We had a 2000 nissan pathfinder for 4 years. Never had any major issues, regular maintenance. The thing never quit, the power wasn't great or fuel mileage but it never failed us!
Stumbled upon Tyler's videos while looking at options for my '04. We also have an '01 The cars are a dream to drive but have not been without problems over the years. Here are some other things to watch out for: Check the rear seal area at the back of the engine -- Pathfinders are notorious for leaking from the rear seal and there's no easy way to fix this. Check the area under the oil cooler for leakage - pretty common for this to leak but it's a relatively easy fix and not necessarily a deal breaker. Valve covers failed on the '04 at about 160K. The original radiator will likely fail at or around 200K -- the plastic top casting will split ans spray coolant when under pressure . (we have two pathfinders [01and '04) and they both failed at about the same mileage.). These are California cars and not subject to extreme temperatures, btw. Check the trouble codes for O2 sensor fail - these are not too tricky to replace but may suggest a problem. I would avoid any vehicle with a check engine light related to emission system (especially in states with strict smog requirements where you must pass a smog test to register it).
Tengo una pathfi der año 2000 mecanica 197000km origen japon fierrazo gastador de bencina motor vg33 falla comun rodamiebto distribuidor y puede dañar bobina captador si se le da mantencion y se cambia rodamiento probablemente no falle es una exelente maquina saludos de chile💪
The original owner of my 2002 Pathfinder included a sales brochure from the dealer. That includes a full option/package breakdown page and if anyone is interested I can send over a picture....
Just bought an 2000 R50 SE in red for my 16yr old daughter and matter of fact is identical to the one In your picture at the beginning. Glory days of Nissan. Everything works! It does have the typical rust in the 1/4 wheel well arch and front fenders. But other than that it’s in excellent condition. The original owner took very good care of it and kept up with ALL service work including the timing belt. I’m a Honda guy through and through but I’ve definitely fallen in love with it
Yes, also remember rear main seals for the vq35s are a pita when it comes to leaking. Keep up the good work brotha, I’m on all the Facebook pathfinder groups and the community for these are amazing and growing. 👍
Ahhhhh I had that in my script and forgot to say it in the video lol. The rear main is definitely something where oil leaks from, though I think most people who have done the repair find that it’s one of the seals above it that leaks at the same spot
Tyler Smith Yea I’ve noticed. What’s your next vid going to be about? You’ve covered almost all there is to cover on the r50 platform when it comes to mechanical and technical. Maybe performance? I soon hope to start my TH-cam channel but with more so covering my off-road adventures and showing the capabilities of the platform. I noticed the prices for r50s have already gone up here in NorCal lol
Not sure. During the school year I’m out of state and my video schedule gets thrown out of wack by my course load. I also don’t have anywhere to camp or Offroad while at school. I hope to go on and document more outdoor trips this summer compared to last, but we’ll see. Good luck on your channel! Feel free to hit me up if you have any questions. Ya. Prices are definitely holding at a minimum, if not going up.
Just bought my first R50 up here in Canada. Managed to get a 2002 chilkoot with the manual trans and manual transfer case with the VQ. ~220,000km (140,000 miles). Got it for the equivalent of $1300 USD. Needs a clutch and trailing arm bushings but I’m excited to use it for my rooftop tent. Interesting note, mine does not have the “use lsd oil only” sticker, but I have yet to test if it has an LSD. Tons of old nissans in the junkyards around here so I’ve already collected a spare LSD with the same gearing (in case mine doesn’t have one) and LSD internals from 5 diffs for a rebuild. Even managed to find a 94 pathfinder and get the strong lsd plates as well as the transfer case skid plate (thanks to your videos I knew to look for it). Also managed to pull the cooler upper console with the compass and outdoor temperature and get it installed and working on mine! Keep up the good work and thanks for the awesome videos! I’m sure I’ll be watching a lot throughout my build/ownership.
Just wanna say thank you for the awesome video! I watched this right before i made a purchase of my very own R50! I got a 2002 LE with the electronic 4wd, everything works no lights 208k and a clean title. Its a black on black truck as well which is cool :) Payed 3300 and its been great so far! (the drive home lol) Thanks again i love this thing.
Great video! I have an 03 LE that I have loved driving and working on for the past decade. Something else to add though is the oil gallery gaskets in the VQ35DE engines. Behind the timing cover, there are two oil galleries that transfer oil internally from one part of the block to the other. The gaskets for these oil galleries were thin paper (pre-2013 I think I read) and are susceptible to blowing out, causing the car to go into a protective "limp mode" due to oil pressure loss. You see this a lot with VQ35DE engines in Z cars, so as a result there are really nice HTX-900 gaskets made as replacements by performance shops.
I appreciate the post man, chris on Facebook tagged you in a post referring to my new R50 and you liked the post so seeing this only makes me feel more special in the R50 realm. I got a 1996 California model that spent up to 2005 in cali so seems to havs minimal rust for the year along with what seems to be the better of the nissan packages. Appreciate the help again.
I just bought a 142 xxx km 2001 manual transmission se with a lot of options and 99% rust free as it is from bc so no road salt. Very excited to start building it
Not sure how common but i have and read about a few others having the top speed/revolution transmission sensor leaking down to the plug on the passenger side. Great video!
I had a 99.5 SE limited with the vg engine. It was a grear truck. It chugged gas and was gutless above 50mph but it was quiet and smooth. Never had to dig it out of snow either. The stick 4wd was great too
Great vid as always! I lucked out and snagged what feels like the only 2001 SE 5 speed, manual transfer case in all of california. Had her about 2 years and boy even with just a 2 inch lift and some 30s she's gone some gnarly stuff. Constantly surprised by the capability of a good R50!
