3 Reasons Why a Frontier, Xterra, or Pathfinder Make the Perfect Overlanding Vehicle

[@kylesteinhauser2535]

Nissan needs to bring back the Xterra and with the manual transmission!

[@AllThingsOverlanding]

Agreed!

[@irwinjimenez]

I've had my 2013 Xterra since Thanksgiving of 2012, original owner, 190k, 5" lift, 35's, snorkel, highly modded.

[@AllThingsOverlanding]

Nice! Those are great trucks. Pretty bulletproof.

[@NCrdwlf]

Two xterras into my life and I have to agree . My first xterra was at 332,000 when I moved to a jeep TJ for one year .pretty much regretted that decision after the first week. I sold it off and went to a new 2014 xterra pro4x 6m . My first gen xterra was such a reliable and offroad worthy vehicle . I only had two clutches in that truck in all those miles . Don't even blink on a high mileage xterra if it's been well maintained by an adult . Especially if it's a manual . The mechanic at my shop has a v8 pathfinder and he said it's so solid .

[@AllThingsOverlanding]

Good to hear! These things are great budget options for sure! I'm on about my 10th Nissan and while I have a Lexus too (daily), for Overlanding and offroading especially, the Nissans are such a steal for the money.

[@MrAbdel119]

I was looking into getting a '02 3gen 4Runner(aunt originally was selling it to me for 3.5k but my cousin screwede over and sold it for 6k). I was livid at my cousin because she did that to get a 2k kickback. Few weeks later my Best Bud tells me he wants to sell his '11 PathFinder with 80k original miles and wanted to sell it to me for 3k and a case of beer. Started watching videos on this trucks and holy crap, i have never underestimated a nissan as much as i have than with this things. Im way more in love with the Pathfinder than i ever was with the 4Runner

[@AllThingsOverlanding]

Love it, congrats!

[@joshl.1978]

I bought a 2015 Frontier Extended cab with 50k miles, Bilstein lift kit, leer hardshell, exhaust, cold air intake, dx4 wheels and tires.. for $20k. Perfect interior and its a manual, which is exactly what I wanted. Absolute steal. I love this truck and am always telling people to get Nissans instead of toyotas cause of price. Same reliability and capability.

[@AllThingsOverlanding]

Yep! My point exactly. Glad you like it! D40's are awesome.

[@EP2NR]

I agree with you. I bought a Nissan Xterra because it was half the price of the same year Toyota. I started with a first Gen, now I’ve got a 06 Xterra and it does everything my Toyota friends do but for half the price.

[@AllThingsOverlanding]

Yep! Great trucks for the money!

[@infdox9051]

What about parts no longer being made

[@MichaelUNC14]

​@infdox9051 what parts can't you find

[@Mr.International82]

The only gripe I have about the xterra is the body rust problem and no center diff locker. Other than that I love the reliability and good price

[@elsonjm]

⁠@@AllThingsOverlandingI have a Xterra, 2004 XE, 3.3, and I’m having a hard time finding an aftermarket front / rear bumper (front: integrated light & winch | rear: spare wheel carrier & high lift). I’ve been on the Xterra forums digging around, and pretty much anything 04 and prior you can’t find. However, I would really appreciate some advice / recommendations on where to dig deeper (time hack for what [Front] I’m looking is at 00:39 - 00:52 - intro)

[@dylanmerker9901]

You might want to add an edit that the SMOD issue on 05 - 09s was only with the automatic transmissions. No issues with it if you have a manual transmission like my 09 Frontier. 👍

[@AllThingsOverlanding]

Yeah, great point!

[@isaaclyons9705]

I just replaced the radiator in mine to help prevent the problem. I wish i had a manual though.

[@AllThingsOverlanding]

@@isaaclyons9705 that’s great!

[@warrenkernot4522]

I just bypassed the rad in my daughters and added another external cooler!

[@JTube571]

@@warrenkernot4522 Technically the transmission fluid routing through the radiator is a pre-heater to warm the fluid in cold temperatures. The actual transmission cooler is the small unit in front of the AC condenser.

[@gozoomdaddy]

Just picked up a 2008 X off road !!

[@AllThingsOverlanding]

Congrats!

[@silvermonk13]

Love my X so glad I finally got one.

[@AllThingsOverlanding]

Congrats! They're great trucks!

[@chavaliernsharps159]

You're right about people missing out on the Nissan's! I love my 2014 Frontier, it has taken me places I'd only seen as screensavers or blog posts. Once I started modifying it I was REALLY in the game! Thanks for your content and I definitely subscribed 🎉

[@AllThingsOverlanding]

Hey there, totally agree with you and welcome! I'm Nissan for life here, so lots more content coming about why people shouldn't sleep on them. Have a great rest of the week!

