The 2003 Nissan Pathfinder from the Former Saleswoman's Point of View

Do you remember the older style Pathfinders? I recall that a friend of mine had one and it always seems so stiff and felt like plastic on the outside and the inside. The Nissan Pathfinder for being the oldest of Nissan’s SUVs has come a long way over the years in my eyes. For the past nine years in the Ward’s Auto World Magazine the Nissan Pathfinder Engine has been ranked one of the top ten on their list of best performing engines. In 2002, the Nissan Pathfinder received a 5-star rating for the side crash safety done by the NHTSA which is the highest rating that you can receive. Also in that same year, Edmonds.com voted that the Pathfinder was the most wanted SUV and “still the best the auto industry has to offer the mid-size SUV buyer.” So Nissan must still be doing something right you would think.

In today’s standards the competition up against the Nissan Pathfinder is:

1) Ford Explorer
2) Toyota 4Runner
3) Jeep Grand Cherokee
4) Chevrolet Trailblazer

However there have been many changes that were made to the Nissan Pathfinder for the 2003 year, so let’s dive in and take a look inside…

*************************************************************

The Design Behind the Pathfinder

The Nissan Pathfinder was designed for the young and adventurous who were mostly married couples. The income bracket would be in the high $90K and Nissan’s research has found that 53% were between the ages of 35 and 54. Most of these buyers had children that had already gone off elsewhere but a few still had little ones at home. Nissan believes that for the mid-size SUV class, the buyers are looking for freedom, confident and image out of their vehicle. If there is comfort and more refinement, the option to pay more is not a bother to most of the buyers and the premium equipment on the Nissan Pathfinder is “engineered for the adventurous lifestyle.”

*************************************************************

Differences when comparing the Nissan Xterra, Pathfinder and Murano

1) The Xterra (which is the one Nissan Vehicle that I will openly admit is horrendous and I cannot begin to understand how anyone could possibly enjoy the way it rides) has aggressive styling for an SUV with rear wheel and 4wheel drive. It is also capable for the off-roading as well as built on a body-on-frame construction.
2) The Pathfinder has a more traditional SUV style to it with rear wheel and 4wheel drive as well. It can be considered an off roading vehicle if you get it in a 4 x 4 but also mixes well when on the streets. The Pathfinder is build on a Monoframe Construction.
3) The Murano is sophisticated in its styling and has all wheel drive and front wheel drive capability depending on which model you choose. It has the ability to use the All Wheel Drive in the rural areas and Nissan used the Unibody construction when they built the Murano.

In general, the buyers of the Xterra are wanting a rugged SUV, the Pathfinder consumers are wanting the rugged look perhaps but the luxury as well and the Murano is for the “subdued” who golf and play tennis but still want an SUV.

*************************************************************

MSRP vs. INVOICE for the 2003 Nissan Pathfinder

From doing a little research on and off the internet, the MSRP (manufactured suggested retail price) for the Pathfinder is between $26,500 and $33,900. The Invoice for the Pathfinder is between $24,000 and $30,500. There was a program for $2K rebate but I think that ended on 6/30/03. I haven’t heard of anything new but I am POSITIVE that there is an incentive or rebate out there for Nissans.

*************************************************************

Models Available on the Pathfinder

1) SE 4 x 2
2) LE 4 x 2
3) SE 4 x 4
4) LE 4 x 4
Whenever you have the models that come in as 4 x 2 and 4 x 4 things can get confusing when trying to read about them. I will try my best to be clear about each specific model as I go a long.

*************************************************************

The Engine and Its’ Various Components on the Nissan Pathfinder

CHANGE:The newest change on the Nissan Pathfinder engine is it now has an “Electronic drive-by-wire system” which means the system is opening and closing the throttle electronically rather than using the conventional cable. There is more accurate throttle control allowing better performance of the engine as well as the fuel efficiency.

The Nissan Pathfinder Engine is a 3.5 liter DOHC 24-valve V6 that has 240 horsepower @ 6000 rpm and 265 ft. lbs. of torque @ 3200 rpm and this is standard on all models. Actually as far as all the components that make up the Pathfinder Engine, it is standard on all of the models from here on out. The Aluminum Alloy Construction was built to reduce the engine weight of the vehicle by using light weight components such as hollow camshafts. As in many of the Nissan vehicles are built this way in order to get better performance out of the engine and a better fuel economy. There is a Continuously Variable Valve Timing Control System (CVTCS) which based on the engine rpm and intake airflow, it allows the timing to be varied continuously cutting on fuel economy, giving off better performance and emissions control. The Nissan Direct Ignition System consists of individual coils that are located above each of the double platinum spark plugs which replace the mechanical distributor, the wires for the spark plugs, and the coil to the ignition. The engine will last longer without service using the Nissan Direct Ignition System. All Nissans have “timing chain driven camshafts” instead of a timing belt requiring less maintenance on the Pathfinder and they also have a 105K mile tune up. (Meaning you don’t have to get your first tune up until you hit the 105K mark) The Nissan Vehicle Immobilizer System is a “sophisticated theft-deterrent” method will immobilize the car should someone try it with the wrong key (not an authorized key). Engine compartment itself like all the other Nissans is color coded so you can tell the oil from the water. The Nissan Pathfinder has a battery timing system that if you were to leave the door ajar, after 30 minutes the light would automatically turn off so as not to drain the battery. As with all the Nissans practically the Nissan Pathfinder also sites on liquid filled engine mounts which absorb the vibrations from the engine and reduces noise on the interior compartment.