Haha, anything with a VG33E and fresh tranny fluid will run forever. The VQ’s are the harder ones to find in reliable shape IMO. But mines given me essentially zero issues on 35k miles/2.5 years
Did you end up getting the QX4? Im kinda in the same boat have a 2WD 4runner didnt think id want to get into some over landing. Thinking of selling amd getting one of these. Was worried about the maintenance too. Lmk
@@loslosthuy It was low mileage but didn’t get it because there was fluid coming out of everything. Rear main seal, differential, steering rack, transfer case. I’m still on the hunt for one because the wife really loved it and it’ll be her vehicle
Super helpful stuff i want to be lookin for, 170k on my 02 rn. If you can do a quick follow up video that has a walk around and show some of the stuff you might need to check that'd be super helpful!
Dude, I like your r50 vids.. I have had an 03’ frontier (vg33e 5spd 2wd ) for years now- 120k + of my use.. I recently got an 04 “platinum” pathy and I really like it. I was super surprised to see how little my frontier and my pathy share mechanically. Seems like different people at Nissan designed them.. anyways thanks dude, I will be watching. 👌
OKAY - the Nissan Pathfinder (green in particular) is my DREAM car and this video is so helpful! I’m currently looking around for one and need to keep an eye out for the issues you pointed out. Unfortunately so many on the market are baaaaaad 🥲
I had a 2001 Diesel 3lt owned for 5 years never a problem ,sold to family member still going,always serviced it never let me down ,around about 360.000 KS still going string great vehicle, I'm looking for another.
My suspicion why the rockers rust out is because of the door gutters at the bottom between the hinges clogging up with leaves and mud, causing a back flow of water getting between the spot welds and accumulating inside the Rocker. I found out the hard way. Keep the door gutters clean and free flowing.
Hi Tyler! Loved the video and as a proud owner of a 2005 3,5 SE AT R50 from Chile i couldn't agree more! Recently changed the rear bushings because i was experiencing the death wobble at highway speeds, and also would add the rear sway bar is really weak and it will break as soon you hit a trail!, but after almost 3 years im happy as a clam with my R50! cheers!
Nice, enjoyed learning bout the Yank trim levels and options. Couple of things to not on Aussie R50’s, we only got two trim levels RX (base) and Ti (luxury) we only had the VG33E available for the entire run through to 2005, our Facelift came in on the tail end of ‘98 along with the all mode selector, and all our diffs/axles are the 46’s with LSD.
Hi tyler, great videos, if I just want to stiffen my 01 R50 rear suspension so its not sagging with any little load and not necessary lift it, what do you recommend?
Good chat as ever Tyler. I’ve just done some preventative PNW arch rot stopping on mine, so so many here have that bad. Mine is a Canadian 02 Chilkoot, I didn’t know they had an LSD, and no sticker on mine. Guess I’ll jack it up or look for ID codes on the diff (according to NPORA).
Hey Tyler thanks for doing this son I got a 2000 Nissan pathfinder LE 86,000 miles on it creampuff and I was getting ready to buy it and the lady ran in the sunlight metal poles to the front bumper off I had to change the pole controllers armed left and right but you’re very knowledgeable RO thank you very much for doing that yeah I still bought it after she ran into those polls are things this is too nice I mean there’s not one blemish on the interior of the door jams all the stickers in the whole car look like you just drop it off to Shawn. for an unbelievable but I’ll keep an eye on your views and stuff on Nissan Pilest fun ride in good Jobs thank you again
You are not kidding with the engine oil burning issue. I put a new valve cover gasket on to stop the leaks but man, does this engine burn oil. I will just have to keep my eye on it. Any reason why my engine oil light doesn't come on?
It does (for me) when I get below a quart low- it’ll stay on longer than usual at startup. To get it to stay on during driving, you’d have to go a lot lower than that it seems, I’ve never had it happen.
Man you have so much information here. Super handy. I have a 2001 SE 3.5L manual transmission, floor shifter. In Canada. 220Km. Suspension is a bit bagged. Thanks for the suspension videos! I just ordered some 9449 Landover springs and am going to replace the front struts for a 2" lift. I should probably take care of my valve covers and my clutch/throw out bearing first Anyways, your channel is extremely helpful and thorough
Great video, thank you. Just found ‘04 Nissan with 55k miles. Pics look beautiful. It’s an LE platinum Are the engine problems you talked about for high mileage units?
I realized with my Infiniti QX4 they don't make headlamps for it and it's going to buy a set for a Pathfinder but I really did fall in love with my QX4 I had to put a brand new transmission and then when I bought it but it's really hard to find the spindles I just want to exercise the spindles to put up just in case I can't figure out why my four wheel drive warning lights on I have the switch four-wheel operation to make the four wheel drive work and I don't have to take to the shop and see what's wrong with it but why I put in park it was Park on one wheel the back wheels are free it's just the front right wheel does not move
I believe you’re right, I think there’s another comment here about that. Every once in a while someone blows a belt and doesn’t lose the engine, but it’s not a guarantee. Thanks for commenting!
My qx4 2001 still running .. replaced the engine 2 years ago . Now its problem is the rear suspension is short so the viecle is left on front and noisy on some humbs >>my greeting from saudi arabia
I just picked up a early 2001 (build date in 2000) 3.5L Auto LE Pathfinder with manual transfer case and 218,000 miles for $400. I'm surprised you didn't mention the trans cooler issue where coolant leaks into the trans and kills it. 🤔
Coolant leaking into the transmission (Strawberry Milkshake of Death, SMOD) is only a common problem on the VQ40 Xterra’s, Pathfinders, and Frontiers from about 2005-2010. Can it happen on the VQ35DE? Probably, but I’ve never seen it on the forums or FB groups I frequent.
