1997 NISSAN Pathfinder

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Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

My father bought a 1997 Pathfinder LE loaded off the showroom in 1997. He was a traveling sales rep and he sold me the car in 2004 with 265k. I drove it until it had 310k and gave it to my little brother in law for his 16th birthday present. He drove it for another year and a half and traded it in on a new Scion. I absolutely loved how smooth the tranny shifted, how quiet the engine was and how roomy the interior was. I loved it so much that I am buying another 1997 SE in 2 days! I think it is one of the best and most underrated SUV's ever made. It eats the snow and dirt and never dies. GET ONE!!

Loved it!

Performance: 3 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 3 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

I bought my pathfinder used for $3500 and it had 160k miles on it. It was the base model with a/c and a Manuel trans. It was rough around the edges but the interior had held up amazingly. Everything on the inside looked in mint condition. The a/c still worked great. The 4wd was amazing and functioned perfectly. I was rough on this truck but it never gave me any issues. Fitted a snorkel to it and hurricane season was no problem for me. It would go through anything! Overall a great truck. It was reliable and durable. I handed it down to my sister and she killed it by way of not changing the oil. It had 221k miles.

So far so good. Nice SUV with gas mileage like a car.

Performance: 4 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 3 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 4

Just bought it after selling my 1996 Ford Bronco which I loved but at 11 mpg was beginning to feel the pinch. So thought a stickshift 2 wheel drive Pathfinder would do the same as I don't 4x4 ever really. I like the lite but sturdy feel and I just feel like I am saving gas as I coast everywhere in nuetral 1/2 the time and use the gas the other 1/2 it seems. Only issues have been general maintenance stuff I guess, as never had to deal with on the Bronco. I have already had to to the front struts, carrier bearing at center of driveshaft, right side exhaust manifold (cracked), charcoal cannister, trailing arm bushings to stop "pathfinder death wobble". If paid a shop $2,000 so did on own.

Fantastic First Car!

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

My great uncle sold this car to me cheap soon after I got my license last December. Now, it was in great condition mostly thanks to my uncle treating it like his firstborn son since he bought it in '97, but what a great car he chose! I've had it for almost a year and it's required shockingly little maintenance for a 13-year-old car. 130,000 miles hasn't slowed it down a bit. It drives great, even in bad storms and intense heat. My parents and I feel safe knowing that I have a sturdy reliable car to get around with. I was definitely dealt a good hand with my first car compared to some clunkers my friends were landed with. My compliments to Nissan, this sucker's going to last me for years.

Biggest piece i've ever bought

Performance: 1 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 2 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 3 Build Quality: 1 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 1 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 1

I bought this car used from my uncle with 98,000 miles and ever since I've owned it, it has been nothing but trouble. Replaced the manual transmission and drive shaft $1800. Struts and shocks are so bad the car wobbles as you're driving. The drive shaft has already messed up again just recently as an experienced owner I will never buy another Nissan any make or model.

great suv

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I have owned 3 pathfinders along the way. First was a 1996 se, then went to a 2001 with the 3.5l and now I am back in a 1997. They all have been absolutely great vehicles! Never left me stranded anywhere, go through snow up to the bumpers, repairs are rare and they hold their value. The only complaint I had was going from my 1996 with 150,000 miles to the 2001 with 80,000 miles, I expected the same fuel mileage and was disappointed. A year later and I was back in the 1997 and regained some of the fuel mileage back again. This is a cant miss suv. Why pay thousands more for a 4 runner?

Best vehicle I've ever had

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

When the recession hit, I could no longer make monthly car payments so I saved up some money and bought my used 97 pathfinder with cash. I researched and found this is one of the best SUV's for reliability. I replaced all belts, hoses, water pump,timing belt and bought 4 new tires. I recently drove this on a 3000 mile trip and it did wonderful. I love this truck despite that it does get thirsty. This vehicle will run for another 100,000 easily. Love it.

