2004 Nissan Quest

The 2004 Nissan Quest is a minivan known for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and unique styling (particularly the dashboard). It was available with only one engine option: the 3.5-liter V6, which produces around 240 horsepower and 242 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission. Owners often appreciate the Quest’s cargo capacity and family-friendly features. Common complaints include transmission problems, electrical issues, and concerns about reliability compared to competitors.

Engine

3.5L V6 (VQ35DE)

• Catalytic Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light illumination (often with codes P0420 or P0430 indicating catalytic converter efficiency below threshold), rattling noise from the exhaust system, reduced fuel economy, and potentially failed emissions test.
  • Solution: Replacement of the failed catalytic converter(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1200+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Leaks (Valve Cover Gaskets, Oil Pan Gasket)
  • Description/Symptoms: Visible oil leaks on the engine, oil spots on the driveway, burning oil smell, and low oil level.
  • Solution: Replacement of the leaking gasket(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Ignition Coil Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine misfires, rough idling, check engine light illumination (with codes P0300-P0306), reduced power, and poor fuel economy.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty ignition coil(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

• 4-Speed Automatic Transmission

  • Transmission Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifting, slipping between gears, failure to shift, unusual noises (whining, clunking), and transmission warning light illumination.
    • Solution: In some cases, rebuilding the transmission may be possible. In other cases, replacement is needed.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Torque Converter Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibrating during acceleration, especially at lower speeds, stalling, and poor fuel economy.
    • Solution: Replacement of the torque converter.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut and Shock Absorber Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy or unstable ride, excessive body roll during cornering, noises (clunking, squeaking) from the suspension, uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replacement of the worn struts and/or shock absorbers.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sway Bar Link Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises coming from the front or rear suspension, especially when driving over bumps or turning.
  • Solution: Replacement of the worn sway bar links.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Sliding Door Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sliding doors not opening or closing properly (either manually or automatically), getting stuck, making unusual noises, or causing the interior lights to flicker.
  • Solution: This can involve repairing or replacing the sliding door motor, cables, sensors, or control module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Body Control Module (BCM) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent electrical problems affecting various systems, such as power windows, door locks, interior lights, and security system.
  • Solution: Replacement and reprogramming of the BCM.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Instrument Cluster Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Gauges malfunctioning or displaying incorrect readings, backlighting failing, or the entire instrument cluster going blank.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the instrument cluster.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust (Especially around wheel wells and undercarriage)
  • Description/Symptoms: Visible rust spots, bubbling paint, and structural damage in severe cases.
  • Solution: Rust repair, body panel replacement, and rustproofing.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $2000+ (depending on severity)
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Power Window Regulator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Window not moving up or down, moving slowly or unevenly, or making grinding noises.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty window regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Climate Control Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Air conditioning not blowing cold air, heater not blowing hot air, temperature fluctuations, or the blower motor not working.
  • Solution: Diagnosis and repair of the A/C system (e.g., refrigerant recharge, compressor replacement) or heater system (e.g., heater core replacement, blower motor replacement).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2004 Nissan Quest has several common issues that prospective buyers should be aware of. Engine oil leaks, catalytic converter, ignition coils, and rust issues can be relatively minor repairs, but can add up over time. Transmission problems, while less frequent, can be very costly. Electrical problems, especially with the sliding doors and BCM, can also be expensive to diagnose and repair. Overall, the 2004 Quest has a history of potentially costly repairs, especially considering the age of the vehicle.