Great video and informative. Currently shopping for a QX4. Quick question, how come you don’t recommend the full time 4x4 system for off-roading and over landing? It has the center diff lock and 4lo. Why do you believe the other system is better? Could that system be found in the Qx4?
Uh, maybe I misspoke on the video, but there’s nothing wrong with the allmode transfer case. Like I stated, it even has a lower crawl ratio. The truly “better” part of the manual case is the ability to swap in low range gears into it, but otherwise both systems are very competent. Get whichever system you prefer.
Great Video! I do have a few questions. I am thinking about purchasing a 02 QX4 but I was told by a Nissan mechanic that purchasing a 20 year old truck will just be a money pit between looking for parts and the rust issue especially rusting brake lines. What is your opinion on this ?
Rusty, old cars in poor mechanical shape are something of a money pit- you don't want to be replacing major drivetrain components or totaling vehicles due to rust. If you live in an area with Rust issues, R50's aren't the car for you- few vehicles can last 20 years in a rust area. Parts are still easily available for these. A clean, mechanically sound vehicle that's old is a money saver compared to a newer, more expensive car that is just as reliable. Newer cars are generally more expensive to maintian imo. My bottom line? Whatever you can afford, make sure its reliable or you have the extra cash to cover a vehicle that is expensive to own and maintain. For R50's specifically, some of the ones on the used market are too far gone and will be money pits. My R50 only needed fluid changes and regular maintenance to last me 3 years of ownership (ok, I replaced the throttle body once- $150). There are all kinds of vehicles, newer and older, that will be more expensive to maintain than that. My new Toyota will probably be the same in the long term: regular maintenance will probably be the only real costs of onwing the vehicle. Personally, I will probably buy used honda's and toyota's from hear on out. Almost everything they make lasts forever and can be found in good shape on the used market. Don't buy a beater R50. But, with any vehicle purchase, there is risk that something goes out unexpected. Even a clean R50 might be 20k miles away from a transmission replacement.
It’s a lot the same from what I know.... same unibody, same suspension. Engine options varied, I think there was a diesel, and then some international vehicles also got 4.0 gear ratios as an option.
@@208Tyler I didn't pay any premium price for it, and it wasn't being promoted as anything other than a pathfinder, so I think saying I was duped is a bit extreme. You may be right, since I haven't been able to find any info, but it's more than just a badge. It has perfectly placed NISMO badges on the rear lift gate, the front grill, the trim band over the glove box, NISMO wheels (down to the valve caps), and the remnants of NISMO livery on the roof rack decal, which looks more like an X-terra style rack than other late R50s than I've seen. It could be someone was willing to go through a lot of trouble to add all that, but it took a lot of effort to make it look like it came from the factory this way. I'm new to pathfinder, but I've owned enough Landcruisers to know that there are a ton of variants. If any of your viewers have ever seen anything like this, I'd appreciate hearing about it. Thanks for the informative video.
Wow, that’s more detail than I suspected, forgive my assumption- it’s not at all uncommon to see people add decals on Facebook and whatnot, but I’ve never heard of that level of detail being put into an R50, certainly not US or Canadian markets. I’m glad you still got it at a fair price, and I hope you enjoy it. Does the roof rack look like mine? The 02-04 SE’s came with a rack very much like the Xterra one in terms of general shape and color scheme. My speculation is still that the previous owner added all of those details on his own. By 2004, Nissan was phasing out the pathfinder (they had already quit producing QX4’s) and I don’t think Nissan would go through the trouble of producing a nismo R50. Perhaps a VIN search would help. And I’d have to imagine that your 04 is identical to every other 04 produced in terms of drivetrain. I’ve never seen or heard of any kind of higher performance VQ35, factory exhaust, etc that was featured on the R50. With the overall popularity of the VQ35, info about that would certainly be circulating if it actually existed. Furthermore, there’s not an ounce of internet info on that trim model regarding the R50. No press releases or anything mentioning that edition. The nismo wheels might be traceable back to the somewhat common acquisition of nismo wheels like these: www.clubxterra.org/threads/pic-request-00-04-xterra-on-nismo-16-wheels.12495/ I’ve seen them in R50’s before as an aftermarket upgrade. I would, of course, love to see pics of the vehicle and these details!
@@208Tyler I'd be happy to share photos. It does have the beefier rack, but what's unusual is the decal has the remnants of a tri-color flag and "PATHFINDER" in red and white lettering. All the examples I've seen are more like black gloss decals. I know Frontiers came in a NISMO package, but I haven't seen anything before 2005 and the wheels don't quite match. One thing I'm curious about. When I've had the LEs and my SE in 4WD, they have hopped more when turning than my Toyota's did. I don't see the orange LSD sticker on my pumpkin. Is this typical for all Pathys, or is this an indicator of a LSD?
If you’re is an SE, it’s not an LSD. And even if it did have the LSD, that things super weak. 30-40 ft lbs for all 03-04 LSD units, only found on LE’s. The hopping could be due to shorter wheelbase
Hey man great video! I have an 01 manual VQ35 and and you were right on the money about a quart every 800 miles..my question to you is can I replace the whole IACV? I think I may have that problem because my speedo light will only work if headlights are on the auto setting and my clock light comes on and off like it's shorting out...just hit 200,000 yesterday. Also what oil do you use for transfer case and rear end?
Yes, you should be able to replace the entire IACV.. of course if it’s fried your ECM then it doesn’t matter, you need the ECM replaced as well. I use whatever the owners manual/FSM specs. I think the rear end is 75W90 or 80W90, can’t remember what the transfer takes
@@208Tyler thanks for the response man! Do you have to reset the computer after you install a new IACV? Or is that just if you replace the ECU also? I don't have any other issues but the speedometer light like I said so I don't think my ECU is bad I'd imagine if know it if was right?? Any feedback is appreciated.