[@georgebondarenko7120]

I have a 2012 Xterra S 4x4 stock with almost 120K miles and it has been a true workhorse and daily for me. I drive it mostly on road but am not afraid to take it off the beaten path and get it dirty. The main reason I got mine was it came with a six speed manual 4x4 with a locking rear diff included, something that would have definitely cost a lot extra for the equivalent Toyota. I totally agree with you, Nissan Frontier, Pathfinder, and Xterra’s are the most underrated trucks available out there. Everyone want the Tacoma (which is a great truck) but man! The price tag, is the worse. Getting a new Tacoma with all the bells and whistles can run you close to $60K, but if I can get a Frontier with similar options, I can almost guarantee that the Nissan will be $15-20K less but will be just as capable, reliable, and more powerful than the Tocoma. The new Frontier boasts a 310hp engine with 281lbft of torque, the 2023 Tocoma is 278hp with 265lbft of torque. Finally the 2024 Tocoma surpasses the hp and torque after all these years of lagging behind Nissan. Took you long enough.

[@AllThingsOverlanding]

Agreed!

[@reginaparks3197]

As a Nissan Family, we have had a Sentra (1990-2003), Pathfinder (2003-2022), Titan (2006-2017), PathFinder (2012-2016), and now a Frontier (2022- ). I admit of all of them, I loved the Titan the most. I cannot wait to pay down my Frontier and buy another Titan. My only regret is trading my Pathfinder (2012) off for a non-Nissan. That 2012 was an incredible truck for camping, fishing, etc. But the goal now is to create an overland truck from the frontier. Love your videos in my search for the best methods to create this truck.

[@AllThingsOverlanding]

Thanks so much and Titans are awesome! I kind of keep thinking about them since I bought the Frontier, but overall, I'm really happy with the Fronty. Congrats on all the Nissans! Goals!

[@roundsm18]

We bought an 06 xterra off road brand new off the lot. $18,500. Transmission got replaced once along with the cooler failure long before that issue was a recall. Its been a great vehicle. 16 city/19 highway on flat ground. Has done everything I need. When it can’t, I kept my one ton crew cab pickup.

[@AllThingsOverlanding]

I love it! I do miss my Xterra sometimes. Such a great truck.

[@HalJalikakik]

Good stuff. I just bought a 2013 Xterra PRO-4X and starting to add a few things to it. I'm looking for more of a "bug-out" rig that I can use to travel the forest roads of Arizona (my home state) and beyond. I just drove it to Flagstaff last weekend and went through a pretty decent snowstorm. Felt great knowing I had 4 wheel drive under me as, on the way out, passed about 7-8 cars off both sides of the highway in the ditch.

[@AllThingsOverlanding]

Xterras are great and I miss mine all the time. Also, I'm visiting Arizona this week and it's beautiful. Wish it wasn't so rainy, but it's still cool to see. Enjoy your truck!

[@michaelhoffman1951]

I worked at a Nissan dealership and a man came in with a pathfinder with 500,000 miles on it and it still ran , a little used but it still ran!

[@AllThingsOverlanding]

Awesome!!

[@paromanin]

just picked up an 07 XTerra off road in 6 speed manual for $4k in ontario. I was ready to spend $15k on a probably-rusted Yota with 250k on it. I'm not a brand snob, i prefered a Yota, but i knew the nissans were also dead nuts relaible and without the inherent frame rust risks, and a manual trans option. I love it so far.

[@AllThingsOverlanding]

That sounds like a great pick up!

[@midnightadventureswa]

Good morning fletch good topic about Nissan Xterra and frontier and pathfinders and you are right there are more support coming out for Nissan and it looks like possibly Xterra coming back in 2024 using the new version of the frontiers frame work there also talking about warrior packages with lockers. Don’t know all the complete logistics of it but it’s exciting to see it come down the road. Looking forward to seeing more of your truck on trips

[@AllThingsOverlanding]

Yeah, a new Xterra would be pretty exciting although there's been a lot of talk for years and nothing yet. Fingers crossed!

[@aarontown]

just got a '12 pro 4x last week. i wanted an X since '00. it's everything i loved about my Jeep XJ

[@AllThingsOverlanding]

I had an XJ before my Xterra too! They were great, but I think the Xterra beats it out in a lot of nice ways. Welcome to the Nissan fam!

[@cjkarlstafford]

Found an 01 Xterra with under 200 000 km done a few things tires are as large I can get em just took a quick trim around the front wheels plus leveled her out works great not a rub even at lock I had also just bought new steel high clearance front bumper and a swing out tire carrier for the rear can't wait to weld em up and install Love xterras love the one I got lucky as hell to find her!!

[@AllThingsOverlanding]

Sounds like a great find! Enjoy it!

[@OverlandPNW]

They truly are a great overlanding platform!

[@AllThingsOverlanding]

Agree!

[@michaels2208]

I've got an 07 gmc Sierra that i do love. But I'm thinking of passing it on to my son. So I'm looking really hard at the frontier. I love some of the set ups I've seen camping. I like to do my own work on the truck, so the frontier will work great for me.

