I'm looking to purchase a used 1st gen Xterra in the next few weeks. I personally don't know anyone who has ever owned one so I'm a total newb with these. Are there any known issues to be worried about on the 1st gen models, and is there anything specific to Xterra's that I should be looking for when shopping for used ones? Thanks again

Before anyone else has a chance, do a search. This has been discussed a couple of times.

That being said, watch the mileage. The timing belt is probably the single biggest item to watch. It's "supposed" to be changed at 105k. Some do, some don't. If it is close or over this, check to see if it has been changed yet. If it hasn't, it's an expensive thing to have done ($800-1000). If it hasn't and the belt snaps, major engine damage is likely (not guaranteed, but very likely). This will generally include the water pump, thermostat, pulleys, etc. with it.

Another thing to watch for is a cracked exhaust manifold (3.3L, V6, right side). This isn't a BIG issue, but it's not that uncommon.

Other than these, look for overal condition. What year are you looking for specifically?

You may also try to find out what "mods" have been done. Some are more useful than others and more reliable than others too.

HTH!

-G

I was looking at the SE 4x4 models between the 02-04 model year. Just looking for the common things to go wrong on these suvs. that way I know what to watch out for. So do the T belts have a habit of going out after the 105K miles? or is the 105K time table when Nissan suggest that it's replaced? I'm not too worried about the T belt, I'll just replace it myself. Did they have any major recalls on Xterras?

The timing belt is "suggested" as part of the scheduled maintenance to be replaced at 105k. I've known of guys that have gone as far as 150k, but anything much beyond 105k, is pressing your luck.

As far as recalls, nothing major comes to mind.

Other things? These trucks (they are not cars - they're built on a truck frame) are pretty reliable. They were designed from the start to be an off-road type truck so they're pretty tough to start with - not your normal, boring, soccer-mom, mall-runner SUV. If I had to say any one part was a weak point it would have to be the steering linkages (upper/lower ball joints, etc.). And even then, there's plenty of after market "upgrades" to fix that, if you need it. (Mine's an '03 and my steering is still stock.).

One other thing that comes to mind is the condition of the plastic on the front end (grill, headlight trim, wheel well trim, etc.). If you find a truck where this is faded, use it as a bargaining chip. This plastic trim is know to fade and looks terrible if it hasn't been "fixed". It's super simple to remove and paint, but if it hasn't been taken care of it will be faded and look bad. Like I said, if it is in good condition other than paint, it's a simple fix and hopefully you could use it to lower the price...

HTH! I'm sure others will pipe in here with their thoughts given time.

-G

+ 1 on the timing belt. Just had mine replaced along with thermostat and water pump at 105,000. Well worth the investment. BTW... the dealer's price was $200.00 more than my local guy down the street. Had the dealer do the work. All seems well. Watch the two rings next to the mesh exhaust piece underneath, they rust off and rattle. I just cut them off and all is well. So far, and being the original owner, this truck has suited me well for nine years!!