I have a 2000 XE 4WD too. The 30-9.5 and 31 inch tires will also fit. I believe the 30-9.5 is the closest to stock size, or maybe a tad smaller, certainly no trimming necessary. The 31s are a bit bigger than stock. My winter tires are Bridgestone Winter Duelers 265/75/R15 so that's another size to consider. I found I had to trim a bit though, maybe because they're wider.
The trimming involves taking a Dremel or some other cutting tool and shaving a bit off the bottom edge of the mud flaps that are behind the front tires. The bottom edge of the flap bends to form a little lip that sticks out toward the front of the truck. That spot is just a mud collector anyway. Basically, you just trim part of that lip off on the side of the flap that's more underneath the body of the truck (not the side closest to the paint). Maybe 1/4 to 1/2". Just do trial and error. If you haven't trimmed enough, you'll hear the tires rub when turning so trim a bit more. If you do it neatly, it will be invisible.
...then you have a ton of tire choices. More so than those of us with 16" wheels. 15" is kinda the standard and most tire brands come in 15" size that will fit the X. I think you can fit 31's with either no trimming of the inside mud flaps, or with just slight trimming. Or play it safe and get a set of 30's which do not require any trimming. You will not find anything in a 265/70/15 size because at that size most 15 inch wheels go list their tires in flotation sizes. I'd go with at least 31's if you go off road. Maybe 32's even depending on what terrain you like to wheel on.
If you can read .pdf files (adobe acrobat) go here for a list of BFG tire sizes. Near the bottom you'll see the flotation sizes for 15" wheels. Look for 31x10.5x15
I bought my 2000 xterra new and have had way too many trips to the dealer for maintenance on it. I've had the stereo replaced, the windshield trim replaced twice, fender moldings replaced, illumination switch replaced, and now have to have part of the roof rack replaced. definitely has turned me off from Nissan. Anyone else had this many problems?
Sorry, I haven't heard of anyone with those kinds of problems. That's too bad. I've beaten the heck outta my X on the trail and the thing runs like it did the day I bought it. I have zero complaints. Hope you get things fixed on your X soon!
I will be in the market for a new vehicle probably towards the end of 2002. Starting my research now and I am considering the 4Runner or the X. Like everything about the 4Runner, but very expensive. I also very much like the X, especially the price. I was wondering if anyone had considered the 4Runner like me and bought an X instead. I'm beginning to think that some of my hangups about the X are really just cosmetic and/or trivial. But when your paying that much money, shouldn't you get exactly what you want? Anyway, any comments would be greatly appreciated! By the way, whichever I buy, it will probably never see real mud, but you never know. I just like SUVs and I am a past truck owner from back before they were SUVs.
You came to the right place, this forum and the 4 Runner forum can answer a lot of your questions for you. I'm also ready to buy a new truck and like both SUV for different reasons. These guys on Edmunds will give you just about any info you want, but you are always better off doing the research yourself. One thing is that the Xterra is really design to be off road, and have somewhat poor pave road proformance, but the 4 Runner is very expensive and may not be with worth that much money.
The Xterra certainly does not have a "poor paved road performance" at all. Please. It rides pretty much the same as the 4 runner and most other SUVs that have a solid rear axle and IFS. Remember, it's a truck, built on a ladder truck frame. It's not a car and is not going to ride like a cushy sedan. Nor will the 4Runner. People need to keep in mind that most SUVs are not going ride like a car.
Both are great vecicles. I chose the Xterra mainly because I actually take my SUV off-road and couldn't justify paying over $35,000 for a 4Runner and then taking it out on the trail. Apparently that's how most people must think because I have never seen a late model 4Runner on the trail anywhere. The 4Runner I believe has about 10 more horses under the hood than the Xterra doas, but the X performs fine around town and has plenty of power for highway cruising. It's not a rocket, but it's not meant to be.
I personally think the 4Runner rides a bit bouncy, but that's probably due to the tread of the tires that Toyo throws on. Both are reliable vehicles in general. The 3.3 V6 in the Xterra has been around for quite a while (used to be the 3.0 of the old pathefinder). It's a great engine, runs like a swiss watch, and pretty is much trouble free with regular maintenance.
