[carrot_in_a_patch]

Hey everybody. Been skimming this forum for a couple days while making a decision about buying a 2003 XE--so much helpful information (especially the "What to look for when buying a gen 1" thread).

Here's what I'm looking at. Any and all comments/thoughts very welcomed.

2003 XE, auto, ~130k.
asking $$: 3800 OBO (I'd like to get to ~3200 or so)
body's in pretty good shape, some rust beginning on rockers near rear doors
appears to be pretty well cared for with several new parts
not sure whether timing belt has been changed (will look into it later today)

my last nag before i pull the trigger on this is that there appears to be a fair amount of underbody rust. i know i can treat it with POR or similar but i'm just not sure how much is "too much". what are the community's thoughts?

Thanks in advance

 

[beef tits]

Spend a little more and get a Toyota. Honestly. My Nissan has been a piece of shit. 105k miles and it's less reliable than any 300k mile Toyota I have owned.

If rust is a worry, buy one in the SouthWest.

 

[carrot_in_a_patch]

Thanks Beef. Here's my issue, though, financially. Just had my old 98 Blazer blow a 3-4 clutch pack and a) don't want to spend ~1800 on a rebuild, b) don't/can't do the work myself, c) unexpected purchase means maximize what I can get for what I can spend. Looking around here in NE Ohio means I'm most likely gonna have to accept some rust. I'd certainly like to spend more--on something different or just newer Xterra, but kinda limited right now.

Thanks again!

 

[beef tits]

Well, just a heads up... don't be shocked if that Xterra needs catalytic converters, exhaust manifolds (cracking is common) a knock sensor (almost guarantee this is bad), all new ignition parts, distributor (common problem), valve cover gaskets and the timing belt you mentioned. You could very well be buying a truck that needs way more than $1800 worth of work. These are all very common issues at that mileage. If you can find one that is a 4 cylinder, get it. They are slow, not that much slower... but much cheaper/easier to fix. Your Blazer (assuming 4.3?) will feel like a rocket compared to the 3.3.

I just got done dumping about $4500 worth of parts into mine to get it road worthy (and off-road worthy) for another (hopefully) 100k miles. If I could go back in time I would be driving a Tacoma. Granted, that $4500 includes new tires, a winch, a bumper and a few other extras but the most labor intensive pain-in-the-ass portions were getting the maintenance/repairs done.

 

[Bitumen Bullet]

...unexpected purchase means maximize what I can get for what I can spend. ....

I would suggest taking what money you have and putting it towards a Honda, Civic or Accord. They are very common in your area and as a result there are lots for sale. With so many to choose from it will be much easier to get the deal you want, or in this case, need.

These are very reliable vehicles and local shops are very familiar with them and they will be very much more affordable than an Xterra, particularly since you are not doing your own work. I would suggest spending what you can to get as new and as good a condition Honda with the idea of keeping it as your main or reliable vehicle for years to come. You will save thousands in the long run, thousands you can spend on that 98 Blazer or an Xterra when you do not have to rush the purchase.