[@AllThingsOverlanding]

They are really great trucks and a good value for the money for sure.

[@busted_dyna8580]

Bought my 05 x 2 years ago with 105k miles for 4200 bucks. I've done the usual brakes and wheel hubs. Slowly been adding and changing stuff. Some auxiliary lights, light bar. Just put on black rhino wheels and 265 75 16 at's. 2 inch lift going in this week. Love this thing. 6ft plus from the back of the front seats to the hatch. Plenty of room to sleep!

[@AllThingsOverlanding]

I love those trucks and you beat the crazy increase in price, so congrats!

[@busted_dyna8580]

@@AllThingsOverlanding I picked your brain a while back. That convinced me to keep it. Stoked I did!

[@isaaclyons9705]

I have a 2005 nissan frontier nismo, I have been building it for overlanding. I am excited to watch your channel!

[@AllThingsOverlanding]

Thanks and welcome! Hopefully it's got some helpful stuff for you!

[@toddshook1765]

I was starting to look for Cherokee or Wrangler then I saw a Xterra Off-road and thinking of getting that. I have a 2008 Titan crew cab but 2WD to tow my trailer trailer. After watching you discuss the Nissan‘s changed my mind to find a 4WD Titan. Still keep my truck now for trailer but outfit a 4x4 for overlanding. Thanks for sharing.

[@AllThingsOverlanding]

All great trucks. I love the Titans too. I think you'll be happy with a 4x4 one for sure (as you know, having a 2WD0.

[@JTube571]

I'm seeing this video a bit late, but I agree on everything you said. My situation was a bit different because I had a smaller budget, and even though I wanted an Xterra, I was having trouble finding one with 4WD in good condition in my area for less than $15k and less than 150k miles. Their prices have definitely come up a little bit, especially if they have a Pro-4X badge. Then I learned about the R51 Pathfinder and started looking for those. Managed to find a 2006 SE 4WD local to me for $10k with a whopping 68k miles on it. Original owners put 35k miles on it in 14 years, then the 2nd owner put another 30k before I bought it. Granted that price was retail so private party may have been a bit less, but I still feel like I got a hell of a deal. And the best part is that with all the rear seats folded down flat, I can sleep inside with little issue. Sure it's off roading capabilities may be limited with the IRS, but I've installed a front locker and have had almost zero problems climbing anything I threw at it. Long story short, now at 91k miles in 1.5 years of ownership, it's taken me on several overlanding or off roading trips and hasn't skipped a beat. No regrets.

[@AllThingsOverlanding]

Love it! R51 pathy's are great. All these truck platforms from early 2000's through 2020ish are pretty bulletproof and should last for quite a while. Keep enjoying it! :D

[@Irish_Hooligan]

I’m stuck between Xterra and a pathfinder. I’m in no way shape or form afraid to wheel a larger vehicle. My last overlanding setup was a 6” lifted suburban in New England. The stock axle in that was an open diff and I did really well through things people would have never expected. I like the solid axle, e locker but the prices are starting to reflect that people have started buying these gems. Here in AZ the e locker models are upwards of almost 10k with 200k miles. I can get pathfinder for 5k with 150k miles. I’m okay with having a rear independent suspension because the overall clearance makes up for the lack of articulation. ARB also sells a locker for the rear of the r51 pathfinders also. I can find full skid plate kits for both, can titan swap both, bumper options front and rear for both. Even rock sliders for both. Just comes down to solid vs irs and 9 inches longer cargo room. Being as I have a young child I want to bring camping and the added stuff for the child it’s kind of pushing me towards the pathfinder which is still much smaller than the suburban I had. Have you had anyone tell you or talk to you about the capabilities of the pathfinder? I can find lift springs for the rears for really cheap and can run a set of rough country 2.5” lift struts in the front so it would ride a little better than just a spacer.

[@AllThingsOverlanding]

I’ve always liked that as an option too, and the Pathfinder would be great. To your point, I think you’d have the clearance you need and the reliability and power to do most things off-road. Sure, the solid axle would be a benefit if you’re doing more heavy wheeling, but if you’re mostly just exploring forest service roads, I think a pathfinder would be great.

[@Irish_Hooligan]

@@AllThingsOverlanding I’m not sure if you saw it, but there’s a modified pathfinder that just completed the rubicon trail. Super impressive especially being IRS.

[@Project_Evo_]

Can’t wait to Hop into a Pro4X. Still torn on the frontier and xterra, but excited to get into these than my old Evos.

[@AllThingsOverlanding]

They're really great trucks. I've been able to surprise a lot of Jeep and Land Cruiser guys with mine.

[@jasontaylor5566]

Awesome video! Have a 2008 frontier nismo myself. Great trucks

[@AllThingsOverlanding]

Love it! Awesome trucks!

[@rodofarrell6887]

Great blog!.. Just as a heads up, if you're finding it hard to locate aftermarket products for your Frontier, the Spanish built Navara (sometimes referred to as a "VSK" - due to the VIN starting with..) is basicly the same vehicle - just RHD.. Countries such as Australia & South Africa may have what you're looking for..

