Nissan Xterra four-wheel drive not locking in with ABS, VDC, and slip lights on on Nissan Xterra

Submitted by Vehicle Owner · Jun 23, 2025
Published by RepairPal

Problem overview

Some Nissan Xterra owners report experiencing issues with the four-wheel drive not engaging, accompanied by illuminated ABS, VDC, and slip lights on the dashboard. This situation often indicates a potential problem with the vehicle's traction control system, commonly linked to a faulty ABS controller that affects both the VDC and four-wheel drive systems due to shared sensors and signals. Additionally, a malfunctioning ABS wheel speed sensor can lead to inaccurate readings, triggering warnings about traction loss. To diagnose the issue, many owners find it necessary to scan the vehicle for error codes, and visiting a mechanic or Nissan dealer for a detailed inspection can provide insights into the specific faults causing the warning lights. Some owners also check the charging system and battery voltage, as power fluctuations may trigger these alerts. Maintenance actions, such as resetting the Steering Angle Sensor, clearing ABS codes, and replacing components like front hubs and wheel speed sensors, have been attempted to resolve similar issues. Regular maintenance of ABS sensors and related components is recommended to prevent the activation of these warning lights.

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