[01SEX]

Hi guys, I'm looking at two Xterras and am trying to determine which would be the better purchase. I'm currently looking at a 2001 SE that has 122k miles and is listed at $3999 and a 2006 OR with 154k miles listed for $6995. I'm wondering if it is a true OR, it does have the rear diff lock, but no VDC switch or any offroad badging on the sides. I'm leaning towards the 2006 simply because it's a newer vehicle and the engine has more power, but the low mileage of the 2001 is very tempting. I've been researching the common issues to look for, but I guess my question is which vehicle do you guys think would be the better buy for reliability, price etc? The 2001 has a pretty good carfax with what looks to me to have a pretty decent maintenance history (a lot of vehicles I've looked at have hardly had any info). The 2006 has quite a bit of service history as well, but a lot of it was emissions inspections (it was a Pennsylvania vehicle). Thanks is advance!

If I posted this in the wrong area please feel free to delete or move, I wasn't sure.

 

[01SEX]

Hello?...

Side note: I just took a look at my screen name...it didn't dawn on me when I created it. Is that changeable haha?

 

[JLBinHSV]

I have an 01 SE myself. I'd say that $3999 seems a bit pricey, but I guess that depends on condition and extras. I'd also say that you could do an awful lot to the 01 with the $3000 you'd save not buying the 06. 122k for an X isn't much if properly maintained. You should get another 100k easily.

 

[JLBinHSV]

PS: If I recall correctly, the 06 models are also prone to SMOD (Strawberry milkshake of death) due to the transmission cooling lines being intermingle with the engine radiator. Hugely expensive to repair if it occurs, and fairly costly to make the modifications necessary to prevent.

 

[GrnXnham]

You should be able to get that SE for less than $3999. Did you check the bluebook value on that model? Both good trucks. Mainly it's just a matter of do you want to spend nearly twice as much for more power but higher mileage. My 2002 has 200K. I didn't start having any issues at all until about 175K.

One thing to keep in mind with that 01 is did they change the timing belt at 100K? If not, you will be driving that rig on borrowed time. If it is the original belt and it breaks, you are hosed.

 

[lickolepi]

Great products for that crispy clean look of your favorite car:
http://luxxio.co.nz/

 

[01SEX]

Thanks for the reply guys. I am leaning towards the 2001 right now. It looks to be in really great shape. Unfortunately, in my area clean retail for a 2001 Xterra in this condition and mileage is $4900. I thought I read somewhere that you can check if the timing belt has been changed by a sticker that would be placed in the engine bay? I checked the carfax and just recently the cooling system has been checked as well as drive belts replaced and a few other things, but there is no mention of timing belt. Most of the carfax says vehicle serviced, but doesn't list anything particular. It did show 60,000 miles service performed.