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Nissan Pathfinder Owners Care & Maintenance

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Comments

  • xplorx4xplorx4 Member Posts: 621
    smokey- the front hubs on the 01 AWD are practically the same as on every other 4x4 Pathfinder, 96 and up. After the hubs ("drive flanges" actually) are removed, the bearings and spindle are virtually identical to those on the Xterra. The only differences would be in the actual part numbers for the grease seals or the size of the bearings themselves. Other than that, the procedure is the same.

    If you want to be sure, you can pick up a Haynes repair manual at your local auto parts store, or purchase one from amazon.com.
  • jeg72jeg72 Member Posts: 18
    I had new tires but on my '01 4x4 yesterday and had a 4 wheel allignment done at the same time. Driving to work today it seems that my steering wheel is slightly offset to the right. (With the steering well pointed dead center the PF goes to the left. With it slightly right of dead center it goes straight.) Is this something that could be messed up when they do the allignment.

    Thanks

    jeg72
  • pathstarpathstar Member Posts: 201
    Centering of the steering is the last step in a wheel alignment. The vehicle has to be road tested to ensure the steering wheel is centred. It's easy to correct. Take it back and have them set it. Note that most roads have "camber" built into them (high centre so water runs off), and that this can also affect the steering wheel position. If you're sure it's the steering that's off, just tell them how much and in what direction. They can adjust and send you out for another road test.
  • markipkimarkipki Member Posts: 3
    I just brought my '02 Pathy LE in for the 7500mi. check and when I got it back the rims were scarred by the lug-gun they used when they rotated the wheels. Has anyone else had this problem or did I recieve a bad job and perhaps am entitled to something in return. My biggest gripe is that the truck was virtually brand new when I brought it in and now I have to keep eyeballing these nasty scars on my wheels...on all four! I'm not one for complaining but when someone brings in their brand new 350Z do they have to leave with blemished rims? I'm a fanatic about my vehicles and now I can't bear to look at my rims.I haven't gone back yet but I wanted to check with some owners before I stampeded into the dealership...thanks guys!
  • woodyr1woodyr1 Member Posts: 142
    Markipki: I have a 2001 XE, with spoked alloy rims like they have on the SE model. A tire shop put deep scratches on one of the rims, and I discovered it, took it to the manager, and had them sent it out to a wheel specialist shop which has a CNC lathe. I got it back weeks later, and looked brand new, even clear coated the rim after the machining. I did not pay for the repair, but it was estimated to cost me about CDN $150 each. If I were you, I would take it back.
  • walter12walter12 Member Posts: 30
    I was just about to change the oil on our 03 PF LE when I read the posts about the crush washers. Not wanting to sound ignorant, I went and bought one, but still have to plead ignorance after purchase. Would someone please tell me which side to place against the oil pan and which side faces the drain plug head? Also, why is this better than a plain, flat copper washer?

    Thanks for your help.
  • mbuntingmbunting Member Posts: 158
    My 2001 LE just hit 30,000 miles

    My local Nissan dealer quoted me (about a 6 months ago) a price of $500.00 ~ 600.00 for everything that is required at 30k stage.

    That seems like alot to me (too much actually!) but I'm not sure.

    I'm no good with working/servicing on cars - and even if I was I really don't have the time these days with my current work schedule (Military @ 12 hr shifts!)

    Can anyone out there tell me what they paid at the 30k interval? Thanks for any and all info!
  • jeg72jeg72 Member Posts: 18
    I was going down the highway headed to the beach and looked down at my odomoter in my '01 4x4 PF LE. I had just passed 36K miles. I drove about another 90 miles before my CHECK ENGINE SOON light came on. Just took the car into the dealer today (37K miles) and it has been diagnosed as a bad O2 sensor. Since it was just out of warranty they are doing the following for me.

    Gave me a free rental/loaner
    Not going to charge me the diagnostic fee
    Not going to charge me for the part
    Going to give me ~30 off the labor.

