Things my '96 RS-R Regulus R50 with 3.2ltr turbo diesel has done: * Hauled my family to the grocery store. * Waded a river with the headlights submerged and a flashlight held out the window. * Comfortably hauled my huge ass dog around in the back. * Waded through fresh powder up to the wheel arches. * Hauled a tandem axle trailer with about two ton of furniture through the mountains. * Driven the length of New Zealand. * Had a dead deer roped to the bonnet (you'd call that the hood). * Taken me everywhere I need to go as a landscape photographer. * Kept me alive as an emergency overnight shelter in a blizzard. Things my Regulus has NOT done: * Cost as much to buy as a Toyota.
@@208Tyler, thanks. I'm booking it in today for a steering rack repair and front shocks replacement, but after 195,000kms in factory trim, nothing lasts forever without repairs. As long as you keep on top of oil, fluids, and filters, they run forever. My workmate only just traded in his 1995 Safari for a new Colorado, after clocking up 780,000kms on the Nissan.
Just picked up a 1997 Pathfinder SE from an estate sale. A one owner car with only 84000 miles on it. I'm quite surprised at how solid a vehicle it is. Nice ground clearance and although the suspension is a little stiff, it rides very nice down the highway . The only bad thing about it is the 15 miles a gallon it gets. A modern 6 or 8 speed transmission wold sure help. Took it up some old logging roads and it did a great job. I was going to flip it but now going to keep it
My 2002 R50 cost $2700 and I threw less than $1500 on a full suspension upgrade with 2.5” of lift and new A/T tires... now she takes me on all my adventures from camping to kayaking and the 240hp helps tow my dirt bike on the hitch receiver without any problems or lack of power 💥 🚙 💨 Love her dearly...
@@208Tyler Ok you came out strong and correct about the R50 in the end as i have an 2004 Pathfinder LE Platinum ed. with 225K miles and its still strong and have the original engine and transmission and rear end and i haul @5500-6000lbs of lawn+misc. equipment in my trailer weekly and it just goes down the road smoothly and effortlessly, so i dont give 2 shits about R50's haters after all they only hate because they want it and wish they had one 2002-2004R50's THE BEST!
@@BACON-l3ttotally agree! I started with a VG33 and then a VQ35 both are not race cars but boy! They do perform! I am now on the process of buying a QX4 to complete the dream. No disappointments at all for this platform 💯
@@Platinumotion yeah same lol, im in SK in Canada, lots of the 4runners here are clapped and rusted, few days ago, found an 01 qx4, 248,000kms, ended up buying it for $1275 CAD lol. Now im doing all maintenance on it and just needs a few things to pass inspection.
My R50 gets me around town and out in the bush, to the lakes, logging roads and 4x4 trails without a issue. It fits me perfect for what it is. My 2003 Chilkoot is just what I needed for my adventures. :)
I’ve got an 02 pathfinder with the 5 speed. Love it to death, super comfortable on the freeway and gets me in the mountains with no complaints. Towed a car on a Uhaul trailer one time and could barely even tell it was there
Yup, I was looking for a 4Runner and Isuzu Trooper. I did my research, 4Runner too expensive, Isuzu trooper not as reliable. Loved the look of the Qx4 and have never looked back.
Love my 09 Hummer H3, Love my 07 FJ Cruiser, and I love driving my 04 Pathfinder. I love all three of my 4x4's. They are all so different from each other, and that's what makes each one unique . They all do something different. Modifying the Pathfinder on a budget is so much fun. I've had the pathfinder for around 6 years. She looks and runs better than when i got her.
I have a 2004 Path LE. I have nothing else to add that this community hasn't mentioned. I purchased mine in 13 for 5,500, and it does exactly what I purchased it for. Snow, reliable daily driver, to take a break from my 2008 acura tl type-s. Appreciate this genuine & accurate review.
I was looking at tundras and Tacoma’s. Was gonna end up paying north of 20k for a 15+ year old truck over a 100k miles. Ended up buying my grandpas pathfinder for a couple grand and no regrets!
Loved this video. I’ve owned several R50s. I’m Mrelcocko on NPORA and have seen your R50 on there as well. Unless you have owned one or own one currently you wouldn’t understand how enjoyable these vehicles are. Yes the cruise control is useless, now I can say in the 98 M/T R50 I owned the cruise was very useful. I’ve had nothing but an enjoyable experience in my R50 and look forward to many more enjoyable times to come. Great video my friend thanks for posting.
Kiwi here with 2000 Nissan Terrano R50 running the ZD30 Diesel engine on 270,000 km. It's my daily, the rear seats fold flat for camping, H/L 4WD with lock diff, goes up rivers and ski mountains, comfy as hell and reliable as anything if looked after. Most importantly almost half price of a Hilux. I think it's great if they keep flying under the radar......
Dude you nailed it! My thoughts exactly, I read the thread on NPORA but I couldn’t think of anything nice to say about the review so I didn’t comment! Not to mention he kept comparing the R50 to a LIFTED first gen 4Runner with 33” tires and solid axle. Third gen bone stock would have been the best direct comparison. Also he could at least have put it in 4wd and commented on that aspect.
I love my 02 R50! Was looking for a 4 Runner in similar year as well, but realized the Pathfinder stock or very lightly modified can do almost everything better for cheaper! Interior is nice for what it was. Mine is the 4wd LE version with leather, GPS, sunroof, heated seats, full rack etc Looking into possibly dropping another engine in it and keeping it alive when it goes out. Good review
2001 SE owner, 205k miles 0 oil consumption with 5w30 valvoline synthetic with 1 quart of Lucas high mileage oil stabilizer. At around 140k it started to consume about 1/4-3/4 of a quart between oil changes. I switched to the stabilizer at 175k and the consumption stopped completely, not sure if it was coincidental or what but I swear by the stabilizer 👍
I've had quite a few Toyotas and they are really great trucks. My 1995 blew a head gasket and l'm kicking myself for selling it after that. In 2019 crashed my 03 Tacoma. Been looking for another Toy since then. Misjudged the market thinking prices would fall when people lost unemployment so l waited too long. Just bought a 03 R50 a few days ago, so we will see. Good video.
Hey Tyler! Thank you so much for your videos! I enjoy them so much. I have a 2003 pathfinder and your videos are great and inspiring me to make mods to my pathy. Thank you.
My 99.5 R50 with 2" lift and 400,000+ km on the clock most of the time it will out do most other off roaders. Recently took it down a sand track where many others were getting bogged, ended up lifting a wheel about a foot off the ground, also fully extended the shock on other side and ripped the strut mount threads to pieces (yeah I know, gotta put limiting straps in), the car still completed the drive, then a further 600 km back home with another 100 km of rough tracks thrown in for good measure on the way back before doing repairs . A couple of hundred dollars for a new strut and hour of grunt work and off to the tracks again. You just can't kill them. I have even gone beach driving where the sand was like marshmallow (waterlogged) a landcruiser behind me gave up and stopped while I kept going an extra 7 km to my destination, no lowered tyre pressures or anything, just drove it off the black stuff,whacked it into 4 low and off we went. No problems. Always remember you can have the most capable vehicle in the world, but if you don't know how to drive it to suit the conditions you will be digging for a while or paying a lot of money for repairs. Most of the time it is not what you are driving, but the nut behind the steering wheel. I have removed the front sway bar and added the missing link. The car is polite and well behaved (but sluggish) on the blacktop, but is an absolute beast off road. Standard rims with rugged terrain tyres, but I have a larger set of all terrains for outback work. In my area 2" above factory is the highest you can legally go, If I had my way I would add an extra 2 or 3 inches with the tyres and another inch with the suspension for a total of 5 or 6 inches of added height, but you can't have it all. Aways wondered if I could shoehorn a small V8 into the engine bay, I have a 5.0 laying around somewhere That will give it a bit of extra grunt. May look into it one day.
I've owned 3 R50s. Most recent, I got an 03 LE, black on black, 190k miles for $3500 with a great tow package. Runs great. Burns oil. Wouldn't trade it for anything.
Thanks for the video bro. I own a 2001 3.3 r50 and I had no idea I would love this car. I love driving it everywhere desert roads dunes everywhere. Love from dubai.