All in all,I couldn't justfy paying Toyota's price for the 4Runner when the same options were available on the Xterra (4wd, power everything, six cd in-dash changer, steering wheel audio controls, cruise control, etc). But the 4runner is a nice vehicle. It just never leaves the pavement, not because it can't, but rather because it's too expensive (and repair costs are outta sight) to risk having something happen to it on the trail.
I'm sure you know your SUV but every single review I read about the Xterra, including the one on Edmunds state that the ride is poor on pavement. I don't know but this is what I read. I want to test drive one in the next month or so and then maybe I will alos know.
Most of the reviews you read are biased towards cars, IMHO. When they criticize the Xterra's ride, they are comparing it to the ride of a car or car-based SUV with a different kind of suspension. I came from an Isuzu Trooper and a Ford Ranger. The Xterra felt like a Cadillac to me.
I know the '02s are barely outta the box, but does anyone have any info on the '03s? Changes, improvements, etc.? And I don't know if this is possible, but can a sliding sunroof be installed in the X? My guess is no because of the roof line, but I haven't looked at them closely yet. Just wondering.
'Nother question...I'm reading through all the past posts...tires seem to be a problem, have they changed them on the '02s? In general, how is the X's handling on pavement in the rain? Or for that matter, any crappy weather in 2WD? I currently drive a rear wheel drive, no traction, '94 Cougar. Does the LSD help at all? I had a 4x truck in the early '90's, (jeez I hate being able to say that...makes me feel old), and want to say that I felt pretty comfortable in any weather, but don't remember. Anything has got to be better than what I have now. And I don't mean ride...a truck is not a car, but just wondering how it is in the rain. I'm sure I've read about this somewhere already, but thought I'd ask. Sorry for the long post.
I think the '02s come with BFG Rugged Trails, versus BFG Long TRails on the '00s and General Grabbers on the '01s. The tread on the Rugged Trails looks a bit more aggressive.
I have the Long Trails. I think they're fine in the rain but other people have complained about them. I have never skidded or hydroplaned with them though so maybe it's a question of how you drive.
In snow, both the Long Trails and Grabbers puke. I put on Bridgestone Winter Duelers in winter.
In 2WD, you will slide around on snow or on ice, just like any other vehicle. The 4WD is very sure-footed though. I have the LSD. Can't tell if it's ever really helped but on the other hand, when you're going up about a 20 degree grade on ice, probably nothing will help but waiting for summer.
There has been some questions about the 2WD in bad weather. I came through WV and Western MD yesterday in the snow. I started out on a 2 lane curvey road over mountains; I took my time and down shifted to low 1 and 2 going down, the only problem that I had was when I was coming down off of the last mountain, some idiot riding her brakes down and then would stop and move a foot then stop and move a foot. I did slip a little trying to get stopped the first time, then I stayed way back so I could move a long at the right pace. Other than that I had no problem, I don't understand why when it snows people have to go out on the road that have no business being there; the bad thing is, that this girl had 4WD (just didn't know how to drive). Anyway, I was pleased with the way that the X handled the weather. I have a 2002, with the General tires on it. I also have LSD but I don't think that came into play much since the road was completely snow covered.
For 02, The X has slightly larger tires (265/70/16) and they have switched tread patterns to the Rugged Trails. In my opinion this did not help. The one drawback to buying a new Xterra is the crappy tires Nissan chooses to put on (probably a cost cutting measure to help keep the price down). I ditched mine after 5,000 miles and put on a true all-terrain tire. The difference is unbelieveable. The biggest problem with the stock tires is the wet braking and also the cornering. I felt both were poor. But for highway cruising and mild trail riding they were just fine.