Still the one

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Mileage, handling, braking, transmission, better than when it was new. Engine is smooth as silk. Changing oil every 3,000 miles, transmission every 30,000, serviced only at dealer. Using Michelin Mud and Snow tires with Nitrogen really brought up the MPG, get an honest 19 mph on the highway.

Good, solid, reliable vehicle

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

I bought this SUV in 8/05 with 118K and it now has over 182K. Besides routine maintenance and tires, I have only had to replace a thermostat, water pump, and muffler ($600 total). I would recommend the vehicle to anyone looking for a reliable SUV.

Even more reliable than I am.

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

This car has gotten me through thick and thin. I have been careless at times not changing the oil regularly but even so... it's still charging forward. I love to give her all she's got especially in parking lots, I feel like I'm flying a plane. I've had to replace the exhaust a couple of times as it rusts through as well as the runners. I have an oil leak in the engine but it's still going strong. A check engine light showed up about a week ago but my mechanic said it's nothing just a sensor near the fuel system. It's nothing important just related to the emissions. Otherwise a magnificent vehicle. Very comfortable as people always tend to fall asleep when they're driving with me.

no problems here

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 2 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

I bought our 1997 Pathfinder new in 1998. Got a good deal on it. As our spare vehicle we only drove it about 4,000 miles a year the first 8 years. That all changed when our daughter started driving. She doubled the mileage in 3 years. It has had the normal things replaced/repaired. The A/C evaporator is the biggest so far. I'm very comfortable with our daughter driving it full time. It has to be inspected next month and if we get bad news we may look around at some other SUVs. We can't afford another Pathfinder. That Hyundai 10 year 100,000 power train warranty is looking pretty good.

Great SUV

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 2 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I have nothing but great luck with this car....it is built well, runs well and hardly ever breaks down. I have spent very little to keep it running and has never let me down. I have 221000 miles and it still runs great. I will never buy an American car again after owning a Nissan. Built well, runs well, and still looks contemporary.

My beautiful Pathfinder

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 3 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 3

Bought this Pathfinder up in Minneapolis. I love this truck. Its so much fun to drive. Its 5 speed 4x4. It seats higher than all other SUV's and Jeeps. Lots of ground clearance. Love the durability of the interior and exterior. The engine really roars! Great power. Must have 5 speed with this truck! I enjoy this truck so much. I already replaced all hoses and belts, air filter and oil change. I spent $400 getting it repainted so it looks brand new! It turns heads. Love the seats. I feel very safe in my pathfinder. Only problem here is.......drumroll please....It needs a new manual tranny rebuilt and thats gonna cost me about $1500 to 2500. Ouch. But this truck will last4evR

Fairly Lucky Too!

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 4

244,535 miles and she's still hummin'! I bought my 97 LE 4WD in 2001 with 71K on it; yes, I was concerned with that amt of mileage, but that was over 5 yrs (previous owner bought it new in 11/06). Whether I was climbing fire roads in GW forest or backroading from NoVA to P-burgh to see family, this vehicle was always up to the task. It moved me twice and the roof has held more than the rec 250lbs - not smart, worked in a pinch. My repair bills have been horrific, at times, but normal considering the miles I've put on it. I've done front brakes twice/rear once, pipe & muffler from the conv. back, rt-manifld, alt., belts- twice, 2nd batt, frt tires=3 sets, back=2, rear tail-lt and headlights way too often.

Lucky owner

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I bought this former lease vehicle with 36K on it in 2001. 4 weeks in the check eng light comes on. Dealer says too bad & deal with it. But was told that it would not effect engine and it hasnt. This has truly been a great vehicle for me. Has been in the shop 1 time (2002) for a non-wear & tear repair. Replaced the brakes/shocks/struts in 2005 for the only time. Has been paid off for over a year so I have definitely gotten my money's worth. I would buy this vehicle again in a heartbeat. Has definitely been a great experience to own.

Wonderful Vehicle

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

Bought my 1997 in 2000 with 80k on it. I now have 235k. Over the last 7 years and 150 I have done little more than required maintenance. I have done the following one time: belts, alternator, shocks & struts, muffler. All fluids are changed regularly and I just did the second tire replacement. The only unexpected replacement was the rear trailing arm bushings that cost me 150 in parts and a few hours of work. The dealer will do it for about 650. Overall it has been an excellent reliable truck that I expect to see 300k without any major issues.

