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2004 Nissan Quest Overview, Reviews, Ratings & Specs

Rating: 4.05
Based on 33 Owner Reviews
Jovan | March 31, 2025
The 2004 Nissan Quest marked the beginning of the Quest's third generation. This minivan, known for its distinctive, somewhat polarizing design, was available from 2004 to 2009 in this iteration. Key trims included the base S, SL, and SE. New, it ranged approximately from $24,000 to $32,000. Its stand-out features were its modern interior styling, spaciousness, and emphasis on passenger comfort, aiming for a less "utilitarian" minivan feel.
The Good

The 2004 Nissan Quest offers a blend of practicality and style. For practical buyers, its spaciousness and comfortable seating are appealing. A strong V6 engine delivers adequate performance. Emotionally, its unique design and focus on passenger experience set it apart. It provides good value for families needing a reliable people-mover.

The Bad

Known weaknesses of the 2004 Nissan Quest include potential transmission issues, particularly with the earlier model years. Electrical problems, such as issues with power windows and door locks, are also common. Additionally, some owners have reported suspension and brake problems. Rust can be a concern in certain climates, so inspect the undercarriage.

2004 Nissan Quest: Quick Overview

  • Engine Options: 3.5-liter V6 (VQ35DE)
  • Horsepower: 240 hp
  • Fuel Economy: Approximately 18 mpg city / 25 mpg highway (varies based on driving conditions)
  • 0-60 Times: Roughly 8.5 - 9 seconds
  • Towing Capacity: Around 3,500 lbs (when properly equipped)
  • Trim-Level Features:
    • S: Base model. Standard features included air conditioning, power windows/locks, and a basic audio system.
    • SL: Added features like alloy wheels, upgraded cloth upholstery, a better sound system, and power-sliding doors.
    • SE: Top-of-the-line trim. Included leather seats, a premium Bose audio system, a sunroof, and rear-seat entertainment system. Also features like automatic climate control and upgraded interior trim.

Additional Notes:
The 2004 Nissan Quest came exclusively with a 5-speed automatic transmission. All trims offered a spacious interior designed for passenger comfort, with ample cargo space even with all seats in use. Higher trims prioritized luxury features to enhance the driving and passenger experience. Third-row seating was standard across all trims, increasing passenger capacity.

2004 Nissan Quest Specifications

Vehicle Information
Year 2004
Make Nissan
Model Quest
Trim -
Style -
Type Sport Utility Vehicle Van
Category Cargo Van
Manufacturing Details
Made In United States
Manufacturing City CANTON
Dimensions
Doors -
Curb Weight -
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating -
Overall Height -
Overall Length -
Overall Width -
Wheelbase Length -
Standard Seating -
Engine & Performance
Engine VQ35DE
Engine Size 3.5L
Engine Cylinders 6
Transmission -
Transmission Type -
Transmission Speeds -
Drivetrain Front-Wheel Drive
Additional Features
Anti-Brake System -
Steering Type -
Pricing
Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) -
Invoice Price -
Delivery Charges -

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Analysis

What Problems Does the 2004 Nissan Quest Have?

The 2004 Nissan Quest is known for several frequently reported problems. Transmission issues are a major concern, with some owners reporting premature failure or rough shifting, especially in earlier model years. Electrical problems are also prevalent, including malfunctioning power windows, door locks, and issues with the vehicle's electrical system. Suspension components, such as struts and shocks, can wear out prematurely, leading to a bumpy ride. Brake issues, like premature rotor warping, have also been reported.

Recalls have been issued for various issues over the years, including potential problems with the power-sliding doors, which could open unexpectedly while driving, and issues with the brake system. Always check the NHTSA website for specific recalls related to the VIN of any used Quest you are considering.

Long-term reliability concerns include the potential for rust, especially in areas with harsh winters and road salt use. The engine, while generally robust, can experience issues with oil consumption at higher mileage. Overall, maintaining a 2004 Quest requires vigilance and proactive maintenance to address potential issues before they escalate.

How long will the 2004 Nissan Quest last?

With proper maintenance, a 2004 Nissan Quest can reach 200,000 miles or more. Many well-maintained examples are still on the road after 15-20 years. However, longevity depends heavily on consistent maintenance habits. Neglecting transmission fluid changes, oil changes, and other routine services can significantly shorten its lifespan.

Long-term durability weaknesses include the aforementioned transmission issues and electrical gremlins. Suspension wear and rust are also common concerns as the vehicle ages. Regularly addressing these issues can help extend the vehicle's usable life.