LSD: It defintely works and is worth getting, but it's not something you really "feel" like you do when you engage 4wd. Try driving an SUV without it and then drive the X and you'll see that it does indeed work. It's very helpful in limiting wheel spin in the rain, on wet ramps (like a boat ramp or something), icy patches, etc. But it's not going to get you out of deep snow or mud or something. Only 4wd will do that.
i am looking at the xterra se supercharged model does anyone have experience or opinion on this in terms of performance, maintenance and long term reliability i usually keep cars well over 100,000 miles, my last nissan was a 89 maxima with 120,000 that my new driver daughter totaled the car was mint
Where are the eight speakers in the 2002 Xterra SE-SC or audio package upgrade? I only count 6: 2 tweeters in the front, 2 speakers in the front doors, and 2 speakers in the back.
Heya folks: just seeking some friendly advice from current owners... am looking at possibly buyin an x-v6-2wd.
I do dog/cat/wildlife rescue. Live in hilly country (live on a street of about 45 degrees...) often carry 700 pounds of dog food, etc. No snow, lots of rain from time to time. I drive about 20k or more anually. Frequently cart 4 large *65 lbs or more) dogs at a time.
Those of you that have an x, what ya think? I'd like to own a Suburban but the pricetag is just, well, about as affordable as buying the empire state building. Would appreciate your thoughts.
BTW.... any options you feel are indispensible? I'm hoping to go pretty simple... after reading the above, any way to have the dealer put on diff tires at purchase? Has anyone tried purchasing through a broker, v. a dealer? *help, i'm terrible at this*
I was curious - do you get a tax deduction for buying a vehicle for doing your job, something like a home office deduction? It would seem to me that your employer ought to be paying for that kind of vehicle.
If most of your driving is on twisty hilly roads with a heavy load I'm not so sure the X would be the perfect vehicle for you. Not that it won't suffice, but from your description, it sounds more like your needs would be better suited to a more street friendly SUV, like the new 4 wheel independent suspension 2002 Explorer or something. I'd look into a more "car based" SUV like the Explorer, Chevy Trailbalzer, Isuzu Axiom, Subaru Outback etc. I would think you'd want more hp than the X has for hills and also a more car-like suspension that would carve turns better.
The X is fine for getting around town, and downright awesome off-road. But if you spend lots of time travelling hilly, twisty roads, and not a lot of time off-road then I would say you should first spend some time in the X and take it for a week long test drive to see if it meets your needs.
I love my Xterra, and wouldn't trade mine for anything. But just going by your description it sounds like there are other SUVs that would meet your needs. Not saying the X is bad at all, just that you might consider other options with all the SUVs out there today.
But....if you haul stuff and also like to off-road once in a while too then the Xterra might be perfect for you. I find it to be the perfect combination of a daily commuter vehicle and weekend off-roader. Just my .02 cents....
I'm going off of my memory, and that has proven to be less than superb lately. But I remember someone posting that behind two of the speaker covers (can't remember if it was the front or rear ones), there are actually two speakers instead of just one. Can someone else verify?
Well, actually, I do this work myself... from my own pocket... we are (after 36 years) now thinking about filing for a 501c(3) non-profit public benefit corporation. ... as I spent about $36K last year of my own money, I am looking for something ... um... affordable.
Tokico has showcased Xterra as one of the applications for their TREKMASTER. Has anybody tried these shocks? I would really like to know how it compares to OEM. Thanks
I think these shocks are mediocre. Better than stock (anything is), but the shocks to go with in my opinion are the Bilstein's. These things are awesome both on and off road. You can hit a speed bump at 40 mph and barely feel anything. I know Toyota switched their TRD package from Bilsteins to Tokico (I think to save money) and the new Tacoma owners are less than thrilled. If you are considering replacong the stock shocks I'd look into the Bilsteins.
I am not totally happy with Bilstein. In fact, I even replaced them with Monroe matic shocks since the Bils were too annoying on long drives. You can feel all the pebbles and grains on the road.
Really? You sure that's not your tires or tire pressure? Also, the Bilsteins for the X are fairly new. The older ones were a generic size shock not specifically made for the Xterra. You may have had a set not made for the X. I love the Bilsteins and honestly don't know of anyone who hasn't raved about them. Some of those Monroe shocks and the like are ok for a decent street ride, but will only last maybe 12-15K miles or so. And if you leave the pavement they're pretty much the same as stock (they have a very long return rate when fully compressed). Anyway...just my .02 cents. Whatever works for each person is what's best!