Tough Canadian SUV

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

With 191,000 km I have found my pathfinder to be one of the best used vehicles I have ever owned. I like everything about it except it could use more power. This was resolved in 2001. I love all the power options and the bose stereo is the bomb! I am getting my mechanic buddy to change the timing belt and all the fluids for longer life. I don't foresee any problems.

Built to Run and Run

Performance: 4 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 2 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 5

I owned the vehicle for about 60K miles, not particularly fond of the comfort, and don't hit ice at 60 MPH in RWD only. Sold it at 140K, still going strong. The exhaust would rust out every two years, but that's all that I can complain about. Handled 6 inches of unplowed snow beautifully. If you prefer reliability over creature comforts, great vehicle, my third Nissan, would certainly buy another.

Beautiful and reliable

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 3 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Great design. LE interior is nicer than any other car than I ever owned. At 120,000 miles, still zero wear on the leather seats. Replaced original tires with Kumhos, which much improved stability around corners. Bose sound system is great and powerful. Fuel economy could be better, but I guess it's an SUV. Mechanically still very sound after all these years, only minor repairs needed over the years. Engine isn't overly powerful, but SO reliable. Could offer some more driver head room.

A great preowned SUV!

Performance: 2 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 2 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 2 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I purchased this vehicle used with 106,000 miles on it only because it is a Nissan. Had it been any American car I wouldn't have considered it with that kind of mileage. I have to say what a great ride and feel it has. Still tight and quiet, like it was new! Very reliable as everything is in great shape. Very little signs of wear. The gas mileage has little to be desired, but is in line with todays SUVs gas mileage. Everything considered, I am extremely happy with this vehicle and would highly recommend it.

Poor performance, expensive repairs

Performance: 2 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 1 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 2 Reliability: 2 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 2 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 2

Bought this vehicle used with 98,000. Good for first six months, after that, it got real expensive. Replaced both front struts/shocks twice in the same year, persistant belt noise. Rear suspension was crap. Seriously lacking power, even with the standard transmission. Repairs extremely expensive compared to my last vehicle, a Chevy. Wanted $350 just for one headlight, part only, that consistantly had water leaking in and blowing the bulb. Dealer service was horrible, bad enough that they went out of business. Above problems were from normal everyday road driving, no offroad, harsh use. Went back to Chevy because at least I can repair it at about 1/4 the cost of foreign autos.

Do Not Buy One

Performance: 3 Comfort: 2 Fuel Economy: 1 Fun To Drive: 1 Interior Design: 1 Exterior Design: 3 Build Quality: 1 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 2 Performance Rating: 3 Interior Rating: 1 Reliability Rating: 1

I dont know if i got a lemon or what, but my nissan had a underhood fire, 2 transmissions, and major engine work all within 3000 miles after purchasing used. Took it back to the dealer and threatend to sue. bought a chevy trailblazer for replacement. am very happy now.

Loved it-buying a new one

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I loved my Pathfinder and when I sold it a few months ago it was still going strong with over 168,000 miles on it. It went through ditches and it handled great in snow/ice covered roads last winter even though it was only a two wheel drive. It even pulled a 1 ton Dodge truck. I'm going to buy a new one here in a few weeks. I would recommend the Pathfinder. It was a great truck!

wonderful vehicle

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

i love this vehicle very much. it is very dependable and nice. it is extremely capable off road as well. i have to pull my friends out the mud all the time.

Solid Vehicle

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

This was my second Pathfinder.I bought my Patherfinder with 47k miles from a local dealership and now have 117k miles. Other than the regular change of the timing belt at 100k miles, no real problems to speak of. Comfortable ride, looks great for a 8 year old vehicle! Only complaint is fuel economy; I have averaged around 15-16 mpg.

