XTERRA: A hit when Nissan needed one

[@DJSekuHusky]

I got my 2001 for $550 a day before it was scheduled to be crushed. It only had 153K on it. It was a RWD manual 2.4L XE though, and it would not pass emissions and was leaking from everywhere. I basically gave them scrap value and $50 and got a clean title out of it. From there I started raiding parts from junkyards. I did the windshield install myself: a Pilkington "Tri-Val" pane with universal 105 moulding, since I dislike the factory Nissan moulding top strip and didn't feel like spending the $35 for it. Still no leaks 6 years later, and I even fixed some surface rust in the pinch weld before installing the new glass. I replaced the aftermarket XYG door glass with factory Nissan Carlex door glass as well. I also gave it the Neoprene seats from the Supercharged Edition, as well as the gauge cluster from a RWD V6 SE model (the silver 'screw-on' face model) complete with 6000K wedge LEDs installed (the new cluster only has 98K on the ODO). Under the hood, I'm running a radiator from a V6 that had been repaired for damage in the front before getting insurance totaled from getting rear-ended. The radiator was practically new. I replaced the coolant hoses with new Continental ones, the belts are all Duralast, as is the water pump and fan clutch. Every gasket and seal has been replaced with Fel-Pro gaskets (including the head gasket). I had the head milled to fix some corrosion by the sealing surface of cylinder 3 (where the gasket had failed), otherwise it's perfectly flat once again and I resurfaced the block and cleaned the pistons as well before reassembly. I also cleaned the ports and valves and it passed a leakdown test afterward. New valve stem seals took care of the smokey first-start issue, and I also replaced the timing chain components about 20K prematurely, but I figured might as well since I'm already doing the head gasket. The rotating assembly looked good, bearings looked good, basically a lot of oil varnish but no evidence of being oil starved despite the numerous leaks. The original harmonic balancer was beginning to bulge a bit in places, so I replaced it with a Dorman one. The Intake manifold cracked when I was attempting to remove the EGR valve that had rusted in half. The intake manifold and EGR I replaced it with were pulled from a Frontier. The original throttle body and EGR tube were carried over, but everything was a direct fit. The original catalytic converter had gotten plugged from the oil dripping onto it from the valve cover and head as well, so that was an eBay swap, but the Bosch O2 sensor and Hitachi MAF sensor (replaced based on OBDII codes) were both RockAuto finds. I also cracked the intake camshaft when my wrench broke while attempting to tighten the cam bolt to 120Ft Lbs. The replacement camshaft was $40 and got pulled from a 2001 Altima SE and was a perfect fit. The timing and duration were identical between those KA engines in 2001. I also pulled a fresh set of NGK spark plug wires and a black distributor cap from that Altima for $8 more. Perfect fit on the Xterra, and the cap swap got rid of the ugly reddish-brown cap that it came with. The weather seal for my distributor had also dry rotted, so I pulled a fresher seal from a Frontier and I no longer have water-intrusion issues with the distributor. I also picked a fresh set of timing covers and a clean valve cover from a Frontier, since mine were heavily corroded. I degreased, sanded, and painted the exterior with cast iron engine enamel coated in gloss clear enamel. I even painted the raised lettering by hand in Ford blue, to match the blue of the NGK plug wires. I then hit the rusty exhaust manifold and EGR tube with a wire-wheel before coating both with matte black grill paint. By the time I was done, it was no longer a greasy, rusted lump of an engine; rather, it looked fully remanufactured and had every cracked wire guide and every factory zip tie, hose clamp, and wiring clip replaced with the factory originals pulled from yet another Frontier. This was only the second head gasket I've ever done, both times on a KA. The first time I was 16 and was using my dad's tools on my $500 1992 240SX (with 138K) that I bought with my own savings back in '04 (when I was 14), but I didn't swap timing chains or delve into the head that time...I just loosened the nose gear and pulled the head, gave it a bench resurface, then replaced the gasket and reassembled. To my credit, it was still running strong at 215K when I sold it in college (I still regret doing that btw). This time, I really went all out to bring this motor back to proper working order. Ever since rebuilding the Xterra' KA, all of the leaks have stopped. There's no more check engine light, the coolant and oil levels have held steady. It passed emissions testing with flying colors. My fuel economy has also nearly doubled from 10MPG to about 20MPG. The original transmission had been full of water somehow and had tons of corrosion; even after flushing it a bunch of times, the countershaft bearings inevitably failed on the Interstate. Still managed to limp it home, then later drove it to the junkyard to pick up the replacement Frontier manual transmission with only 112k on it. Shifts are back to buttery smooth and I have all 5 gear synchros again, and I gave it a new Exedy clutch and a new throw-out bearing while I had it all apart. So many people have tried to convince me that it's a money pit and I should just buy a new vehicle, but frankly I love working on my Xterra...more accurately, I love being responsible for making it run better through my work. Now it runs great, and I own it outright...no payments or interest rates or any of that nonsense to worry about. I have also given it a ton of factory options from other junkyard Xterras, like the factory tow receiver package and the auto-dimming compass mirror option. I've upgraded the factory Panasonic single DIN CD player to a Sony double-DIN with CarPlay and Android Auto support, I've given it USB-C fast charging as well as a Qi charging windshield mount for my phone. I've even upgraded the factory Panasonic door speakers to Kicker CS 6.5" and 6x9 speakers, complete with dual Kicker Comp R 12" subs and a 1200W Kicker amp hidden under the cargo cover. I like having manual door locks and windows with the all-plastic door cards (without tweeters). It made the stereo upgrade and sound dampening that much easier to install. I really like how easy everything is to work on, like I did the entire engine rebuild with it parked on my driveway. Don't even need to jack it up, I can just crawl under it with a creeper and do the work as it sits. You don't need to drop the engine either to do most of the work, it's basically the ultimate DIY SUV platform. Having the Frontier available to swap 75% of the parts over is a real godsend. I couldn't imagine a more reliable work-truck...sure it's no speed demon, top speed is a measly 100MPH, but it's an absolute blast to drive in the snow and I have yet to get it proper stuck even as a 2WD. Both AWD Subarus I've ever owned out here in Colorado haven't lived long enough to see 2 winters, yet the Xterra has been through 5 winters and still starts 1st try, every time.