I just purchased my XE with 5 speed manual. I bought for the following reasons. Ruggedly built and excellent price. I am not an off-roader but am tired of many cars falling apart in <100K miles. My rational is that the Xterra was built for trails and since I will not go off-road, it should give me a gooooood loooong ride.
Though it is not a rocket, I consider acceleration completely acceptable. Yes, the ride is somewhat trucklike but it is designed to be. This is an EXCELLENT vehicle and Nissan has hit the ball VERY FAR relative to Liberty or Escape. You simply can't compare them.
My only concern is gas mileage. On my first two tanks, I averaged 13-14 mpg on highway with cruise control set at 75-77 mph.(Chicago> Minnesota on clear roads) I have read previous posts here and at www.xterraownersclub.com and this may be normal but I am hoping for better gas mileage as the engine "breaks in". Has anyone else experienced improving mileage as the car "breaks in"? For my return trip, I will set cruise to 70 mph and post my results.
Has anyone else checked highway mileage related to cruise control regulated speeds? I would really like to get upwards of 15mpg more for the range of a tank than the expense of the fuel. (I have a big bladder and HATE to get off the road to gas up!)
It may be early but I know I'm going to love this truck!
When I first bought my X (and before that my Frontier) my gas mileage was horrible. After maybe 2000 miles or so it greatly improved. I routinely get about 20-22 if I'm cruising on the highway on a long trip. I get anywhere from 15-17 around town. Don't worry, the mileage will improve (a little) after the engine breaks in and you do an oil change.
As for the cruise control, I find that mileage is not as good when using it. You'll notice that somtimes when the X is climbing a hill the cruise control will really kick in and send the rpm's way up in order to maintain the set speed. This burns gas (more then you'd would think). If you were driving without the cruise you'd probably lose a little speed at first when you encountered the hill and then you'd slowly accelerate to get up the hill - not mash it.
Others may have different experiences, but when I use the cruise I use it for comfort/convenience and not to improve mileage.
I just test drove my first X yesterday and liked it ALOT! (Solar Yellow...nice and loud!) I need to drive it a few more times to be sure, but I think I found a match. I want to thank everyone for all of the great comments, opinions and info - both good and bad. I wasn't really looking at the X too seriously before I started reading this board, but everyone is so enthused about this vehicle that it prompted me to take a closer look. And thanks Edmunds.com for such a great forum - where better to get info than from the people who actually have the vehicle you're interested in. Great job!
I recommend Bilsteins. They are built and valved specifically for the Xterra. I agree, Tokico is not low quality...they are like the Rancho's pretty much.
Hi--I have a new 2002 Xterra--with 490 miles on it. Today the Check engine light came on. I called the dealership from work--said it maybe the gas tank cap needs to be tightened. Try that, if not--stop in and they will look at it. That didn't turn off the light. I read tonight on another site, another 2002 owner had a faulty purge volume control valve. I am suppose to drive to a wedding out of town tomorrow. Is this safe until Monday? I called the dealership and, of course no one is in service tonight. ANY SUGGESTIONS? THANKS so much! maureen
Just dropping by to say hi... seems all is well ;-)
maureen.. if you just tightened the gas cap ( 3 clicks ).. it takes a few start ups to clear the light, you still might be OK. Try that tonight As far as the purge volume control valve... dunno.. sorry.. hopefully you can get your dealer before you leave.
Returning today from Minnesota to Chicago, I took the advice of member "bskohler" and avoided using cruise control. In addition, instead of 76-77mph, I eased up to 70mph. Gas mileage improved from 13 up to nearly 16. (After just 850 miles on the X) Also noticed that when driving at a steady 70mph and engaging cruise control (no grade), the gas pedal depressed slightly while holding speed. Agree with you that cruise control is not very efficient way to drive the X. Really lovin' the Xterra!
This is in response to Maureen from above. I have a 2002 Xterra also and the other week I was heading out of town and my engine light was on. I was scared to drive it that far so I stopped by the dealer to have them look at it before heading out. They hooked the truck to a computer and apparently when my husband got gas he put too much gas in it. The dealer said that once the gas nozzle clicks you have to stop adding gas (do not top off).