I've seen a lot of people talk about how they want a 4runner but instead have a pathfinder, but I'm one of few that don't. Yeah 4 runners are cool but I appreciate what the pathfinder is, I do think they're a little slept on in terms of popularity and aftermarket support, but over all I couldn't be happier with mine. Yeah the on road ride quality isn't anything to brag about but it does ride smooth enough for me and even though I have the VG its still about enough power to get me around and up the trails when I decide to do that. Having the 5spd probably helps it stay on my good side since I don't have to deal with the gear finding issue it seems the VQ pathys have. Very good video though. your production quality has been getting so much better and its awesome to see. You made very great points and hopefully Mr. RCR sees this and can take a few things away from it.
Most people wanted (past tense) a 4runner before they got their pathy, but I’m not sure they still want (present tense) a 4runner once they’ve settled into their pathfinder. Seems to be the general consensus I pick up on. Certainly, the 5 speed helps. The get hunting and finicky cruise control is/would be worse on a VG than VQ, as it’s a matter of HP and torque. Thanks man, it’s the small things that count when it comes to video production!
Recently bought a Pathfinder R50 - badged as the Terrano in New Zealand (with sweet JDM trim) and a 3L diesel engine. Comparably, Hilux Surfs (our 4Runner badge) were going for twice the price. I got mine for 3.5k USD equivalent compared to 7k USD for something in similar, or worse condition. At the end of the day, the Pathfinder appealed because of its easy-going, around town nature. Yes, I want to take it out to places, but I've also got to daily it. And I think they look rather handsome!
I had a 2000 VG33/auto. Sold it for a 2001 VQ35/5-speed manual. Both have taken me many interesting places in comfort and reliably gotten me home. (The true test of a SUV.) The 2001-2002 R50 has the best looks/powertrain combo IMO. Toyota's of the era have a less refined interior, a lower quality feel, and low HP. Hello 208Tyler from Ada County.
@@208Tyler I've got one vg33e in service with 240k, and retired one from active use at 285k(ish) that still runs well. They're reliable except for the valve cover gaskets and a couple other oil seals if you don't replace them (cams and crank) when the timing belt is due. I plan to do a TDI swap or find a diesel engine that came in the r50 stock that someone shipped over to NA.
@@Grey-Troll I'm about to do a complete maintenance on my Path that includes changing the timing belt and the water pump. I bought this kit: www.ebay.com/itm/181084145645 My pathy already has 150,000 miles, what other things do you advise me to buy and service at once?
@@adc_91 If you haven't already replaced them, it would be a good time to replace the valve cover gaskets if you really want to go all out, but the driver side one is rough to get to, but the passenger side is no problem. Other than that if its a manual transmission do rear main seal if and when its time to do a clutch while you have the transmission out. Otherwise, don't worry about it. You can always wait on the valve cover gaskets until they start leaking if you don't want to deal with taking the upper intake + EGR off, or keep dumping oil in it every so often until you do feel like doing it when that happens. I should note that 0il running down on the cast iron manifolds will weaken and cause cracks over time if the leak gets bad though.
@@Grey-Troll Thank you very much for your answer. I have already replaced the valve cover before doing a full cleaning service to the bushings and also with the spark plug change. I will focus on full belt and water pump service and continue to enjoy my Pathy.
Not a bad 4x4. We have the here nissan terrano but with the bulletproof QD32 turbo diesel. Thrashed the crap out of it for 4 years and apart from shocks and bushes from driving over river rocks etc.
2002 pathfinder original owner, 112,000 miles rides great, drove it from N.Y. To Florida very comfortable. 21 mpg at 75 mph. To me not boring but very usable and practical vehicle. If he wanted to jazz it up, you can mod it. Still own it. Plus plenty of room for family of four and a Labrador Retriever. Dog loves it.
I rock crawl my r50 and keep up with rubicons with similar mods. I used to think the unibody and strut combo was stupid. I was just ignorant. It can work well and you maintain a comfortable controlled ride when on the highway.
Hi Tyler live in Adelaide South Australia. home of lokka LoL.i agree with you 💯%.pathy is great value and very capable for what it is.different variants in Australia and only got vg33e but got the 4.6 diffs and the all mode gearbox.very good in sand driving and have the front lokka and Dobinson 2 inch lift.have standard size at Toyo tyres 245/75 16 which works well as mostly beach driving.we have the Toyota tax here as well as liked the Prado 120 but couldn't afford one.ironically in 2000 they did a 4wd of the year magazine called overlander.the Prado was a 90 series.was on Fraser island Queensland which is sand the pathfinder won it also against the Pajero and other vehicles in the test.keep up the content and go the pathys.👍
My 96 Pathy @ 278k miles still a beast. I do have the Rear Death Wobble at higher speed sometimes. Other than that, I take it to the Idaho backcountry and camp inside of it. My Poor Man's Four Runner!
Bought my 1997 Pathfinder about 6 years ago. Fast forward to today, 250,000 miles on the od. Parts I've had to replace: camshaft seals( it got a new timing belt and water pump because that's what you do when you have it apart) new clutch, new ball joints, trail arms, shocks, coils, sway bar links, brakes, and that is it. Oh and paid 1400 bucks... so with all the parts I'm in 2300 and have been driving it everywhere. So ya he is dead wrong on his review
Over the past ten years I have had two R50s a 1997 and a 2003. Both ridiculously reliable. I don't understand why RCR felt to need to mention the Pathfinder is boring. It is an SUV not some sports car.
hi i have a 95 V6 3.3 R50 which has done 350.000 kms think thats about 217,000 plus miles and still goes like a rocket...also have a qd3.2 R50 as well...they are definitely an under rated truck
How are you doing my brother, I am a technician for about 45 I have worked on trucks and every kind of that is basically on, let me tell you something there is a lot of four by fours out there that a lot worse, then the Pathfinder, actually there's a lot of that you can do to make it a pretty incredible off-road vehicle, there is a modification for the transmission, incredibly strong diff and transfer case you can even set up lockers on the front diff which saves you a lots of gas and helps you with the wheel alignment, you could even make the engine gain lots of more power using different heads on the engine one of the hardest thing to do is getting rid of all the engine codes and replacing the timing chain from my experience they are pretty reliable
The R50 is a soft target. Why? Because it IS a soft 4WD. But damn it on the plus side, it flies under the radar, is pretty cheap (aside from fuel consumption), really reliable, simple to repair, comfortable and has the capability to go to more places than I am willing to take it (🐔). The Pathfinder reminds me of my old Kombi, relaxed drive, can’t overtake anything on the freeway but I love driving it because it is so cruisy. I feel like I’m on a relaxing holiday every time I jump into it 🤷🏼♂️ I personally think it’s more like a Subaru (and they are very popular) but without the CVT and with greater ground clearance.
@@208Tyler I agree it isn’t a bad thing. If I wanted a patrol or landcruiser I would have bought one ...for a lot more money. And if we are talking about a similar vintage body-on-frame 4WD to the Pathfinder the ride is pretty bloody uncomfortable! And this is where I think the Pathfinder found a sweet spot. It is relaxed to drive on road and actually punches well above its weight off road. I don’t do hardcore off-roading, I am a wildlife photographer and I travel considerable distances in search of rare wildlife typically on asphalt and gravel roads, occasionally ending my journey by venturing off road in remote country and I personally think the Pathfinder excels at that role. I like it’s simplicity and reliability as most of my trips (around Australia) are solo. No mobile reception and no mates to back me up in a support vehicle. The only concern I have is whether I have enough fuel to get me there and back again ...oh, and snakes 😅🤣 By the way, I am a civil engineer and my pet peeve from the review was that he talked about cement roads. There is no such thing as a cement road. Cement is a constituent of concrete. They are either concrete roads or cement stabilised roads. So he doesn’t even know what he is driving on... 😉
Hey good review. It's nice to see this gen Pathfinder honest review. I own an '06 G35 Sedan 6MT and I love it. I know the VQ35 burns oil and I check and refill as needed. I got it with 98k 10 years ago in 2014. It now has 190k and I'm still loving the car. I also own a '00 4Runner SR5 4wd with the Magnusen SC. I love the Runner too but have been chasing a misfire for the last 4 months. I'm not giving up on the Runner and will get if fixed. However, I've always liked the look of these Pathfinders since I was in middle school and they were new. Also like the hardbody PF. Anyways thanks for the info and I will continue to find a Pathfinder R50 to drive on road trips and I can do a comparison between my '00 4Runner and the Pathy.
