I have 2003 Pathfinder, and I'm looking at this 03 Xterra for my son. It has 174K mikes on it and seems to be well taken care of.

What do I need to know before looking at it. They already mention that it has a valve cover leak causing some smoke. Is that a tough repair? What else should I be looking for in that year Xterra? V6, automatic.

Thanks,

Service records.
Specifically when is the last time the timing belt was serviced. 105k is the interval, but we've learned that time is an equal enemy as mileage. When they get done you do the water pump at the same time since it all has to come off anyways.

Also, listen to the distributor for rattling noises at idle.

If it's 4wd, get under it and check the CV boots. They're probably toast.

If it's an auto trans check the fluid to ensure it's not burnt. it should be about blood red if it's good.

Thanks for the info. Is the timing belt/water pump a $1200 job?

We got a good price on it, and went ahead and pulled the trigger. It's different enough from my Pathfinder that I'm sure I'll have questions.

BTW, after talking to the owner, the timing belt was changed around 110K, so it's OK (fingers crossed) for 40K miles or so.

Followup:

Timing belt broke yesterday. At shop now. They will let us know if engine is damaged (valves, etc). If OK, the timing belt replace will be $680.

Ooof.

Welcome aboard.

I can tell you, that truck with do a half-million miles if maintained. The automatic is the weak point for sure.

Last update:

Motor is shot. Damn. They said #5 piston was shot and may have even broke through the cylinder wall.

In an unrelated note, I have a nice Xterra for sale (minus motor).

Damn.

Location?

AZhitman wrote: ↑

Thu Oct 10, 2019 8:59 am

Damn.

Location?

South Carolina

So it had other issues. The VG33 is a non interference engine so losing a timing belt shouldn't break anything.

Still, bummer luck on the truck. Sounds like the PO was covering something up.

No, it's definitely an interference motor.

I've known about 5 of these that have snapped. Yours is the first to have internal engine damage from it.