Used 1998 Nissan Pathfinder Consumer Reviews
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One to Keep
Bought our 98 Pathfinder LE new ('back in the day') & have loved it ever since. Basic & expected maintenance only & rolling strong at 189,000 miles & counting. Does everything & still is the backbone of the family fleet (Altima & Juke) in terms of usability, versatility (boat, dogs etc.), safety, & confidence in bad weather. Will drive it until either I or it give(s) out.
Satisfied for what it is
I've owned the SUV for almost 4 yrs and put in 30K+ miles. Serves my purpose well as a daily driver and offers alot of utility. Taken it for skiing as well as runs to Home Depot and such. Cargo capacity is good w/seats folded. Biggest complaint is mpg as I only manage 14mpg, but within estimated range. Handling at highway speed not the best, but that's a given since its based on an outdated truck platform. Wet/snow performance is good so long as tires are up to task. The Bose stereo is a major PITA to replace as modification to the OEM Bose speakers are necessary. Would recommend to anyone looking for a cheaper 4WD vehicle that offers good reliability and adequate driving characteristics.
- SE 4dr SUVMSRP: $5,995524 mi away
- XE 4dr SUVMSRP: $9,5951,078 mi away
- XE 4dr SUVMSRP: N/A393 mi away
Good SUV
I bought this used at 68K and currently have 135K on it. It runs well and I've had no major issues. Everything I have fixed I would consider it maintenance with most being done after 100K. Starter, alternator, water pump, timing belt, brakes, shocks, struts, tires, exhaust. Has a "tick" in the engine at colder temp's but goes away. The brakes are "grabby" but it could be the calipers going.
Pretty Ignorant But Got Lucky
Back in 2004, when I needed a vehicle, I went into a small Mom & Pop used car dealership and said, "All I have is $10,000. What SUV's do you have?" They showed me one vehicle which happened to be a 1998 Nissan Pathfinder le. Looked good and I bought it, it had 80,000 miles on it. I was lucky! Sadly, she was wrecked/totaled the other day and had 260,000 total miles on her and was still going strong. Paint still looked good. I alone drove her 180,000 rough miles and spent a total of $9,509. in major n minor repairs/maintenance and tires in 10 yrs time. She had started every day of her life, except for when she had a dead battery, or alternator, or bad ignition coil. (R.I.P dear friend!)
Cash For Clunkers Victim
I bought my Pathfinder brand new in 1998 and it's still going strong 220,000 miles later. Cabin held up well and still looks great. Things to watch out for: real axle seals (leaked, had to have both replaced), fuel throttle body (replaced, was sticking from bad fuel and had a coolant leak), AC (replaced compressor, replaced fan speed switch (x2), replaced blower motor and its speed control resistor (x2), harness wires toasted from being too thin), and that coolant rubber hose inside the engine (!) that gets overlooked when replacing the timing belt, water pump, and other hoses.) All-in-all it's been an AWESOME truck for me! Definitely buy one if you can find one that's been well maintained.
Good SUV
I've owned this one for almost 6 years and have been quite pleased. Powertrain is rock solid with no issues. I have replaced water pump, timing belt, starter, alternator, brakes, struts and exhaust. All things I consider maintenance and not done until the last couple years. Access to back seats is awkward, several people have hit their heads getting in. The gas mileage stinks which is expected. The engine is somewhat underpowered but wouldn't trade it for the reliability. The ride is decent, a little stiff but it's an SUV. Front seats are comfy and the flip down rear seats give you a lot of room to haul.
Dissapointing
Blew the tranny after 6 mos. ownership. I bought it used had it for 6 months, only had 140 km's on it. Never used for towing or never abused. Nissan Canada wouldn't even consider helping me out. Strangely all the reviews were excellent for this vehicle. Lesson learned, don't believe everything you read, I'm still burning my consumer reports magazines!! Talked to several shops they've had many repairs lately due to rad problems causing insufficient cooling of tranny. Even 1999 models. I'm waiting for the recall.
Buy This SUV
Extremely reliable, I purchased the vehicle used and saved a bundle. Because I researched the SUV before purchasing and found out it was a one owner lease, it helped me to make the decision to purchase it. I purchased the vehicle from a used car lot. The mileage was about 2,000 over expected, so far I still think It was one of my better vehicle purchases.
Worlds best Nissan!