    They told me that this takes about 4 hours and that once they replace the sensor they have to hook the car up to "the computer" and my PF's computer has to be completely reprogrammed. A process that takes quite some time to my amazement. In all I think that I am going to have to pay about $300. How much does this normally cost? Just wondering what kind of deal they are giving me.

    Thanks
  • merlotpathysemerlotpathyse Member Posts: 3
    I would say you are paying $300 too much. There is a longer than 36K mile warranty on emissions...look in your warranty manual. I don't have it in front of me, but I know that there are 3 emission warranties... one is up to 80K miles and CA has one up past that (if memory serves me correctly).

    I would press the dealer to cover the full cost... if the O2 sensor is NOT covered past the 36K miles, surely they could get reimbursed by Nissan for the full cost (as a good will and customer satisfaction repair). I know my dealer has made many exceptions AFTER the warranty on my previous and current Maximas and Quest (Pathy is just flawless so far). That is why we have kept coming back as a repeat customer.

    They ALL have leeway.

    Call Nissan if you have to (# on NissanUSA.com). They can tell you all about the Nissan Emission warranties. But do it before you pay for the repair, otherwise you'll have less leverage.

    It all depends on how much $300 is to you.
  • jeg72jeg72 Member Posts: 18
    Thanks for the oxygen sensor information. I did call Nissan and in fact my emmissions warranty is the same as the the bumper to bumper (3yr / 36K). If I bought the car in CA that would be different. I'll talk more with the service manager at the dealership.

    Thanks.
  • ced1ced1 Member Posts: 8
    They may no longer be officially covered by the 3/36, but because there is a Technical Service Bulletin on this exact repair, I think you should be able to have the repair covered. I had a Blazer with a $600 emissions problem that was covered long out of warranty, because there had been a TSB. My dealer never charged me. Nissan needs to step up to the plate on this.
    I feel strongly because my '01 LE had the same problem (fully covered) at 16,000 miles. Now I feel lucky...
  • bob_pathbob_path Member Posts: 14
    I purchased a 2001 PATHFINDER LE in March 2001. I currently have 30,000 miles. By this August I am going to have 36000 miles thereby exhausting my warranty before March 2004. I was wondering if it is worth purchasing the extended warranty through Nissan before I reach 36000 mile. Nissan has not performed any of my regular maintenance so I do not know if they will hassle me if I brought the vehicle back to the dealer with an extended warranty. Has anyone purchased an extended warranty and if so what has been your experience and is it worth spending the 800-900 dollars for the extended warranty?
  • jeg72jeg72 Member Posts: 18
    Where did you see the TSB? I looked on the NHTSA website and I found nothing specific to the Pathfinder.
  • ced1ced1 Member Posts: 8
    The link to the nhtsa PDF file is:

    http://www.nhtsa.dot.gov/TSBScans/sb628220.pdf

    If you have trouble, or even if you don't, go here too it will be helpful:

    http://www.nhtsa.dot.gov/cars/problems/tsb/

    and search: vehicles/year/nissan truck/etc./etc... until you find it under exhaust manifold and oxygen sensors. Good luck! You should not have to pay!!!!
  • svier1svier1 Member Posts: 6
    I have a 1991 Se with the right rear window stop working. How do I remove the door panel to get to the window motor? I just can't seem to be able to remove the entire panel, keeps handing near the door pull. Any thoughts?
  • woodyr1woodyr1 Member Posts: 142
    Hi:

    I just purchased a Nissan oil filter,and think I may change over to full synthetic motor oil. I have not changed the oil myself on this vehicle, but have access to ramps etc.

    As I need to check my metric wrench inventory, does anyone know the size of wrench to remove the drain plug and the engine protective shield?
    (2001 3.5 VQ engine)

    Thanks
  • pathstarpathstar Member Posts: 201
    Working from memory here woody, but as I recall the undercover bolts are 12 mm and the oil drain plug is either 14 mm or 17 mm - I think it was 17 mm. You just use a slot screwdriver for the center plastic holder (I threw mine away - it's not easy to remove and I don't think it does anything with all those bolts).

