Hello-
My name is Brad, and I'm a newbie here.
I've narrowed down my SUV search to a Nissan Pathfinder and wanted to get some opinions on folks that actually own one now.
Here's what I think I want:
2001 or 2002 Pathfinder LE (I read on another post to get 01.5 or newer) Automatic Tranny.
I am currently undecided on getting
2-wheel or 4-wheel drive at this time. I plan to use this vehicle to drive to and from work, and towing a small boat (only for very short distances 1-2 miles max to the boat launch). I have heard good things from mechanics on the generally good reliability of the vehicle, but want some opinions on the 2- or 4-wheel drive option and if one has more problems than the other. I'm a pretty skilled mechanic, but know very little about transmissions. I don't forsee needing or using the 4-wheel drive but maybe a few times per year, so if they have maintenace or problem issues its not cost effective for me to buy one with it. If any of you tow with your Pathfinder, please let me know if you actually need it or use it while towing and the benefits with and without it. If a 2-wheel drive Pathfinder will pull a boat out of the water with no problems then I don't see much benefit in spending the extra $.
Thanks for reading that whole blurb! Please let me know your thoughts, good or bad, about this vehicle and the 2- or 4-wheel option under my circumstances (repairs, etc). I look forward to reading what you have to say.
Thanks!
Brad