Bought a little 98 Pathy and rode the crap out of it. Rocks, snow, mud, steep hills etc....was 1,500 miles from hitting 200k and i rolled the poor thing. Still ran afterwards but it was unfixable body wise. Solid motor that drinks like an alcoholic but lasts forever. Loved the car so much and took it on many adventures. Good looking suv and very reliable. Named it The Dirt Nasty. Now i have another 1998 Pathfinder and it was Named the DN2 or Dirt Nasty 2. It will be taken on just as many adventures and hopefully lasts forever. Grab yourself an old pathfinder, maintain it. And enjoy.
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1998 Pathfinder 4x4
This is a good truck if it's taken care of. Previous owner lied about what he said he did to it, like regularly changing the oil. Took it to get fluids flushed a week after I got it and my mechanic said that was some dirty oil. I bought it with 175k miles on it for $2000 and I've put $3000 into it. New tires, brakes all around, new front axle, bearings repacked all the way around, rear shocks, alternator, battery and a few other maintenance repairs. Still needs front struts and catalytic converter. Has an oil leak. No rust. Other than that, I really love the truck. Took it 4-wheeling today in the snow. Fun. Giving the truck to my nephew when he turns 16. Hope he gets a lot of use out of it.
Pathfinder owner for five years
Owner purchased this model used and rates this vehicle as above average in reliabilty.
Great SUV! What a find!!
I’m writing this review to help others while looking for a GREAT used SUV. Found this gem on a local site the sellers had really loved the truck and it was obvious they had done their fair share of upkeep on the truck. The truck has 122k miles, starts right up. First thing in the morning 1st to 2nd shifts a little harder then the other shifts but quickly gets smoother when it heats up. I’ve noticed if I run higher RPMs in first gear (2.5) it’ll shift smooth. I usually don’t like to go over 2k rpm but this truck loves in the middle of 2k & 3k RPM. The engine purrs like a kitten I can’t even tell it’s running from 10 feet away. Not much power but that’s okay for me don’t need to be zipping around town. The gas mileage isn’t the best but it is a SUV. I’ve hit my head twice in the month I’ve had the truck getting into it. Might still be used to my single cab pickup. The leg room is a little tight. The gadgets and options inside are top notch the OEM Bose radio system sounds GREAT. All buttons and switches work as intended and convenient. Sunroof and all windows/power seats work accordingly. The folding back seats for cargo work well and are easy to set up. The previous owner mentioned they towed a boat occasionally with ease. The truck had an oil leak from the valve cover that would burn oil and create an obnoxious smell. Simple fix. The “door open” warning light stays on in the gauge cluster, must be a worn connector or something electrical somewhere. Not on top of my priority list. Truck has 4x4 haven't really gotten a chance to use it seeing as I’m in FL and have no need for it really. Everything else is working fantastic!!! I had heard rumor these trucks were known for reliability and luxury and it has yet to unimpress me. THANK YOU NISSAN FOR A GREAT TRUCK
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This Pathfinder Is Outstanding!
My 1998 Pathfinder has been a true pleasure to own. It has only had a few minor problems...Mostly while under warranty! It has been extremely reliable. I take my truck off roading in the mountains and it never fails to impress me at how well it handles off road trails. My only complaint is the lack of power. It actually isn't horrible as I've lived with the motor for about 4 years now! You can't go wrong with this SUV and Boulder Nissan is a great store!
Nissan Never Again
Recently bought this 1998 Pathfinderw ith only 59,000 miles. I drove it only 3,500 miles over a nine month period and the transmission died. I would have had better luck with a Chevy or Ford! The driver seat is small and uncomfortable. The gas milage is terrible, but I knew that buying it. The back seats' fold down setup is poor. The rear window leaks and the front windows don't close tight enough to stop the howl at higher speeds. I used the ratings and comments on this site to make the choice to buy this SUV. I really don't like this truck and now I feel like I made a bad choice.
Survived
I did not have this car for long before I was in a wreck. Overall though, I would reccomend this car to anyone as long as they could pay the gas. One of the safest cars I have been in. Hit by an eighteen wheel on dirver's side. Airbags didn't go off. We suspect it was too much of a side impact to set them. Probably would have caused more injury if they did. Walked away with two minor cuts ( very minor...didn't know they were there until my mind could process what had just happened) and a slightly fractured shoulder. The fracture didn't keep me from using my arm though. Wreck was caused by my own stupidity. had car for only 3 months.
The Best Yet
I am the original and I've owned two Explorers and a Bravada and the Pathfinder is the best. Love driving it to a from work. Looks very rugged in SE trim. Needs more horsepower but has great torque-I use it to tow my boat and I pulled 2 tree stumps with it.