When the light came on I looked it up in my manual and they said that it has something to do with the exhaust and if it is due to the gas cap, the light would go out after a few trips. I went on a couple trips and started my car about 10 times and the light never went off. The dealer said it has to be stopped and started around 30 times before the light will go off. My thing is what if the light comes on and you just think it has something to do with the gas lid and keep driving and there is something wrong with the vehicle? At least they reset mine at the dealer. I wish they had a different light besides "service engine soon" because it freaked me out; I remember when I first started driving years ago, lol, that my father said, if the service engine light comes on get to the nearest service station.
Not you.. the truck's ;-), unfortunately they lumped everything ( serious or not ) into the check engine. Personally, I look at how the truck is running and go from there, at least they didn't lump the oil/abs/brake lights into this one area..
A sticker on the windshield states that 60% of the parts are of US origin, 30% of Japanese origin, and 10% other origin. I was under the impression that everything was US except for engine and transmission which both come from Japan. Can anyone enlighten me here? Thanks
Doing my research here and I was curious if anyone knows the bike that is part of the WC package? I know it is a K2,, but which one? The package overall seems from my comparisons to be fairly priced out.
My engine light came on at 3500 miles. The dealer checked everything and messing with the gas cap didn't fix the problem. Now they want to resechedule my Xterra to replace the gas tank. How common is this problem? I was wondering if there's a bulltein or recall issued by Nissan on this problem. Thanks..
Messing with the gas cap won't necessarily fix the problem. They have to reset the code to keep the check engine light from coming on. Also, why are they replacing the gas tank? Did they find a vapor leak? Can't imagine any other reason they would reaplce it. There isn't any TSB that I know of. I do know there were a lot of Xterras that had faulty sending units installed (suppliers fault, not nissans) which caused the needle to always read 3/4 full no matter how much gas was in there. Simple fix though. I don't think you gas tank problem is common (if it is actually a gas tank problem).
I recall hearing of some other people who either got new tanks or had one sensor or another replaced to solve the problem. Although I think the tank replacement was to solve a splashing-gas-at-fillup issue. So, no, it's not "common" but to hear that someone else has the same problem isn't a surprise either. If I recall correctly, the fix works, so I wouldn't be too concerned about it since it should all be done under warranty.
I've been looking at the SUV market for about 3 months now. The Xterra is one of my top choices. My others are the Mazda Tribute, Honda CRV and Toyota RAV4. I haven't been able to find a S/C V6 in my area lately all they have is just the basic 3.3L V6 with 170 HP. Is this enough power for such a heavy SUV? I've heard that it is but I've also heard that the 210HP S/C version makes a big difference. I do a lot of metropolitan driving and am constantly merging in and out of traffic so I need something that's gonna be decently light on it's feet. I'm only looking at the 4x2 because I have no need for the 4x4. I liked the power in the 3.0L V6 Mazda but the gas mileage ratings were horrific. The power was adequate in the CRV but a little under powered in the RAV4. Has anybody driven both the V6 and S/C V6 versions of the Xterra? Any input helps.
In my opinion, the regular six is adequate if you get a manual transmission. The supercharger makes a big difference in power, especially in an automatic.
The supercharged models are tough to find, at least in NJ. I've only sold two of them. 4x2 are even harder. The resale on a 4x2 is in the toilet, unless you live in Florida or California. Its like trying to sell a car without air conditioning. You probably wont find them on dealer's lots, but you can always order one. It takes about 8 weeks.
I should also say that you can lease these pretty cheap. I remember the last time i did a worksheet on a supercharged, Chase had some ridiculously good program on it.
The n/a Xterra has plenty of power in my opinion. It's not a rocket, but it has enough power that it's not a slug. It feels, well.."normal" I guess. The s/c has more power at the top of the power band, so when you're mashing the gas you'll really feel it. Otherwise, it won't kick in. It's not an "always on" type of S/C. Plus it requires premium gas.
