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Nissan Pathfinder R50

1996–2004 · R50 · suv

Second-generation Pathfinder, sold in the US 1996-2004. Switched to unibody construction (the first-gen WD21 was body-on-frame). 3.3L VG33E SOHC V6 through 2000, then 3.5L VQ35DE DOHC V6 (around 240 hp) for 2001-2004 alongside a heavy mid-cycle refresh. 4-speed automatic or 5-speed manual (manual dropped late in the run). Part-time 4WD with low range available.

Watch out: Timing chain guide wear and rattle on cold start is the most-cited concern on VQ35-powered 2001-2004 cars, and the job is heavy because the chain is at the front of a transverse-leaning V6 packaging. On VG33E cars, distributor and intake manifold leaks show up at higher mileage. Owner reports of rear hatch glass struts failing and sunroof drain clogs causing headliner stains are common. Pre-purchase: rust check the frame stiffening members (a known sub-frame corrosion issue exists on these), and verify automatic transmission shift quality at operating temperature.