[@AllThingsOverlanding]

Huh, I figured there was some overlap with the Navara, but figured there would be enough difference that parts wouldn't be interchangeable. Thanks for the info! People say that the aftermarket support is really bad, but there are actually quite a few options. The only problem is that since there aren't as many as Jeep or Toyota, the prices are higher, so suspension that may be $800 for a Jeep might be $2400 for an Xterra or Frontier, :D.

[@coyoteself]

If you think it's bad now. It was pretty much nonexistent in 2010 when I got my PRO-4X. In the last 4 years or so, it's better and I was able to swap out the horrible headlights (not cheap), add a 3" lift, add rock sliders and replace both F&R bumpers with low profile bumpers that have legit recovery points and the rear bumper hitch is tow rated. Currently I'm think about aluminum armor (I don't need the heavier steel for what I do) and a few other things. All of which I couldn't even dream out 6 years ago

[@AllThingsOverlanding]

@@coyoteself Yeah, it's definitely improved, even just in the last 4-5 years. Shrockworks going out of business is a bit of a hit, but with crazy long lead times, not much.

[@NorthologyAdventures]

On our second Frontier! 🎉

[@AllThingsOverlanding]

They're great trucks!

[@baron1c]

Tacoma guy here. I totally agree with you. “Toyota Tax” is a thing. My buddy has a frontier and it is every bit as capable as my taco. The only thing I dont like about the frontier is dated plasticky dash/interior. And as a daily driver, that was important to me. The new frontier looks awesome but same price as a taco so….

[@AllThingsOverlanding]

Tacomas are great trucks though, so no hate at all! Yeah, the Frontier as a whole is pretty dated if we're being honest. The new Fronty's are super pricey so I'm not really including them in my ideas. I will say though that in a few years, I'm sure the used new body style Frontiers will be significantly cheaper than similar trim Tacomas. I'm kind of counting on my Frontier lasting for quite a while, but maybe in like 5-8 years, when I'm looking at used newer trucks, I'm hopeful that the newer Frontiers will have the kinks worked out after the first year or so of production and they'll be reasonably priced with decent aftermarket support. We'll see! Thanks for the comment!

[@fatty2027]

Daily driving I never look at the dash or interior day after day, I DD a 99 Dakota that I have been driving since 1999, I have a stereo that connects to my phone, that's all I need I couldnt give one fuck if it was the interior of a model T. I don't even understand the concept of being concerned about up to date interior, it makes zero sense. Who gives a shit about dash material on a DD?

[@LostThymeOverlandAdventures]

I used Unistrut, but I used 1.25” washers, 1.5” washers, neoprene washers, 3/8” bolts, and nylock nuts. I had those on hand and the unistrut cone nuts were $6 for 5. So, it can be done without those.

[@AllThingsOverlanding]

Love it!

[@claudiodiez55]

I have a 2005 Xterra since new, When I found out about the Transmission strawberry milk shake many years ago I did the bypass problem solved, Nissan should of done a recall they didn't I was not notified they just extended the warranty.

[@AllThingsOverlanding]

Nice! Once that problem is sorted, they're pretty bullet proof.

[@Humandriver5280]

Fletcher: All Dogs sent the OME kit for the R51. I can't wait to get it out this spring. I am definitely going to chain the timing chain and water pump before long. I am deliberating over sway bar removal for articulation. I'm concerned that it could an issue w overland weight.

[@AllThingsOverlanding]

Great! All Dogs is great. I've got no sway bars and you've got to be a little careful, but once you get used to the body swap, it does just fine even if it feels a bit sketchy on onramps, etc. I mostly drive like an old man on the road getting to my offroading destination anyway because with all the weight, it's slow, haha.

[@ebbiketrip2497]

1500watt heater is a 1500watt heater. Looks robust enough but will never compete with your propane heater for heat output… like not even close. I live in MN and have never had my propane tank freeze up in the garage. Still love your content and love seeing Nissans getting love :)

[@AllThingsOverlanding]

So weird, when we were doing my timing chain guides, the garage was opened slightly to let the carbon monoxide out and it kept freezing over and over again. I've also had my 5lb tank freeze in January and February out camping when hooked to my stove. Like not completely, but it reduced the output so much that it was almost unusable. I swear, I have witnesses! :D Thanks and I'll keep up the Nissan content, promise!

[@ebbiketrip2497]

@@AllThingsOverlanding thanks for being so responsive :). Managing it outside is a different animal all together, especially smaller tanks or when the tank is nearing empty. I tried using my skottle in -20 and ended up cooking over the campfire :). Hoping to get into KORE this year and see you in person. Cheers Fletch.

