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Draw-Tite receivers are apparently backed by a nationwide limited warranty. No, I don't work for Draw-Tite! Just check it out. (And put a big flattened cardboard box on the ground under the receiver when you install the blasted thing so you don't scratch it up. You'll need somebody to hold it in place while you bolt it on, btw.)
All 2003 Pathfinders will be available for optional satellite radio, with a choice of XM or Sirius services. The LE model receives standard leather-appointed interior, while SE models feature restyled wheels. Both models also feature a new 4-spoke steering wheel and electronic rear hatch window release. A new Vehicle Dynamic Control Package offers Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) with Traction Control System and tire pressure monitoring system. Four new exterior colors are also offered for the 2003 model year.
Enhancements to the 2003 Pathfinder include:
- All Pathfinders come satellite radio ready
- Standard leather-appointed seats and improved center console/C-stack appearance on LE model
- Standard side-impact and side curtain supplemental air bags standard on LE
- Standard LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tether for Children) system
- Restyled four-spoke steering wheel, standard electronic rear hatch window release
- Titanium color interior accents on SE models
- Available Vehicle Dynamic Control Package with Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) with Traction Control System and tire pressure monitoring system
- New 16-inch 6-spoke aluminum-alloy wheel design standard on SE model
- Four new exterior colors - Crystal Blue, Burnt Copper, Sunlit Sand, Polished Pewter
Lefty
VG35 (3.5liter) = timing chain (01-current Pathfinder), no recommended replacement interval
tidester
Host
SUVs; Aftermarket & Accessories
As tidester says, "Usually, just turning the steering wheel (left and right) will free up the key."
Thanks
I own a 2002 Pathfinder SE with the new roof rack. I would like to remove the wind deflector on it but cannot figure out how. Would appreciate any help.
Selection can be a problem in some areas. Per one sales manager with whom I spoke, the factory is already putting out the '03 Pathfinders. Some '02s may be on the water or in port, as they were still delivering '02s to dealers as of 7/27/02. (Pathys are made in Japan; Xterras in the U.S.)
By the way, I think the limited slip differential is a MUST have, even if you don't go off road because of the torque and the higher center of gravity (outside wheel will spin in the rain going around the corner without limited slip diff.) Unfortunately, with the automatic transmission SE, you have to get the popular package and sunroof package to get the limited slip. Explain that one! The manual transmission Pathfinders come with the limited slip standard.
12 mpg - towing 4500 pounds not in a hurry
14 mpg - around town (Dallas) driving hard
15.5 to 16 mpg - around town usual driving
17.5 to 18.5 - highway at 65 to 75 mph
18.5 to 19.5 - highway at 75 to 90 mph
I'm not sure exactly why it gets better gas mileage over 75. I'd guess it has something to do with the power peaks of the motor.
And if it affects you, I got 14 mpg or so on the highway in 4 wheel drive snowy/blizzard conditions when I used to live in Wisconsin.
Thank you in advance
Nissangirl- I did not know the LE and SE ride unalike. The tire sizes are a little bit different. Is that where the disimilarity lies?
I know it's a matter of preference but I did like the interior of the SE as well. The seats are kind of funky with the suede-like and dark honeycombed material but the LE with it's multi hued swashes of color didn't look as elegant. Although I'm sure it is easier to keep clean. But other than the fake wood trim I though the two interiors looked rather alike. Not trying to be confrontational ( especially to anyone in the Nissan family) just asking for further clarification.
Happy Pathfinding!!!
Steve
Automatic Transmission
Popular Package
Sunroof Package
Limited Slip Diff
Floor Mats
Body Side Mouldings
In Cabin Microfilter
MSRP: $31,583
Purchase Price: $29,262
Minus Rebate: -1,000
Final Cost: $28,262
Per today's paper, you can still get $1,000 cash back. Now they're offering 0.9% financing for 36 months.
Crikey is quite right about the suspension. Brochure makes no mention of difference in suspension and I noticed none driving SE vs. LE.
If anything, lower profile tires on LE might ride a bit firmer on pavement. Traditionally, higher profile tires like on the SE are preferred for off-roading to avoid rim damage. But the LE wheels do look good.
Note, the brochure is misleading. To clarify, if you want side airbags on '02, you MUST get leather seats.
Also, if you buy an '02 SE with Popular Package that was made early in production (e.g., a demo), it may not have the automatic temperature control.
Thank you.....nuf said.
But then, you might see the Murano and say, "Whoa! Where'd that come from?" and forget about the Pathfinder altogether. That is, unless off-roading is in your agenda, then the PF might be a better vehicle for your needs.
Spring rating is different. A stiffer setup for the SE.