Comparing the Xterra to the CRV, RAV4, Escape/Tribute is kinda like apples and oranges. Those vehicles are very different from the X. They all have full independent suspension and aren't really meant to actually leave the pavement. I don't think any of them even have a low-range gear, do they? Those SUVs are more for street and urban cruising and probably handle better (like a car) than the Xterra on pavement. Off the pavement they aren't good for much and it's very easy to damage their car suspensions. So it depends on what you're looking for. If you will probably never go off-road then there are probably better choices than the Xterra for getting around town (although the X does just fine). If you go off-road then you'll want the Xterra's solid rear axle and 2 speed transfer case so you can use the 4lo range.
First, let me thank all of you who have posted on this forum. Your questions and answers have helped me decide that the Xterra is the SUV for me. Your insights are greatly appreciated!
However, now I find myself in a quandry. Do I buy a 2000 Xterra with the bells and whistles or do I purchase the 2002?
One dealer in my area has committed a price to me -- $23,800 for a 2002 4x4 XE with the S/C v-6 (excluding tax,title, license). But I'm wondering if I should wait on purchasing new until the redesigned X is released (I've heard 04 for the biggest changes).
Plus, the price for the 2002 I'm looking at is so close to what I could get a loaded 2000 SE (seen a couple offered for around $22,000 before negotiating). It would seem that spending the extra $2,000 for a new X would be worth it -- but I'm still torn.
drneher - What changes have you heard for the new X? Is there a website? I am in the market myself and would like to purchase this summer or fall - leftover or 2003 - but now I'm thinking that I should wait.
I thought I read on this board that either the 2003 or 2004 was going to come with a more powerful standard engine. Also, I read in Motor Trend that their is a redesign scheduled for 2003 -- to what extent, I do not know.
The waiting game, but there will always be some changes from one year to the next, and always a few more ponies for horsepower. The longer you wait, the longer you are not driving an X. You can just wait until your current vehicle dies, and then get whatever is on the lot then. I usually like older versions anyway, only because they have had time to iron out the bugs from the new ones. For 2000$ and peace of mind, I'd go for the 02, you will never be sure how and where the 00 has been, and the Xtra bows and whistles won't matter much.
Comments
The trimming involves taking a Dremel or some other cutting tool and shaving a bit off the bottom edge of the mud flaps that are behind the front tires. The bottom edge of the flap bends to form a little lip that sticks out toward the front of the truck. That spot is just a mud collector anyway. Basically, you just trim part of that lip off on the side of the flap that's more underneath the body of the truck (not the side closest to the paint). Maybe 1/4 to 1/2". Just do trial and error. If you haven't trimmed enough, you'll hear the tires rub when turning so trim a bit more. If you do it neatly, it will be invisible.
If you can read .pdf files (adobe acrobat) go here for a list of BFG tire sizes. Near the bottom you'll see the flotation sizes for 15" wheels. Look for 31x10.5x15
http://www.bfgoodrichtires.com/2001_PDF_files/All-Terrain_KO.pdf
Both are great vecicles. I chose the Xterra mainly because I actually take my SUV off-road and couldn't justify paying over $35,000 for a 4Runner and then taking it out on the trail. Apparently that's how most people must think because I have never seen a late model 4Runner on the trail anywhere. The 4Runner I believe has about 10 more horses under the hood than the Xterra doas, but the X performs fine around town and has plenty of power for highway cruising. It's not a rocket, but it's not meant to be.
I personally think the 4Runner rides a bit bouncy, but that's probably due to the tread of the tires that Toyo throws on. Both are reliable vehicles in general. The 3.3 V6 in the Xterra has been around for quite a while (used to be the 3.0 of the old pathefinder). It's a great engine, runs like a swiss watch, and pretty is much trouble free with regular maintenance.
All in all,I couldn't justfy paying Toyota's price for the 4Runner when the same options were available on the Xterra (4wd, power everything, six cd in-dash changer, steering wheel audio controls, cruise control, etc). But the 4runner is a nice vehicle. It just never leaves the pavement, not because it can't, but rather because it's too expensive (and repair costs are outta sight) to risk having something happen to it on the trail.
