The 1999 Nissan Pathfinder is a popular mid-size SUV, part of the second generation (1996-2004). Known for its rugged body-on-frame construction and available V6 power, it offered impressive off-road capability and a comfortable ride for its era. Key trims typically included the XE, SE, and LE, with new pricing generally ranging from $25,000 to $35,000. Its enduring popularity stems from its blend of utility, dependability, and a more traditional SUV feel compared to more car-like crossovers.
The Good
The 1999 Pathfinder boasts strong performance with its V6 engine, renowned reliability that appeals to practical buyers, and a comfortable interior for daily driving and longer trips. Its classic SUV design evokes a sense of adventure, while its overall value proposition remains attractive.
The Bad
Owners should watch out for potential issues such as catalytic converter failure, rust on the frame and body, particularly in colder climates, and occasional transmission problems. Premature wear of certain suspension components is also something to monitor.
1999 Nissan Pathfinder: Quick Overview
- Engine Options: The 1999 Nissan Pathfinder was primarily offered with two engine choices:
- 3.3L V6 (VG33E): This was the most common engine.
- 3.5L V6 (VQ35DE): Introduced later in the generation, offering more power.
- Horsepower:
- 3.3L V6: Approximately 170 horsepower.
- 3.5L V6: Approximately 240 horsepower (this engine was more prominent in later model years of this generation, but some early versions may have had it, or it might be a conflation with the next generation. The 3.3L is the definitive engine for the 1999 model year).
- Fuel Economy:
- EPA estimates for the 3.3L V6 varied, but typically ranged around 13-15 MPG city and 17-19 MPG highway, depending on 2WD or 4WD and transmission.
- 0-60 Times:
- For the 3.3L V6, 0-60 MPH times were generally in the 9-10 second range, which was competitive for SUVs of its size at the time.
- Towing Capacity:
- When properly equipped with the towing package, the 1999 Pathfinder typically had a towing capacity of up to 5,000 lbs.
- Trim-Level Features:
- XE: Base model, often included power windows/locks, air conditioning, and a basic audio system.
- SE: Mid-range trim, adding features like alloy wheels, a sunroof (optional), upgraded cloth seats, and sometimes body-colored bumpers.
- LE: Top-tier trim, offering features like leather seats, heated front seats, automatic climate control, a premium Bose sound system, and more aggressive exterior styling cues.
1999 Nissan Pathfinder Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 1999 |
| Make | Nissan |
| Model | Pathfinder |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Wagon |
| Category | Minivan Medium Truck |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | Japan |
| Manufacturing City | HIRATSUKA |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 3.3 L V-6 |
| Engine Size | 3.3L |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 |
| Transmission | - |
| Transmission Type | - |
| Transmission Speeds | - |
| Drivetrain | Rear-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | - |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
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What Problems Does the 1999 Nissan Pathfinder Have?
The 1999 Nissan Pathfinder, while generally considered reliable, is not without its common issues. One of the most frequently reported problems is related to the catalytic converter, which can fail prematurely, leading to reduced engine performance and emissions control issues. This is a significant repair cost.
Another area of concern is rust, particularly on the frame and body panels. This is especially prevalent in regions where roads are salted during winter months. Thorough inspection of the undercarriage for rust perforation is crucial when considering a used 1999 Pathfinder.
Transmission issues have also been reported, although not as widespread as catalytic converter problems. Some owners have experienced premature wear or failure, particularly if the vehicle has been used for heavy towing or if maintenance has been neglected.
Regarding recalls, while specific recalls for the 1999 model year might vary, common areas for recall campaigns on Pathfinders of this era often involved airbags, fuel system components, or potentially brake systems. It's always advisable to check the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website for any outstanding recalls applicable to a specific VIN.
Long-term reliability can be impacted by how well the vehicle has been maintained. Regular fluid changes, especially for the transmission and coolant, are essential. While the 3.3L V6 engine is generally robust, neglect can lead to issues over time. The overall longevity of a 1999 Pathfinder heavily depends on its service history and the owner's commitment to preventative maintenance.
Another area of concern is rust, particularly on the frame and body panels. This is especially prevalent in regions where roads are salted during winter months. Thorough inspection of the undercarriage for rust perforation is crucial when considering a used 1999 Pathfinder.
Transmission issues have also been reported, although not as widespread as catalytic converter problems. Some owners have experienced premature wear or failure, particularly if the vehicle has been used for heavy towing or if maintenance has been neglected.
Regarding recalls, while specific recalls for the 1999 model year might vary, common areas for recall campaigns on Pathfinders of this era often involved airbags, fuel system components, or potentially brake systems. It's always advisable to check the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website for any outstanding recalls applicable to a specific VIN.
Long-term reliability can be impacted by how well the vehicle has been maintained. Regular fluid changes, especially for the transmission and coolant, are essential. While the 3.3L V6 engine is generally robust, neglect can lead to issues over time. The overall longevity of a 1999 Pathfinder heavily depends on its service history and the owner's commitment to preventative maintenance.