Whoever said the R50 isn't fun to drive has never drove an 01' VQ35 manual trans Pathy down a country road in northwestern Pennsylvania! Oil roads and trails for days,hill climbs, drifting, and cleaning ditches is pretty damn fun if I do say so myself. All with 200,000 miles on the engine I might add lol
The only thing i dont like about my pathy… is how the IACV burns the ECU chip when the coolant gasket leaks behind the IACV. It comes out of nowhere and costs and upwards of $2k
Depending on the extent of the damage, you can get the ECU soldered and repaired for under $1k. It’s also an acute issue, only affecting the 01-02 R50’s with the VQ35 and drive by cable.
2001 Nissan Pathfinder with the 5-speed stick.... That might be the best stock year... They didn't sell many stick shift models. 2001 pathy 240 hp. 2001 4runner 183hp.🤔🤔🤔
2005 R50 SE From Chile Here!! Bought it 3 years ago, still standard, only new tires but with the original rims (KO2 245/70/R17), RTT and aftermarket roof rack and tyre carrier and what can i say?, 3 years of just devouring miles and putting a smile on my face... it takes me from the grocery store to the atacama desert, austral road and tierra del fuego... 130k Miles and counting!!!! P.S: i REALLY want that VQ35DE Hoodie!!! but im afraind the shipping is going to cost me more than the hoodie LOL
Fantastic !!. Thank you for putting Regular Car on its place. Not a good reviewer. So sarcastic and negative. As you said in this category The 4Runner is not fun, the Cherokee is not fun. This pathfinder R50 is a great car with great quality. It is a total underdog. The problem with nissan is .... That Toyota exists, but in this case the R50 perfectly competes with the Runner. For a way better price. VQ35 is one of the best V6 ever produced. So smooth.. Thank you !! By the way I am a toyota guy... but we must be objective in our analysis.
I’ve owned a 2002 4Runner after my 2004 pathfinder and the pathfinder is by far a better driving vehicle now the 4Runner is classic 4x4 suv with all the Toyota reliability and aftermarket comparability but Nissan made a much more affordable classic “Jdm” styled 4x4
4Runners are overpriced. Pathfinders can be built to be beasts on a fair budget. Have a 2001 myself, purchased for $2200, with the tires included I have about $1500 into it.
@@208Tyler I stumbled a-crossed the pathy I have. I was looking just for any mid sized suv for the fam, and this was the only thing recently priced in the area. Little did I know about R50s being built to perform well off-road 😂
@@olivi3339 that’s exactly what it is. I used to own an ‘08 rogue before the pathy. After that vehicle, I had vowed to never buy another Nissan again. Then I learned about the cvts being an issue and gave the pathy a try. I’m glad I did!
Great Vid bro! Yeah I know that video is mostly meant as a joke, but even jokes sometimes have to have some truth in them and that video didnt. They missed the mark big time. I have a VG33E Crimson Blaze (red) 99.5 R50 with OME springs, roof rack, new struts/shocks, Toyo Open Country ATIII’s, LED pods mounted on the hood near the pillars, Sony XAV-5000 head unit, JBL speakers/amp and a 12” sub, interior footwell lighting and retrofitted projector headlights with halo DRLs and man is it a blast to drive. Why? Because I made it fun to drive. I can’t think of a single SUV in the same class as an R50 that is fun to drive… why? Because in this class, these trucks arent meant to be fun. R50s are great and so are 4Runners, but I guarantee an R50 will go anywhere a 4Runner will while looking way better too. That being said, I love both vehicles and most similar trucks in this category such as the Monteros, Rodeos, XJs etc…
Meanwhile, for the last six years I have been enjoying the thrill of my 2002 Pathfinder with manual transmission. And yes it is a unicorn. At 155,000 miles it is finally starting to rust out enough in the strut tower housing is that I will be getting rid of it soon. Going to miss this vehicle.
I have a 2001 pathfinder with the 3.5 and the 5 speed manual and it runs like a champ. Everyone thats driven it has actually said its one of the funnest cars they've driven. It's super good off road for stock ride hight. Im just running some slightly bigger tires. The only issue is the body rust. Before I got it the previous owner used it as a beach rig and drove it in the New York area (notorious for salt) my rear quarters are so destroyed that both of my rear fender flares have fallen off.😔 I was wondering if anyone in the community knows if there's an affordable way to fix it? Or if it would even be worth fixing?
I have been looking for a 4runner, land cruiser, Tacoma, tundra for awhile and I just cant find a budget one, so I have found a r50 qx4 and it looks stunning and I am so excited to start building it... it is sad though that I wont have a v8, going form my titan to a v6 will be a let down, but at least I'm not getting rid of my titan, just driving less.
I thought he was pretty harsh on the R50. Oil consumption is totally true, but the VQ trucks drive very well. VG trucks are pretty damn bulletproof when maintained. I am heavily biased to Toyota but the R50 is a cool truck in its own way that stood the test of time.
I've had an 01 Auto, 02 5-speed, and currently an 02 Auto. Going to be swapping the 5-speed drivetrain to a clean LE shell. I remember watching his review, and I was confused with a lot of his dislike for the R50. Sure it is fairly boring (my Z31 Turbo is 10 times more exciting to drive) however compared to the last two rental cars I have driven (a rogue and a sentra both with CVTs) the R50 has a LOT more personality and is more fun to drive, especially with the 5-speed. If he had driven a 5-speed R50, I feel he would have felt a lot different, at least he would not have had the auto hunting issue (which my current stock Auto does not seem to do much). Not to mention the shorter gearing on the manual, and the additional 10 HP. Also I have noticed that tire choice has a lot to do with the feel of the R50, even stock. For me the 5-speed makes all the difference in how much fun the R50 is. It's the exact same way with the Maxima of the same generation; the auto is a boring commuter car, with a manual it's a sleeper sports car that's a blast to drive! I test drove a 2004 4Runner Limited V8 when my 02 5-speed got ran over by a semi trailer... I was expecting to be blown away by all the Toyota hype. It was HUGE compared to the R50, I was not impressed with the V8(15 HP less than my VQ!) and they wanted $10,000 for it in 2018. Right after that I hopped on Copart and won the 02 Auto for $900 that I am driving now, and while it is not super exciting, I am more than happy with it.
Good video man. In general, Nissan does not get the love it deserves. I have an 02 Xterra that I adore and my 2019 Armada is brilliant. To your point, comparing the R50 to a solid axle 4 runner was lazy at best. I overland my X (2 in suspension lift and rebuilt Vg33e) and can go 90+% of the places the “built” jeeps and 4runners go. When/if my lokka shows up I am sure it will improve even on that. (Your lokka content sealed the deal on me ordering one). The point is, Getting out on the trail and camping doesn’t have to be expensive and when you are out there all alone, sitting by a fire and looking up at the stars... the universe doesn’t give you crap for not owning a Jeep/Toyota. Love your channel bud, your brothers and sisters in the X community appreciate you.
I also have an 02 Xterra and i love it!! its practically stock (no lift or bumpers) just AT tires and shocks and it takes me everywhere, its a tank in 4Lo and as you mention it goes almost everywhere built jeeps and toyotas go, i think Xterras and pathfinders are starting to draw attention with the "in crowd" of 4x4's...
We’ll said Tyler. The idea that any vehicle in this category is going to be fun to drive is crazy to me. You want fun in this price range get an NA Miata or something. It’s a utility vehicle and we all use them as such…
I love my 2000 se 4x4 except the sag I unfortunately cannot afford to lift her yet but she plows through the snow n ice with ease the 4x4 grips through the slickest mud inoukled a big motorhome that had locked hubs out of a ditch in the dirt with my bald tires I can't wait to see what it does with a lift and tread on some bigger tires
Just bought a ‘96 SE R50. Less than 100,000 miles and was kept garaged. Ac needs to be fixed up and almost everything rubber needs to be replaced thanks to dry rot here in Arizona, exhaust needs to be replaced thanks to spending time up north with salted roads, but so far I love it. Is there anything else y’all think I should keep a eye on?
