Teach me about the VQ35DE: looking at a used pathfinder

[cross6]

I'm a Toyota guy so excuse my ignorance. Looking at a 01 Pathfinder with 150K on it. What should i know? Google has already told me about putting loctite on the power valve screws. Anything else? I can handle any work--up to a full rebuild.

 

[BudAshes]

I love the old pathfinders. I had a 94 that was the most reliable car I ever had, and I still see it on the road to this day. I rallied the crap out of that thing too. The 01 has that sweet 3.5 engine though. I've driven a couple and I really liked the power, if not the terrible gas mileage. Such a handsome car too.

 

[SithSolo1]

I've had a VQ35DE going strong in my G35 since 2005. Only around 80k miles on the dash but it's mostly been lead-foot city driving. Aside from the cam sensors going out I've had zero issues with the engine. I will say mpg is "abysmal" but most of that is how I drive.

 

[The Boston Dangler]

I've had a VQ35DE going strong in my G35 since 2005. Only around 80k miles on the dash but it's mostly been lead-foot city driving. Aside from the cam sensors going out I've had zero issues with the engine. I will say mpg is "abysmal" but most of that is how I drive.

i drive like a miser terrified of damaging this seemingly fragile engine, and the gas economy is still terrible. it's like pouring gasoline directly on the ground instead of into the tank.

 

[SithSolo1]

Well there you go: Shity mileage for everyone!

 

[cabri]

My daughter had a 99.

Ran well through '05. Cross country twice and up/down Nevada & SoCal
Then tranny started having issues
By '07 when the additional $2-3K of repairs were being needed, she unloaded it.

 

[BlitzPuppet]

I have a 2013 Altima with a 3.5 and I love the engine.

I do believe that is one of the years that you have to look out for the timing chain guides breaking. This will cause an annoying noise while the engine is running. It can't be hidden and is quite evident.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S_4iMo5FUvc

 

[master_shake_]

well i wanted to buy an altima coupe with a 3.5 now i won't.

Thanks anandtech

seriously sounds like a freaking timebomb!