What Technology & Safety Features are Included?

The 2004 Nissan Quest offered a decent array of tech and safety features for its time.

Built-in Tech & Entertainment: Base models featured a standard AM/FM radio with a CD player. Higher trims (SL and SE) included upgraded audio systems, and the SE trim offered a premium Bose sound system. A rear-seat DVD entertainment system was available as an optional feature, enhancing the passenger experience, especially for families.

Driver-Assistance Features: The 2004 Quest was relatively basic in terms of driver-assistance tech compared to modern vehicles. It offered standard cruise control, but advanced features like lane departure warning or blind-spot monitoring were not available.

Safety Features: Standard safety features included anti-lock brakes (ABS), front airbags, and side airbags. Traction control was available on some trims. The Quest also featured crumple zones designed to absorb impact energy in a collision.

Crash-Test Ratings: The 2004 Nissan Quest received good crash-test ratings from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for frontal and side impacts. Always check the official IIHS and NHTSA websites for the most up-to-date and detailed crash-test information.

Overall, the 2004 Quest provided a respectable level of technology and safety for its era, with the SE trim offering the most comprehensive package.

What Colors Options are Available?

Exterior Colors
Glacier Pearl
Super Black
Polished Pewter Metallic
Cayenne Red Metallic
Baja Blue Metallic
Interior Colors
Latte
Gray

2004 Nissan Quest Prices and Market Value

When new, the 2004 Nissan Quest ranged from approximately $24,000 for the base S trim to around $32,000 for the fully-equipped SE model. Current used market prices typically range from $2,000 to $6,000, depending on condition, mileage, and location. Depreciation has been significant due to age, mileage, and reported reliability issues. Factors affecting resale value include the overall condition of the vehicle, maintenance records, and whether major repairs (like transmission replacements) have been performed. Clean title vehicles with low mileage and documented service history command higher prices.

2004 Nissan Quest Cost of Ownership

The 2004 Nissan Quest can be moderately costly to own long-term. Insurance costs are typically average for a minivan of its age. Fuel economy is decent but not exceptional. Maintenance and repair costs can be higher than average due to potential transmission and electrical issues. Expect to spend more on repairs as the vehicle ages. Careful budgeting for potential repairs is crucial for long-term ownership.

2004 Nissan Quest Fuel Efficiency

Fuel Type Gasoline
Fuel Capacity -
City Mileage -
Highway Mileage -

2004 Nissan Quest Safety Rating

NHTSA
Overall Rating Not Tested
Overall Frontal Star Rating Not Tested
Side Overall Star Rating Not Tested
Overall Rollover Star Rating Not Tested
Combined Front Seat Rating Not Tested
Combined Rear Seat Rating Not Tested
Overall Frontal Star Rating Not Tested
Frontal Barrier Star Ratings Not Tested
Side Barrier Star Ratings Not Tested
Rollover Resistance Star Rating Not Tested