I spent 1000 on my 01 Le It had 200k Started right up after sitting for 2 years Literally bone dry of every fluid Filled it RCR is one of favorite favorite channels Was really disappointed with their review Thank you for bringing some justice R50 very underrated But let’s keep it that way until I buy my next one. $$$
Ya, all I’ve seen is Arab turbos. No idea how they work, haven’t seen any write ups. If you want a turbo pathy, it will be a long road. The R50 VQ’s have very little support, and the VG’s aren’t much further behind.
I always hate when people say an suv from this area is boring to drive. You are 100% they all are haha. Well the only thing I believe that’s can be comparable to the R50 that would be fun to drive is a V8 Grand Cherokee. But that WJ or ZJ are solid front axels, so I’m not sure if you would consider it same class.... Great video you’re making me want to pull the trigger on a Qx4
Oh ya. People quickly forget that slapping 240 hp in a base model SUV was a big move at the turn of the century haha. This certainly competed with the WJ/ZJ in some sense, but you’re usually either a fan of Chrysler products or not haha. Another solid mention from that era though.
I bought mine with 173k 10 years ago for 2900$. Its been the most reliable vehicle ive ever owned (including several brand new cars), the 3.3 is slow but i floor it everytime i shift, drive 3-5 miles per trip, and ive never done anything to the engine but change the oil and thermostat. A similar condition 4Runner would have been at least 8k, there just isn't another midsize SUV with a manual locking front diff and rear lsd that can be had in good condition for the price of an r50.
@@trevorD1156 nope. No diff lockers from the factory, just a good ol open diff. I’ve removed and busted open a couple front diffs and done a locker install. You can get manual locking hubs, a manual transmission, a manual transfer case, but a manual diff locker isn’t even a thing. A mechanical locker is a real thing that you could get aftermarket for these vehicles. I had one and it was a blast.
Then they were added by the dealer cause there is zero chance someone installed aftermarket lockers without making a single other off road mod, they are the exact same warn lockers that are on older Pathfinders.
@@trevorD1156 You're talking about hub lockers. Those are aftermarket, Warn 29091 is the part number. I don't believe a dealer would perform that work, but I could be wrong. Either way, those have nothing to do with the differential. They simply connect your hub to the CV axle for when you want to use 4WD. You still have an open diff up front, that was the only option from Nissan.
Regular car reviews and Most Car Reviewers don't have Enough knowledge or familiarity to anything remotely off-road related. haha. and Regular car review doesn't even consider themselves seriously and they definitely don't know a lot about 4x4. But the problem is People also don't have much knowledge will get misinformations and they won't know if nobody tells the otherwise. that's why I love Videos like this about explaining the Actual Truth.
Yeah man I've never owned not even the second generation but I've always been attracted to the second and third gen and I still think they're great vehicles from what I gather from my friends
Hey mate, I am in New Zealand and purchased a R50 Terrano (that's the same as the Pathfinder). What's your thoughts on the Td27 and the Zd30 diesel engines.
td27etis are awesome, the Zexel pumps they come with are crap and unreliable, easy to swap them to an older mechanical pump from a wd21 model. stay away from zd30, absolute rubbish.
The 2004 Xterra has a VG33E, better front suspension than all pathfinders, rear leaf springs, possible supercharger, solid rear axle, body on frame. It's similar, but a little more offroad orientated (except the leaf springs...) and the interior is more basic.
Pathfinder also excels into extremely important timeframes. And they represent at least 80% of your time. Pathfinder does better than the 4Runner on the highway and on those moderately rough roads like Forrest fire trails. Those are the areas that you spend the majority of your time moving through.
My 02 qx4 doesn't burn oil, but it does leak it. not sure exactly how much, maybe a quart ever 1.5k-2k miles? pretty sure it's a common issue with these things. Either valve covers or the oil cooler
Valve covers and oil cooler are both common leaks. Mine had neither issue and just burnt the oil instead, probably due to worn piston rings. All 3 are common ways of losing oil on the R50’s with the VQ35
Hey Tyler, Looking to get a 96 R50 LE with 153k for 2k. Is that something you’d go for? I’m on the coast in NC and could see myself taking it on the beach with the family! Had a hardbody and love Nissan just would love your opinion on what’s the best r50 to get!
Nothing wrong with that, sounds like a potentially great deal! You can also check out my buyers guide video for some more advice, but my only specific concern is rust, particularly if the strut towers in the front are rusting. If they aren’t, and the vehicle runs good, it sounds like a great deal. Buyers Guide: th-cam.com/video/uN6Vhm9M0K8/w-d-xo.html
Things my '96 RS-R Regulus R50 with 3.2ltr turbo diesel has done:
* Hauled my family to the grocery store.
* Waded a river with the headlights submerged and a flashlight held out the window.
* Comfortably hauled my huge ass dog around in the back.
* Waded through fresh powder up to the wheel arches.
* Hauled a tandem axle trailer with about two ton of furniture through the mountains.
* Driven the length of New Zealand.
* Had a dead deer roped to the bonnet (you'd call that the hood).
* Taken me everywhere I need to go as a landscape photographer.
* Kept me alive as an emergency overnight shelter in a blizzard.
Things my Regulus has NOT done:
* Cost as much to buy as a Toyota.
Best comment on this whole video
@@208Tyler, thanks.
I'm booking it in today for a steering rack repair and front shocks replacement, but after 195,000kms in factory trim, nothing lasts forever without repairs.
As long as you keep on top of oil, fluids, and filters, they run forever.
My workmate only just traded in his 1995 Safari for a new Colorado, after clocking up 780,000kms on the Nissan.
@@nonanon666 That´s good. Btw Safari. Where is the Patrol called Safari other than Japan if I may ask?
Just picked up a 1997 Pathfinder SE from an estate sale. A one owner car with only 84000 miles on it. I'm quite surprised at how solid a vehicle it is. Nice ground clearance and although the suspension is a little stiff, it rides very nice down the highway . The only bad thing about it is the 15 miles a gallon it gets. A modern 6 or 8 speed transmission wold sure help. Took it up some old logging roads and it did a great job. I was going to flip it but now going to keep it
My 2002 R50 cost $2700 and I threw less than $1500 on a full suspension upgrade with 2.5” of lift and new A/T tires... now she takes me on all my adventures from camping to kayaking and the 240hp helps tow my dirt bike on the hitch receiver without any problems or lack of power 💥 🚙 💨
Love her dearly...
Amen and amen!
details on full suspension setup with lift?? and what size A/T tires as well? Do you have instagram so I can see your setup
Thanks for carrying the R50 community on your back! 👊
Y’all are worth it 😎
@@208Tyler Ok you came out strong and correct about the R50 in the end as i have an 2004 Pathfinder LE Platinum ed. with 225K miles and its still strong and have the original engine and transmission and rear end and i haul @5500-6000lbs of lawn+misc. equipment in my trailer weekly and it just goes down the road smoothly and effortlessly, so i dont give 2 shits about R50's haters after all they only hate because they want it and wish they had one 2002-2004R50's THE BEST!
@@BACON-l3ttotally agree! I started with a VG33 and then a VQ35 both are not race cars but boy! They do perform! I am now on the process of buying a QX4 to complete the dream. No disappointments at all for this platform 💯
Yup, I wanted a 4Runner couldn’t find one in my area, got a Pathfinder.. now I love it 😂
You and me both! 🤝😂
This is my story as well except I didn't wanna spend the money all at once for a 4runner lol
Me reading this makes me feel better lol I’m searching a 4Runner as of right now and that prices are crazy might go with this
@@Platinumotion yeah same lol, im in SK in Canada, lots of the 4runners here are clapped and rusted, few days ago, found an 01 qx4, 248,000kms, ended up buying it for $1275 CAD lol. Now im doing all maintenance on it and just needs a few things to pass inspection.
props to RCR for keeping r50 prices down 💪
RCR playing the long game so they can buy even more R50's in the future
My R50 gets me around town and out in the bush, to the lakes, logging roads and 4x4 trails without a issue. It fits me perfect for what it is. My 2003 Chilkoot is just what I needed for my adventures. :)
100% the truth!!