[@autochatter]

That is a comeback kid Xterra story for the ages! Thank you for sharing! Any thoughts on making it 4x4 if you find the right KA Frontier to cannibalize from?

[@DJSekuHusky]

@@autochatter I have thought about it, sure... I even found a 4x4 KA Frontier at the junkyard; unfortunately, it showed up after my performing the rebuild so I was fairly wiped out on funds and couldn't afford it at the time. I did at least pull the entire Cruise Control bracket and all the mounting hardware (and the interior Cruise switch) from it, that's a pretty rare KA option to find. I need to consult the FSM to figure out how it's intended to work, and I'll be tackling the install in the spring once the outdoor temps begin to rise. I'm also considering starting a KZbin channel this year...I've posted my work so far to Reddit because I enjoy sharing knowledge and I learned most of what I know from the early forums that came before KZbin got bought by Google. I admit it would be nice to monetize my work so I can afford to take on larger projects. I'm currently gearing up for yet another project: a 1989 Prelude Si (manual, non 4WS) that I rescued for $900. Considering I only make $35K/year as a full-time manager at Auto Zone, I have to do something now if I ever plan to move past where I am to where I want to be. Shops don't seem interested in a guy who builds stuff in their backyard, and after some of the botched "repairs" I've had to undo I can sorta see why.

[@autochatter]

I think a Channel like that could be a hit. Theres lots of people who like getting more into the nuts and bolts aspect of it.

[@Stenn333]

​@@DJSekuHuskyI would DEFINITELY watch a channel you produced !....fantastic write-up on your rework history with your Xterra....Sadly, all of that work and no "Content" for KZbin....I have a 2002 Xterra 4WD that just turned 190K...and other than repeating P0300 and P0328 OBD codes, and slightly rough idling, it screams up and down I-95 here in FL, though with pretty funds-draining 14 to 15Mpg.....But I love it, and always say...even if I won PowerBall or MegaMillions, I'd just fix the rear main oil leak, or replace the engine if it came to that...not buy one of these rediculous $50K to $65K current "replacements," ...I love the Gen1 styling, WITH the round headlights, that look like an ancient Land Rover from one of those old British movies out on the African plains. 🙂 I've bought a replacement disyributor to see if it takes care of those ranfom misfires, but haven't gotten around to that yet...because...it just runs 😎...AC cold, heat is hot, and I want a heavy duty 4WD that I'm not afraid to beat up and put to work, not just prance around town in one of those pretty, leather Broncos for $50 to $60K !

