1991 Nissan Pathfinder 4x4 3.0 V6 SOHC from North America

Summary:

It's a badass, reliable, war horse. Love it

Faults:

Water pump, driver's side door handle and mechanism, timing belt, exhaust.

General Comments:

Love this thing. It's a little beat up, but tough as nails, and easy to work on for somebody who is definitely NOT a fan of mechanic-ing. Not the fastest pony out there, but sturdy, and it looks mean with the big knobby tires I've got on it.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 10th February, 2023

10th Feb 2023, 20:40

They were great, we had one in the family in the mid 1990's and it was one of the best Nissan's we had. Simpler vehicles from a simpler time.

1991 Nissan Pathfinder XE 3.0 from North America

Summary:

Jack of all trades, master of none

Faults:

My starter went at 320000 kms.

Transmission rebuilt at 100000 kms with radiator installed.

Thermostat housing leaked at 340000.

Exhaust manifolds have a mild leak.

Auto door locks are seized up. This is an inconvenience, but nothing serious.

There is lots of rust on the frame and body, but overall it still looks good.

General Comments:

This SUV is unbelievably reliable and cost effective.

Its engine is very strong, and it retains its compression well.

Compared to new vehicles, the power/fuel consumption is poor, but for its year, it is great.

It can take serious abuse at a variety of levels, and does not give up. It is designed and built for a wide scope of driving activity. I have 4x4ed through mountains, trails, mud, and cold winters too. I use my car as a daily commuter, and it works great at hauling loaded trailers and doing renovations as well. It is also great for camping, as you can fit all the kids in, and if you really want, you can sleep in it too.

Most of the bigger mechanical issues that you may run into (front axles, water pump, exhaust, steering) are cheap to resolve, and are not difficult for the home mechanic.

If you change the oil, and keep on general watch for worn belts, coolant leaks, tranny fluid levels, low brake pad levels, and shocks, she will go forever. Rust is the biggest enemy for my car, but other than that, she will drive forever.

It's not a high performance machine, but it is practical, versatile (highway, snow, mountains), cost effective, and all around Japanese engineering!

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 2nd September, 2010

7th Nov 2010, 04:31

I too own a 1991 Pathfinder with 300000 kms, and have had never owned such a tough SUV. I'm surprised they aren't used in the military. This vehicle defines economic! Low money in, high production out!

I would add though that while this SUV may be given Chuck Norris style reviews (as yours and mine), it usually is because people who own tough less comfortable vehicles, like early Pathfinders, tend to be more interested and capable in personal maintenance. For example, most early Pathfinders have a lot of rust. Often this involves welding repair. If you're not into a loud, military-like machine, I wouldn't go buy one. I have trouble hearing the radio with the stock sound system over the exhaust leak during acceleration!

1991 Nissan Pathfinder SE 3.0 from Costa Rica

Summary:

The best 4x4 you can ever have

Faults:

Manifold.

General Comments:

Great 4x4. It's the most reliable car I ever owned, cheap parts. Generally a good choice if you don't mind about the gas.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 22nd November, 2009

22nd Nov 2009, 15:08

I agree, the earlier model Pathfinders are excellent. Extremely durable design. Only downside is the horribly underpowered engines!

1991 Nissan Pathfinder SE 3.0 from North America

Summary:

Very good and I'd recommend a Pathfinder to anyone that wants a good solid car

Faults:

I have only had this car for four months now but I have put over ten Thousand km's on it and I have had no issues at all.

General Comments:

I drive it over the Mountain passes in B.C. Canada and it performs well and it doesn't eat fuel doing it. I am also impressed that for a 1991 it has zero rust issues or mechanical problems and the interior still looks like new.

If you are looking for a great little SUV than this would be one to look at.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 20th April, 2008