    Got to do my 30,000 km service in the next few weeks too.
  • woodyr1woodyr1 Member Posts: 142
    Thanks for your help. I am recovering from a back injury and don't want to have to climb underneath too many times! Did you purchase a special oil filter wrench, or how do you remove the filter?

    I bought 5 litres of Castrol Syntec 5W/30, which is on sale at Canadian Tire for one more week ($6.49 litre). Is 5 litres sufficient?

    Thanks again, can hardly wait to get greasy again!

    Woody
  • pathstarpathstar Member Posts: 201
    5 litres is just perfect. I was wondering about whether you might have trouble with the filter last night. If the dealer monkey ;-) put the thing on you may need a wrench to get it off. I do mine "bare handed", as I don't over tighten them when I install them. The original one was too tight, and I used an expanding wrench (not a recommended procedure). The filter is smaller than most filter wrenches can handle. You can remove the "belt protector" (four bolts) if you have trouble. That will give you more room to apply necessary force. Canadian Tire has a fancy filter wrench that looks like it will work (take a filter to their store to check the fit). I don't think you want to order the Nissan part ($$$$$ as I recall).
  • woodyr1woodyr1 Member Posts: 142
    Thanks again. Last evening I looked at the filter wrenches at Canadian Tire, and saw they have one that fits over the end of the filter. I did not have the Nissan filter with me, and could not see a listing from their selection which would fit the Pathfinder. I will be prepared to have a wrench when I undertake the process. I think I should be good to go now.
  • fleetwoodsimcafleetwoodsimca Member Posts: 1,518
    I shopped several outlets today, and finally settled for the Fram fuel filter at Walmart. It costs $9.97 and is made in Israel. My Haynes book says that the filter on 1996-2001 PFs is located "near the rear differential." My apprehension is mounting... (:o]
  • fleetwoodsimcafleetwoodsimca Member Posts: 1,518
    Spent about 1.5 hours altogether on the fuel filter replacement job. It was not fun performing the task using jack stands versus having a lift, but all in all, a needed job completed.
  • hawaiiboihawaiiboi Member Posts: 1
    I changed five of my Pathfinder's six spark
    plugs. The sixth one is way behind and below
    to be accessed. Does anybody have any idea
    how to get to the sixth spark plug?

    Thank you ....

    cj
  • baydogbaydog Member Posts: 15
    After changing my oil a half-dozen times, several screws that hold the plastic underbody protector (under where the oil filter is) have been stripped beyond repair. My question is, does this flat plastic sheet (what's it called anyway?) have any useful purpose for those of us that don't drive off-road? It sure would speed up oil changes if I didn't have to remove and install this every time. Has anyone else had problems with the screws? Can I safely leave this off? Thanks, Ryan
  • smokey75smokey75 Member Posts: 434
    I think it's more to keep everything clean than to really protect anything. You would need a true skid plate for that. More & more vehicles are using them, including our Hyundai Accent.
  • walter12walter12 Member Posts: 30
    I read somewhere that the plastic underbody protectors on newer cars help with airflow. This is all in an attempt to get better mileage. I wish I could cite the source and I hope my memory is accurate. I have not had any trouble with the screws holding the protector, however.
  • smokey75smokey75 Member Posts: 434
    That makes sense also, that it would make the car more aerodynamic. I've also lost a few of the screws that hold it on but I still have enough to hold it on.
  • goose1207goose1207 Member Posts: 113
    Another option is to spend $40 on an oil extractor, assuming you can get at the filter from opening the hood.
  • brisoupbrisoup Member Posts: 56
    Hi, Now that the weather is getting warmer I'm going to wax my Pathfinder for the first time. I was wondering if somebody from this board can recommend what product I should use. I normally wax my vehicle twice a year. I'm looking for a product that is durable and gives a decent shine.Any suggestions would be appreciated. Thanx.
  • alwaysfordsalwaysfords Member Posts: 210
    I have great results with Mother's pre-wax cleaner, followed by 3m hand glaze, followed by Mother's carnuba wax. It is three trips around the block but works nicely. To reduce it to 2 trips just do the glaze and wax. To get sap and other junk off the hood / roof / trunk use a clay bar. Mother's makes that too.
  • mjohnr99mjohnr99 Member Posts: 193
    You will find a lot of debate on this, but my 2 cents for BLACK or dark paint:

    (From my Post 476 on Problems & Solutions) - "BTW, my wife's car is black and I just had to wax it. With all the issues for black cars, researched waxes in a back issue of Consumer Reports and believe it or not, Turtle Wax Super Hard Shell LIQUID (yes, the inexpensive stuff that is everywhere) had the highest overall score for non-scratching/hazing and durability, my two prime concerns. Came out great with no swirl marks. Used electric orbital polisher. Shine was slightly less than other products, but that is less of a concern (just washing your car occasionally does more for the shine on a daily basis!). Like many waxes, do not get on trim. Very pleased. Almost used my old bottle of Meguire's cleaner wax . . . which actually got the worst overall score in all categories of the 30-50 waxes tested. Consumer Reports comes through again . . ."

    P.S. Yes, clay bars ARE great!
  • woodyr1woodyr1 Member Posts: 142
    Thanks to Pathstar for information on tools needed for my recent oil change.

    I did purchase an oil filter wrench from Canadian Tire (their part number 28-3520-0), for $6.47. It is manufactured in the US by Flotool and has their part number as being 10605. Worked great.

    PS One of the screws holding the plastic cover broke off inside, so cleaned threads on remaining ones and coated with Never-Seeze. Could not find how to remove the plastic clip at centre front of cover. Any ideas?

    Thanks
  • alwaysfordsalwaysfords Member Posts: 210
    The plastic clip is an expansion fastener - the center post pushes into the socket and flairs out wings on the outer piece on the opposite side of the hole. You need to pry the center button out.
  • woodyr1woodyr1 Member Posts: 142
    Alwaysfords: Thanks for the information.
  • mattman055mattman055 Member Posts: 57
    I'm over 11,000 miles now, just regular oil changes and a tire rotation.

    I have an appointment for this Friday to bring in the Pathfinder (2002 4x4).

    I just told them to do an oil change and tire rotation (and inspection since its due next month).

    Anything else I should have done?
  • ssbfssbf Member Posts: 15
    Hi. My 01 Pathfinder LE was scratched while parked in NYC. The right corner of my front bumper has scratch marks on it.

    Any suggestions how to repair/repaint the scratch marks? I brought it to a body shop(Nissan dealer sent me there) and the estimate was $375. Said he had to take the whole bumper out and repaint the whole thing. Help!
  • 96pathfind96pathfind Member Posts: 22
    I've been through 3 mufflers in as many years with my 96 pathfinder- evidently a common problem with the '96-97s. Anyone found a nice aftermarket replacement that lasts and maybe improves HP a bit?
  • xplorx4xplorx4 Member Posts: 621
    I'm running a Flowmaster muffler, which has lasted over 4 years (but I live in California, where rust/corrosion is a non-issue). It released a few HP (as well as a few more decibels!) I've also heard of other folks running Magnaflow mufflers with good results. In all cases, the performance muffler replaces the current muffler, then 2.5" exhaust pipe runs out to the back of the truck. The OEM resonator behind the wheel is discarded.