I’ve got an 02 pathfinder with the 5 speed. Love it to death, super comfortable on the freeway and gets me in the mountains with no complaints. Towed a car on a Uhaul trailer one time and could barely even tell it was there
Yup, I was looking for a 4Runner and Isuzu Trooper. I did my research, 4Runner too expensive, Isuzu trooper not as reliable. Loved the look of the Qx4 and have never looked back.
A great choice
1985 toyota 4runner
2000 Nissan pathfinder
I feel blessed that i own both in of them in different periouds of my life
Love them both
Love my 09 Hummer H3, Love my 07 FJ Cruiser, and I love driving my 04 Pathfinder. I love all three of my 4x4's. They are all so different from each other, and that's what makes each one unique . They all do something different. Modifying the Pathfinder on a budget is so much fun. I've had the pathfinder for around 6 years. She looks and runs better than when i got her.
I have a 2004 Path LE. I have nothing else to add that this community hasn't mentioned. I purchased mine in 13 for 5,500, and it does exactly what I purchased it for. Snow, reliable daily driver, to take a break from my 2008 acura tl type-s. Appreciate this genuine & accurate review.
I was looking at tundras and Tacoma’s. Was gonna end up paying north of 20k for a 15+ year old truck over a 100k miles. Ended up buying my grandpas pathfinder for a couple grand and no regrets!
Ironically enough, I now drive a tundra. Had to get a good deal though, there’s a lot of people out there trying to squeeze every penny
Loved this video. I’ve owned several R50s. I’m Mrelcocko on NPORA and have seen your R50 on there as well. Unless you have owned one or own one currently you wouldn’t understand how enjoyable these vehicles are. Yes the cruise control is useless, now I can say in the 98 M/T R50 I owned the cruise was very useful. I’ve had nothing but an enjoyable experience in my R50 and look forward to many more enjoyable times to come. Great video my friend thanks for posting.
Kiwi here with 2000 Nissan Terrano R50 running the ZD30 Diesel engine on 270,000 km. It's my daily, the rear seats fold flat for camping, H/L 4WD with lock diff, goes up rivers and ski mountains, comfy as hell and reliable as anything if looked after. Most importantly almost half price of a Hilux. I think it's great if they keep flying under the radar......
Well said!
Dude you nailed it! My thoughts exactly, I read the thread on NPORA but I couldn’t think of anything nice to say about the review so I didn’t comment!
Not to mention he kept comparing the R50 to a LIFTED first gen 4Runner with 33” tires and solid axle. Third gen bone stock would have been the best direct comparison. Also he could at least have put it in 4wd and commented on that aspect.
Thanks my man! Oh I think that 4runner was on 35’s or 37’s if I remember the review correctly. Totally wrong vehicle to compare it to.
I love my 02 R50! Was looking for a 4 Runner in similar year as well, but realized the Pathfinder stock or very lightly modified can do almost everything better for cheaper! Interior is nice for what it was. Mine is the 4wd LE version with leather, GPS, sunroof, heated seats, full rack etc
Looking into possibly dropping another engine in it and keeping it alive when it goes out.
Good review
That’s awesome! Good find
2001 SE owner, 205k miles 0 oil consumption with 5w30 valvoline synthetic with 1 quart of Lucas high mileage oil stabilizer. At around 140k it started to consume about 1/4-3/4 of a quart between oil changes. I switched to the stabilizer at 175k and the consumption stopped completely, not sure if it was coincidental or what but I swear by the stabilizer 👍
I gave up on finding a 4runner at a price that makes sense, but now you gave me idea / hope that I can go the pathfinder route. thanks.
The toyota market across all 4WD models is insane... good luck on your hunt!
I have a 2002 Pathfinder R50 3.5L and I love it. Greetings from Germany.
I've had quite a few Toyotas and they are really great trucks. My 1995 blew a head gasket and l'm kicking myself for selling it after that. In 2019 crashed my 03 Tacoma. Been looking for another Toy since then. Misjudged the market thinking prices would fall when people lost unemployment so l waited too long.
Just bought a 03 R50 a few days ago, so we will see.
Good video.
Im going to look at a 200 4×4 pathfinder tomorrow 190000 miles . I hope its a good one
Hopefully!
Hey Tyler! Thank you so much for your videos! I enjoy them so much. I have a 2003 pathfinder and your videos are great and inspiring me to make mods to my pathy. Thank you.
Thanks for watching! I’m glad you enjoy it so much, have fun with your Pathy!
R50's are awesome vehicles, 02 black black qx4 250k kms / 155k miles still solid on the road, and off.
Just bought an ‘00 150k miles, one owner in Puerto Rico. Interior is clean minty. Love it so far.
My 99.5 R50 with 2" lift and 400,000+ km on the clock most of the time it will out do most other off roaders. Recently took it down a sand track where many others were getting bogged, ended up lifting a wheel about a foot off the ground, also fully extended the shock on other side and ripped the strut mount threads to pieces (yeah I know, gotta put limiting straps in), the car still completed the drive, then a further 600 km back home with another 100 km of rough tracks thrown in for good measure on the way back before doing repairs .
A couple of hundred dollars for a new strut and hour of grunt work and off to the tracks again. You just can't kill them.
I have even gone beach driving where the sand was like marshmallow (waterlogged) a landcruiser behind me gave up and stopped while I kept going an extra 7 km to my destination, no lowered tyre pressures or anything, just drove it off the black stuff,whacked it into 4 low and off we went. No problems.
Always remember you can have the most capable vehicle in the world, but if you don't know how to drive it to suit the conditions you will be digging for a while or paying a lot of money for repairs.
Most of the time it is not what you are driving, but the nut behind the steering wheel.
I have removed the front sway bar and added the missing link. The car is polite and well behaved (but sluggish) on the blacktop, but is an absolute beast off road. Standard rims with rugged terrain tyres, but I have a larger set of all terrains for outback work.
In my area 2" above factory is the highest you can legally go, If I had my way I would add an extra 2 or 3 inches with the tyres and another inch with the suspension for a total of 5 or 6 inches of added height, but you can't have it all.
Aways wondered if I could shoehorn a small V8 into the engine bay, I have a 5.0 laying around somewhere That will give it a bit of extra grunt. May look into it one day.
I've owned 3 R50s. Most recent, I got an 03 LE, black on black, 190k miles for $3500 with a great tow package. Runs great. Burns oil. Wouldn't trade it for anything.
Put some motor up in it for your oil prob.
Thanks for the video bro. I own a 2001 3.3 r50 and I had no idea I would love this car. I love driving it everywhere desert roads dunes everywhere. Love from dubai.
Wanted a 4Runner but got a 1998 qx4 and I love it. It does what I need it to do.
Perfect!
I've seen a lot of people talk about how they want a 4runner but instead have a pathfinder, but I'm one of few that don't. Yeah 4 runners are cool but I appreciate what the pathfinder is, I do think they're a little slept on in terms of popularity and aftermarket support, but over all I couldn't be happier with mine. Yeah the on road ride quality isn't anything to brag about but it does ride smooth enough for me and even though I have the VG its still about enough power to get me around and up the trails when I decide to do that. Having the 5spd probably helps it stay on my good side since I don't have to deal with the gear finding issue it seems the VQ pathys have.
Very good video though. your production quality has been getting so much better and its awesome to see. You made very great points and hopefully Mr. RCR sees this and can take a few things away from it.
Most people wanted (past tense) a 4runner before they got their pathy, but I’m not sure they still want (present tense) a 4runner once they’ve settled into their pathfinder. Seems to be the general consensus I pick up on.
Certainly, the 5 speed helps. The get hunting and finicky cruise control is/would be worse on a VG than VQ, as it’s a matter of HP and torque.
Thanks man, it’s the small things that count when it comes to video production!
Recently bought a Pathfinder R50 - badged as the Terrano in New Zealand (with sweet JDM trim) and a 3L diesel engine. Comparably, Hilux Surfs (our 4Runner badge) were going for twice the price. I got mine for 3.5k USD equivalent compared to 7k USD for something in similar, or worse condition. At the end of the day, the Pathfinder appealed because of its easy-going, around town nature. Yes, I want to take it out to places, but I've also got to daily it. And I think they look rather handsome!
I had a 2000 VG33/auto. Sold it for a 2001 VQ35/5-speed manual. Both have taken me many interesting places in comfort and reliably gotten me home. (The true test of a SUV.) The 2001-2002 R50 has the best looks/powertrain combo IMO. Toyota's of the era have a less refined interior, a lower quality feel, and low HP. Hello 208Tyler from Ada County.
