1997 Nissan Quest

Introduction

The 1997 Nissan Quest is a minivan that seats 7 passengers and is offered with two engine options: a 3.0L V6 and a 3.3L V6. Both engines are paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission. The Quest is known for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and reliable performance. However, like all vehicles, it has its share of issues.

Engine

3.0L V6

• Head Gasket Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, overheating, and white smoke from the exhaust.
  • Solution: Replace the head gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Intake Manifold Gasket Leak:
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, overheating, and reduced engine power.
  • Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

3.3L V6

• Timing Chain Tensioner Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noise from the engine, especially at startup.
  • Solution: Replace the timing chain tensioner.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $900
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Pan Gasket Leak:
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks from the bottom of the engine.
  • Solution: Replace the oil pan gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic

• Transmission Slipping:
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, delayed engagement, and loss of power.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Lockup Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibration during acceleration or deceleration.
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $700
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut Mount Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noise when going over bumps, reduced stability.
  • Solution: Replace the strut mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500 per side
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Sway Bar Link Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Knocking or clunking noise from the rear suspension, reduced stability.
  • Solution: Replace the sway bar links.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $300 per side
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Dimming headlights, weak battery, and difficulty starting the vehicle.
  • Solution: Replace the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found
• Starter Motor Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty starting the vehicle, clicking noise when trying to start.
  • Solution: Replace the starter motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust on Rear Quarter Panels:
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust forms on the rear quarter panels, especially around the wheel wells.
  • Solution: Apply rust-resistant paint or professional rust repair.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking:
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks develop on the dashboard, especially in hot climates.
  • Solution: Replace the dashboard.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

Overall, the 1997 Nissan Quest is a reliable minivan with a comfortable ride and spacious interior. However, it has some common issues that can be costly to repair, such as head gasket failure and transmission slipping. Rust on the exterior and dashboard cracking can also be a problem. Most of the issues can be fixed for a reasonable cost, but some repairs may be expensive. Buyers should be aware of these potential issues before purchasing a used 1997 Nissan Quest.