[@zachowens1412]

My wife and I just bought a 2015 Pro 4X. I have never owned a Nissan before but I have always loved the look of the Xterra. My wife loves it and I don’t get To drive it much.

[@autochatter]

Hopefully she let's you drive it more LOL. I hope your first Nissan is a great experience!

[@thrillerbarkofficial]

I love my 04 first gen xterra taken my kids plenty of times off roading and yes it eats alot of gas but worth it for the fun you can have with this truck

[@autochatter]

Yeah..the gas mileage is about the only thing I don't miss about mine.

[@guilhermeborsa]

Here in Brazil it still one of the most desired off-road vehicles. here it was manufactured with a 2.8 MWM turbo diesel engine. Absolute beast!

[@alexvanroth175]

I was the original owner of a 2001 SE . Paid i think $25000 from a dealer in Houston. I just sold it to an individual for $3700.2024. 130,000 ml. Great car!

[@autochatter]

Thats awesome! I enjoyed my 01 SE too when I had it. Had every option except it was a stick.

[@Cast1]

I’m a Semi truck 🚛 driver working exporting containers in to the port, I work with dismantlers that cut car 🚗 car to pieces to send part like the engine, transmission, suspension etc to Dominican Republic. I rescued a Gray 2010 Nissan Xterra off road manual transmission Red and gray interior and got it for Just $1,000 dollars, it has no rust and looks great only 165,000 miles on it. Only spend spend $600 more getting a New power steering rack and doing the brakes cut the disk Drakes and got New Brakes pads engine oil change air filter and I got a very nice like new Xterra . I will take it off road this summer. In the year 2001 when I was a teenager I used look a those yellow nice looking Xterra and I was dreaming having one, dream came true and I wasn’t even looking for it. I would love it if came back one that would make the 4Runner look pale in comparison. 🙄☝️

[@autochatter]

Nissan really should have brought the Xterra back by now. The market for these vehicles is hot again.

[@bk-vr6hy]

I love my 2000 Nissan Xterra Yellow . She's driven me all over the USA. I can lay down and sleep in her. I am 70 years old and I've had her 24 years. Colorado to Washington, not to mention as a traveling nurse.

[@autochatter]

I really wanted a yellow one, but I bought my 01 SE 4x4 used.

[@terrencewalker9468]

I absolutely love my 06 Xterra! Awesome video.

[@autochatter]

Thank you! Xterras need more recognition!

[@hansyang1697]

I still remember my dad used to work on the Xterra (Paladin) commercials back in China in early 2000s. At that time the truck was manufactured by Zhengzhou Nissan Automobile Co., Ltd. It came with 2 trim levels XE and SE. Due to the high price tag on SE with V6, it was a rare site to see on the street, but XE with KA24 was a big hit at the time(private own and work horse) Fun facts was Zhengzhou Nissan Automobile actually change the design a bit for the Chinese domestic market by using the 2005 Navara truck front and removed the bulging on the back (So no first-aid kit). BTW I am a 2012 Pro-4x owner😏😏

[@autochatter]

That's cool! I actually don't know much about the Paladin, so thank you for the info! ....and you have a awesome truck!

[@hansyang1697]

@@autochatter Zhengzhou Nissan Automobile Co imported the entire production line into China, and they manufactured Paladin Between 2003-2013, Later on DongFeng Automobile manufactured Oting (Same platform but redesigned) till 2015.

[@hansyang1697]

@@autochatter Also small portion of 2nd Gen Xterra off-road trim imported to China before Nissan Seazed production. Mostly are imported from Middle East. Unfortunately, due to the reputation of Land Cruiser and Prado in Chinese market and bad reputation of Nissan, the sales was not good at all

[@autochatter]

@@hansyang1697 Land Cruisers do have a reputation for running forever like Prados. The Prado here is the Lexus GX.

[@ArtooDetour]

My ‘07 Xterra 6sp 2wd handled blizzardious conditions in CO a few years back. Traded it to my stepsister.. hoping to trade back ASAP! 😊

[@autochatter]

Def get it back!

[@cjkarlstafford]

Love my 01 just a beast got 31inch tires and all it took was to level out the front and a bit of a trim Dad has a 2010 frontier took him a three inch lift to get the same size

[@autochatter]

Nice setup. I kept mine close to original. Just went up to the 02 SE tire size. Just needed a little trim to fit.