How long will the 1999 Nissan Pathfinder last?
With diligent maintenance, a 1999 Nissan Pathfinder can reasonably be expected to last between 200,000 to 250,000 miles, with many owners reporting even higher figures. Its body-on-frame construction contributes to its long-term durability. Key to achieving this longevity is addressing common issues like rust before they become severe and ensuring regular fluid changes, particularly for the transmission. The V6 engine is known for its resilience. However, without consistent care, weaknesses such as catalytic converter premature failure and potential transmission wear can significantly shorten its service life.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 1999 Nissan Pathfinder reflects the technology available in SUVs of its era. Built-in tech was primarily focused on convenience and basic entertainment. Standard features often included power windows and door locks, air conditioning, and a cassette player with an AM/FM radio. Higher trims, such as the LE, could be equipped with optional premium sound systems, often from Bose, offering better audio quality and more speakers. A single-disc CD player was also an available option on some models.
Driver-assistance features were very limited by today's standards. Typically, the Pathfinder offered cruise control and power steering. Anti-lock braking systems (ABS) were standard on most trims, providing a crucial safety enhancement for braking in adverse conditions.
Safety features were also relatively basic. Standard safety equipment included airbags for the driver and front passenger. Seatbelt pretensioners were also included. The Pathfinder's body-on-frame construction provided a robust foundation, though advanced crumple zones and comprehensive airbag systems were not as sophisticated as in modern vehicles.
Crash-test ratings for this specific model year can be difficult to find directly, as testing methodologies and availability of data have evolved significantly. However, vehicles of this era were generally designed to meet prevailing safety standards. The Pathfinder's substantial weight and solid construction offered a degree of inherent passive safety. It's important to note that advanced electronic stability control systems were not yet common in SUVs in 1999. Overall, the 1999 Pathfinder offered essential safety and a modest level of comfort and entertainment tech for its time.
Driver-assistance features were very limited by today's standards. Typically, the Pathfinder offered cruise control and power steering. Anti-lock braking systems (ABS) were standard on most trims, providing a crucial safety enhancement for braking in adverse conditions.
Safety features were also relatively basic. Standard safety equipment included airbags for the driver and front passenger. Seatbelt pretensioners were also included. The Pathfinder's body-on-frame construction provided a robust foundation, though advanced crumple zones and comprehensive airbag systems were not as sophisticated as in modern vehicles.
Crash-test ratings for this specific model year can be difficult to find directly, as testing methodologies and availability of data have evolved significantly. However, vehicles of this era were generally designed to meet prevailing safety standards. The Pathfinder's substantial weight and solid construction offered a degree of inherent passive safety. It's important to note that advanced electronic stability control systems were not yet common in SUVs in 1999. Overall, the 1999 Pathfinder offered essential safety and a modest level of comfort and entertainment tech for its time.
What Colors Options are Available?
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In the meantime, feel free to explore the other sections for more content.
In the meantime, feel free to explore the other sections for more content.
1999 Nissan Pathfinder Prices and Market Value
When new, the 1999 Nissan Pathfinder typically ranged from approximately $25,000 for base XE trims to over $35,000 for fully equipped LE models. Like most vehicles of its age, the Pathfinder has experienced significant depreciation. Current used market prices vary widely based on condition, mileage, trim level, and maintenance history, often falling between $2,000 and $7,000.
Factors heavily influencing resale value include the presence of rust, mechanical condition (especially transmission and engine health), and the completeness of service records. Well-maintained Pathfinders with lower mileage and minimal rust command higher prices. The rugged capability and V6 engine continue to make them desirable for certain buyers, helping to slow depreciation compared to less robust vehicles of the same vintage.
Factors heavily influencing resale value include the presence of rust, mechanical condition (especially transmission and engine health), and the completeness of service records. Well-maintained Pathfinders with lower mileage and minimal rust command higher prices. The rugged capability and V6 engine continue to make them desirable for certain buyers, helping to slow depreciation compared to less robust vehicles of the same vintage.
1999 Nissan Pathfinder Cost of Ownership
The 1999 Nissan Pathfinder is generally considered moderately economical to own. Insurance costs are typically reasonable for an older SUV. Fuel economy is average for its class, with the V6 engine consuming around 13-15 MPG city. Maintenance costs are moderate; routine services like oil changes and tire rotations are standard. However, potential repairs for common issues like catalytic converters or transmission problems can be substantial. Long-term ownership costs are heavily influenced by the vehicle's condition and the owner's ability to address potential rust or mechanical issues proactively, preventing more expensive repairs down the line.
1999 Nissan Pathfinder Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Fuel Capacity
-
City Mileage
-
Highway Mileage
-
1999 Nissan Pathfinder Safety Rating
NHTSA
1999 Nissan Pathfinder Insurance
Insurance for a 1999 Nissan Pathfinder is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Wagon with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 1999 Nissan Pathfinder Compare to Other Wagon?