************************************************************

The Drivetrain of the Nissan Pathfinder

There were two new changes in the drivetrain area for the Nissan Pathfinder. It is now optional on all of the models to have Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) which helps in emergency situations to avoid an impact or during severe cornering. The other new change was made on the SE 4 x 4 which it is now standard, not only on this model but all models that they have the 4-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission with overdrive and a lockup torque converter. The overdrive and lockup torque converter will reduce the noise inside the vehicle as well as give you better gas mileage. All of the Nissan Pathfinders are Rear Wheel Drive and the only model that has all mode 4 wheel drive is the LE 4 x 4. On the 4 x 4 models only (except the LE 4 x 4) it is standard to have shift on the fly four wheel drive. Basically as a driver you can shift between 2 wheel drive and 4 wheel drive when the vehicle is at high speeds if necessary.

*************************************************************

Suspension and Steering of the Nissan Pathfinder

It is Standard on all models to have the following:
1)heavy duty long stroke independent strut front suspension: the front wheels will act independent in order to change should their be a shift in the road surface and meanwhile it will provide you a smoother ride and better steering control
2)heavy duty suspension subframe: there is a well-built foundation for the attachment of the lower suspension, steering components, and engine mounts
3)5 link coil spring rear suspension: allows for a easy ride on the road surface and off road
4)front and rear stabilizer bars: in all Nissans which makes sure during any quick motions or cornering that the vehicle stays level
5)variable assist heavy duty power rack and pinion steering: allows for steering at all speeds to be power assisted as needed

***********************************************************

Brakes on the Nissan Pathfinder

Standard on all models of the Nissan Pathfinder are Power assisted front vented rear drum brakes and 4 wheel ABS (Anti-Lock Brakes). On the SE and LE 4 x 4s there is also a “g sensor” that is on the ABS System which will measure the deceleration rate and not allow the ABS to interfere in low speed maneuvers on the off road adventures

***********************************************************

Wheels and Tires on the Nissan Pathfinder

One of the new changes on the Nissan Pathfinder is that on the SE 4 x 2 and 4 x 4 it is now standard that they come with 16 x 7.0 6 spoke painted aluminum alloy wheels. On the LE 4 x 2 and 4 x 4 it is standard to have 17 x 8.0 6 spoke painted deep dish aluminum alloy wheels. All models have all season radial tires to accommodate all weather conditions. It is also standard that on all Pathfinders there is a FULL size spare tire which can be found underneath the vehicle and it is not difficult to get out. (at least from my point of view as a woman I didn’t have problems)

***********************************************************

Chassis on the Nissan Pathfinder

The Pathfinder was built as a “hybrid form of unibody construction” where the body panels, full length frame and floor pan form one structure making the it more firm compared to other SUVs in its’ class. Nissan uses weld bonding on all door openings, inner fenders, major body panels as well as high strength steel body components helping the rigidity of the structure. There are pillar reinforcements that are high strength steel and the design of them exceeds what the Federal Roof Crush Standards are. There is a full length skid plate on the fuel tank should you go into rough terrain, the tank will be protected. There is always a full underbody coating on all Nissans to safeguard from corrosion. There is a front tow hook should your Pathfinder ever get stuck in the snow or rocks.

***********************************************************

Exterior Features of the Nissan Pathfinder

There is a Titanium Colored Grille with Chrome as well as Body color bumpers and fender flares. There is an advanced aerodynamic body as with all the Nissans where the airflow is directed around the vehicle and over it rather than into it saving you on gas mileage. The doors have an aircraft design primarily for a tighter fit and less noise inside the main compartment. The rear door handles are flush with the body of the car increasing the aerodynamics and allowing the Pathfinder to look sportier. There are crack resistant polycarbonate cover on the headlights will are extremely resistant to cracking. As far as the Fog Lights, it is standard on both LE models and an option on the SE models. On the SE models there are black splash guards, however on the LE models they are the body color of the vehicle. It is standard on all models to power outside mirrors that can be folded and are heated, the glass comes tinted with privacy glass on the rear windows and lift gate and there is a roof mounted luggage rack on all vehicles. On the LE model it automatically comes with a power sliding sunroof and remains optional on the SE models.