I hate the VQ too, but probably because I have so much experience with the VG33E and don't want to learn all the quirks of another engine.
I would totally rock a VG33E! Great engine.
@@208Tyler I've got one vg33e in service with 240k, and retired one from active use at 285k(ish) that still runs well.
They're reliable except for the valve cover gaskets and a couple other oil seals if you don't replace them (cams and crank) when the timing belt is due.
I plan to do a TDI swap or find a diesel engine that came in the r50 stock that someone shipped over to NA.
@@Grey-Troll I'm about to do a complete maintenance on my Path that includes changing the timing belt and the water pump. I bought this kit: www.ebay.com/itm/181084145645
My pathy already has 150,000 miles, what other things do you advise me to buy and service at once?
@@adc_91 If you haven't already replaced them, it would be a good time to replace the valve cover gaskets if you really want to go all out, but the driver side one is rough to get to, but the passenger side is no problem. Other than that if its a manual transmission do rear main seal if and when its time to do a clutch while you have the transmission out. Otherwise, don't worry about it.
You can always wait on the valve cover gaskets until they start leaking if you don't want to deal with taking the upper intake + EGR off, or keep dumping oil in it every so often until you do feel like doing it when that happens. I should note that 0il running down on the cast iron manifolds will weaken and cause cracks over time if the leak gets bad though.
@@Grey-Troll Thank you very much for your answer. I have already replaced the valve cover before doing a full cleaning service to the bushings and also with the spark plug change. I will focus on full belt and water pump service and continue to enjoy my Pathy.
Not a bad 4x4.
We have the here nissan terrano but with the bulletproof QD32 turbo diesel.
Thrashed the crap out of it for 4 years and apart from shocks and bushes from driving over river rocks etc.
2002 pathfinder original owner, 112,000 miles rides great, drove it from N.Y. To Florida very comfortable. 21 mpg at 75 mph. To me not boring but very usable and practical vehicle. If he wanted to jazz it up, you can mod it. Still own it. Plus plenty of room for family of four and a Labrador Retriever. Dog loves it.
Pathfinders have always been nostalgic for me. My qx4 was one of the best purchases ever
I rock crawl my r50 and keep up with rubicons with similar mods. I used to think the unibody and strut combo was stupid. I was just ignorant. It can work well and you maintain a comfortable controlled ride when on the highway.
Ya, it’s definitely a competent platform, just in an unconventional package.
Unibody is only an issue if you wreck. things start squeaking also after hardcore off-roading.
Best car I ever had. And I also have a 370z. My R50 is 25 years old now and it’s still great to drive it.
Hi Tyler live in Adelaide South Australia. home of lokka LoL.i agree with you 💯%.pathy is great value and very capable for what it is.different variants in Australia and only got vg33e but got the 4.6 diffs and the all mode gearbox.very good in sand driving and have the front lokka and Dobinson 2 inch lift.have standard size at Toyo tyres 245/75 16 which works well as mostly beach driving.we have the Toyota tax here as well as liked the Prado 120 but couldn't afford one.ironically in 2000 they did a 4wd of the year magazine called overlander.the Prado was a 90 series.was on Fraser island Queensland which is sand the pathfinder won it also against the Pajero and other vehicles in the test.keep up the content and go the pathys.👍
My 96 Pathy @ 278k miles still a beast. I do have the Rear Death Wobble at higher speed sometimes. Other than that, I take it to the Idaho backcountry and camp inside of it. My Poor Man's Four Runner!
Some new trailing arms will fix the death wobble! Sounds like a good rig
My dad still has this and it’s an absolute gem
Bought my 1997 Pathfinder about 6 years ago. Fast forward to today, 250,000 miles on the od. Parts I've had to replace: camshaft seals( it got a new timing belt and water pump because that's what you do when you have it apart) new clutch, new ball joints, trail arms, shocks, coils, sway bar links, brakes, and that is it. Oh and paid 1400 bucks... so with all the parts I'm in 2300 and have been driving it everywhere. So ya he is dead wrong on his review
Over the past ten years I have had two R50s a 1997 and a 2003. Both ridiculously reliable. I don't understand why RCR felt to need to mention the Pathfinder is boring. It is an SUV not some sports car.
That review crossed the line a little bit, for the price and what is offering it doesn't deserve it. Thanks for fixing it 🙂.
hi i have a 95 V6 3.3 R50 which has done 350.000 kms think thats about 217,000 plus miles and still goes like a rocket...also have a qd3.2 R50 as well...they are definitely an under rated truck
I’m looking to get an 03 qx4 this year possibly. These Nissans/infinitys look so clean and in my opinion timeless design
I would have to agree. Of course being a Pathfinder I'm biased. But boring to drive, not. One of the best engines ever made.
How are you doing my brother, I am a technician for about 45 I have worked on trucks and every kind of that is basically on, let me tell you something there is a lot of four by fours out there that a lot worse, then the Pathfinder, actually there's a lot of that you can do to make it a pretty incredible off-road vehicle, there is a modification for the transmission, incredibly strong diff and transfer case you can even set up lockers on the front diff which saves you a lots of gas and helps you with the wheel alignment, you could even make the engine gain lots of more power using different heads on the engine one of the hardest thing to do is getting rid of all the engine codes and replacing the timing chain from my experience they are pretty reliable
The R50 is a soft target. Why? Because it IS a soft 4WD. But damn it on the plus side, it flies under the radar, is pretty cheap (aside from fuel consumption), really reliable, simple to repair, comfortable and has the capability to go to more places than I am willing to take it (🐔). The Pathfinder reminds me of my old Kombi, relaxed drive, can’t overtake anything on the freeway but I love driving it because it is so cruisy. I feel like I’m on a relaxing holiday every time I jump into it 🤷🏼♂️ I personally think it’s more like a Subaru (and they are very popular) but without the CVT and with greater ground clearance.
Ya. It’s soft, but it’s not really a bad thing. It’s definitely got some appeal.
@@208Tyler I agree it isn’t a bad thing. If I wanted a patrol or landcruiser I would have bought one ...for a lot more money. And if we are talking about a similar vintage body-on-frame 4WD to the Pathfinder the ride is pretty bloody uncomfortable! And this is where I think the Pathfinder found a sweet spot. It is relaxed to drive on road and actually punches well above its weight off road. I don’t do hardcore off-roading, I am a wildlife photographer and I travel considerable distances in search of rare wildlife typically on asphalt and gravel roads, occasionally ending my journey by venturing off road in remote country and I personally think the Pathfinder excels at that role. I like it’s simplicity and reliability as most of my trips (around Australia) are solo. No mobile reception and no mates to back me up in a support vehicle. The only concern I have is whether I have enough fuel to get me there and back again ...oh, and snakes 😅🤣
By the way, I am a civil engineer and my pet peeve from the review was that he talked about cement roads. There is no such thing as a cement road. Cement is a constituent of concrete. They are either concrete roads or cement stabilised roads. So he doesn’t even know what he is driving on... 😉
Heck yeah! Glad it suits your needs.
Good catch on the roads, I had no idea
Hey good review. It's nice to see this gen Pathfinder honest review. I own an '06 G35 Sedan 6MT and I love it. I know the VQ35 burns oil and I check and refill as needed. I got it with 98k 10 years ago in 2014. It now has 190k and I'm still loving the car. I also own a '00 4Runner SR5 4wd with the Magnusen SC. I love the Runner too but have been chasing a misfire for the last 4 months. I'm not giving up on the Runner and will get if fixed. However, I've always liked the look of these Pathfinders since I was in middle school and they were new. Also like the hardbody PF. Anyways thanks for the info and I will continue to find a Pathfinder R50 to drive on road trips and I can do a comparison between my '00 4Runner and the Pathy.
A 6 speed would be so much fun with a VQ. Good luck with your 4x4’s
Awesome review! I like RCR as much as the next guy and I think this complements his “review”. Keep it up, and looking forward to tour future videos!
Thank you dude!
Whoever said the R50 isn't fun to drive has never drove an 01' VQ35 manual trans Pathy down a country road in northwestern Pennsylvania! Oil roads and trails for days,hill climbs, drifting, and cleaning ditches is pretty damn fun if I do say so myself. All with 200,000 miles on the engine I might add lol
Thank you for defending this working horse!!