There is probably a relearn procedure for the IACV, the FSM can tell you if there is. Symptoms of the fried ECU and IACV combo would include rough idle or other idle related issues. There could be other stuff as well. If you pull the ECU you may be able to see the damage to components-melted/fried hardware
Well, if the VG33 is non-interference that definitely makes me feel better. Any insight on the hydraulic lifters in that older motor? On the passenger side mine tick like the dickens until it warms up a bit.
What’s the different between the chilkoot and other models? Just purchased one but am having a hard time with finding info, is it just bells and whistles or does it have functional upgrades ?
So it’s a Canada only edition from what I know. Supposedly it’s standard equipped with the rear LSD. Not a big deal really since it’s a weak unit. I don’t know anything else about it really
Great informative no-BS video!! When checking out a used R50, how do you identify if the automatic transmission suffers from the problems you have explained?
@@208Tyler just bought a 1999 WXII (Australian) with VG33, auto and electric transfer, got 25 miles from dealer and temp up to 3/4….so now it’s parked and going through a warranty claim….hopefully it’s just a stuffed water pump or clogged cooling system…just asked question in case known issue….cheers for your reply Tyler.
Maybe. I’d consider it, if the VG33E is in good shape that’s realistically only 1/2 to 2/3 of its life. No oil leaks and good compression with a healthy transmission should go well past 200k
I figured... watched that part like 3 times just in case I was missing something lol Love the look on these SUVs. Unfortunately I didnt have a very good experience with my 03 SE. New Englad vehicle tho.
We had a 2000 nissan pathfinder for 4 years. Never had any major issues, regular maintenance. The thing never quit, the power wasn't great or fuel mileage but it never failed us!
This guy is a legend, just watching his videos and found myself buying an ‘04 SE.
Thanks Tyler awesome contents 👊🏽
Stumbled upon Tyler's videos while looking at options for my '04. We also have an '01
The cars are a dream to drive but have not been without problems over the years. Here are some other things to watch out for:
Check the rear seal area at the back of the engine -- Pathfinders are notorious for leaking from the rear seal and there's no easy way to fix this.
Check the area under the oil cooler for leakage - pretty common for this to leak but it's a relatively easy fix and not necessarily a deal breaker.
Valve covers failed on the '04 at about 160K.
The original radiator will likely fail at or around 200K -- the plastic top casting will split ans spray coolant when under pressure . (we have two pathfinders [01and '04) and they both failed at about the same mileage.). These are California cars and not subject to extreme temperatures, btw.
Check the trouble codes for O2 sensor fail - these are not too tricky to replace but may suggest a problem. I would avoid any vehicle with a check engine light related to emission system (especially in states with strict smog requirements where you must pass a smog test to register it).
Tengo una pathfi der año 2000 mecanica 197000km origen japon fierrazo gastador de bencina motor vg33 falla comun rodamiebto distribuidor y puede dañar bobina captador si se le da mantencion y se cambia rodamiento probablemente no falle es una exelente maquina saludos de chile💪
The original owner of my 2002 Pathfinder included a sales brochure from the dealer. That includes a full option/package breakdown page and if anyone is interested I can send over a picture....
Are you in Canada? Does it have the chilkoot model?
@@maxgillespie3008 I’m in the US. It is US spec only..
I’m looking for an R50, so this is extremely informative. Thank you for this, owe you a beer
Awesome! Haha I guess you go!
Just bought an 2000 R50 SE in red for my 16yr old daughter and matter of fact is identical to the one In your picture at the beginning. Glory days of Nissan. Everything works! It does have the typical rust in the 1/4 wheel well arch and front fenders. But other than that it’s in excellent condition. The original owner took very good care of it and kept up with ALL service work including the timing belt. I’m a Honda guy through and through but I’ve definitely fallen in love with it
Glad to hear it! Sounds like you got a solid rig!
Thanks for all the research! Just realized this was posted 30m ago!
You bet!
Got a 2000 R 50 not 1 problem just maintain properly 220,000 mile on a FANTASTIC SUV,thanks Nissan!
Yes, also remember rear main seals for the vq35s are a pita when it comes to leaking. Keep up the good work brotha, I’m on all the Facebook pathfinder groups and the community for these are amazing and growing. 👍
Ahhhhh I had that in my script and forgot to say it in the video lol. The rear main is definitely something where oil leaks from, though I think most people who have done the repair find that it’s one of the seals above it that leaks at the same spot
Tyler Smith Yea I’ve noticed. What’s your next vid going to be about? You’ve covered almost all there is to cover on the r50 platform when it comes to mechanical and technical. Maybe performance? I soon hope to start my TH-cam channel but with more so covering my off-road adventures and showing the capabilities of the platform. I noticed the prices for r50s have already gone up here in NorCal lol
Not sure. During the school year I’m out of state and my video schedule gets thrown out of wack by my course load. I also don’t have anywhere to camp or Offroad while at school.
I hope to go on and document more outdoor trips this summer compared to last, but we’ll see. Good luck on your channel! Feel free to hit me up if you have any questions.
Ya. Prices are definitely holding at a minimum, if not going up.
Tyler Smith lol you keep doing what your doing and the prices will go up everywhere
I love my 2003 Chilkoot R50. Absolutely right, keep that auto transmission serviced! Great video, thanks again.
Awesome! Ya, the auto’s need tender loving care haha. Thanks for watching!
Yup, keep that tranny fluid looking red... 01, 225,000 still shifts perfect...
Does 2003 chilkoot have LSD in back?