Interior Features on the Nissan Pathfinder

All of the models come with my favorite bucket seats and on the SE models there is an 8 way manual adjustable driver’s seat where as the LE models come standard with 8 way power adjustable driver’s seat which can be an option on the SEs. A new change besides the standard power seats on the LEs is the passenger seat now has a 4 way power front seat, optional on the SEs. The 4 x 4 LE comes with heated bucket seats.

The following is standard on all models:
1)front seat belt adjusters
2)reclining rear seatbacks with a 60/40 split
3)rear seat fold down arm rest in the middle
4)leather wrapped steering wheel
5)4 spoke steering wheel is a new feature on the 2003
The SEs have a cloth interior with titanium colored trim and the LEs have a leather interior with wood trim. The LEs now have an automatic memory for 2 drivers for you and your partner to drive the car.

*************************************************************

Safety Features on the Nissan Pathfinder

There are a few new features as far as safety with the Nissan Pathfinder. It is now optional for you to have a tire pressure monitor on all models. It is Standard that the LATCH system is installed for children in the back seats. There are roof mounted side impact air bags as well as side impact front passenger air bags that are standard on the LEs and optional on the SEs.

All of the other safety features I am going to list to make it easier to read:

1)3 point seat belts for all seating platforms
2)front seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters should an accident occur your seat belt will react so that you aren’t pulled back too hard or pushed forward too fast.
3)Driver and Front Passenger Air Bags
4)Adjustable head restraints on the front and rear seats
5)Child Safety Door Locks
6)Child Restraint Seat Tether Anchors
7)Front and Rear Crumple Zones should an accident appear the vehicle with crumple with engine falling underneath the car and the hood has safety latches so that it will not come through your front glass
8)Energy absorbing steering column to help absorb energy in a crash
9)Pipe style side door guard beams that go diagonal from shoulder to foot

*************************************************************

Comfort and Convenience on the Nissan Pathfinder

Once again there are so many comfort and convenience features that I am just going to list them:

1)tilt steering column
2)CFC air conditioning
3)Digital Automatic Temperature Control is standard on the LEs and optional on the SEs
4)Automatic on and off headlights
5)Center console that includes an arm rest, dual level storage, 12 volt power outlet, coin tray (not in LE 4 x 4), front and rear cup holders
6)Overhead console with map lights and sunglass storage (Compass and temperature display is standard on the LEs and optional on SEs)
7)Visors with vanity mirrors
8)Power windows, locks, remote keyfob
9)Cruise control with steering wheel mounted controls
10)Power fuel filler door release (NEW)
11)Passenger Assist Grip
12)Rear Window Wiper, Defroster with Timer
13)12 volt outlets in lower dash, console and cargo area
14)opening window in rear lift gate
15)storage for tire jack and tools
16)advanced sound insulation throughout the panels and flooring to keep out noise
17)Vehicle Security System
18)Cargo net, retractable cargo cover, homelink universal transceiver for garage door or gates, illuminated vanity mirrors (standard on LEs and optional on SEs)

*************************************************************

Instrumentation

There are warning lights for the usual features like gas being low. There is a digital clock that is also standard on all models as well as the LCD odometer and Dual Trip Meters. The Analog Gauges are titanium colored in the SEs and White faced colored on the LEs.

*************************************************************

Audio Systems in the Nissan Pathfinder
1)It is standard on the SEs to have AM/FM/CD/Cassette with a 100 watt amplifier and 6 speakers with satellite compatible system
2)It is optional on SEs but Standard on LEs that it has a Bose audio system with AM/FM/Cassette/6 cd changer with 150 watt amplifier, 6 speakers, steering wheel mounted controls, and also satellite compatible
3)It is optional on all vehicles to have the Nissan Mobile Entertainment System which includes a ceiling mounted flip down screen, DVD or VHS player, Wireless headset and Wireless Remote

*************************************************************

Packages on the Nissan Pathfinder

SE POPULAR PACKAGE (option on SEs and Standard on LEs)
1)Halogen fog lights
2)Digital automatic temperature control (ATC)
3)Bose audio system
4)Steering wheel mounted audio controls
5)Cargo net
6)Restractable cargo cover
SE SUNROOF PACKAGE (option on SEs but must have Popular Package and Standard on LEs)
1)Power sliding sunroof with sun shade
2)Homelink Transceiver
3)Digital Compass and Temperature Display
4)Illuminated Visor Mirrors
SE LEATHER PACKAGE (Optional on SEs with Popular and Sunroof Package and Standard on LEs)
1)Perforated leather appointed seats
2)8-way power driver’s seat
3)4-way power front passenger’s seat
4)heated front seats
5)simulated leather door trim
6)driver and front passenger side impact air bags
7)roof mounted curtain side impact air bags
8)double sun visors
PREMIUM PACKAGE (optional on all but for SEs requires all three packages above)
1)Vehicle Dynamic Control
2)Tire Pressure Monitor