[@Josh-kx1vv]

Possibly the only vehicle that could go against the Jeep Wrangler but it's unfortunate it's out of production I always loved the design and have driven many of them the ride although somewhat tough is a way step up from a Jeep Wrangler they need to bring it back.

[@autochatter]

Yeah..I think the market is saying we need another Xterra.

[@crazyxterralady]

I just bought my 2nd 2002 Xterra 2 days ago. Now I have a 2WD XE and a 4WD SE.

[@autochatter]

@@crazyxterralady cool!

[@HenryCalderonJr]

I bought a brand xterra 2000 I loved it took off road also and by 2003 I had 158000 miles on it. Excellent considering the engine was not as powerful as future models. But it was to me a fantastic suv

[@autochatter]

I liked mine alot too....Except the gas mileage.

[@kcindc5539]

Well done. Always been an Xterra fan

[@autochatter]

Thank you! Thank you times 2 for tolerating at least two of my videos.

[@83jbbentley]

2004 X with 289k miles and no major replacement on parts just the starter. Still drives 20 years later.

[@autochatter]

Oh yeah! They are great!

[@beardumaw24]

I love my 2000 yellow Xterra se 4x4, mint low mileage and lots of fun ! I looked for a while before I found this one in excellent shape. Very reliable and very capable off road and in snow and drives great looks great and pretty unique as you don't see many anymore, not a dime a dozen like some other SUVs. I like this 2000 first gen looks and ease of maintenance alot more than the 2010 second gen I had.

[@autochatter]

Yeah..I still miss my 01 SE at times. I actually see a decent amount of first gens still considering they haven't been made in 20 years.

[@roberthaldeman5312]

I have a 2016 Frontier and think a new Xterra based on the Frontier would be a Winner. Manual transmission 0ption.

[@autochatter]

I think another Xterra is a possibility. I wouldn't bank on a manual though.

[@santastabber]

I never knew they sold -roof rack..i took mine off and never looked back.

[@bk-vr6hy]

But why take it off?

[@billsnyder7392]

I have a 2014 nissan xterra bought it used and really like it its really basic in options power windows mirrors and bluetooth rear drive body on.frame very basic just the right vehicle for me

[@autochatter]

Yeah I always appreciated a traditional body on frame SUV myself...Provided you make use of its towing and offroad capabilities that most do not. Nissans own Rouge is probably the main cause of the Xterra being axed. It's their best seller in the U.S. and I bet they alloted more factory space the Xterra was using LOL.

[@arieljones4595]

Nissan has a history of always being behind the 8 ball. Always leaving models and platforms on the market too long because they don't have the cash to invest in full on replacements. AMC ran like this for decades before they had to pay the piper. The real truck based off road SUV class has shrunk, bit the players left, a la Wrangler, 4 Runner and Bronco, sell really well. It seems Nissan should be playing in this field as well. Bring back the Xterra! Hey, PS. Maybe that's a good video idea. All the Wrangler competitors that have come and gone over the decades while the Wrangler remained on the market.

[@autochatter]

Thanks. So something like I did with the Miata competitors..I havent done the CJ/Wrangler yet anyway.. Nissan has had a bad habit of letting models go too long unchanged.

[@arieljones4595]

@autochatter Yes! Exactly like you did with the Miata. (I just watched that. ) When you dig into it, you find that the Wrangler has had many would be players try to dethrone it over the decades.

[@seizethespeed]

wish they would make a new one! all they gotta do is rebody the new frontier and give the 4Runner a worthy competitor!

[@autochatter]

Yes. They put together the original Xterra pretty quickly, so it wouldn't be difficult.

[@mounirmahboubi1656]

This car looks like a dacia duster wich i suspect is a rebadge 🤔

[@autochatter]

The Dacia Duster was a crossover and looks to be of Nissan and Renault origin. The Xterra was a body on frame SUV.

[@baronvonjo1929]

It's pretty crazy. It started getting old in 2015 and died. Meanwhile the 4Runner is now even older than it was, and last year posted the best sales year for 4runners of all time. I don't think it being old killed it. Unless Toyota just has a special way with folks that Nissan doesn't.

[@autochatter]

4Runners developed a reputation since the 80s as being durable and capable offroader.People dont seem to care that 4 Runners and Lexus GXs are ancient lol.Nissan Rouge sales were really booming around the time the Xterra went away, so axing it to build more of those I'm sure was a reason too.