97 Pathfinder was good to me

Performance: 3 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 3 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 3 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

I had only one problem ever with this SUV. The heater motor went out at about 97,000 miles. Other than that it never gave me a problem.

I will never buy another Nissan

Performance: 3 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 3 Reliability: 3 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 3 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 3

Several expensive repairs prior to 90,000 miles. Front struts, causing tire wear, frequent tire replacements and eventual front strut replacement. Rear Suspension was wobbling at high way speeds, causing consumer hazard and had to be replaced. AM/FM/CD replaced several times, eventually purchased after market replacement. Speakers go out sporadically but, infrequently. Nissan didn't forewarn about exhaust manifold problem. I almost paid for this out of pocket. Luckily I found out about a TSB. Nissan doesn't value customer safety or customer satisfaction.

This Truck Holds Up

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I purchased this Pathfinder off-lease at 36,000 miles and have since racked up 115,000 miles. I have absolutely hammered this thing. 4 cross country trips, some serious off roading, living above 8,000 ft in the Utah mountains, and lots of 4WD driving in snow. She has never let me down, always starting right up. I have had the front rotors turned(they became warped) at 45,000 miles and a new Throttle Position Sensor. No other repairs other than normal wear and tear. This is not a fast vehicle, but it gets you wherever you need to go. Fuel economy is not great, but it is an SUV. K&N air filter and Platinum plugs help. Still drives well, I expect to put 250k on her.

97' pathfinder

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I owned alot of cars and the mechanics on nissans are great. In 128000 miles I just had been doing basic maintenance. It is truly not as easy SUV to work on in comparison to GM and Fords, but I definitely have not had to work on the nissan nearly as much. I noticed the little things are much better quality and this makes it last longer. I am very particular about squeaks, noises, and handling perf. My 97' nissan has a full frame and handles much like a car. I can not stress that the components are what seperates the nissan from the others. I always bought American for are economy but nissan is made in the USA now. I am done spending my money on making Am. cars run to my satisfaction.

Decent value

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 4

My 1997 Nissan Pathfinder has a decent ride and power. It sways a little at highway speeds. Was very reliable until 100,000 miles. I've had several repairs since (it now has 109,000 miles. Complaints - my mechanic told me that my truck's rotors must be replaced with the brakes and the parts are pricey, especially exhaust parts. Overall, I would say its a good vehicle but not a great vehicle.

It has been a good one

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

I have been awarded a company car and am selling my Pathfinder. It has been one of the best vehicles that I have ever owned. It was bothg fun to drive and versatile. I have never had any problems with it. I have 112,000 miles on it now and it runs like a new one. Buy one if you find one.

1997 Pathfinder SUV

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 2 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

My 1997 Nissan Pathfinder has been rock solid. It is poor on gas mileage, but worth it. I just bought another 2005 Pathfinder. The redesigned body is great!

Never Disappointed me

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

Bought new, still going real strong 7 years & 130,000 miles later. Normal maintenance is all this Pathfinder has ever needed. Rides well, holds a lot. Gas mileage is consistent with if not better than other SUVs. Love the full size spare tire. Will drive this car till it dies, whenever that might be. Holds road really well in heavy rain or snow. Sometimes keeps 4WD engaged even after you don't want it, but it eventually goes back to normal by itself.

1997 Nissan Pathfinder SE

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 4

I bought this car with 35,000 miles. The pathfinder is the smoothest riding SUV I have ever been. The ride comfort is second to none. At 60,000 miles had to have the brakes replaced, front & rear shocks replaced. At 68,000 miles there was a funny noise in the front end. Had to replace the sway-bar link. Now at 76,000 miles I have to have the brakes replaced again. Overall the car runs well and I would recommend it to anyone else, but the brakes and struts/shocks need to be replaced more frequently than normal. Also, the engine has very poor acceleration but is reliable.

Been a Great Car

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I've owned a 1997 Pathfinder since 1997 and as a busy Realtor, I've put over 133,000 miles on it. The only major repair that has been done is a new timing chain put in back in 2003. GREAT VEHICLE -- my only hangup is how Nissan designs their cars to where only the dealership can fix it.