    Most independent muffler shops (i.e. NOT Midas) can do all the work. including pipe bending, for under $250.
  • kattelkattel Member Posts: 1
    Hi,

    I am considering buying a 01 Pathfinder SE. The owner has replaced tires, and brake pads. It has 46K miles. What are some of the other parts that will need to be replaced in the near future ? (say, within 6 months?)

    thanks.
  • pathstar1pathstar1 Member Posts: 1,015
    The O2 sensors might go. They are easily damaged by excess sulpher in the fuel. They are expensive, and only a dealer can reset the ECU once they are replaced. If there is no "Sevice Engine Soon" light on, then they are still ok, and as far as I know there is no way to determine when they will need to be replaced. Not much else goes wrong with this vehicle, in my experience.
  • pumpdudepumpdude Member Posts: 4
    Just found out this weekend that my used Pathy came without the jack and lug wrench.

    Fortunately did not find out the hard way. Had new Michelin LTX's installed and added locking lug nuts. When I went to store the lug nut key discovered that I had no jack or lug wrench.

    Felt even worse when I found out what the dealer wants me to pay for them. $157 is some serious change!

    Does anyone have a good source for used Pathy parts? I'm in the middle of the country so shipping is not a problem.
  • lbinhlbinh Member Posts: 190
    I would think you could pickup a scissor type jack (make sure it can handle the higher Pathy height) from Walmart and buy one of those collapsable 4 size lug wrench (much easier and nicer than the small OEM wrench). The new jack should expand into the OEM jack bracket.
    You could also buy a hydraulic jack and lug it around. Doesn't take up that much space and it makes changing a tire a breeze.

    I think you can purchase the spare tire rod from the dealer or junk yard by itself. I bought one for my Nissan truck and I think it looks exactly the same.

    How are your new LTXs? Price? Noise? Comfort? Size? Treadwear?
  • garrymccarthy1garrymccarthy1 Member Posts: 1
    I sprung a leak on the front side of the water pump and need to replace it. Before I dig into the project, how difficult is it to replace? The replacement water pump is only about $70.

    Any comments are appreciated.

    Thanks
  • bpiazzabpiazza Member Posts: 5
    I have a 2001 Pathfinder and my dashboard lights went out (speedometer,gas guage, tach, etc) Cant see anything at night. Tried the inside dimmer switch to no avail. I see the fuse box but nothing is marked "dashboard" or "instrument panel" Can anyone tell me what to look for or what to do? Thanks in advance.Bob P
  • amysue2amysue2 Member Posts: 4
    Does anyone know what brand of windshield wiper refills fit the 1999.5 Pathfinder? I tried the Trico brand and only the front passenger side fit. I still need drivers side & rear.
    Thanks in advance if anyone knows.
  • deebardacdeebardac Member Posts: 23
    Don't know about other years and models but there is a computer upgrade for the 2001 LE. The part # is 23710-4W023.
  • calgaryphilcalgaryphil Member Posts: 17
    Any word as to what problem the new computer was upgraded to resolve?
  • deebardacdeebardac Member Posts: 23
    I did not enquire about the specifics of the upgrade it was just installed during a suggested reinstallation of the ECM computer software to solve a problem that was showing up. The ECM and the TCM were apparently having trouble communicating with each other causing the SES light to come on (there was no sign of any driveability problems). The code would be cleared but the light would come on again after about 100 kilometers, once it turned off only to come on again. The light is now off and has not reappeared. One thing that concerns me is that the Code showed the problem to be the left intake valve timing control and I wonder why this wasn't addressed. Will let you know if I find anything further.
  • danpf1danpf1 Member Posts: 89
    I recently changed all my fluids in my 2001 LE AWD 4x4 automatic to Synthetic fluids. Before changing to synthetics I averaged 16MPG, after the change I now average 18MPG. Has any one else found this to be true after changing to full synthetics.

    Thanks for your replies,
    Dan
  • harddrivetharddrivet Member Posts: 90
    Hello my rubber door casing is coming off on the passenger side of the Nissan. It also sticks when we open the door. Is there a good glue that will not cause paint chipping problems?
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