Should I get this 2000 Pathfinder?

[jasperwheel]

Hey,
I was seconds away from financing a 2000 nissan pathfinder 4x4 LE today, until reason took hold and I put it off until I researched it more.

It has 130k miles on it and after my financing it will be $1400 down with $280-$300 a month for 36 months (yes I have horrible credit). Which comes out to being around $8300. My question is, is this an alright deal for the price and miles? I am not too familiar with Pathfinders and how long they run for or anything like that.

Any help would be greatly appreciated.


Thanks,

Jasperwheel

[Towncivilian]

Where are you located? Ensure it has passed inspection for the strut housing corrosion recall and that there is no visible rust in the front wheel wells.

Check the condition of all of the fluids. Ensure the transmission and power steering fluid are bright red and not burnt smelling. Make sure the coolant level is between the MIN and MAX lines in the coolant overflow reservoir in the front driver side area to the side of the radiator, and that the radiator neck and coolant look clean inside. Check the underside for leaks.

Welcome to NICO!

[THatfield]

I would try to find a 2001+ with the 3.5L. the 3.3L is just gutless IMO in comparison to the 3.5L. I test drove several 3.3L R50's and then discovered the awesomeness of the 3.5L and never looked back.

[jasperwheel]

Thank you very much for your reply! I will check on the rust when I go back, I think the power steering and transmission were good but will definitely check again before buying.

I'm in the Denver, Colorado area. I checked the KBB and realize this is above blue book value but I'm not sure what they usually go for retail.

Is 130,000 miles considered high for this? I'm really into midsize SUV's (4runners, passports, blazers, etc) and from what I have driven I really like these Pathfinders. This one drove nice, just don't want to get the short end of the stick.

Thanks again,

Jasperwheel


EDIT:

@Thatfield
All of the years beyond 2000 seem to be on atleast 150,000 miles for the same price range as this one. I know it isn't a huge difference but it is a difference. As much as I would like to be picky, reliability, and price are huge factors right now for me.

[Buzzman]

One BIG question you need to have answered/clarified is whether or not the timing belt has been done.
Personally, I think $8,300 is a little much for the 2000.
I'd second the suggestion for looking around for a 2001 or newer model. The 3.5 engine makes a big difference.
Good luck.

[Chuck Tribolet]

The 3.5L is better than the 3.3 or 3.0 BUT, I put 130K miles on an '87 with 3.0L, and 130K miles on
a '95 with 3.3L, and other than towing the boat the smaller engine was adequate. And would be perfectly adequate for my current towing pattern (10 miles one-way, no hills) vs. before (50 miles one-way, two good hills). I now have 225K miles on an '01 3.5L

BUT the belt vs. chain issue is significant. The chain will go a VERY long time. If you have to
rebuild the short block. replace the chain (you only have the parts cost). But other wise,
just change the oil.

if you can pick up a 3.0 or 3.3 with a recently changed belt and good compression and leak down,
it will make fine daily driver.


Chuck

[THatfield]

The 3.5L was one of Ward's 10 best engines for 2000-2010. Very reliable, powerful. They last a VERY long time. There was a guy on here with 330k+ on his 3.5L QX, for what its worth.

[yngw13]

$8300 is steep IMO for a 2000 3.3
thats a dealer price for a LE 03-04 model "premium" where Im @
I would wait for a good deal on a 3.5l LE...

[zach7685]

8300 is outragous for a 2000. paid a little more than 4 for my 01 LE 4X4 with 156K Craigslist.

[Slumpert]

I also think $8k on the 2000 is way overpriced. Here in Houston they go for $3000-$5000 range in very good condition