Not sure. Physically checking it yourself is always a good bet
Just bought my first R50 up here in Canada. Managed to get a 2002 chilkoot with the manual trans and manual transfer case with the VQ. ~220,000km (140,000 miles). Got it for the equivalent of $1300 USD. Needs a clutch and trailing arm bushings but I’m excited to use it for my rooftop tent. Interesting note, mine does not have the “use lsd oil only” sticker, but I have yet to test if it has an LSD. Tons of old nissans in the junkyards around here so I’ve already collected a spare LSD with the same gearing (in case mine doesn’t have one) and LSD internals from 5 diffs for a rebuild. Even managed to find a 94 pathfinder and get the strong lsd plates as well as the transfer case skid plate (thanks to your videos I knew to look for it). Also managed to pull the cooler upper console with the compass and outdoor temperature and get it installed and working on mine! Keep up the good work and thanks for the awesome videos! I’m sure I’ll be watching a lot throughout my build/ownership.
Awesome! Sounds like you’ve got a good platform and build going. All good choices for mods and additions. Have fun with it! Thanks for watching.
My 99.5 R50 does have a cracked exhaust manifold. It still drives great, it just makes the engine a bit noisy (sounds almost like a ticking lifter)
Ok. Nice to know
Just wanna say thank you for the awesome video! I watched this right before i made a purchase of my very own R50! I got a 2002 LE with the electronic 4wd, everything works no lights 208k and a clean title. Its a black on black truck as well which is cool :) Payed 3300 and its been great so far! (the drive home lol) Thanks again i love this thing.
Glad the video helped! Have fun with your R50!
This was an extremely detailed and thorough explanation. Excellent video!
Great video! I have an 03 LE that I have loved driving and working on for the past decade. Something else to add though is the oil gallery gaskets in the VQ35DE engines. Behind the timing cover, there are two oil galleries that transfer oil internally from one part of the block to the other. The gaskets for these oil galleries were thin paper (pre-2013 I think I read) and are susceptible to blowing out, causing the car to go into a protective "limp mode" due to oil pressure loss. You see this a lot with VQ35DE engines in Z cars, so as a result there are really nice HTX-900 gaskets made as replacements by performance shops.
I saw this video after I got my 2001 R50 Pathfinder 3.5 w/ Manual Transmission. Didn't realize these were so rare for that year and transmission type.
Yes! Incredibly rare haha, enjoy it!
I appreciate the post man, chris on Facebook tagged you in a post referring to my new R50 and you liked the post so seeing this only makes me feel more special in the R50 realm. I got a 1996 California model that spent up to 2005 in cali so seems to havs minimal rust for the year along with what seems to be the better of the nissan packages. Appreciate the help again.
You bet! Enjoy your R50!
I just bought a 142 xxx km 2001 manual transmission se with a lot of options and 99% rust free as it is from bc so no road salt. Very excited to start building it
I have an 02 LE and love the all wheel drive for in the rain on wet pavement so you don't spin the tires
Not sure how common but i have and read about a few others having the top speed/revolution transmission sensor leaking down to the plug on the passenger side. Great video!
I had a 99.5 SE limited with the vg engine. It was a grear truck. It chugged gas and was gutless above 50mph but it was quiet and smooth.
Never had to dig it out of snow either. The stick 4wd was great too
Perfect timing! This really helped when I bought a decent condition 2000 qx4 yesterday, can't wait for my ome springs to come in lol
Awesome!! Enjoy it
Great vid as always! I lucked out and snagged what feels like the only 2001 SE 5 speed, manual transfer case in all of california. Had her about 2 years and boy even with just a 2 inch lift and some 30s she's gone some gnarly stuff. Constantly surprised by the capability of a good R50!
I’m looking to buy a qx4 and this video makes me nervous coming from only buying Toyota’s in the past. I appreciate the info!
Haha, anything with a VG33E and fresh tranny fluid will run forever. The VQ’s are the harder ones to find in reliable shape IMO. But mines given me essentially zero issues on 35k miles/2.5 years
Did you end up getting the QX4? Im kinda in the same boat have a 2WD 4runner didnt think id want to get into some over landing. Thinking of selling amd getting one of these. Was worried about the maintenance too. Lmk
@@208Tyler would you get rid of 3rd gen 2wd runner for 4x4 Pathy or QX
@@loslosthuy It was low mileage but didn’t get it because there was fluid coming out of everything. Rear main seal, differential, steering rack, transfer case.
I’m still on the hunt for one because the wife really loved it and it’ll be her vehicle
Yes. I had a 2WD 3rd Gen, I prefer my R50
Super helpful stuff i want to be lookin for, 170k on my 02 rn. If you can do a quick follow up video that has a walk around and show some of the stuff you might need to check that'd be super helpful!
Hmmmmm, I could possibly add that. Thanks for the suggestion!
Dude, I like your r50 vids.. I have had an 03’ frontier (vg33e 5spd 2wd ) for years now- 120k + of my use..
I recently got an 04 “platinum” pathy and I really like it. I was super surprised to see how little my frontier and my pathy share mechanically. Seems like different people at Nissan designed them.. anyways thanks dude, I will be watching. 👌
Ya specific model year the frontier and the R50 you got will essentially share nothing in common. Same/similar rear axle, but that’s about it.
Great overview. I own a 2004 Chinook edition with a 5 sp manual. The manual transmission was offered in Canada in 2003 and 2004.
Oh! That’s neat!
OKAY - the Nissan Pathfinder (green in particular) is my DREAM car and this video is so helpful! I’m currently looking around for one and need to keep an eye out for the issues you pointed out. Unfortunately so many on the market are baaaaaad 🥲
I call my 2002 a 2 stroke because i have the same math of every 800 miles is 1 quart of oil that needs to be added
I had a 2001 Diesel 3lt owned for 5 years never a problem ,sold to family member still going,always serviced it never let me down ,around about 360.000 KS still going string great vehicle, I'm looking for another.
Great tips! The different trims and packages year to year are very nuanced.