[@ryanjewell9832]

I went with the nissans because the plethora of spare parts available with as long as the platform and engines/transmissions have been around. Wish aftermarket support was a little better, but we can find everything we need. I've got 260,xxx on the xterra now, and it can be moody sometimes but still running great *knocks on wood*

[@AllThingsOverlanding]

I love hearing those big numbers on mileage. I'm heading towards 220K myself and so far so good.

[@infdox9051]

@@AllThingsOverlanding what about the parts no longer being made

[@AllThingsOverlanding]

@@infdox9051 Like what?

[@infdox9051]

@@AllThingsOverlanding Like anything you can't take off the Frontier!

[@AllThingsOverlanding]

@@infdox9051 Not sure what you’re saying. Pretty sure they still make parts for the 2nd gen frontiers and there a ton of used parts around. Sorry if I’m missing something!

[@ambienteterrazas]

First gen Xterras are also a good choice, i know they are getting old but they are simpler, less electronics more rugged versions of the second gen xterra, i guess i am biased since i used to have one but it just kept on going, it just climbed over everything and it was super reliable.

[@AllThingsOverlanding]

Yep, good point. The main reason I mentioned second gens is simply that they were built for a longer period of time and share more with the Frontier and Pathfinder so from a swappability and moddability standpoint, they make sense. First Nissan I ever drove was a first gen Xterra and it shocked me how good it was in the snow. We had about a foot and it drove circles around all the domestic trucks we had on the lot and was fantastic all around.

[@ambienteterrazas]

@@AllThingsOverlanding I would go into a second gen but besides the smod issue i have heard they have problems with the timing chains and if for some reason the abs light comes on the 4x4 stops working, i dont know if this is common, easy or hard to resolve, i know later models 2010 plus have no real issues. I guess i would be comfortable with either a platform i know in and out like a first gen or a 2010 or newer second gen.

[@AllThingsOverlanding]

@@ambienteterrazas Yep, makes sense. You're not wrong about the early second gens, but even the timing chain is just a time consuming repair that you have to do like every 150-200 miles. But, if you go with a 2010 or later, most of the issues are sorted out.

[@jamesn.449]

Nismo was frontier and offroad was xterra till 2011 when both trims became the pro4x

[@AllThingsOverlanding]

Yeah, good call out on specificity. Forgot that technically the Frontier was the Nismo Off Road and the Xterra was just the Off Road. Good eye!

[@Agent.K.]

One thing I hate is the small gas tank. It’s not much of a deal in North America, but here our Toyotas FJ, Prado, 70 series come with 158- 180 L fuel tanks from factory. It makes a difference in long trips and desert crossings. Especially if you’re going somewhere for the first time.

[@AllThingsOverlanding]

Yep, I feel your pain there. I'm going on a big Canada trip this summer and there are some 400 miles stretches between fuel stops so I'm going to have to carry a minimum of 6 jerry cans to make that push.

[@Agent.K.]

@@AllThingsOverlanding My Xterra does 310-340 on highway. But the yota’s go near 690 sometimes more. Add jerrycans and you can drive 1000+ miles! That’s why I got one for overlanding. The Xterra is still my favorite though especially off-road.

[@U.s-epa]

I sold a 2002 land cruiser 100 for my Xterra and I thought I was 'downgrading' to a smaller rig 😂. Couldn't have been more wrong. I LOVE my 05 Off-road 6mt!!!!

[@AllThingsOverlanding]

That's awesome! The X's are really underrated. You probably got great money for that 100 series too, :D.

[@U.s-epa]

@@AllThingsOverlanding got 2x more than the Xterra cost, and the LC was pretty thrashed 🤣 they are massively overrated IMHO

[@onefastcyclist]

I test drove about everything and bought a 2019 Frontier king cab PRO4X for a COVID price of $30 - put on Old Man Emu lift, Leer shell, tow hitch and better AT tires and still spent less then a new taco TRD! The old V6 has more low end torque, the Dana 44 is stronger and the box frame is stronger. Bad gas mileage? I tow a 2,200 trailer and get around 13mpg which is GREAT - just ask anyone that tows a trailer

[@AllThingsOverlanding]

There you go! Complaining about gas mileage on a truck is kind of an oxymoron anyways, :D.

[@seanwattles9264]

I recently picked up a Pathfinder 05 with under 100k miles, new transmission, radiator etc. Biggest issue that I am facing right now is that there does not seem to be a normal lift kit available. I would love to tighten the suspension and lift it about two inches and put some proper shoes on her but not finding anything other than spacers which stretches out components and adds too much stress to really be suitable for reasonable off roading and overlanding.

[@AllThingsOverlanding]

You might trying hitting up the guys at All Dogs Offroad. They have suspension for the R51 Pathy's and they're super knowledgable and could help you find something that will do what you want! www.alldogsoffroad.com

[@TimKeh]

Dobinsons makes a 2” lift kit for the R51 Pathfinder.

[@floridafrontierclub]

love Lexus, dislike Tacoma....glad your a Nissan guy!

