Nissan Xterra than the Honda Element. See the known issues comparison above.