Suggestions On buying a used pathfinder..

Arty · Sep 26th, 2006, 11:48 PM

Hi,

I've been looking to buy a used car recently. I was first looking into buying a used frontier with maybe 50k miles or so on it, but I found a guy with an old pathfinder. It's a 98, 2wd automatic with about 160k miles or so on it. He was offering it to me for 2 grand, which looks like a pretty decent deal based on what I was checking out on random car sites. So my question is really if this car is right for me. I'm a college student with limited income, I can easily afford to buy this car with cash. It's in perfect condition from what we understand and I trust the guy he is a family friend who took really good care of the car. I realize it has a lot of miles, but I wouldn't mind having the engine rebuilt or just buying a new one to put it in. I'm just wondering if this is a good idea? How long do these engines usually last? I don't have to drive long distances or very much since I live within 20 miles or so from school and work. I'm just looking for some advice. Thanks

**88pathoffroad** · Sep 29th, 2006, 09:26 PM

Hah, a 98 is "old" to you? *snic*

It'll last past 200K easily. If it's been taken care of, that is. Make SURE the timing belt has been changed, it's due every 110,000 miles or so IIRC. If that belt breaks, kiss the engine goodbye.

coolnesss · Sep 30th, 2006, 10:52 AM

I bought a 98 Pathfinder LE with 60k miles a few years ago, and it has been a fine car. It's tight, has enough power to travel, and is very comfortable.
Ditto the post about the timing belt. That's crucial.
2 grand is a fine price.
Good luck!!!!!!