[@AllThingsOverlanding]

For life! 😃

[@DeepOwl1073]

I had an 02 Xterra 5 speed for 7 years, I got hit at a stop light and it was totaled. I replaced it with a '13 Frontier Pro-4x. A year and a half later, it burned to the ground in a forest fire I was fighting. I replaced it with an '18 Chevy Colorado ZR2 with the baby duramax... it went into the shop Sept 4th, and it still sits in the shop today, Jan 8th. As soon as this turd is fixed, it's gone. I'm going back to Nissan.

[@AllThingsOverlanding]

Wow, that's crazy. Something that new falling apart like that. We had a Chevy Equinox that we bought very slightly used and certified and from about 24K miles until 50K miles we had tons of huge problems with it. At 32K miles, the computer went out while my wife was driving and the whole car shut off. All power gone and it wouldn't restart. So, she was stranded on the side of the road for hours waiting for a tow truck and then Chevy was like "That's weird, the computer died but at least you were under warranty!" We had an extended warranty that covered it until 50K and we promptly sold it at like 49,994 miles, lol. I've had about 10 Nissans at this point and for a fraction of the cost of a Toyota, they've been almost just as reliable.

[@DeepOwl1073]

@AllThingsOverlanding the problems started with DEF issues, which led to the ECM. So yeah, I bought "American" but I'm waiting on a computer from Chy-na. I'll be looking for an Xterra Pro-4x 6M.

[@AllThingsOverlanding]

@@DeepOwl1073 Good luck! Hopefully you find the right one. They’re great trucks!

[@MarkWucher]

@@DeepOwl1073you might be able to lemon law that thing depending on your state. The manufacturer might buy it back from you before you have to go that far though. I’m not sure what the process is but something to think about.

[@DeepOwl1073]

@MrCrabcat it's been 5 months. I've had nothing but time to explore my options. I'll get mine. 👍

[@christophernakemowren827]

Any info specific to 2004 Xterra you could share? I read ' in 2009 ,the 2004 , Worldwide best off road ' I own 2004 xe se. Thank you. Paid $9000 with 70,000. Invested 8-9000 more. Including transmission at 100,000. ALL suspension.

[@AllThingsOverlanding]

Sounds like a nice truck! I’ve never owned a first gen X and they definitely don’t get as much love as the second gen but I’m sure there are some Facebook groups or forums out there with more info on them that might help you!

[@jroscon3003]

I sold my xterra 2000 with 245,000mi for 2,900 next day I get a blue 2006 xterra for 3,000 with 131,000 mi a year ago and I love it best suv for your bucks.

[@AllThingsOverlanding]

Sounds like a great pick up! I loved my Xterra.

[@skysappr]

Sweet Video Fletch; I'm researching across multiple platforms, one thing that has shyed me away from the 4.0 Equipped Nissan models atlease earlier on 05 to 09/10 or so, I'm not sure when the issue may have been improved; and that is the Timing guide and/or tensioner issues that had surfaced in those earlier year models. Do you have any input on that?

[@AllThingsOverlanding]

Yep, that was a slight issue (mainly because of the high cost of having a shop or dealership so the work) but even on those earlier models, it’s still common to get 150-200k miles out of a 4.0 before needing to do them. My Xterra had almost 150k miles and was still all original with no noises or issues with the timing chains. Then on my Frontier, the previous owner finally did them around 200k miles. He messed them up and we had to redo them but with a decently knowledgeable buddy, he got it done in a weekend in my garage. So, it’s something to be aware of but it’s probably only something you’ll have to do once and if you either get one that’s already had it done or has relatively low miles, you should be fine! Hope that helps!

[@Kevin-v9r5u]

Considering how caoable they are and being $10k cheaper on average than a yota its kind of mind boggling the lack of aftermarket support for the frontier.

[@AllThingsOverlanding]

Agreed.

[@Chemike21]

I just bought a 2010 for 6k with 117k miles with salvage title. It had body dmg, but thats it.

[@Chemike21]

Frontier pro 4x

[@AllThingsOverlanding]

Nice! That's a great pick up! Congrats!

[@Chemike21]

Where can I get a bed metal frame like yours to hold up the tent and all the stuff?

[@AllThingsOverlanding]

There are a bunch of options out there, but my favorite is my current one from Xtrusion Overland. It's extrusion based so you can literally attach stuff everywhere in a variety of ways. It's a bit on the pricey side, but it's also aluminum so no worries of rusting or anything so it'll last for a while. Here's a link if you want more info: bit.ly/3L86TL5

[@faceinthecrowd5810]

Spot on about the buy in price for an Xterra vs Toyota. I thought I wanted a 3 or 4 gen 4 runner, but the numbers did not work for me, too many miles at too high a dollar. I began looking hard at the Xterra, after several days of research, I was sold and began looking for one. I found a 2006 with 97k for $7500. The frame is just surface rust, the body has had some paintwork but very little I need to repair, interior is all there. It VIN’s as as off-road, but I’m not 100% sure, is there a positive way to identify the 06 off road model? I’ve had 4 old jeeps, the waving thing jeep peeps do…..I don’t even see another Xterra to wave to……cool.