Pathfinder
Very reliable, no warranty claims in nearly six years of ownership. Good paint.
I'm buying another one
With 175000 miles, the engine runs great. The tranny in 4WD isn't as smooth anymore, but how can I complain. I've never needed a major repair (the original rear brakes are still on the thing) and routine maintenance is easy to handle. I drive it tough and it still does what I want, when I want it, without a complaint. Except for the mysterious service engine soon light, reliability and quality have never been an issue.
One of my Better Decisions
Bought used in 2001 with 41,600 miles on it-have 144000+ on it now without a squeak or rattle. It's a workhorse, but also a funhorse! A rock solid, reliable multitasker that hauls people, boats, kayaks and auction treasures. An enjoyable drive except for the lack of power and a wider-than-expected turning radius. Interior fit and finish is solid. Significant blind spots, though, and deafening wind noise when the moon roof is open - can't hear the radio on the highway! Seat belts drive me nuts - don't retract properly, even after several visits to the dealer. Took off running board tubes - rusted out on the driver side. Small stuff - will keep until it falls apart.
Pathfinder
Good solid car drives like a car not a truck.
My first car :-)
I love this car. Very comfortable. Didn't had any major problems. Had to replace AC compressor (car was from Texas). Just replaced all struts/shocks/tires and much more miles per gallon. I put on it 60000 miles in 3 years (103000 odo reading now). Regularly changing oils. Timeing belt at 90000 (i suggest earlier!! My friends Izusu Trooper engine died because of timing belt). It is a great car! Good lookin. Did a little off roading and digs itself out of snow easily. Holds the road at 90mph like a car (max 110mph, a little scarry).
Sweet Ride
I previously owned a 94 nissan pathfinder that went to 308 thousand. So, I decided to try my hand with a 98 model and I love it. From the 94 to the 98 the ride is so much better. The 98 does really well off-road. Its an easy truck to accessorize with brush guard and racks. I use mine alot for kayaking which leads me all over the southeast and on some back wood trails where it performs both excellent on and off road. The mpg could be better though. I average around 15-16 mpg.
'98 Pathfinder---What a find!
Bought this SUV from a dealer with 86k miles, but it looked like new and runs the same. A pleasure to drive, comfortable leather seats, and all the amenities on the SE are superb. Even my wife thinks this was a great buy, and she was against it at the beginning. I can't say enough about the quality of this vehicle and it's bound to be around for several years!
Happy Pathfinder
I just bought my Pathfinder. Had been Looking for a used SUV that was a good deal. Found this w/ 58,000 local, verified miles. Handles great! Runs well! Gas mileage could be better. Driver legroom could be better. Wish I could have gotten a different color. (it's black) Feel like I got a great deal. I think it will last me for the next 5 years and help keep the car payments away. Very happy so far.
enjoyed, but wonder now
My vehicle has 93,000 miles, has seen mostly city 2x4 usage, snow 4x4 high, and little 4x4 low usage. I've owned it for 60,000 of the miles and purchased it 2000 with few needed repairs. It has a great look to it, and 4wd mode is great in snow. The engine is a bit underpowered compared to other SUV's, but its a comfortable ride. Gas mileage is 16-18 mpg. Suddenly this vehicle seems to be falling apart. This year, I've had to completely replace both muffler systems ($700), brakes ($120 ceramic), rotors ($300), right and left sway bar links ($240), struts, and mounts (estimate $800), and now my transmission (estimate $2800). I'm now looking for a new car. When this car goes bad, its bad.
