rnaily71

I am looking for advice on whether or not I should buy a 1998 Pathfinder. It has 140,000 mis on it. I told the dealer I would not take it unless the timing belt was changed, new tires put on, and all drive belts replaced. Also, I was wondering about other repair items I might need to be aware of on a vehicle with this many miles on it? Thanks in Advance.

inanima

exhaust manifolds
rear bushings

architectdave

I have 242k on my 97 ( Basicly the same vehicle) and what you have asked for is reasonable. Also, it needs new struts if there is any leaking. The exhaust manifold mentioned above is a warrenty/recall issue, by calling Nissan of America you can verify if it has been reapired. You will need the VIN.

good luck.

__________________
Poor planning on your part does not constitute an emergency on my part........

lewisnc100

Timing belt is a good call, hopefully they'll replace the bypass coolant hose and cam/crank seals while in there. After they replace the tires, make sure to check for vibrations between 60-70mph, very common. Also check for coolant leaks around the upper intake.

__________________
1997 Pathfinder XE
Air Lift Air Bags, Warn Hubs

rnaily71

Thanks for the feedback. I have actually found a 1999 Pathfinder that I like. I was reading some other postings on a bushing problem, and inanima you had made mention of rear bushings. On 1999 how would I tell if I need rear bushings. When I test drove a 1999 there was a whistling noise it seemed like it was coming out of the backend, but when I came to a stop the noise stopped as well. The only other thing I could think of that would make that noise is the roof rack (it was a windy day), but I am not sure. The 1999 has 96,000 on it.

inanima

If the truck feels like it is swaying back and forth while driving, it needs the bushings replaced. (not over bumps or something like that where you'd expect it, it will rock from side to side in a straight line, it's noticeable).
I test-drove a 98 that had both the rear bushing issue and the whistling noise( after I sold my 97 and before I bought my 01). The dealer fixed both problems, I'm not sure what fixed the whistling. Could be the roof rack, check all bolts, rubber strips, etc for looseness.

I ended up in the 01 anyway. For what it's worth, shoulda gone with that 98.

good luck

no1see2me

Don't forget the water pump.

rnaily71

Why do you feel you should have gone with the 98?

inanima

I've had issues with the 3.5 engine in my 01. Too many SES lites--coils, sensors, etc. Otherwise it's a great truck, but I'm leery of how it will last in the long haul.

The 3.3 is tried and true, any issues are well-documented and has more aftermarket support.

rnaily71

What do you think of a 1999 with 96,000 on it? I know about the timing belt, and I have gotten Feedback on the bushings issue, I have test drove this vehicle and it does not seem to have the swaying that would indicate that they need to be replaced. It has new tires. What else would you think might need to be replaced in year 1.

Thanks

inanima

I'd say go for it if the price is right, it's mechanically sound, and has no more then expected rust. Other then the bushings & the manifolds, I'm no mechanic, so I can't think of other issues off hand other then general maintenance that will come up at 100K--- change all fluids, grease everything, inspect the suspension components, you know the typical mech. stuff that any vehicle will need at that mileage.