[@AllThingsOverlanding]

Haha, welcome to the Nissan fam! The easiest way to identify if it's truly an offroad is if you have the rear diff locker push button. It should be to the right of the 4x4 switch.

[@faceinthecrowd5810]

Yeah I dont have that push button, my bet is not an off road model. Which is fine for me I did all my rock bashing and mud pit time years back with my Jeeps. This xterra will get pampered by an obsessive old car guy that doesn’t want to scratch the clear coat. As a skier and a MTB guy I will do a mild lift with some better parts, some good semi grabby larger tires keeping some gas mileage in mind, thanks for the response back!!

[@AllThingsOverlanding]

@@faceinthecrowd5810 No problem! Sounds like it should last you for quite a while taking care of it like that. Enjoy!

[@sapclan2896]

Im gonna have to replace my 3rd gen 4runner. And, Xterras n Frontier seem the more affordable compared to the 4runner/Tacoma

[@AllThingsOverlanding]

That's definitely true. They're really great trucks and while I'd give the nod to a Toyota, I chose Nissan for that same reason. Maybe 85-90% as reliable for 50-60% of the price of a comparable Toyota.

[@sapclan2896]

​@@AllThingsOverlandingYeah, has alot pros other than there price tag. I owned an 03 Tacoma that had about 320K miles when i gave it to my beother a few yrs ago and have an 99 4runner with 264K miles but harder to maintain it now with major repairs. Looking into used Xterras & Frontiers which seem to be a lot more affordable rt now.

[@AllThingsOverlanding]

@@sapclan2896 For sure!

[@sapclan2896]

​@@AllThingsOverlanding Awesome channel I subscribed. Trying to keep the 3rd gen 4runner but might be on its last leg or two.

[@MegaMitrandir]

where can I look for these vehicles? could you please suggest some online resources

[@AllThingsOverlanding]

Sure! Facebook Marketplace, cars.com (but those will mostly be dealerships charging a big markup), etc. I would probably start with FB marketplace and look within a radius around your location. Hope that helps!

[@DetailGurus]

I have a 2016 SL I’m thinking of making a rig out. Would the Titan swaps work on the non 4x4? Is it even worth it to rig out a non 4x4 😅

[@AllThingsOverlanding]

Pretty sure you can do a Titan swap on a 2WD. The question of whether it's worth it really depends on what you want to do with it. If you want a pre-runner or something to hit some whoops in the desert, 2WD could be fine. If you want to climb up some gnarly obstacles and rock crawl, then it might not make sense to spend all the money on Titan swapping a 2WD. Up to you!

[@2dudesxploration223]

I like the Nissan stuff to, but I gotta push the WJ. These rigs can be bought between 2500-5000 with miles between 150,000 to the low 200's. They are very capable stock and its a Jeep so there are a million mods for it.

[@AllThingsOverlanding]

I've seen yours and it is pretty rad! I think those are great options too!

[@beardumaw24]

Nope ! after owning 6 different Jeeps and all have the crappy Chrysler electronics and All have electronics issues and everyone I know that owens Jeeps has those issues I will not own another Jeep until they have different electronics !

[@9gagerofl]

Im genuinely considering selling my 19 P4x for a gladiator purely for aftermarket support. The frontier is a great platform, but its so limited 😢

[@AllThingsOverlanding]

There definitely isn't nearly as much support as their is for the Jeeps, but there are companies working on it and the third gen Frontiers are selling well and bringing a lot of excitement to the brand.

[@beardumaw24]

Bad idea ! your down grading ! jeeps reliability sucks (thanks crappy Chrysler electronics) ! After owening 6 different jeeps and being in Jeep clubs and seeing all the reliability issues people are having with Jeeps, I would never chose a jeep over a Nissin or Yota !

[@mnsterbruiser]

If you can spin wrenches and keep it maintained it will last forever they are riddled with issues but rarely anything serious that flares up on the trail. Fully boxed frames, more power than most in class, platform parts sharing. Rugged no frills interiors, smaller size for the trails. Cheap allows you care a bit less on the trails. Having owned Nissan 4x4's for over 20 years it's hard to look elsewhere especially as everything else is double the price and lacks the uniqueness that Nissan has. I can buy a Nissan and mod the absolute heck out of it with the money I saved.

[@AllThingsOverlanding]

Yep! Totally agree!

[@MauroMarzorati]

there's a reason gas mileage is crap on these trucks, it's physics. there's a full-box-frame ladder underneath that weighs a fair bit unlike the Yota's C-channel ladder. that tonnage takes more energy to get moving and to get stopped, period. And the whole body-on-frame adds weight, unlike a crossover unibody design. All that tonnage also means that it takes a licking and it keeps on tickin', So weigh your gas mileage needs to the capability forgetting to some of the rougher parts of the mall parking lot :-) and choose accordingly. There's never a free lunch.

