Years
The Nissan QX4 was a mid-size luxury SUV sold from 1996 to 2003, serving as Nissan's premium offering in that segment. It was based on the Nissan Pathfinder, with the first generation (1996-1999) sharing the Terrano platform and the second generation (2001-2003) moving to the R50 Pathfinder underpinnings. Typical strengths included a comfortable ride, a V6 engine, available four-wheel drive, and a more upscale interior than its mainstream counterpart.
Manufacturer: Nissan
Nissan Motor Company was founded in Yokohama, Japan, in 1933 and became one of the world's largest automakers, forming a long-standing alliance with Renault beginning in 1999. The company released the Leaf in 2010 as one of the first mass-market electric cars and is also known for the GT-R performance car and its pioneering work with continuously variable transmissions. Nissan's reputation has been mixed in recent years, with its CVTs drawing reliability complaints and the company experiencing financial difficulties and leadership turmoil following the arrest of former chairman Carlos Ghosn in 2018.
Model: QX4
The Nissan QX4 was a mid-size luxury SUV sold from 1996 to 2003, serving as Nissan's premium offering in that segment. It was based on the Nissan Pathfinder, with the first generation (1996-1999) sharing the Terrano platform and the second generation (2001-2003) moving to the R50 Pathfinder underpinnings. Typical strengths included a comfortable ride, a V6 engine, available four-wheel drive, and a more upscale interior than its mainstream counterpart.
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1997_QX4The 1997 Nissan QX4 entered its second model year with minimal changes, continuing with a 3.3-liter V6 engine, a four-speed automatic transmission, and available part-time four-wheel drive. Common service considerations include timing belt replacement at the recommended interval, since the engine is an interference design, along with regular transmission fluid changes and inspection of the transfer case and four-wheel-drive system. Suspension components, brakes, and underbody condition are also worth monitoring on higher-mileage examples.
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1998_QX4The 1998 Nissan QX4 continued with its 3.3-liter V6 engine and received minor exterior and interior updates, including revised grille and trim styling. It was offered in both rear-wheel-drive and four-wheel-drive configurations. Common service items include timing belt replacement, automatic transmission fluid changes, and periodic lubrication of the transfer case and differentials. Owners also frequently report wear in suspension components and occasional electrical issues with power accessories.