Yes! Incredibly nuanced, especially once you start going down toward interior details and the small details of the vehicles. Thanks for watching!
I have a Pathfinder 2001 LE 3.5 in Northern Mexico, "they work well"
What a freakin coincidence. Literally looking for an R50 👌😂
Awesome! Good luck finding one
I realize I'm kinda off topic but does anyone know a good site to watch new series online?
@Pablo Jamie Try Flixzone. You can find it on google =)
My suspicion why the rockers rust out is because of the door gutters at the bottom between the hinges clogging up with leaves and mud, causing a back flow of water getting between the spot welds and accumulating inside the Rocker. I found out the hard way. Keep the door gutters clean and free flowing.
Thanks for the info. Very helpful, even though I already have the 99.5 Infiniti QX4. Learned some things you hadn't already taught me.
Great! Thank you for watching!
Awesome thanks!!! I am going to look at an 04 this week.
Still drive my 99 QX4 that my dad bought back in 2002 :)
That’s great!
Hi Tyler! Loved the video and as a proud owner of a 2005 3,5 SE AT R50 from Chile i couldn't agree more! Recently changed the rear bushings because i was experiencing the death wobble at highway speeds, and also would add the rear sway bar is really weak and it will break as soon you hit a trail!, but after almost 3 years im happy as a clam with my R50! cheers!
The sway bars are weird. Mine broke, but I know a lot of people who haven’t snapped their’s. Seems to vary a lot
Nice vid... I got a 97' Klondike edition I found with only 95k km. Love it. Kept in a garage it's whole life. Haven't seen another Klondike yet?
My 04 r50 pathfinder chinook still going strong w 300k km!!
That’s awesome to hear!
Nice, enjoyed learning bout the Yank trim levels and options. Couple of things to not on Aussie R50’s, we only got two trim levels RX (base) and Ti (luxury) we only had the VG33E available for the entire run through to 2005, our Facelift came in on the tail end of ‘98 along with the all mode selector, and all our diffs/axles are the 46’s with LSD.
Oh and we didn’t get the rear tyre carriers from factory.
My 01 VQ has the LE trim package, with the manual shift transfer case and limited slip. Just need to find a tire carrier for it now
One of the coolest specs!👌🏻
I just got a 01 le with rear entertainment vhs player my little kids love up blue tooth headphones.
Hi tyler, great videos, if I just want to stiffen my 01 R50 rear suspension so its not sagging with any little load and not necessary lift it, what do you recommend?
Air bags are probably your best bet. I think Firestone makes them?
Good chat as ever Tyler.
I’ve just done some preventative PNW arch rot stopping on mine, so so many here have that bad.
Mine is a Canadian 02 Chilkoot, I didn’t know they had an LSD, and no sticker on mine. Guess I’ll jack it up or look for ID codes on the diff (according to NPORA).
Jacking it up would be your best bet. The stickers can fall off
03 JR50
I do notice a difference between 93 and 87 and 91 Non Ethanol. But. With as good as it runs, its smooth with all of them.
I've kept mine for 17 years now
Thank you so much for the guide
You bet. Thanks for watching!
I got a 99 qx4, 236k miles, def has issues but she’s a trooper
Hey Tyler thanks for doing this son I got a 2000 Nissan pathfinder LE 86,000 miles on it creampuff and I was getting ready to buy it and the lady ran in the sunlight metal poles to the front bumper off I had to change the pole controllers armed left and right but you’re very knowledgeable RO thank you very much for doing that yeah I still bought it after she ran into those polls are things this is too nice I mean there’s not one blemish on the interior of the door jams all the stickers in the whole car look like you just drop it off to Shawn. for an unbelievable but I’ll keep an eye on your views and stuff on Nissan Pilest fun ride in good Jobs thank you again
You are not kidding with the engine oil burning issue. I put a new valve cover gasket on to stop the leaks but man, does this engine burn oil. I will just have to keep my eye on it. Any reason why my engine oil light doesn't come on?
It does (for me) when I get below a quart low- it’ll stay on longer than usual at startup. To get it to stay on during driving, you’d have to go a lot lower than that it seems, I’ve never had it happen.
Man you have so much information here. Super handy.
I have a 2001 SE 3.5L manual transmission, floor shifter. In Canada. 220Km.
Suspension is a bit bagged. Thanks for the suspension videos! I just ordered some 9449 Landover springs and am going to replace the front struts for a 2" lift.
I should probably take care of my valve covers and my clutch/throw out bearing first
Anyways, your channel is extremely helpful and thorough
Awesome to hear! Thanks for watching
Zero rust on mine from Washington state... 2001.
West coast best coast. I see a lot of Midwestern, Canadian, and east coast R50’s with the issue
Great video, thank you. Just found ‘04 Nissan with 55k miles. Pics look beautiful. It’s an LE platinum
Are the engine problems you talked about for high mileage units?
Nice find!
Yes, generally engine/transmission problems are going to occur above 100-150k miles on these vehicles
@@208Tyler thank you. I’ll have to look closely at strut mounts.
I realized with my Infiniti QX4 they don't make headlamps for it and it's going to buy a set for a Pathfinder but I really did fall in love with my QX4 I had to put a brand new transmission and then when I bought it but it's really hard to find the spindles I just want to exercise the spindles to put up just in case I can't figure out why my four wheel drive warning lights on I have the switch four-wheel operation to make the four wheel drive work and I don't have to take to the shop and see what's wrong with it but why I put in park it was Park on one wheel the back wheels are free it's just the front right wheel does not move
My 2000 QX4 has the auto setting for 4wd.
Good to know!
very helpful, thank you!
The VG33e is most definately an interference engine. If that timing belt snaps you are in for a bad day. Other than that I enjoyed the video!