I checked out nissandriven.com and found that in the Maxima specifications, it mentions 'Sport-tuned suspension - firmer front and rear springs, front struts and rear shock absorbers; larger front stabilizer bar' for the SE, see http://www.nissandriven.com/vehicles/ModelSpecifications/0,9439,20360||,00.html. But, in the Pathfinder specification, it makes no mention of it, see http://www.nissandriven.com/vehicles/ModelSpecifications/0,9439,20702||,00.html.
I do think they have the same suspension and that the spring ratings are the same.
Anyone know if the '03's are heading to dealerships yet??
nissangirl: '03's have already left Japan.
Off the top of my head, I don't remember if the LE is heavier, but if so, that would make a difference as well. Even adding 2 people makes the softly sprung Pathy ride differently.
As for tire pressure, there is a HUGE...repeat HUGE difference even between 26 PSI and 30 PSI. Invisible cracks and joints @ 26 PSI , are pretty noticable at 30 PSI and above.
I would think think that tire brands/makes could make a difference as well.
gritz
'01 SE 5 spd w/49k .... No problems at all!!
Lovin' every minute of it!!
Leather Package
Limited Slip Differential
Floor Mats
In-Cabin Microfilter
I want to add a sunroof wind deflector.
The invoice from Edmunds is about 31,351, since it has 4.5k miles. What price would you offer for this LE, $30,000?
I'd appreciate your feedback.
Now, to be fair, I did this for a 2000 model, not a 2001 model, but I have no reason to believe Nissan would have changed their feature set between 00 and 01, without giving it mention in their marketing material. The primary difference between 00 and 01 is the powertrain, not the suspension.
(For reference, I used www.aaanissanparts.com, and if that site is inaccurate, someone better let them know...)
(Most) sales people will let you think whatever you want to so long as you buy the car.
'01's for sure?? Inquiring minds want to know... At least I wanted to know for sure. There is an '01 LE parked out in our lot this a.m., so I slipped under it quickly. Same exact underpinnings and part #'s as on our 'O1 SE. So for '01's, suspension is the same. ;-)
gritz
Anyway, I'll let this argument rest here. Whether you get the SE or the LE, you're getting a fine vehicle.
Perception is 99% reality anyway.
Some of you may not be aware of this, or even care, but a recently organized annual event will be taking place for owners of Nissan 4x4 vehicles next Spring. The event is called goneMOAB and it will be held in Moab, Utah from April 13 to 19, 2003. goneMOAB is an acronym for "gathering of Nissan enthusiasts at Moab"
If you would like to visit one of the most scenic locations in the southwest, Moab is it. And during that week, which coincides with the Red Rock 4Wheelers' annual Easter Jeep Safari, you'll have an opportunity to participate in, or merely observe the largest gathering of Nissan 4x4 enthusiasts that will have ever been assembled in the US. Plus, you can watch built-up Jeeps, Toyotas, Broncos, Hummers, and probably even some modified Nissans tackle obstacles that you'd never think could be traversed by a vehicle.
All Nissan 4x4 vehicles are welcome to participate. This year's event, which was pretty small (only 16 vehicles), was covered in 4Wheeler magazine last month.
When you go to Moab, take the mountain bikes!
By the way, folks, Yakima tells me that in a few months they should have a round bar tower that clamps to the factory SE rack, something akin to their X-Tower (for XTerras) or Low Rider tower, so hang fire if you really are dying to use your round bar mounts, yet keep the factory SE rack on the truck. Then you can use your fork mount bike racks!
Lance
Steve
Host
SUVs, Vans and Aftermarket & Accessories Message Boards
So, in answer to your question, I don't have reservations about the durability of the strut suspension used on the Pathfinder. The struts are very heavy-duty. (Passenger car struts are an entirely different beast).
In fact, I would wager that the strut suspension (with just the 2" spring lift) and rack-and-pinion steering has been at least as durable, if not more, than the torsion-bar, center-link/idler arm/tie-rod configuration used on the older Pathfinders, the Frontier, and the Xterra.
I would say the main disadvantage of strut suspension for off-road use is its limitation on modification for lifting. A 2" lift is the maximum amount of lift that can be achieved without very serious, custom modification (which is probably something I'll be researching over the next couple of years).
Thanks
Even more amazing is that my hero's son, Axel, is racing in the Tour these days. (the hero being "Fast" Eddy Merckx of course - man, I'm getting old!).
Sorry for the interruption - back to the Pathy.
Steve
Host
SUVs, Vans and Aftermarket & Accessories Message Boards
A contact of ours is looking for a group of luxury SUV enthusiasts who would be willing to come to Irvine, CA August 24th from 9am to 3pm for a test drive, focus group and lunch. Participants will be compensated for their time. If you are interested in participating in this event, please send an email with your contact information as well as the model vehicle you drive to: chotti@earthlink.net.
Thanks for your consideration!
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