Buying a used Pathfinder

[prginocx]

I will use it for light towing (1600 lbs) and as a primary transportation. I will get a manual tranny. What year ranges are the best reliability ? I'm planning on buying an older one and rebuild the engine. What persistent problems should I look out for ?

[denisb]

Originally Posted by prginocx

I will use it for light towing (1600 lbs) and as a primary transportation. I will get a manual tranny. What year ranges are the best reliability ? I'm planning on buying an older one and rebuild the engine. What persistent problems should I look out for ?

I personally recomend between 88 and 95. Reason being, they are a little less hard to work on (not as complex). They have the full frame. Then I would cut it down to 90-95, only because I like the four doors better than the two doors.

Things they are notorious for are. Frame rot, manifold leaks, the floor under the back seat is known for rust (the seats fold up so it is easy enough to check).

If you buy one and plan on towing. Replace your tranny cooler (if it's an auto and it still has the factory one), replace the timing belt every 100K Km or 60K miles and make sure the rear control arm bushings are in good shape (about $60 per set per side).

Depending how handy you are around vehicles, these things can give you barganing power. I have a 90 and it's been a very reliable/solid little SUV.

If you want to know more about the Pathfinders, check out this site.

http://npora.ipbhost.com/