Okay, so I've gone through the various FAQs. I'm in the market for a predictable automatic (for daughter #5) for basic transportation. I know Nissans having owned 4 now, and I'm most familiar with this generation. I have limited budget, so this generation has my attention. The last time I ventured away from Nissan, I bought a 2003 Acura with the gimp transmission - lol.

I know about the oil burning.
I normally drive a stick - what to watch for in an auto?
Any other obvious bits of wisdom? I already know about that f***ing power steering hose (don't we all).

Not too concerned about sound system, etc.

Any car I am serious about will be going to my most excellent diagnostic mechanic, but the more I know the better it will be.

Oh, and if I missed an obvious article or post, link is fine.

thanks

 

Here is a short list of things to be aware of:
- Potential ECU damage as a result of IACV and/or Electronic Mount failure,
- No oil burning on 00-01 (3.0L); when properly maintained, this engine is bulletproof.
- The original coils were a problem, most of them failed by 60k; the new ("gray dot") coils are fine.
- Check the front end thoroughly; at this age, most of our cars will need new axles, bearings, struts.

 

check for rust, especially at lower radiator support

 

^^This right Here^^

If it's running well then the ECU should be fine. I'd immediately do the coolant bypass (00-01) and unplug the electric motor mounts (00-03).

Other than those specific issues, these cars are pretty solid compared to other 15 year old cars in the price range. Most other issues will be similar to any 15 year old 100,000+ mile car.

 

lol, I have a 2002 SE 6 speed - just changed the oil. Looked at lower support (car came from NY then Maryland). Good amount of rust.