Built to last

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I have always drove fords and decided on a nissan and it was a great decision- the suv was built to last

1997 Nissan Pathfinder 4WD SE

Performance: 2 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 2 Fun To Drive: 3 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 3 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 2 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 3

We have had this vehicle for almost 2 years now. It had 50K miles when we purchased it, but I felt comfortable because it was a Nissan. We have had a few problems: replacing struts & strut plates (I have never taken it off- road), cracked manifold, replaced brakes twice, and info. lights in cluster sometimes go off for no mechanical reason.

Japanese Quality???

Performance: 3 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 3 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 3 Build Quality: 2 Reliability: 2 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 3 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 2

I had the thing in 3 times under warranty fixing o2 sensors. What do you know when it came out of warranty I was back in. Now I have to fix the throttle body. the mechanic says he has never seen it in 15 years...I guess I will be the only one complaining about that, but it stinks to be me. I know its old, but I have sunk well over $1,000 already and have an estimate for another $1,500. I won't ever buy an Nissan again and I think the maximas are awesome.

Amazing

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

The car is not only reliable but also fun to drive. So much fun!!!!

Path & the City

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

It has been the better SUV I ever had, Every day engine starts without a problem, recently I changed all the beams just to be sure it works properly, it has been the one and only reparation ever done. Now it needs a little pait works (just in fender details) Other SUV`s I had used are a 92 Suburban and a 95 Blazer, but as for today, my Pathfinder long last

My first SUV

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

So far this car has been a great vehicle to own. Small exhust leak, had to replace a pipe coming from engine. $125.00 It seems to be the part of the exhust thatis not stainless steel of rust proof.Great trucf for the winter, FWD is reliable. I did notice that my front bumper (Medal) has begun to rust. I would purchase another.

Reliable!

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

This SUV has been a very reliable vehicle. I don't own the 4-wheel version but I live on a rough road and I drive the heck out of it and it has held up well. I have been happy with it, it gets decent mileage and it has zip when I need it. I would recommend this vehicle to others.

Good to go

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Good reliable car. No major repairs yet (knock on wood.)

Great purchase!!

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

This is the first new vehicle I've bought in years, and we've been thrilled. Our Pathfinder has endured dogs, kids and long trips, while serving as the main family vehicle for almost 6 years. We have never had a single problem with it and it has performed beautifully. We chose the Pathfinder at the time because it had the most car-like ride of any mid-size SUV we test drove and because of Nissan's strong reliability record. It has fulfilled all the demands we've placed on it.

Nissan Pathfinder

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I have enjoyed and continue to enjoy my Pathfinder.It is a very well-made vehicle.

Extremely Reliable

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I bought this model because of its high ratings for reliability. I have not been disappointed. In 74,000 miles, the only thing ever to need repair was the cd player.

Good SUV despite Nissan

Performance: 3 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 1 Fun To Drive: 3 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 3 Reliability: 3 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 3 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 3

I bought this vehicle as a leftover demo. It's not that I haven't liked the Pathfinder but it has at any given time had several repairs that needed to be done: *bolts broken off manifold/exhaust interface. I found out about it when they were replacing a valve between the fuel tank and engine that was broken. *new front brakes at 52K? *new clutch at 60K. *cracked struts at 65K with never more than light off-roading? These babies cost $1000 a piece to replace. *The climate control is clumsy and it's either been too cold or too warm in the truck. Nissan needs to stop convincing itself that they are as good as Toyota and Honda.

99 PATHFINDER

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

OVERALL GREAT CAR, LITTLE TOO MUCH ON GAS, GENERALLY EXCELLENT NO COMPLAINTS , FEW MINOR POINTS, THE FOG LAMMP ON ONE SIDE KEPT GOING OUT EVERY YEAR , I REPLACED IT FOR WHILE NOW IVE GIVEN UP. STEADY ON THE ROAD NEEDS GOOD TIRES ALL THE TIME.

Great SUV

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

This has been a great SUV for us. No problems whatsoever.