[@AllThingsOverlanding]

Great points! I don't worry about gas mileage much and for me, it's worth the penalty for the capability.

[@faceinthecrowd5810]

Gas. No worse than any other 6 cylinder SUV that can pull a trailer. They all say 14 to 19 or 21. At least the auto trans in the Xterra has the 5 speed not a 4 speed like the trailblazer/ envoy. With a street friendly build the xterra 4.0l will do better than my 5.3, or my 5.7 every time. I can’t use a 4 cylinder I must have the towing power.

[@AllThingsOverlanding]

@@faceinthecrowd5810 Yep, power over efficiency always, :D

[@ntime2095]

Can you put a offroad locker rear end on a SE?

[@AllThingsOverlanding]

The easiest way is just to find an M226 out of another Xterra or Frontier and swap that in and wire up the e-locker switch and you'd be good to go.

[@ntime2095]

@All Things Overlanding OK thanks! I've been wondering what was the easiest way to go about that.

[@Sandy_Seats]

Yes and no. While I agree with your value for money points, you're going to end up spending the same if not more in parts and service later down the line, which negates the initial cost savings... couple that with anemic aftermarket support and is the juice really worth squeeze? I like the concept of the domestic Nissan product, but I dislike the quality issues coming out of domestic Nissan, both mid and full-sized. I really hope they improve the quality.

[@AllThingsOverlanding]

Yeah, definitely see what you’re saying but I can say with my Xterra, I had it for 5 years and put 50k miles on it and did a ton of rough trips and all I ever did was oil changes, brakes, and wheel hubs from 95-145k. Even with Toyotas, there is still maintenance required. Where I think you make a great point is that you’re going to have a higher percentage of needing a more expensive repair or maintenance item on a Nissan than a Toyota. The way I look at it is as a percentage game and while the Toyota wins in overall reliability, I would say that the Nissan isn’t too far behind versus any domestic options. So, if you want capability and reliability but don’t want to pay the Toyota tax, the Nissan is a great option against most domestic options. Again, Toyota definitely wins overall though, haha.

[@Sandy_Seats]

I loved my little 99 frontier. it was a great truck and it took all the beatings.

[@ryanjewell9832]

I can say from owning both toyotas and nissans, it seems the repairs are far costlier on my tundra than my nissan so far.

[@AllThingsOverlanding]

@@ryanjewell9832 Good point. I have a buddy with an 80 series and he constantly tries to tell me how much more reliable his truck is but then he also says that he’s baselining his truck and just spent $4000 on it. But once that’s done, it’ll be solid. Then he’s replacing other parts and spending thousands more. So, I’m happy with my slightly less reliable Nissans.

[@DocWrangler]

and now I need a nissan....lol!

[@AllThingsOverlanding]

They're cheap! :D

[@richardvalentin3267]

Are Toyota engines and transmissions more durable than those of the xterras?

[@AllThingsOverlanding]

I would have to say yes. But, in my opinion, the additional longevity of their components often doesn't outweigh the much higher cost for a comparable Toyota vehicle.

[@tetsuo360]

Or…just get a titan

[@AllThingsOverlanding]

Titans are great options unless you deal with a bunch of tight trails and need a slimmer, shorter wheel base.

[@dickinaroundoutdoors8609]

So many great vehicles available to us these days. Maintenance is critical of course no matter what you own. The mods are all great, the only thing I think about is that the further afar you go and the more complex the mods the harder it will be to find someone who can fix it. If near home that is not a problem of course, but man a V8 swap (and I have thought about it for the JKU) with electrical problems in Tuktoyaktuk probably means you can buy a new truck for the price of finding a repair! Another great episode-not so many passionate Nissan owners around.

[@AllThingsOverlanding]

Great points! I've generally tried to keep mine as stock as possible, engine and transmission wise, while modifying suspension and gear carrying to make it more capable. But totally agree with keeping it mostly stock to make it more reliable and easy to repair!

[@nutthrower4415]

Have a Titan and have been very pleased. Want to drop down to a Frontier and am thinking of the 2020 or 2021 with the 3.8L under the hood. I was thinking better mileage for one, but that 4L v-6 is proven for sure. I’ll be using it for traveling so will be putting on some miles, I never really liked the body style but it grew on me now the new style hits me the same way , wish they would have at least kept the front grill the same. Any one have comments for me on why I should stick with the 2020/2021 or maybe a 2019? 🤷‍♂️ thanks

[@AllThingsOverlanding]

I think either option is great. The newer motor and trans are definitely upgrades, but the good old 4.0 and 5 speed auto were pretty bulletproof too. I think if you find a great deal on one that falls into either of those ranges, you'd be fine for the long term.

[@gman1185]

Have a 2020 sv crew cab, got it because I loved my 2002 of the same model. Put an external 10.2 inch android auto screen with built in 4k dashcam and I'm extremely happy with the truck!