The finder of paths aka the pathfinder
I bought a 98 pathfinder used in 2008 for $5000, I think to date it has been the absolute best, most reliable car I have ever purchased. only major issue it had in the 4 years I owned it (it got hit and totaled) was a failed distributor at nearly 175k miles and that was a 10 minute fix. it gets horrible mpg by todays standards but back then it was on par with the suvs of the day. so don't expect great mpg but consistent mpg I averaged either 14 or 15mpg a tank depending on the amount of freeway driving I did. When I bought the suv it still had the factory installed battery from 1998 in it, 10 years old! when it needed a replacement 6 months after purchase I took it out and saw the date code 6/98 and my truck was built 7/98(late 98 model) and this was in early 2009! it got 10.6 years out of the factory battery which is not necessarily saying anything either way about my truck just surprised me. no corrosion nothing terminals came off easy and clean and went back on the new one easy. lets call its engine a tank engine it wont get you there fast but IT WILL GET YOU THERE EVERY SINGLE TIME and this is true except that distributor failure I had it cranked first time every time and ran like a champ never broke down and never needed anything outside of routine upkeep like fluid changes and tires. the drivers seat did get a rip at the outer bolster seam but some needle and thread fixed that and a seat cover prevented new rips. (this seems to be common even on newer Nissan suvs, just like the foam is too plumped out and the fabric rubs and wears out eventually (had same thing happen on a 2000 xterra and I can see it happening on my current 2011 xterra) so seat covers are a must to keep the seat seams nice and wear free, plus it protects from stains. but outside of those minor things this truck is great, especially nowadays as a first car if you want your kid in something safe, reliable, easy to fix and cheap to fix a 98 pathfinder is a winner, yeah their fuel bill might be high but they make up for it in reliability. When mine got hit and totaled a lady ran a stop sign and hit the rear quarter panel of my suv she was in another suv and went all the way up the side at 35mph it was drivable so I drove home and due to its age and mileage the insurance company totaled it, and since I did not want to deal with selling a "salvage title" car later I let them instead of fixing it as they said to fix it, it would then be salvaged but after 4 years and 50k miles of ownership I only put maybe $1500 in repairs and basic upkeep like oil changes(all it ever really needed) and the insurance company valued it at $5200 4 years and 50k miles later then when I bought it for $200 less! these are great trucks and great picks for anyone looking for a reliable suv on a budget
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Workhorse
I bought my Pathfinder 10 years ago with about 70K miles. This SUV is a workhorse! I have abused this vehicle by towing more than that what you're supposed to. I love its 4WD capability. They don't make cars like this one anymore folks. My only complaint would be the poor gas mileage, but I guess you can't have it all.
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Back to Old Faithful.........
I wrote a previous review back in April. Although I had bought a luxury suv as a replacement for my Pathfinder, I still had not sold it and it was sitting on a consignment lot for over six months. The war with Iraq had just started and being that we lived near a military area, car sales were in a slump. Luckily, this all worked out to my advantage. Being so unhappy with my so called luxury suv I decided to sell it and reclaim my old faithful Pathfinder. I am happy to say that I am back in the drivers seat again and loving every minute of it. Live and learn.
One of best motor vehicles I have owned
I have owned many cars, trucks, and motorcycles over many decades. Without reservation I can say that this Pathfinder is one of the very best vehicles I have ever owned. I would recommend both current and older Pathfinders to people who find superb reliability more important than e.t.'s at the drag strip. The mileage is higher than one can rightfully expect from a truck framed 4WD vehicle with enough power to be a serious off and on rode ride with exceptional sure footedness.
98 Pathfinder SE
Two problems: performance and leg room for passenger. Poor acceleration with a 5 speed, will only be worst with an automatic. Besides that, a pretty nice vehicle. Reliable.
Its a great SUV
I have loved this truck. It drives like a car.
damn
Now I've owned 3 pathfinders so far. A 94, a 96, and a 98. I have had this one only since October and stopped driving it end of July. In those months I have bought 4 brand new tires, struts, shocks, front brakes, front drivers side axle, water pump, radiator hose, timing belt, ball joints/u joints, bushings and bearings on control arms, new evap system purge valve and canister, and then the recall was fixed, and last but not least my transmission just went and my knock sensor and my control arms need to be replaced. Im still looking for a new pathfinder but I wouldnt suggest a 98 or younger to anyone.
So far so good
I bought my pathfinder over a year ago for two thousand dollars. It had 213,000 miles on it. I now have 216,000, so I don't drive very much. It is a good car for driving around town, but sometimes it gets shaky on the freeway. It will rock back and forth until I slow down a little or speed up. It has been a reliable car so far. After I purchased it last year, I replaced the timing belt, water pump, and belts because I did not know when they were done last. I have never used the four wheel drive.
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1998 Pathfinder
Excellent vehicle all around. This vehicle has been very reliable for my wife and I can see it lasting for many years to come. We did lose the rear differential ($800). Great in the snow. A very quiet ride. This truck seems new with over 100K on it.
proud owner
When i bought the auto, it was like brand new with only 21875 miles on it. It was so mint that the smoothness of the paint work was like new. It surprised the dealers. I live in Alberta, Canada and the winters up here can be very treacherous for driving - icy roads at minus 25 C. So when it was in 4 wheel drve, the drive was so controlled and the feeling of security is wonderful.
My pathfinder
It been a fun car to drive and very stylish.
