Reliability of a 2000 Nissan Xterra SE?
Reliability of a 2000 Nissan Xterra SE?
Could anyone give me the low-down on Xterra reliability based on years and engines? I'm currently looking at a 2000 Xterra with about 130k miles on it and was wondering, besides belts/oil what else should be looked at/replaced and whether or not I could get an additional 100k miles out of it. I'm not planning on serious offroading, maybe a little rough terrain/snow but thats it.
-
Desert Rat
- Posts: 1642
- Joined: Wed Jan 17, 2007 11:57 am
- Car: 2014 370Z M6 Base Coupe
2017 Frontier 4.0
2007 Dodge Ram 2500 Cummins Quad Cab 4x4
1977 F150 4x4 Shorty BUILT
2008 Boulevard C90T
Previous owner of a bunch of Nissans - Location: Mesa, AZ
- Contact:
Re: Reliability of a 2000 Nissan Xterra SE?
Does the PO have any service records on the truck?
Timing belt interval is every 105k and I've seen a few of them fail actually before that. Fortunately the VG33E is a non interference engine and no internal damage occurs when it goes. That said, if you don't know if it's been done, it should be done. Do the water pump, belts, and hoses at the same time for insurance.
If it's an auto trans, check the fluid for discoloration. If it's not red, it needs a flush and is just like any other automatic. If it's a manual, make sure it shifts nice and smooth. The lifespan of the transmissions in these trucks seems to be 150-200k before a rebuild is needed. If the engine has had oil changes and reasonable maintenance, it's a 300k motor.
Front suspension components such as tie rod ends and the steering centerlink, if original, are likely due for a refresh, as are the shocks.
Knock sensors are the only notorious issue in the VG33E engines, and a significant teardown is needed if it needs replacing, so be skeptical of any SES light on the dash and get the codes pulled if there is one.
Lastly, inspect the front lower control arms carefully for cracks around the shock mount, and cracks around where the lower balljoints are pressed in. If cracks are developing, replace the UCA ASAP and make sure you get concessions in the price of the vehicle. Also look for tears or cracks in the CV boots while your'e under there.
Beyond this, it's like any other 130k mile vehicle. Fluids and soft parts are likely in need of service if they haven't been already. Otherwise, these are good solid trucks. If you start modifying it, plan on steering upgrades as one of your first priorities, as the steering system in these trucks is good in stock form only.
Timing belt interval is every 105k and I've seen a few of them fail actually before that. Fortunately the VG33E is a non interference engine and no internal damage occurs when it goes. That said, if you don't know if it's been done, it should be done. Do the water pump, belts, and hoses at the same time for insurance.
If it's an auto trans, check the fluid for discoloration. If it's not red, it needs a flush and is just like any other automatic. If it's a manual, make sure it shifts nice and smooth. The lifespan of the transmissions in these trucks seems to be 150-200k before a rebuild is needed. If the engine has had oil changes and reasonable maintenance, it's a 300k motor.
Front suspension components such as tie rod ends and the steering centerlink, if original, are likely due for a refresh, as are the shocks.
Knock sensors are the only notorious issue in the VG33E engines, and a significant teardown is needed if it needs replacing, so be skeptical of any SES light on the dash and get the codes pulled if there is one.
Lastly, inspect the front lower control arms carefully for cracks around the shock mount, and cracks around where the lower balljoints are pressed in. If cracks are developing, replace the UCA ASAP and make sure you get concessions in the price of the vehicle. Also look for tears or cracks in the CV boots while your'e under there.
Beyond this, it's like any other 130k mile vehicle. Fluids and soft parts are likely in need of service if they haven't been already. Otherwise, these are good solid trucks. If you start modifying it, plan on steering upgrades as one of your first priorities, as the steering system in these trucks is good in stock form only.