Thinking about adding a G20 to my collection

[vonscorpio]

I just moved farther from work and the QX4 goes through 1/4 tank of gas a day. Time for a smaller commuter. I'm thinking 99 or newer. I'm fairly comfortable with Nissan's V6 engines, but I don't know much about the 4s.

What are some common issues I should check for before buying?
Weak spots?
What kind of average life should I expect from the timing chain?
What advice would you give a future G20 owner?

[SoundEfx]

The G20 should have the SR engine in it, so that's a good thing because parts are still readily available for it.

In terms of the car itself, because it's an Infiniti, look for one that wasn't beaten on by the younger folks.

But it comes down to the basic test drive trouble shooting of how does it shift, drive, does it make any noise...etc. Carry a mechanic with you and have them look over the car.

[vonscorpio]

Thanks for the reply.

I figure it didn't hurt to ask: "Say, what is the most common thing to fail on maintained a G20?"

Does the SR engine have a timing chain or belt?

I have learned certain vehicles experience issues specific to the model (like the Pathfinder/QX4 sway of death, Maxima/I30 timing chain rattle, etc.) and other things are more common between models (CV boots, valve cover gasket leaks, MAF, IACV etc.).

[2_Liter_Turbo]

The SR20 has a timing chain. G20's are pretty resilient. However, there are always some things. 5th gear pop-out is a big issue with earlier (96 and older) models. The 99+ years have a much better transmission, but the rear suspension is a solid beam type rather than multi-link like the older models. If it's just a commuter, that's no big deal. The newer model (P11 BTW, P10 is the older one) is much more comfortable interior wise and looks more modern on the outside. Wheel bearings are fairly common on those cars to wear out. Especially the fronts (both P10 and P11), If you get a "T" trim level, you get an LSD transmission (both manual and auto), plus extra options like a spoiler, fog lights, etc etc.

[vonscorpio]

Thanks for the detailed reply. This is potentially going to be a commuter, replacing the I30 for fuel economy sake. The biggest problem I have run into with the G20 has been finding one for sale*!
(*With less than 200K miles already on there)