I like this SUV
I would like to give an overal rating from 9 to 10. I liked vehicle's performance, reliability and design. Never had any big problem in my four year's ownership(I leased). I would definately consider buy a new one in the future.
Pathfinder - Excellent!!
You can't go wrong with this SUV. It is both reliable and fun to drive!!
would do it again
I have enjoyed this vehicle and it came in handy with the snow and Ice we have had up here in the north east it is quiet and is well designed for the driver not a single problem since I havd had it
Nissan Pathfinder XE - 1998
Almost the perfect SUV. Reliable, comfortable, tows well. Good in snow and sand. Gas mileage characteristically poor (15 city; 18 highway). At 50,000, had two electrical components fail (about $200 each). Otherwise, totally reliable. I'd definitely buy another.
Not bad for a near 10 y.o. platform
I purchased this truck about 2 months ago and am pleased with the selection. Cabin is quite spacious esp. in front seats, but rear seats certainly could use more legroom w/wider door opening. Cargo room is excellent and fold-down of rear seat is MUCH easier than everyone makes it out to be. Handling is not bad for a truck, but can't be compared to today's sedan platform- based SUV's (Infiniti FX). Interior noise is minimal w/windows up, and surprisingly quiet even with sunroof open (don't have sunroof visor). Highly recommend this SUV to anyone in the mkt. for a quality used vehicle. Certainly more reliable than a domestic counterpart.
Great Buy
picked up a 98 SE used - had heard great things about vehicle from friends and relatives who owned one. Build quality is great. not a rattle or squeak (the 2000 Cherokee I returned on lease rattled like a tin can after 6 months!) The pathfinder is a great deal used - considerably cheaper than a 4Runner, and built just as well and more comfortable. Will use this vehicle for camping and fishing, as well as family trips, and I expect a long life out of it - so far so good!
Best SUV on Market
I bought my Pathfinder to take on summer vacation. Great performance on and off road. Very comfortable. Read ride on the SUV market. My wife has a disability, but the ride in this SUV is as good as a cars, with the room and versatility of an SUV.
GARBAGE
PIECE OF JUNK DOESN,T BEGIN TO CAMPARE TO TOYOTA DO NOT BUY THE 39 MONTH LEASE BECAUSE AS THE WARRANTY RUNS OUT THE JUNK FALLS APART.
Nissan Rookie
This is the first SUV I have owned and for the most part has been a great vehicle. I love the look/style of the Pathfinder. The rear doors could be a little more accessible. I have however had problems in the past few weeks that lowered my opinion somewhat. I had three fuel injectors and a fuel pressure regular plus the front wheel bearings all need replacing in a six week period and I only have 55,000 miles on the vehicle. Other than that the vehicle had worked great.
Very reliable suv
I owned my Pathfinder for 4 years and never had one problem with it. I finally gave it up for a luxury suv and it was a little tough letting go. I can honestly say that it was the best car I have ever owned so far. Even better then the one I have now (it has interior noise issues.) There are many times that I wish I had it back. It would definately be an suv I would consider buying again.
Going to miss it
My 98 Pathfinder was my first car EVER! I had my heart set on one, and sure enough found one. AMAZING car! I just had to change the tires, but that's because the owner before me had put cheap ones on. I had NO problems what so ever! Trading it in however for a smaller car :( I'm just a poor college student and can't afford the gas anymore, however, friends tell me their Ford Explorers and Toyota Tacomas cost more to fill than the Pathfinder. I'm gonna miss my Pathfinder!
A sofa with four wheel drive
I've driven this Pathfinder for two months and am really impressed with the interior quality and features. Bose sound is outstanding, leather is still almost like new, ride comfort is great and handling is very good for a big car. It's as comfortable and almost as quiet as driving a sofa down the road.
Great SUV
I love this vehicle and you will too if you love the outdoors or hauling thing from the hardware store or the mall. Easy to park, and fun to drive, will get another one when the time comes.
Sold on Nissan
I am the second owner and a first time owner of a nissan. I have only bought subarus. Living in Maine the 4wd has come in handy since we spend a lot of time driving off road and on snow covered roads. For an SUV the gas millage isnt bad, I think if u drive conservativly its fine.I drove 612 mi(avg.75mph) and started w/ a full tank I only had to stop once for gas.The ride is very comfortable and the interrior appealing. I have found with a full load (5 passengers & 2 lg.dogs) bumps and leans are more pronounced. I had some bad tires during that time so maby that contributed to the ride quality. New tires and a much better ride now