Excellent truck for the money

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

We bought the truck about 2 years ago and were really impressed by the reliability and workmanship. The interior design is prefect, roomy and comfortable, being a big guy I find the seats to have great side and thigh support. We got a loaded XE which is no different from a pricier SE. It's an able off-roader, particularly when you install 265/70/R15 All-terrain tires on it. Breaking stops are excellent. Our 5-speeder is much faster to take off than the automatic models. Huge cargo capacity, excellent handling. And it looks good too, much more athletic than those boxy Tahoes, Blazers, 4Runners, or Cherokees.

Love my Pathfinder

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I bought this car new and have never had any problems with it. I did put bigger tires on it and it really helped make the ride better (it wobbled a little with the factory tires). It has never been in the shop and all I have done is change the oil in it. It still has the original brakes, although they are about to be changed, and I just had to replace the stereo system because the CD player finally gave up and I blew the speakers !!

My path

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Excellent vehicle in all respects

Nissan Pathfinder has faulty clutches.

Performance: 1 Comfort: 2 Fuel Economy: 2 Fun To Drive: 1 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 3 Build Quality: 1 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 2 Performance Rating: 1 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 1

Having owned this Pathfinder for the past 4+ years, we've put 4 clutches into it and the dealership insist that driver-error is to blame. This is the far from the truth. Also Pathfinder has a tendancy to rock over 55 mph. Dealer claims the tire wear is to blame. I have difficult time believing their solution.

Got beauty & brains; Needs brawn

Performance: 3 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 3 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 3 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

Having a short highway commute shows the major flaw of this SUV; lack of horsepower. Merging and passing can be a chore. Other than that, its comfortable, rides well and is built pretty well. So throw in a K&N air filter, a few other tweaks and this SUV will get you where you need to go in style....albeit not very fast.

Good value

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

I bought the vehicle new and have had only a few problems. The manifold had a known problem that impacted my vehicle, so the dealership fixed that for free. The cd player went out, so I replaced it with an MP3 player. OTher than that the vehicle has always been reliable.

i love my type II pathy'

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 1 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 4

I bought my Pathfinder in January of '02 from a dealership that I work for ina subarb of Chicago. When i purchased it, it had 93000 miles on it. i still bought it because it was a Nissan and it would run forever.and it was in extremely good shape.(also it had a grill guard, remote starter, bose htd leather) I love it, it's fun to drive, looks great, great offroad capabilities, great ride, and looks more expensive then it is. I goto school in the mountains of Arizona and it takes the trails like any great 4x4 would.

more power

Performance: 4 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

very reliable off road suv. havent had major problems. have had new off road shocks and struts which gives it a better ride that seems to be more like a truck. air bag light is blinking and is annoying! brakes have been replaced.

Having fun driving

Performance: 5 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 1 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

The ONLY problem I have had with my pathfinder has been with the Les Schwab Tires that the previous owner had put on the SUV. The side walls were caving in and created a wabble when going around curves. After buying different tires from Les Schwab, it is doing 100% better. I would like alittle more room in the back seat though. 3 kids and a dog seem to not fit comfortably. I would also recommend an automatic transmission.

Nice 4X, but some minor problems

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 4

I bought this following up on previous use of a Jeep Cherokee and Suzuki Sidekick. It's a different vehicle altogether, with much more car-comfort ride and good 4WD capabilities. Had several minor problems which in some cases the dealer took care of under warranty (brakes, tires, alternator, battery), and others such as throttle control (they claim this was a maintenance problem - I think it is poor design), interior items falling off (seat lever, third brake light, storage privacy screen). Overall it's been a good car (now 48,000 miles. Biggest recurrent headache is brakes which I have had replaced and again recently resurfaced.

97 Nissan Pathfinder

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

It's been a good vehicle. The only nits are mileage - but I knew about that going in - and cup holders. Oh, it has two cup holders in the front but one is basically useless. Other than that, it still looks good and the Bose CD is incredible. It also has a great, throaty roar that belies the fact that it is far from a race car.