Nissan Pathfinder 1996 - 2004 review

2003 Nissan Pathfinder (photo: Nissan Canada)

2003 Nissan Pathfinder

2003 Nissan Pathfinder

The Pathfinder is a well-built mid-size truck-based SUV with well-designed interior, strong V6 engine (starting from 2001) and an advanced 4WD system with shift-on-the-fly transfer case. The list of available features includes four-wheel ABS, navigation system, steering wheel audio controls, compass, Bose audio system and more.
Infinity QX4 is essentially the same truck with more luxury options.

Nissan Pathfinder was introduced to North-American market in 1986 as a 1987 model.
In 1996, the Pathfinder was completely redesigned and remained in the same body with minor changes through 2004.
In 2000, the Pathfinder received slightly restyled exterior, 16-inch wheels and few other minor changes.
Models from 2001 got a strong new V6 3.5L DOHC VQ-model engine, which was of the best in its class.
From 2002, standard vehicle security system with immobilizer, remote keyless entry and available 17-inch alloy wheels were added.

The Pathfinder is based on a rear-wheel drive truck-like platform but has no separate frame. It has longitudinally-mounted engine, rack-and-pinion steering, McPherson struts in the front and solid axle with coil springs in the rear suspension.

Inside, Nissan Pathfinder offers comfortable driver's place with well-designed dashboard, user-friendly controls and easy to read instruments. The split rear seat folds down for extra cargo room.

On the road, the Pathfinder feels sporty and nimble. The ride is firm but comfortable and fairly quiet. The 250-hp 3.5L V6 engine (from 2001) offers good low-end torque and decent towing capacity.

Nissan Pathfinder engine

Nissan Pathfinder 3.5-liter 24-valve V6 engine model VQ35DE

The 1996-2000 Pathfinder was equipped with the 3.3L 12-valve SOHC V6 engine with cast iron block and aluminum heads. It was a simple and fairly reliable engine, although with 168 hp it felt a bit underpowered. This engine has a timing belt that needs to be replaced in recommended intervals.

Starting from 2001, the Pathfinder received better 3.5-liter 24-valve DOHC V6 engine (model VQ35DE). Same engine is also found in Nissan Maxima and Murano. With plenty of power, good low-end torque and advanced lightweight design, this engine was one of the best in its class. This engine does not have a timing belt; a silent timing chain is used instead. Platinum spark plugs provide longer service intervals.
If properly maintained, this engine could last you for a long time without major problems.

Strengths

- Exterior styling
- Interior fit and finish and design
- Powerful and reliable 3.5L engine (from 2001)
- Good handling, comfortable quiet ride
- Above average reliability
- Good resale value.
- Advanced 4WD system

Weaknesses

- Gas mileage
- No rear disk brakes available
- Front suspension is not designed for heavy off-roading
- Limited legroom

Overall

Nissan Pathfinder offers comfortable interior, decent cargo space, powerful and reliable V6 engine, good towing capacity, secure handling, quiet ride and an advanced 4WD system. Look for models from 2001 and up; they have better 3.5L VQ-engine. The older 3.3L engine is not bad, but it has a timing belt that needs to be replaced and is slightly underpowered.
Overall, the Pathfinder is reliable and fairly easy to maintain truck. Don't expect it to be cheap on gas.
Check more Used SUV reviews

What to look for when buying a used Nissan Pathfinder

First, check the used car history records. A history report may help you to uncover problems the car might have in the past such as accidents, flood damage, rolled back odometer, etc. Follow this link: How to check used car history
- Look for leaking front struts - if one of them is leaking, usually both will need to be replaced.
- Check front CV joint boots.
- If the spare tire is located under the trunk floor, check if the mechanism lowering the tire is still working.
- Check parking brake operation - if not used regularly, the cable mechanism could be seized.
- Check the rear wiper operation.
- Broken rear rubber bump stops located inside the rear springs are common.
- During a test drive, look for noise from the suspension.
- If the "check engine" light is on, have the problem assessed with your mechanic or a Nissan dealer before buying a car; in worst cases repair might be quite expensive.
Learn more what to look for when buying a used car
- Prior to purchase have the car inspected by a mechanic of your choice on a lift - many components (e.g ball joints, exhaust) cannot be properly inspected by simple visual inspection.
After buying a car, visit your local Nissan dealer to check if all necessary recalls have been performed.
Shop wisely, check few cars to compare; it's worth to pay a little extra for a well-maintained vehicle in good condition; check our step-by-step used car buying guide for more information.

Nissan Pathfinder service and maintenance tips

- Change the engine oil regularly - by doing so you can prevent many problems and expensive repairs like, for example, timing chain replacement.
- Don't forget, there is also transmission fluid, rear and front differential oil and transfer case oil that need to be changed regularly.
- At least once a month check your tire pressure. The difference in pressure between tires will add stress on the 4WD system.
- Use Nissan original parts even if you service your car at an independent garage.
- Take care of minor problems as soon as you can, so they won't cause serious problems and an expensive repair later.
- Rear drum brakes may need servicing and adjustment once in a while.
- Follow recommended maintenance schedule and keep all the fluids clean and topped up.
- Have your car inspected, at least once a year, in a garage on the lift (e.g. when doing tire rotation) to keep it safe. Many components (e.g. brakes, steering, suspension) cannot be properly inspected by simple visual inspection at fast lube places; the vehicle must be on the lift.

Follow this link for more Car maintenance tips

Nissan Pathfinder Specifications as tested
(2003 model with 3.5L engine)

Links

If you are looking for Repair Manual

If you want to find more technical information such as repair manual, check engine codes description, electrical diagram, diagnostic procedures, vacuum line diagram, fluid type, maintenance schedule, component location, technical service bulletins, etc. follow this link: Where to find repair manual

by Vlad Samarin