Used Nissan Xterra

[drfeelgood]

I would appreciate any thoughts, cautions or comments from BITOGers re: Xterras

Looking at spending 10K or less, 4x4 preferred, auto.
It looks like this will mean 2000 to 2006 or so model yrs.

Thanks!

 

[aquariuscsm]

I`d get the supercharged version :^)

 

[saberz]

2000-2004 the 3.3L VG33E is a reliable engine, but a pig on gas with no cajones. 2000-2002 were 160HP/170HP. 2003-2004 were 170-180 HP. The S/C versions were 200-210HP pending the year. The 05+ upped the HP to 240 or so+, more interior room but not longer a truck like frame.


If your going for a very rugged 4x4 a 1st gen Xterra is a good buy. if your looking for a bit more comfort the 2nd gen is a good buy. Make sure you check that the timing belt was done, check the Auto Hubs and other normal wear and tear. The transmissions on first gen's are indestructible. The 1st gen Xterra is basically an SUV built from left overs from the Titan, Frontier, and Armada.


I had one, and at times I do miss it.

 

[SuperDave456]

My wife drives a 2004 2 wheel drive version.
The best MPG it gets is about 15 mpg, and that is with quite a bit of highway.
Other than that, and it has a 3.5 quart oil sump, it is a great SUV. Very robust.

I would not get the turbocharged version as they are already a hog on gas. As the other post said, no cajones, you have plenty of low down power, but going fast is not what these SUV's are built for.

 

[daves87rs]

Been looking at a few 2001's myself...

 

[ryansride2017]

I own a second generation Xterra (2006). While I like the comfort of the interior and the brawny 265 HP engine, I would recommend the first generation models as a good, cheap used vehicle or look at a different manufacturer. There are too many widespread problems with the newer generation vehicles (most notably timing chain guides wearing - $ 1,200 repair, and a weak transmission/radiator interface). Review Xterra forums and Frontier forums (since they share the same drivetrain) before buying.

 

[saberz]

You can't really go wrong with either the 1st or 2nd gen. If anything drive both, and both can be had around the same price. 05/06 2nd gen's are usually the same price as a 03/04 probably 500-1k difference.

Just don't get the 4 banger Xterra expecting better fuel economy.

 

[SLCraig]

I like first gens.
ROCK SOLID trucks.
I have never owned one but did a lot of research as I almost bought one.

They are terrible on gas for their size/power. Probably one of the worst on the road.
But if you want a durable, capable truck, look no further.

 

[SkyGod]

Expect about 10 MPG.
Nice truck..horrible mileage.

 

[daves87rs]

Wow on the milage....

 

[drfeelgood]

Thanks for all the input. Wow on the mileage is right. Ouch, sounds like I'd do better with a Tahoe!

 

[asiancivicmaniac]

The 3.3 has a timing belt and they are rated for 8 years or 105k miles (on the Quest at least)

 

[daves87rs]

Originally Posted By: drfeelgood
Thanks for all the input. Wow on the mileage is right. Ouch, sounds like I'd do better with a Tahoe!



Maybe...

 

[Anthony]

The 1st gens are extremely durable.
They are not the most powerful thing out there but they go well enough.
I have to point out that 1st gen Xterras share no parts at all with the Titan/Armada.

2000 -2002 moodels are rated at 170hp
2003- 04 models are rated at 180hp and fuel economy was improved slightly.

2 guaranteed failures are exhaust manifolds and knock sensors on 2000-02 models.

03s got better manifolds.
2nd gens have had some issues with the radiators collapsing internally and allowing coolant and tranny fluid to mix ,and its a shame because it is a very good tranny.
I would say as durable as the 1st gen.

Another concern is the timing chain guides wearing too soon on 2nd gens. There are updated parts for both issues but time will tell if they hold up.

With that said, my dad has a 01 Supercharged Frontier which has the same hardware/drivline as the 1st gen Xterra.

He bought it new in 01 and now with 229k it runs great.
Fluid changes and routine service are all its needed with the exception of the knock sensor and exhaust manifolds replaced at 70k under warranty.
I did just replace the original supecharger because the original unit was starting to make some noise.