I have the Long Trails. I think they're fine in the rain but other people have complained about them. I have never skidded or hydroplaned with them though so maybe it's a question of how you drive.
In snow, both the Long Trails and Grabbers puke. I put on Bridgestone Winter Duelers in winter.
In 2WD, you will slide around on snow or on ice, just like any other vehicle. The 4WD is very sure-footed though. I have the LSD. Can't tell if it's ever really helped but on the other hand, when you're going up about a 20 degree grade on ice, probably nothing will help but waiting for summer.
JANET
LSD: It defintely works and is worth getting, but it's not something you really "feel" like you do when you engage 4wd. Try driving an SUV without it and then drive the X and you'll see that it does indeed work. It's very helpful in limiting wheel spin in the rain, on wet ramps (like a boat ramp or something), icy patches, etc. But it's not going to get you out of deep snow or mud or something. Only 4wd will do that.
does anyone have experience or opinion on this in terms of performance, maintenance and long term reliability
i usually keep cars well over 100,000 miles, my last nissan was a 89 maxima with 120,000 that my new driver daughter totaled the car was mint
I do dog/cat/wildlife rescue. Live in hilly country (live on a street of about 45 degrees...) often carry 700 pounds of dog food, etc. No snow, lots of rain from time to time. I drive about 20k or more anually. Frequently cart 4 large *65 lbs or more) dogs at a time.
Those of you that have an x, what ya think? I'd like to own a Suburban but the pricetag is just, well, about as affordable as buying the empire state building. Would appreciate your thoughts.
BTW.... any options you feel are indispensible? I'm hoping to go pretty simple... after reading the above, any way to have the dealer put on diff tires at purchase? Has anyone tried purchasing through a broker, v. a dealer? *help, i'm terrible at this*
I do dog/cat/wildlife rescue.
I was curious - do you get a tax deduction for buying a vehicle for doing your job, something like a home office deduction? It would seem to me that your employer ought to be paying for that kind of vehicle.
tidester
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The X is fine for getting around town, and downright awesome off-road. But if you spend lots of time travelling hilly, twisty roads, and not a lot of time off-road then I would say you should first spend some time in the X and take it for a week long test drive to see if it meets your needs.
I love my Xterra, and wouldn't trade mine for anything. But just going by your description it sounds like there are other SUVs that would meet your needs. Not saying the X is bad at all, just that you might consider other options with all the SUVs out there today.
But....if you haul stuff and also like to off-road once in a while too then the Xterra might be perfect for you. I find it to be the perfect combination of a daily commuter vehicle and weekend off-roader. Just my .02 cents....
Mindie
canyon53s
tidester
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Steve
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bought for the following reasons. Ruggedly
built and excellent price. I am not an off-roader
but am tired of many cars falling apart in <100K
miles. My rational is that the Xterra was built
for trails and since I will not go off-road, it
should give me a gooooood loooong ride.
Though it is not a rocket, I consider acceleration
completely acceptable. Yes, the ride is somewhat
trucklike but it is designed to be. This is an
EXCELLENT vehicle and Nissan has hit the ball
VERY FAR relative to Liberty or Escape. You
simply can't compare them.
My only concern is gas mileage. On my first
two tanks, I averaged 13-14 mpg on highway with
cruise control set at 75-77 mph.(Chicago>
Minnesota on clear roads) I have read previous
posts here and at www.xterraownersclub.com and
this may be normal but I am hoping for better
gas mileage as the engine "breaks in". Has anyone
else experienced improving mileage as the car
"breaks in"? For my return trip, I will set
cruise to 70 mph and post my results.
Has anyone else checked highway mileage related
to cruise control regulated speeds? I would
really like to get upwards of 15mpg more for the
range of a tank than the expense of the fuel.
(I have a big bladder and HATE to get off the
road to gas up!)
It may be early but I know I'm going to love this
truck!