2004 Nissan Quest Recalls & Defects

AIR Bags:frontal:sensor/Control Module-Inactive
Recall date 2004-03-01
Recall no. 04v103000
Source NHTSA
Summary Certain Passenger Vehicles Fail TO Comply With THE Advanced AIR BAG Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard NO. 208, "occupant Crash Protection." THE AIR BAG FOR THE Front Passenger Seat IS TO BE Turned OFF (SO That IT Does NOT Inflate) When Certain Occupants, Such AS Small Children, ARE IN THE Front Seat.
Consequence This Reduces THE Risk OF Such Occupants Being Unjured BY AN Inflating AIR BAG IN A Collision.
Remedy Dealers Will Inspect THE Front Passenger Seat Cushion/Sensor Assembly. IF THE Seat Cushion/Sensor IS Found TO BE Operating Improperly, THE Seat Will BE Removed and Recalibrated. Owner Notification Began ON June 23, 2004. Owners Should Contact Nissan AT 1-800-647-7261.
Notes Nissan Recall NO. B0112.customers CAN Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-888-Dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).
Latches/Locks/Linkages:doors:latch
Recall date 2004-04-16
Recall no. 04v186000
Source NHTSA
Summary ON Certain Minivans Equipped With A Power Sliding Door(S), AT AN Ambient Temperature Below Approximately 40 Degrees Fahrenheit, THE Actuator FOR THE Power Sliding Door(S) MAY Experience Binding DUE TO AN Out-Of-Specification Condition. IN Order TO Open, Close or Reverse A Power Sliding Door, THE Shift Selector Lever Must BE IN "park." IF THE Actuator IS Experiencing Binding and THE Driver Shifts THE Vehicle OUT OF "park" While A Power Sliding Door IS Still Closing, THE Door Latches MAY NOT Engage.
Consequence This CAN Result IN THE Door Coming Open Unexpectedly Upon Rapid Acceleration, and AN Occupant Could Fall OUT OF THE Door and BE Injured.
Remedy Dealers Will Replace THE Actuator FOR THE Power Sliding Door(S). Owner Notification Began ON June 23, 2004. Owners Should Contact Nissan AT 1-800-647-7261.
Notes Nissan Recall NO. Ru401.customers CAN Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-888-Dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).
Seats:mid/Rear Assembly
Recall date 2005-10-17
Recall no. 05v480000
Source NHTSA
Summary ON Certain Mini Vans Equipped With A Folding Third ROW Rear Seat, When THE Third ROW Seat IS Raised From ITS Stowed Position, IT Engages Striker Brackets, ONE ON Each Side OF THE Seat Cushion. THE Fold-Away Striker Loop IS Welded TO A Mounting Bracket. THE Striker MAY Become Detached From ITS Mounting Bracket DUE TO A Broken Weld AT THE Point OF Attachment TO THE Bracket.
Consequence IF THE Third ROW Seat Striker Weld Fails, THE Striker Could Separate From THE Mounting Bracket. Striker Separation Could Affect THE Risk OF Injury IN Certain Types OF Crashes.
Remedy Dealers Will Replace THE Third ROW Seat Striker Brackets Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON December 19, 2005. Owners MAY Contact Nissan AT 1-800-647-7261.
Notes Customers MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Http://Www.safercar.gov.
Seats:mid/Rear Assembly
Recall date 2005-10-13
Recall no. 05v474000
Source NHTSA
Summary ON Certain Mini Vans, There IS A Seat Adjustment Mechanism That Contains Exposed Moving Components Located AT THE Rear Inside Edge OF THE Second ROW Seat.
Consequence When THE Operator Attempts Seat Adjustment, A Finger MAY BE Pinched IN THE Moving Seat Adjustment Mechanism Which Could Cause AN Injury.
Remedy ON Earlier Model Vehicles Built Through June 28, 2004, Dealers Will Replace THE Inboard Second ROW Seat Adjustment Handle, Rivet A Plastic Reinforcement TO Backside OF THE Existing Seat Back Cover Carpeting, Install Tie-Downs and A Flange TO THE Inboard Side Shield. ON Vehicles Produced From June 29, 2004 Through September 26, 2005, Dealers Will Rivet A Plastic Reinforcement TO THE Backside OF THE Existing Seat Back Cover Carpeting, Install Tie-Downs and A Flange ON THE Inboard Side Shield. THE Recall Began ON December 19, 2005. Owners MAY Contact Nissan AT 1-800-647-7261.
Notes Nissan Recall NO. R0504.customers MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Http://Www.safercar.gov.

2004 Nissan Quest Insurance

Insurance for a 2004 Nissan Quest is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Sport Utility Vehicle Van with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.

How Does the 2004 Nissan Quest Compare to Other Sport Utility Vehicle Van?

The 2004 Nissan Quest competed against minivans like the Honda Odyssey, Toyota Sienna, Chrysler Town & Country, and Dodge Caravan. In terms of performance, the Quest's V6 engine was comparable to its rivals. Feature-wise, it offered a competitive set of amenities, especially in higher trims. However, reliability is where the Quest fell short compared to the Honda Odyssey and Toyota Sienna, which are renowned for their dependability.

In terms of price, the Quest was often positioned competitively, but the higher repair costs associated with potential reliability issues could offset any initial savings. The Chrysler Town & Country and Dodge Caravan were often more budget-friendly options, but they also had their own reliability concerns.

Better alternatives, considering long-term reliability, would be the Honda Odyssey and Toyota Sienna. While potentially more expensive upfront, their reputation for dependability and lower maintenance costs over time could make them a better overall value. The Chrysler minivans could be considered similar alternatives if budget is a primary concern, but be prepared for potential maintenance needs.