I believe you’re right, I think there’s another comment here about that. Every once in a while someone blows a belt and doesn’t lose the engine, but it’s not a guarantee. Thanks for commenting!
My qx4 2001 still running .. replaced the engine 2 years ago . Now its problem is the rear suspension is short so the viecle is left on front and noisy on some humbs >>my greeting from saudi arabia
I have a fully loaded 2001 , Manual and Manual 4x4 so far loving the car . Seems a bit like some ponies varnished but eh
Thanks for the video!!! Are the 3.5 non interference also?
3.5 is an interference engine
Excellent breakdown. I was about to buy a 1997 qx4 4x4...theres a problem w the xfer case. Still talking w the owner. Thanks!
Glad it helped!
I just picked up a early 2001 (build date in 2000) 3.5L Auto LE Pathfinder with manual transfer case and 218,000 miles for $400. I'm surprised you didn't mention the trans cooler issue where coolant leaks into the trans and kills it. 🤔
Coolant leaking into the transmission (Strawberry Milkshake of Death, SMOD) is only a common problem on the VQ40 Xterra’s, Pathfinders, and Frontiers from about 2005-2010.
Can it happen on the VQ35DE? Probably, but I’ve never seen it on the forums or FB groups I frequent.
@@208Tyler Ah, good to know. Thank you for the feedback! 🙏🤙
You should make a pathfinder discord bro
Npora forums
We all have one
Never been on discord, and the last thing I need is another social media to monitor. Already on FB, IG, YT, and Reddit.
Impressive info!
I'm having a gas smell when I stop. Is this unsafe or a fix that can wait a few weeks. Or does this need to be done immediately
Are you still wanting to see the aluminum spare tire carrier?
Thanks for the video. Will these be as bad on gasoline as my dad’s old suburban? It got 14mpg!
They’re not great. Maybe 15 mpg on a stock VQ35 doing mixed driving
Great video and informative. Currently shopping for a QX4. Quick question, how come you don’t recommend the full time 4x4 system for off-roading and over landing? It has the center diff lock and 4lo. Why do you believe the other system is better? Could that system be found in the Qx4?
Uh, maybe I misspoke on the video, but there’s nothing wrong with the allmode transfer case. Like I stated, it even has a lower crawl ratio.
The truly “better” part of the manual case is the ability to swap in low range gears into it, but otherwise both systems are very competent. Get whichever system you prefer.
Extremely helpful. Does the vg33e take premium or regular fuel?
It should run fine on 87
@@208Tyler awesome, thanks lol, i'm gonna be taking a look at a 1999 qx4 soon... extremely low KMs (i'm in Canada), hope all goes well
Great Video! I do have a few questions. I am thinking about purchasing a 02 QX4 but I was told by a Nissan mechanic that purchasing a 20 year old truck will just be a money pit between looking for parts and the rust issue especially rusting brake lines. What is your opinion on this ?
Rusty, old cars in poor mechanical shape are something of a money pit- you don't want to be replacing major drivetrain components or totaling vehicles due to rust. If you live in an area with Rust issues, R50's aren't the car for you- few vehicles can last 20 years in a rust area. Parts are still easily available for these.
A clean, mechanically sound vehicle that's old is a money saver compared to a newer, more expensive car that is just as reliable. Newer cars are generally more expensive to maintian imo.
My bottom line? Whatever you can afford, make sure its reliable or you have the extra cash to cover a vehicle that is expensive to own and maintain.
For R50's specifically, some of the ones on the used market are too far gone and will be money pits. My R50 only needed fluid changes and regular maintenance to last me 3 years of ownership (ok, I replaced the throttle body once- $150). There are all kinds of vehicles, newer and older, that will be more expensive to maintain than that. My new Toyota will probably be the same in the long term: regular maintenance will probably be the only real costs of onwing the vehicle. Personally, I will probably buy used honda's and toyota's from hear on out. Almost everything they make lasts forever and can be found in good shape on the used market.
Don't buy a beater R50. But, with any vehicle purchase, there is risk that something goes out unexpected. Even a clean R50 might be 20k miles away from a transmission replacement.
How much do you know about the Nissan Terrano’s? I’m looking at a 99 Terrano. Looks like it’s 99.5 since it has the the newer front end look
It’s a lot the same from what I know.... same unibody, same suspension. Engine options varied, I think there was a diesel, and then some international vehicles also got 4.0 gear ratios as an option.
Any information on the 04 NISMO? Mine is the only one I've ever come across.
It’s not a real thing. The previous owner must’ve duped you with a sticker
@@208Tyler I didn't pay any premium price for it, and it wasn't being promoted as anything other than a pathfinder, so I think saying I was duped is a bit extreme. You may be right, since I haven't been able to find any info, but it's more than just a badge. It has perfectly placed NISMO badges on the rear lift gate, the front grill, the trim band over the glove box, NISMO wheels (down to the valve caps), and the remnants of NISMO livery on the roof rack decal, which looks more like an X-terra style rack than other late R50s than I've seen. It could be someone was willing to go through a lot of trouble to add all that, but it took a lot of effort to make it look like it came from the factory this way. I'm new to pathfinder, but I've owned enough Landcruisers to know that there are a ton of variants. If any of your viewers have ever seen anything like this, I'd appreciate hearing about it.
Thanks for the informative video.
Wow, that’s more detail than I suspected, forgive my assumption- it’s not at all uncommon to see people add decals on Facebook and whatnot, but I’ve never heard of that level of detail being put into an R50, certainly not US or Canadian markets. I’m glad you still got it at a fair price, and I hope you enjoy it.
Does the roof rack look like mine? The 02-04 SE’s came with a rack very much like the Xterra one in terms of general shape and color scheme.
