1997 Nissan Quest GXE review from North America
"Like the car, but not enough to re-build the engine"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
My Nissan Quest burns oil at an alarming rate. Depending upon driving conditions, high speed is worst, it takes as much as one quart per 200 miles.
Compression tests revealed low compression of about 125 psi in all cylinders - wet/dry tests by shop concluded that it had worn rings. This is unacceptable for a costly, name brand Japanese car with < 100K miles.
No smoke is ever observed - the EGR system must recirculate the exhaust to the point where gases coming out are relatively clean. Catalytic converter probably red hot.
Fuel economy is bad. Best I have gotten is about 22-23; more typically 19-20 (all on highway) during steady 75 mph driving. This is unacceptable compared to other minivans like Dodge Caravan and Pontiac Montana.
General comments?
I suspect the engine was run a lot in the past while very low on oil. The dipstick is almost impossible to read and requires a very trained technique of careful wiping and measuring several times. The only sure way to tell how much oil it has in it is to drain it and measure its volume, almost always down considerably. I put Motor Honey in it - helps some.
Recommended Reviews:
  | Now that electrical problems are fixed, I love it |
| Above average performer in minivan class |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Don't Know |
| Model Year | 1997 |
| First year of ownership | 2004 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2004 |
| Engine and transmission | 3.0 liter Automatic |
| Performance marks | 6/10 |
| Reliability marks | 3/10 |
| Comfort marks | 8/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 8/10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 5/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 71000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 84000 miles |
| Previous car | Dodge Caravan |
| Date of Entry | 18th December, 2004 |