Ranks #1068 SUV

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3 2023 Lexus GX (0.0★)
4 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV (0.0★)
5 2024 Subaru Crosstrek (5.0★)
6 2024 BMW iX (0.0★)
7 2023 Ford Bronco Sport (3.0★)
8 2023 Mercedes-Benz EQB (0.0★)
9 2024 Chevrolet Trax (5.0★)
10 2023 Audi A4 allroad (0.0★)
11 2023 Hyundai Kona N (0.0★)
12 2023 Nissan ARIYA (5.0★)
1068 2004 Nissan Quest (5.0★)

Final Verdict: Is the 2004 Nissan Quest a Good Sport Utility Vehicle Van?

The 2004 Nissan Quest is ideal for budget-conscious buyers who need a spacious minivan and are willing to accept potential maintenance challenges. It's worth buying *if* you find one in excellent condition with documented maintenance records and a pre-purchase inspection reveals no major issues. Look for higher trims (SL or SE) for added features. However, given the potential for transmission and electrical problems, it's crucial to factor in potential repair costs. If reliability is a top priority, consider a Honda Odyssey or Toyota Sienna instead.

2004 Nissan Quest Owner Reviews

4.05
Consumer Rating, Based on 33 Consumer Reviews
Overall rating
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Van owner on August 29, 2024

Bought with a new motor , one week later it all started ,

Bought with a new motor , one week later it all started , radiator fans died ,heater blowers dual both of them then breaks locked up now I lost steering like seriously. It's a xxx. I've owned it a month and only drove it a week so far.. some nice man offered me a 2004 I have 2007 so I can have parts seems that I will need them for sure.

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Navigator on April 18, 2020

Followup - still running strong

This van continues to run strong @ 217,000. Best - most reliable vehicle I have ever owned. Every feature of this van still works. Other than idea that it is 16 years old gives me no reason to purchase a new vehicle. It is maintained at a highly competent auto repair facility. No corrosion issues.

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Rossini on September 16, 2018

CAR FOR BIG FAMILY

Car spacious, comfortable, economical and good to drSpacious, comfortable, economical and good car for driving on long trips. I made several trips with my family in this car. We went to Canada visiting Quebec, Montreal, Ottawa, Toronto and Niagara Falls. We were also in Boston, Pennsylvania, New York, New Jersey, Virginia, Ohio, Kentucky, Delaware, West Virginia and no problem at all. We was very happy with this car.ive on long trips.

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CMRTNZ on April 12, 2018

Most Reliable Van I?ve Owned

This van met all my family?s needs. Lots of leg room for front and back. The DVD package kept my family entertained for extended travel.

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BES on February 9, 2018

Perfect car for family and delivery purpose

This car successfully passed the inspection. It?s good for two more years. I was completely happy and can?t wait to try it for a long distance.

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Pete on October 6, 2017

Spacious, comfortable and reliable Quest

7 seater with panoramic sun roof, 6 cyl mini van in excellent condition. Many options. A/c, power windows, door locks etc.

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EnoughofNissan on September 14, 2017

Worst vehicule.

This is the worst vehicule i ever bought (Even sold from my brother). Don't get me wrong ,this van shows a lot of nice potentiel like roomy,gaz efficient but when you buy a used car ,you chk if its reliable,this one "IS NOT RELIABLE". The dealer is aware of the problems but won't tell you (Hey! they want your money). Here is the few problems:radio/audio/video system shots down with anoying sounds(very nice from japan technology "I am sarcastic!),chk engine lights on,sensors on the mufler lights on (mufler is built only a the end anti corrosion but the rest gets corroded very fast),the electric door in winter gets stuck. At the end i had to change the brakes and its was seized ,the dealer toasted all the sensors to replace just the pads(sensor 300$/each)of course i didn't change the sensors (another light on in the dash. Anyway if you read this and you intend to buy one (year 2004)I warn you...

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Rdubbs81 on June 28, 2017

Best van we have had !!

Great vehicle no major issues ... we are sorry we sold it. Perfect for family road trips. Fun comfortable and great on gas. We loved this car

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Me89 on June 23, 2017

Perfect for a big family

I have a beautiful family of 6 and this van is very spacious. I've had my van for a little over a year and it has provided my family with all the room that we need. With 4 children it provided easy access for them to get in and out without having to worry about someone's hand getting slammed in the door.

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Dee Dee on June 20, 2017

Great vehicle

This is a good vehicle for your bucks. Extra space and roomy. Only problem is that there seems to be a common problem with the fuel pump that could mess the TCM, so prepare for that.

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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.