Mark
As for the cruise control, I find that mileage is not as good when using it. You'll notice that somtimes when the X is climbing a hill the cruise control will really kick in and send the rpm's way up in order to maintain the set speed. This burns gas (more then you'd would think). If you were driving without the cruise you'd probably lose a little speed at first when you encountered the hill and then you'd slowly accelerate to get up the hill - not mash it.
Others may have different experiences, but when I use the cruise I use it for comfort/convenience and not to improve mileage.
Congrats on your X and have fun with it!
http://www.truckworld.com/4x4-OffRoad/01-tokicoxterra/tokico-trek-master.html
That didn't turn off the light. I read tonight on another site, another 2002 owner had a faulty purge volume control valve. I am suppose to drive to a wedding out of town tomorrow. Is this safe until Monday? I called the dealership and, of course no one is in service tonight. ANY SUGGESTIONS? THANKS so much! maureen
maureen.. if you just tightened the gas cap ( 3 clicks ).. it takes a few start ups to clear the light, you still might be OK. Try that tonight
As far as the purge volume control valve... dunno.. sorry.. hopefully you can get your dealer before you leave.
I eased up to 70mph. Gas mileage improved from 13 up to nearly 16. (After just 850 miles on the X) Also noticed that when driving at a steady 70mph and engaging cruise control (no grade), the gas pedal depressed slightly while holding speed. Agree with you that cruise control is not very efficient way to drive the X. Really lovin' the
Xterra!
When the light came on I looked it up in my manual and they said that it has something to do with the exhaust and if it is due to the gas cap, the light would go out after a few trips. I went on a couple trips and started my car about 10 times and the light never went off. The dealer said it has to be stopped and started around 30 times before the light will go off. My thing is what if the light comes on and you just think it has something to do with the gas lid and keep driving and there is something wrong with the vehicle? At least they reset mine at the dealer. I wish they had a different light besides "service engine soon" because it freaked me out; I remember when I first started driving years ago, lol, that my father said, if the service engine light comes on get to the nearest service station.
knows the bike that is part of the WC package?
I know it is a K2,, but which one?
The package overall seems from my comparisons to be fairly priced out.
In my opinion, the regular six is adequate if you get a manual transmission. The supercharger makes a big difference in power, especially in an automatic.
The supercharged models are tough to find, at least in NJ. I've only sold two of them. 4x2 are even harder. The resale on a 4x2 is in the toilet, unless you live in Florida or California. Its like trying to sell a car without air conditioning. You probably wont find them on dealer's lots, but you can always order one. It takes about 8 weeks.
I should also say that you can lease these pretty cheap. I remember the last time i did a worksheet on a supercharged, Chase had some ridiculously good program on it.
Sid
Comparing the Xterra to the CRV, RAV4, Escape/Tribute is kinda like apples and oranges. Those vehicles are very different from the X. They all have full independent suspension and aren't really meant to actually leave the pavement. I don't think any of them even have a low-range gear, do they? Those SUVs are more for street and urban cruising and probably handle better (like a car) than the Xterra on pavement. Off the pavement they aren't good for much and it's very easy to damage their car suspensions.
So it depends on what you're looking for. If you will probably never go off-road then there are probably better choices than the Xterra for getting around town (although the X does just fine). If you go off-road then you'll want the Xterra's solid rear axle and 2 speed transfer case so you can use the 4lo range.
However, now I find myself in a quandry. Do I buy a 2000 Xterra with the bells and whistles or do I purchase the 2002?
One dealer in my area has committed a price to me -- $23,800 for a 2002 4x4 XE with the S/C v-6 (excluding tax,title, license). But I'm wondering if I should wait on purchasing new until the redesigned X is released (I've heard 04 for the biggest changes).
Plus, the price for the 2002 I'm looking at is so close to what I could get a loaded 2000 SE (seen a couple offered for around $22,000 before negotiating). It would seem that spending the extra $2,000 for a new X would be worth it -- but I'm still torn.
Any wisdom from current Xterra owners????
Does anyone have any info?
I usually like older versions anyway, only because they have had time to iron out the bugs from the new ones.
For 2000$ and peace of mind, I'd go for the 02, you will never be sure how and where the 00 has been, and the Xtra bows and whistles won't matter much.