The 1999 Nissan Pathfinder competed directly with other rugged, body-on-frame SUVs like the Toyota 4Runner, Jeep Grand Cherokee, and Ford Explorer.
Performance: The Pathfinder's V6 offered decent power, comparable to the 4Runner's V6 and the Explorer's V6 options. The Grand Cherokee often offered more potent V8 engines, giving it an edge in raw power and towing. The Pathfinder's off-road capability was generally superior to the Explorer and comparable to the 4Runner, with its independent front suspension offering a better ride than some rivals.
Features: In 1999, features were relatively similar across these models. Higher trims of the Pathfinder, like the LE, offered comparable luxury appointments to the Grand Cherokee Limited and 4Runner Limited, with leather and premium audio. The Explorer, in its various trims, also offered a wide range of creature comforts. The Pathfinder's design felt a bit more utilitarian and robust compared to the more car-like Explorer.
Reliability: Toyota's 4Runner generally held the crown for long-term reliability, with fewer reported major issues. The Jeep Grand Cherokee, while capable, had a reputation for more frequent and varied mechanical problems. The Ford Explorer experienced significant issues, particularly with its rear-wheel-drive based chassis and certain engine/transmission combinations during this era. The Pathfinder sat somewhere in the middle, with known weaknesses but also a strong core that could last with good maintenance.
Price: The 1999 Pathfinder was competitively priced against its rivals, often offering a good balance of features and capability for the money.
Alternatives:
* Similar: Toyota 4Runner (1996-2002 generation) is a strong contender, often praised for superior reliability and off-road prowess.
* Considerable: Jeep Grand Cherokee (1999-2004 generation) offers more engine choices (including V8s) and a more refined interior, but potentially at the cost of reliability.
* Caution: Ford Explorer (1995-2001 generation) can be found cheaper but carries more significant reliability concerns.
The Pathfinder remains a solid choice for those seeking a capable, older SUV, especially if found in good condition and at a fair price, offering a good blend of ruggedness and comfort.
Performance: The Pathfinder's V6 offered decent power, comparable to the 4Runner's V6 and the Explorer's V6 options. The Grand Cherokee often offered more potent V8 engines, giving it an edge in raw power and towing. The Pathfinder's off-road capability was generally superior to the Explorer and comparable to the 4Runner, with its independent front suspension offering a better ride than some rivals.
Features: In 1999, features were relatively similar across these models. Higher trims of the Pathfinder, like the LE, offered comparable luxury appointments to the Grand Cherokee Limited and 4Runner Limited, with leather and premium audio. The Explorer, in its various trims, also offered a wide range of creature comforts. The Pathfinder's design felt a bit more utilitarian and robust compared to the more car-like Explorer.
Reliability: Toyota's 4Runner generally held the crown for long-term reliability, with fewer reported major issues. The Jeep Grand Cherokee, while capable, had a reputation for more frequent and varied mechanical problems. The Ford Explorer experienced significant issues, particularly with its rear-wheel-drive based chassis and certain engine/transmission combinations during this era. The Pathfinder sat somewhere in the middle, with known weaknesses but also a strong core that could last with good maintenance.
Price: The 1999 Pathfinder was competitively priced against its rivals, often offering a good balance of features and capability for the money.
Alternatives:
* Similar: Toyota 4Runner (1996-2002 generation) is a strong contender, often praised for superior reliability and off-road prowess.
* Considerable: Jeep Grand Cherokee (1999-2004 generation) offers more engine choices (including V8s) and a more refined interior, but potentially at the cost of reliability.
* Caution: Ford Explorer (1995-2001 generation) can be found cheaper but carries more significant reliability concerns.
The Pathfinder remains a solid choice for those seeking a capable, older SUV, especially if found in good condition and at a fair price, offering a good blend of ruggedness and comfort.
Final Verdict: Is the 1999 Nissan Pathfinder a Good Wagon?
The 1999 Nissan Pathfinder is ideal for budget-conscious buyers seeking a capable, traditional SUV for light to moderate off-roading, towing modest loads, or simply desiring a robust vehicle with a more utilitarian feel. It is worth buying for those who prioritize durability and utility over modern tech and refined interiors, provided they perform thorough inspections.
It is best purchased used, as new models are no longer available. Specific trims like the SE or LE offer more creature comforts and slightly better features. Crucially, buyers should prioritize vehicles with a documented maintenance history, low to moderate mileage, and minimal signs of rust. A pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic is highly recommended to identify potential issues like catalytic converter wear or transmission concerns before committing to a purchase.
It is best purchased used, as new models are no longer available. Specific trims like the SE or LE offer more creature comforts and slightly better features. Crucially, buyers should prioritize vehicles with a documented maintenance history, low to moderate mileage, and minimal signs of rust. A pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic is highly recommended to identify potential issues like catalytic converter wear or transmission concerns before committing to a purchase.
Jovan
Jovan specializes in interpreting vehicle records and making sense of VIN data. With over 10 years of experience in the automotive data industry, his work ensures that every report is clear, accurate, and useful for car buyers.