My speculation is still that the previous owner added all of those details on his own. By 2004, Nissan was phasing out the pathfinder (they had already quit producing QX4’s) and I don’t think Nissan would go through the trouble of producing a nismo R50. Perhaps a VIN search would help. And I’d have to imagine that your 04 is identical to every other 04 produced in terms of drivetrain. I’ve never seen or heard of any kind of higher performance VQ35, factory exhaust, etc that was featured on the R50. With the overall popularity of the VQ35, info about that would certainly be circulating if it actually existed.
Furthermore, there’s not an ounce of internet info on that trim model regarding the R50. No press releases or anything mentioning that edition. The nismo wheels might be traceable back to the somewhat common acquisition of nismo wheels like these: www.clubxterra.org/threads/pic-request-00-04-xterra-on-nismo-16-wheels.12495/
I’ve seen them in R50’s before as an aftermarket upgrade.
I would, of course, love to see pics of the vehicle and these details!
@@208Tyler I'd be happy to share photos. It does have the beefier rack, but what's unusual is the decal has the remnants of a tri-color flag and "PATHFINDER" in red and white lettering. All the examples I've seen are more like black gloss decals. I know Frontiers came in a NISMO package, but I haven't seen anything before 2005 and the wheels don't quite match.
One thing I'm curious about. When I've had the LEs and my SE in 4WD, they have hopped more when turning than my Toyota's did. I don't see the orange LSD sticker on my pumpkin. Is this typical for all Pathys, or is this an indicator of a LSD?
If you’re is an SE, it’s not an LSD. And even if it did have the LSD, that things super weak. 30-40 ft lbs for all 03-04 LSD units, only found on LE’s.
The hopping could be due to shorter wheelbase
Hey man great video! I have an 01 manual VQ35 and and you were right on the money about a quart every 800 miles..my question to you is can I replace the whole IACV? I think I may have that problem because my speedo light will only work if headlights are on the auto setting and my clock light comes on and off like it's shorting out...just hit 200,000 yesterday. Also what oil do you use for transfer case and rear end?
Manual trans 01 pathfinder SE
Yes, you should be able to replace the entire IACV.. of course if it’s fried your ECM then it doesn’t matter, you need the ECM replaced as well.
I use whatever the owners manual/FSM specs. I think the rear end is 75W90 or 80W90, can’t remember what the transfer takes
@@208Tyler thanks for the response man! Do you have to reset the computer after you install a new IACV? Or is that just if you replace the ECU also? I don't have any other issues but the speedometer light like I said so I don't think my ECU is bad I'd imagine if know it if was right?? Any feedback is appreciated.
There is probably a relearn procedure for the IACV, the FSM can tell you if there is. Symptoms of the fried ECU and IACV combo would include rough idle or other idle related issues. There could be other stuff as well. If you pull the ECU you may be able to see the damage to components-melted/fried hardware
With only these years and issues, which one would you have if all makes, models and options were available to you?
I like the 99.5 the best. 4WD, 3.3, Manual transfer case.
Well, if the VG33 is non-interference that definitely makes me feel better. Any insight on the hydraulic lifters in that older motor? On the passenger side mine tick like the dickens until it warms up a bit.
No, I’m not familiar with those
My 3,5 burns 300 ml of oil on every 1000 km , no blue smoke ,no leaks , I guess it is sucks through psv valve in to intake
When’s the merch dropping?🔥
Soon my man
this looks like the bathroom suite from my military days,lol
I found an aluminum tire carrier!!!
That’s awesome! Good find
What’s the different between the chilkoot and other models? Just purchased one but am having a hard time with finding info, is it just bells and whistles or does it have functional upgrades ?
So it’s a Canada only edition from what I know. Supposedly it’s standard equipped with the rear LSD. Not a big deal really since it’s a weak unit.
I don’t know anything else about it really
@@208Tyler ok thanks!
Great informative no-BS video!! When checking out a used R50, how do you identify if the automatic transmission suffers from the problems you have explained?
Shifts good, trans fluid looks red (not black). If you drop the pan and there’s lots of metal shavings, that’s not good
How do you find the axle gear ratio for a QX4?
Check VIN plate. HG46 for 4.6 diff, HG43 for 4.3
Thanks
I found a 2002 with 4x4 manual tranny says peak to peak edition what is that?
Dealer package, there’s nothing special about it mechanically
Have they ever been known for overheating?
They can overheat, or course, but it’s not a super common issue
@@208Tyler just bought a 1999 WXII (Australian) with VG33, auto and electric transfer, got 25 miles from dealer and temp up to 3/4….so now it’s parked and going through a warranty claim….hopefully it’s just a stuffed water pump or clogged cooling system…just asked question in case known issue….cheers for your reply Tyler.
Hey man where did you get your running boards
I didn’t have running boards on my R50 for very long. I did have a set of rock sliders on it. They were from trail gear, DIY 67” sliders
@@208Tyler ohh ok ty dude
Hey Tyler is it worth it to purchase a 99 pathy 208XXXXX on the dash?
Maybe. I’d consider it, if the VG33E is in good shape that’s realistically only 1/2 to 2/3 of its life. No oil leaks and good compression with a healthy transmission should go well past 200k
Fuck wit your videos 💯
How many miles did you have on your r50?
Sold at approximately 185k miles
@@208Tyler I found a 02 qx4 with 100000miles. When did the oil consumption start?
The oil consumption was already at about 1 quart every 800 miles when I got my hands on it. It held steady at that rate for the entire time I owned it
Don't buy from a shady guy who listed a salvage as clean like I did.
From my bathroom! 😂
0:37. 1995-2004? 🤔
Lol. 1999.5-2004, I misspoke
I figured... watched that part like 3 times just in case I was missing something lol
Love the look on these SUVs. Unfortunately I didnt have a very good experience with my 03 SE. New Englad vehicle tho.
Ya, they can have their issues.