The only thing i dont like about my pathy… is how the IACV burns the ECU chip when the coolant gasket leaks behind the IACV. It comes out of nowhere and costs and upwards of $2k
Depending on the extent of the damage, you can get the ECU soldered and repaired for under $1k.
It’s also an acute issue, only affecting the 01-02 R50’s with the VQ35 and drive by cable.
@@208Tyler hey, yeah I fixed the problem. I put a video up on my channel explaining how it happens and how to fix it permanently.
2001 Nissan Pathfinder with the 5-speed stick.... That might be the best stock year... They didn't sell many stick shift models.
2001 pathy 240 hp. 2001 4runner 183hp.🤔🤔🤔
2005 R50 SE From Chile Here!! Bought it 3 years ago, still standard, only new tires but with the original rims (KO2 245/70/R17), RTT and aftermarket roof rack and tyre carrier and what can i say?, 3 years of just devouring miles and putting a smile on my face... it takes me from the grocery store to the atacama desert, austral road and tierra del fuego... 130k Miles and counting!!!!
P.S: i REALLY want that VQ35DE Hoodie!!! but im afraind the shipping is going to cost me more than the hoodie LOL
Awesome! Thanks for always watching and commenting.
Darn..... Ya I’m not sure how international shipping works. That’s a bummer
@@208Tyler Me neither but im going to find out! just placed an order!!!! now cant wait until June 17th!
Thanks dude! You rock!
Fantastic !!. Thank you for putting Regular Car on its place. Not a good reviewer. So sarcastic and negative. As you said in this category The 4Runner is not fun, the Cherokee is not fun. This pathfinder R50 is a great car with great quality. It is a total underdog. The problem with nissan is .... That Toyota exists, but in this case the R50 perfectly competes with the Runner. For a way better price. VQ35 is one of the best V6 ever produced. So smooth.. Thank you !! By the way I am a toyota guy... but we must be objective in our analysis.
I’ve owned a 2002 4Runner after my 2004 pathfinder and the pathfinder is by far a better driving vehicle now the 4Runner is classic 4x4 suv with all the Toyota reliability and aftermarket comparability but Nissan made a much more affordable classic “Jdm” styled 4x4
Perfect comparison! That’s about how I feel, having owned both as well.
4Runners are overpriced.
Pathfinders can be built to be beasts on a fair budget.
Have a 2001 myself, purchased for $2200, with the tires included I have about $1500 into it.
Yup. They’re a great platform!
@@208Tyler I stumbled a-crossed the pathy I have.
I was looking just for any mid sized suv for the fam, and this was the only thing recently priced in the area.
Little did I know about R50s being built to perform well off-road 😂
Your paying 500.00 to 1000.00, for the Toyota name.😂🤣😁
@@olivi3339 that’s exactly what it is.
I used to own an ‘08 rogue before the pathy. After that vehicle, I had vowed to never buy another Nissan again.
Then I learned about the cvts being an issue and gave the pathy a try. I’m glad I did!
Great Vid bro! Yeah I know that video is mostly meant as a joke, but even jokes sometimes have to have some truth in them and that video didnt. They missed the mark big time. I have a VG33E Crimson Blaze (red) 99.5 R50 with OME springs, roof rack, new struts/shocks, Toyo Open Country ATIII’s, LED pods mounted on the hood near the pillars, Sony XAV-5000 head unit, JBL speakers/amp and a 12” sub, interior footwell lighting and retrofitted projector headlights with halo DRLs and man is it a blast to drive. Why? Because I made it fun to drive. I can’t think of a single SUV in the same class as an R50 that is fun to drive… why? Because in this class, these trucks arent meant to be fun. R50s are great and so are 4Runners, but I guarantee an R50 will go anywhere a 4Runner will while looking way better too. That being said, I love both vehicles and most similar trucks in this category such as the Monteros, Rodeos, XJs etc…
Meanwhile, for the last six years I have been enjoying the thrill of my 2002 Pathfinder with manual transmission. And yes it is a unicorn. At 155,000 miles it is finally starting to rust out enough in the strut tower housing is that I will be getting rid of it soon. Going to miss this vehicle.
Once I got a 3.5 pathfinder I could never go back to a non V8 4Runner. These things are QUICK and can pull hard. 4Runner awesome but sluggish
"Cruise control sends you down from overdrive to third" LMAO MANUAL IS SUPERIOR
I have a 2001 pathfinder with the 3.5 and the 5 speed manual and it runs like a champ. Everyone thats driven it has actually said its one of the funnest cars they've driven. It's super good off road for stock ride hight. Im just running some slightly bigger tires. The only issue is the body rust. Before I got it the previous owner used it as a beach rig and drove it in the New York area (notorious for salt) my rear quarters are so destroyed that both of my rear fender flares have fallen off.😔 I was wondering if anyone in the community knows if there's an affordable way to fix it? Or if it would even be worth fixing?
Just got mine worked on today and my buddy mentioned it while we were working on it haha. Talk about the odds
No kidding, I guess the odds are good!
I have been looking for a 4runner, land cruiser, Tacoma, tundra for awhile and I just cant find a budget one, so I have found a r50 qx4 and it looks stunning and I am so excited to start building it... it is sad though that I wont have a v8, going form my titan to a v6 will be a let down, but at least I'm not getting rid of my titan, just driving less.
I had the 5speed manual so I never had to worry about shifting problems. I also had the 3.3vg so no oil problems too.
I thought he was pretty harsh on the R50. Oil consumption is totally true, but the VQ trucks drive very well. VG trucks are pretty damn bulletproof when maintained. I am heavily biased to Toyota but the R50 is a cool truck in its own way that stood the test of time.
Agreed, well said!
I've had an 01 Auto, 02 5-speed, and currently an 02 Auto. Going to be swapping the 5-speed drivetrain to a clean LE shell.
I remember watching his review, and I was confused with a lot of his dislike for the R50. Sure it is fairly boring (my Z31 Turbo is 10 times more exciting to drive) however compared to the last two rental cars I have driven (a rogue and a sentra both with CVTs) the R50 has a LOT more personality and is more fun to drive, especially with the 5-speed. If he had driven a 5-speed R50, I feel he would have felt a lot different, at least he would not have had the auto hunting issue (which my current stock Auto does not seem to do much). Not to mention the shorter gearing on the manual, and the additional 10 HP. Also I have noticed that tire choice has a lot to do with the feel of the R50, even stock.
For me the 5-speed makes all the difference in how much fun the R50 is. It's the exact same way with the Maxima of the same generation; the auto is a boring commuter car, with a manual it's a sleeper sports car that's a blast to drive!
I test drove a 2004 4Runner Limited V8 when my 02 5-speed got ran over by a semi trailer... I was expecting to be blown away by all the Toyota hype. It was HUGE compared to the R50, I was not impressed with the V8(15 HP less than my VQ!) and they wanted $10,000 for it in 2018. Right after that I hopped on Copart and won the 02 Auto for $900 that I am driving now, and while it is not super exciting, I am more than happy with it.
I saw that video recently. Kinda pissed me off cus the R50 is really good. If he wanted the most boring car possible, he could’ve picked a Tiguan.
He was nicer to the Aztec than he was to the R50 lol.
Good video man. In general, Nissan does not get the love it deserves. I have an 02 Xterra that I adore and my 2019 Armada is brilliant. To your point, comparing the R50 to a solid axle 4 runner was lazy at best. I overland my X (2 in suspension lift and rebuilt Vg33e) and can go 90+% of the places the “built” jeeps and 4runners go. When/if my lokka shows up I am sure it will improve even on that. (Your lokka content sealed the deal on me ordering one). The point is, Getting out on the trail and camping doesn’t have to be expensive and when you are out there all alone, sitting by a fire and looking up at the stars... the universe doesn’t give you crap for not owning a Jeep/Toyota. Love your channel bud, your brothers and sisters in the X community appreciate you.
Well said, thanks for watching!
I also have an 02 Xterra and i love it!! its practically stock (no lift or bumpers) just AT tires and shocks and it takes me everywhere, its a tank in 4Lo and as you mention it goes almost everywhere built jeeps and toyotas go, i think Xterras and pathfinders are starting to draw attention with the "in crowd" of 4x4's...
