Uneven Tire Wear

RugbyBloke · Dec 5th, 2012, 12:23 PM

Hello, I just joined the site and am looking to keep my old Pathfinder running as long as possible. Bought it for $400 4 years ago and currently have 298,000+ miles on it. A/C and 4 wheel drive work great and it's a nice daily runner. Anyways, I have uneven tire ware on the outside of the front driver-side tire. I'm thinking it's the bushings or maybe she just needs an allignement? Any ideas? Also, curious as to where you guys buy parts along with any other inside tips I might need to know about maintaining an old Pathfinder. All information is greatly appreciated. Thank you.

SPEEDO · Dec 5th, 2012, 05:16 PM

sounds like a camber issue, might start with the tie rods, center link etc, check for play... while your there might also check ball joints, bushings ....

RugbyBloke · Dec 6th, 2012, 01:33 PM

Yes, there is tons of play in the steering wheel. Kinda like driving a yacht haha Ok, I'll start with the tire rods and maybe replace the bushings too. Should an alignment be done right after?

SPEEDO · Dec 6th, 2012, 02:49 PM

are you close to a Nissan dealer? if so, they have a 21 point check thats FREE!
they tell you whats wrong with it and then try to sell you some work... see where I am going...

RugbyBloke · Dec 10th, 2012, 01:39 PM

Oh really? Yeah there is a Nissan dealership near by. So it doesn't matter how old the truck is?

**smj999smj** · Dec 10th, 2012, 02:48 PM

Any repair shop should be able to help you. Just tell them your problem and have them check it over and give you an estimate. I wouldn't consider replacing anything until the steering and suspension are checked out. The issue with dealers is that they can be very expensive. For a site that will let you check price estimates:

RepairPrice Estimator - Get an Estimate for a Service or Repair on Your Car

As far as parts, it depends what it is. When it comes to ignition parts, starters and alternators, it's best to stick with genuine Nissan or NGK. For basic mechanical parts, ie brakes, shocks, etc., it's okay to go aftermarket, but use a reputable brand, like TRW, Beck-Arnley, Hitachi, etc.
For genuine Nissan parts:
1st AAA Nissan Parts Store
For aftermarket parts:
RockAuto Auto Parts