Should I buy a 2008 Nissan Pathfinder diesel?

The bottom line here is that even if the vehicle was incredibly cheap, you might find it’s a false economy once you have to start making repairs. Regardless of what make or model four-wheel-drive you’re looking at, the first thing to do is determine how it’s been used and how it’s been serviced. Check the service handbook for signs that correct maintenance has been performed, and try to gauge how much off-road work it’s done. Any example with mud tyres and a winch can be assumed to have led a hard life. On a model-specific basis, this was not Nissan’s finest hour in turbo-diesel engines. The 2.5-litre four-cylinder diesel is notorious for suffering stretched and failed timing chains. And repairing that could easily be more than the value of a 300,000km example. EGR (exhaust gas recirculation, part of the emissions-control equipment) coolers can also fail expensively. There are better choices, to be honest.

My 2011 Nissan Pathfinder won't shift into four-wheel-drive

There are many reasons, some mechanical, some electrical, why a vehicle won't select four-wheel-drive when the driver requests it. But the first thing we'd check would be the electrical connections from the rotary dial on the dashboard and the mechanical components that dial controls. In the old days, four-wheel-drive was selected by mechanical levers that moved the internal bits of the transfer case to the correct position to engage the front driveshaft and, in turn, the front differential and axles. But in your Pathfinder (and many other makes and models) manufactures started using electrical switches instead of actual levers. The idea was that by electrically controlling this function, there was less effort required from the driver. The reality is that these dials are as susceptible to electrical gremlins as any other part of the car. Check the fuses that protect the selection dial and if that's not the problem, have the rotary dial itself checked for faults.

Should we replace our Holden Commodore with a Subaru Outback?

A car with a little extra ground clearance is great for camping as it often allows you to get a little farther away from the masses in their caravans who tend to huddle around the shower block at bush campsites. The Subaru Outback is a good, solid choice and if you can find an independent workshop to service it, you’ll avoid the cost of dealership prices. And you’re right, the all-wheel-drive would be great for gravel roads. Another vehicle to look at would be a late-model Ford territory diesel which is big and clever inside and has the option of all-wheel-drive. The diesel engine is a plus on the bush where that fuel is more readily available (in really remote areas) and gives you more range for big holidays in the mulga. Don’t rule out things like the Mitsubishi Pajero, either, which won’t be as around-town friendly, but is a proven quantity and is absolutely tremendous off-road. The same goes for a Toyota Prado or Nissan Pathfinder prior to the current model (which is a bit less hard-core adventure).

What are the best 7-seat SUV's?

A better option for someone with a tribe to transport would be a peoplemover, such as the Kia Carnival, Hyundai iMax, or VW Transporter. They’re made for that purpose and much more practical than an SUV.

Failed clutch in 2006 Nissan Pathfinder

I would doubt that he has any claim; clutches are considered a wear and tear item and not covered by warranty.

Will a Nissan Pathfinder tow a horse float?

You don’t specify a model, but it’s a sure bet that a Pathfinder will handle at least 1250 kg, whichever model you have.

What's a fuel efficient SUV on the market?

I don’t believe that what you want is out there, and can only reiterate past advice, buy a Patrol/Pajero/Prado/LandCruiser.

Toyota Prado: Buying tips

Your choices are limited if you want a four-wheel drive for serious off-roading. You could look at a Mitsubishi Pajero, Nissan Pathfinder, or maybe one of the popular 4WD utes. A ute will do everything you need, and they are quite comfortable on the road.

Nissan Pathfinder 2014 Problems

No car is perfect, but we've gathered everything relating to the Nissan Pathfinder 2014 reliability here to help you decide if it's a smart buy.

Used Nissan Pathfinder review: 2005-2015

1 Mar 2017 · by Ewan Kennedy

Ewan Kennedy reviews the 2005-2015 Nissan Pathfinder as a used buy. Nissan Pathfinder has had a mixed career in Australia since it arrived in 1986 as a tough, two-door 4WD wagon based on the Navara ...

2014 Nissan Pathfinder any good?

Answered by CarsGuide 31 Oct 2014

Some owners have complained about the CVT in past models, but we haven't had any reports about the current model here at Carsguide. The issue complained about is shuddering on take-off. Fuel consumption is also a concern. The Pathfinder has a powerful 3.5-litre V6 engine and reports say it can slurp 10 L/100 km on the highway and more around town. If your daughter is concerned she should perhaps look at a four-cylinder SUV.

Grand Cherokee, MU-X or Pathfinder for towing?

Answered by CarsGuide 11 Aug 2014

We've also heard complaints about the Jeep but the new Pathfinder is impressive and gets The Tick from me.

Grand Cherokee Overland or Pathfinder Ti?

Answered by CarsGuide 11 Aug 2014

It's the Pathfinder for me.

R52 Nissan Pathfinder Bluetooth issues

Answered by CarsGuide 4 Jul 2014

That the dealership staff had trouble using it I think you've got good justification for some help from Nissan. We understand there are issues with the Bluetooth function, so it's probably best to consult an expert in that area.

Which vehicle is suitable for towing a caravan

Answered by CarsGuide 23 May 2014

Before buying the tow vehicle you should establish what you want to tow with it. It would be a good idea to decide on the caravan you want to buy and from that determine the total weight you want the car to handle, that is the weight of the caravan when it is fully loaded ready to travel. I say that because a car rated to tow 2 tonnes means you will only be able to tow a relatively small caravan. A diesel will be more economical when towing, and if that were your priority then I would go that way. I would suggest you consider a mid-sized SUV, like a Nissan Pathfinder, Ford Territory or a Toyota Kluger.

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Nissan Pathfinder 2014 Problems

Used Nissan Pathfinder review: 2005-2015

2014 Nissan Pathfinder any good?

Grand Cherokee, MU-X or Pathfinder for towing?

Grand Cherokee Overland or Pathfinder Ti?

R52 Nissan Pathfinder Bluetooth issues

Which vehicle is suitable for towing a caravan

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