************************************************************

My thoughts on the Nissan Pathfinder

I am going to be perfectly honest with you about this vehicle. When you drive the Nissan Murano it is pure luxury. When you drive the Nissan Pathfinder there is a little extravagance there but nothing like the Murano. When you drive the XTerra it is rough and rugged and I personally hate it. I won’t go into it now but the Xterra is WAY overpriced and feels like a pile of metal and I wouldn’t take one if someone gave it to me for free to drive. Moving along thugh…

I am not a big fan of the Nissan Pathfinder and in many ways find it to be a knock off of the Toyota 4Runner.(I say that because I used to own one and have driven both)

It is not as comfortable as it should be for the price when you are driving the Pathfinder over any bumps or speed bumps. You can feel each divit or bump in the road and it is not a smooth ride as they claim it to be. I think they spent too much time on the interior of the vehicle and how great the engine is rather than the actual feel of the Pathfinder.

The steering is all right except when you get on the highway where I feel you have to keep both of your hands on that wheel at all times to make sure you aren’t crossing over the line. The steering wheel can be give off a slight vibration and cause you to feel as if you need to pay even more attention to the car rather than feeling at ease.

It may go 0-60 in 9 seconds and have one of the top ten engines in the Ward Magazine but I am not impressed by the Nissan Pathfinder. It didn’t knock me off my feet when I drove it. It can loud during acceleration and when you go 4 x 4ing in it you don't feel stable at all. I felt as if the Pathfinder could roll at any moment on our 4 x 4 track.

The Pathfinder stayed pretty level when I took it around hard corners or tight turns but there was a bit of uneasiness there for me that I could feel. It didn't handle as well as it should for the amount of money you are paying and for the design that Nissan installed in it. When you are forking out $30K, these should not be issues. A hard corner or a quick maneuver to avoid a crash should not make the vehicle stand on end. I don't feel safe doing those types of manuevers in the Pathfinder or the Xterra because they are obviously not put together well.

The ABS braking system was fine in the Pathfinder, but there were so many other concerns I had while driving the vehicle that by the time I noticed the brakes it didn't matter to me anymore. I didn't like the way it handled regardless of whether it had 5 star brakes on it or not.

Let’s talk about the lack of space that you have as well. If you were to go on a trip with four adults you better pray the women for one want to sit in back and that they are as short as my 5 foot body. There is barely any leg room in the back and to compromise for passengers in the back, it makes the front completely uncomfortable.

As far as compartment noise, it is pretty low, but when you hit the gas pedal hard, you hear it working. I don’t think if you are spending that kind of money you should hear the engine be that loud even if once you get up to speed the engine noise dies down. It drives me nuts when you are paying so much of your money and you can listen to your engine roar as you are trying to either talk on your cell phone or have a conversation inside the vehicle. It may be a strong engine, but it is certainly a loud one as well.

The radio control and other controls in the Pathfinder are the best out of all the Nissans as far as easy to find and large enough to push on. It is probably the only feature I like about the Pathfinders compared to other Nissans.

In the back of the vehicle there is adequate amount of space for the cargo area however if you go to use the 60/40 split back it is a pain in the you know what. Nissan chose not to make it too simple to get the seats down and I felt like I wasn't even going to be able to do it, but one of the other car salesmen helped so I could at least learn how it goes. I guess it just makes the Murano look better with the simple pull latches and the back seats fall right down.

If you look at the packages closely, they are to me ridiculous. You mine as well just get the LE version because if you want this package you have to get this other one and so forth, pretty soon you are up to the LE. Just a little pet peeve of mine that Nissan does do with their packaging on some of their vehicles.

I wouldn’t spend the money on the Nissan Pathfinder 2003. Nissan is supposedly revamping it again anyway. If you do decide to get one, I am SURE you can get them below invoice as they were not a big seller in 2003. I would save up the money for the Nissan Murano if you wanted to stay with the Nissans or look to the Pathfinder’s competition. The Nissan Pathfinder in 2003 is not worth the expense nor will it impress you.

Until next time,
K Parsons
© 2003


An Article Everyone Should Read if Shopping for a Car:
The Ins and Outs, Backwards and Forwards, and All Around on Buying Your Next Vehicle


Other Nissan Articles:
The Nissan Altima 2003 from the Former Saleswoman’s Point of View
The Nissan Murano 2003 from the Former Saleswoman’s Point of View
The Nissan Sentra 2003 from the Former Saleswoman’s Point of View
The Nissan Maxima 2003 from the Former Saleswoman’s Point of View
The Nissan 350Z from the Former Saleswoman’s Point of View