@@ambienteterrazas you made my day brother/sista. :)
you guys would love these with a td27 or qd32, so reliable and heaps of grunt
Where did you get them o ring lights
BX built. They went out of business but other companies provide similar products
We’ll said Tyler. The idea that any vehicle in this category is going to be fun to drive is crazy to me. You want fun in this price range get an NA Miata or something. It’s a utility vehicle and we all use them as such…
Exactly! They shine in other places
I got a qx4 2000 w/ 134000m 4 runners were over my budget, just paid under 3000 , I have some gap to buid it and I like it.
I love my 2000 se 4x4 except the sag I unfortunately cannot afford to lift her yet but she plows through the snow n ice with ease the 4x4 grips through the slickest mud inoukled a big motorhome that had locked hubs out of a ditch in the dirt with my bald tires I can't wait to see what it does with a lift and tread on some bigger tires
Just bought a ‘96 SE R50. Less than 100,000 miles and was kept garaged. Ac needs to be fixed up and almost everything rubber needs to be replaced thanks to dry rot here in Arizona, exhaust needs to be replaced thanks to spending time up north with salted roads, but so far I love it. Is there anything else y’all think I should keep a eye on?
Yeah, the fuel gauge.
I spent 1000 on my 01 Le
It had 200k
Started right up after sitting for 2 years
Literally bone dry of every fluid
Filled it
RCR is one of favorite favorite channels
Was really disappointed with their review
Thank you for bringing some justice
R50 very underrated
But let’s keep it that way until I buy my next one. $$$
Great video here and great channel for all us R50 maniacs. When are you going to do videos(s) on R50 street mods?
Thank you!
Unless I run into someone who has done some of those modifications to their own, I wouldn’t hold your breath.
@@208Tyler I'm researching the best ways to add a turbo to the engine. Any suggested sites/tips?
I found a video of someone in Saudi Arabia who did it and turned it into an awesome sand runner.
Ya, all I’ve seen is Arab turbos. No idea how they work, haven’t seen any write ups.
If you want a turbo pathy, it will be a long road. The R50 VQ’s have very little support, and the VG’s aren’t much further behind.
okay im just here to say that my dads 04 pathfinder (auto) has lost Reverse suddenly. all forward gears work fine. acts like its in neutral. and tips?
The transmission is probably on its way out, will need rebuilding
I lost my 02 pathfinder a couple years ago and I would do anything to get another one
I always hate when people say an suv from this area is boring to drive. You are 100% they all are haha. Well the only thing I believe that’s can be comparable to the R50 that would be fun to drive is a V8 Grand Cherokee. But that WJ or ZJ are solid front axels, so I’m not sure if you would consider it same class.... Great video you’re making me want to pull the trigger on a Qx4
Oh ya. People quickly forget that slapping 240 hp in a base model SUV was a big move at the turn of the century haha.
This certainly competed with the WJ/ZJ in some sense, but you’re usually either a fan of Chrysler products or not haha. Another solid mention from that era though.
I bought mine with 173k 10 years ago for 2900$. Its been the most reliable vehicle ive ever owned (including several brand new cars), the 3.3 is slow but i floor it everytime i shift, drive 3-5 miles per trip, and ive never done anything to the engine but change the oil and thermostat.
A similar condition 4Runner would have been at least 8k, there just isn't another midsize SUV with a manual locking front diff and rear lsd that can be had in good condition for the price of an r50.
The front diff isn’t “manual locking”. From the factory it’s just a typical open diff.
It is definitely manual locking on a 97 manual transmission r50 with the off road package.
@@trevorD1156 nope. No diff lockers from the factory, just a good ol open diff. I’ve removed and busted open a couple front diffs and done a locker install. You can get manual locking hubs, a manual transmission, a manual transfer case, but a manual diff locker isn’t even a thing. A mechanical locker is a real thing that you could get aftermarket for these vehicles. I had one and it was a blast.
Then they were added by the dealer cause there is zero chance someone installed aftermarket lockers without making a single other off road mod, they are the exact same warn lockers that are on older Pathfinders.
@@trevorD1156 You're talking about hub lockers. Those are aftermarket, Warn 29091 is the part number. I don't believe a dealer would perform that work, but I could be wrong. Either way, those have nothing to do with the differential. They simply connect your hub to the CV axle for when you want to use 4WD. You still have an open diff up front, that was the only option from Nissan.
Regular car reviews and Most Car Reviewers don't have Enough knowledge or familiarity to anything remotely off-road related. haha. and Regular car review doesn't even consider themselves seriously and they definitely don't know a lot about 4x4. But the problem is People also don't have much knowledge will get misinformations and they won't know if nobody tells the otherwise. that's why I love Videos like this about explaining the Actual Truth.
My old 99 pathy has been a real work horse! I'll prolly never sell it, Its had steering problems, struts don't last, but a solid little rig.
Yeah man I've never owned not even the second generation but I've always been attracted to the second and third gen and I still think they're great vehicles from what I gather from my friends
Pathy for life
Pathy gaaaaaaaang 😎
Hey mate, I am in New Zealand and purchased a R50 Terrano (that's the same as the Pathfinder). What's your thoughts on the Td27 and the Zd30 diesel engines.
I know next to nothing about the diesel options, unfortunately
td27etis are awesome, the Zexel pumps they come with are crap and unreliable, easy to swap them to an older mechanical pump from a wd21 model. stay away from zd30, absolute rubbish.
Amazon says the 5100 series shocks won’t fit my 02 pathfinder? I found rear shocks on 4x4parts by not any for the front
So would removing my cats lessen the chance of some kind of catastrophic failure? Mine goes through about a quart between oil changes (3k miles)
I’m not sure. That would be hard to test and I don’t know of anyone whose taken that approach
How about the 2004 Xterra comparison to pathfinder.
Thanks for clarifying previous video
The 2004 Xterra has a VG33E, better front suspension than all pathfinders, rear leaf springs, possible supercharger, solid rear axle, body on frame. It's similar, but a little more offroad orientated (except the leaf springs...) and the interior is more basic.
Pathfinder also excels into extremely important timeframes. And they represent at least 80% of your time. Pathfinder does better than the 4Runner on the highway and on those moderately rough roads like Forrest fire trails. Those are the areas that you spend the majority of your time moving through.
Hi tyler, love ur videos. Please tell me how to install cruise control in pathfinder.
I have no idea
I just want to point out his complaints about it not staying in 4th gear.. pretty sure it was the tq lock he was actually dealing with 😂
Does anybody know if they make retrofit projector headlights for the 1997 pathfinder
You can build your own using parts from BXbuilt.com. It’s been done on R50’s of multiple model years from the 90’s and 2000’s.
@@208Tyler in your opinion what is the best year pathfinder
It depends on your needs, but I like the 99.5 SE limited with Offroad package the best.
R50 represent
I have a 03 pathfinder, By any chance do you know what fender I can use from a different car? Or does it have to be the same vehicle.
Only other R50’s
can you explain to me what a tire is?
I dig the shirt!! An “r50” would be a cool design too… the vg33e etc… 👌
I don’t have anything that says R50, but there’s definitely a VG33E design available
My 02 qx4 doesn't burn oil, but it does leak it. not sure exactly how much, maybe a quart ever 1.5k-2k miles? pretty sure it's a common issue with these things. Either valve covers or the oil cooler
Valve covers and oil cooler are both common leaks. Mine had neither issue and just burnt the oil instead, probably due to worn piston rings. All 3 are common ways of losing oil on the R50’s with the VQ35
Hey Tyler,
Looking to get a 96 R50 LE with 153k for 2k. Is that something you’d go for? I’m on the coast in NC and could see myself taking it on the beach with the family! Had a hardbody and love Nissan just would love your opinion on what’s the best r50 to get!
Nothing wrong with that, sounds like a potentially great deal! You can also check out my buyers guide video for some more advice, but my only specific concern is rust, particularly if the strut towers in the front are rusting. If they aren’t, and the vehicle runs good, it sounds like a great deal.
Buyers Guide: th-cam.com/video/uN6Vhm9M0K8/w-d-xo.html
@@208Tyler thanks dude! Watching now 👍🏻👍🏻