The Nissan Quest minivan, once a contender in the family-hauling arena, has a somewhat complicated legacy. For families needing space and practicality, the Quest offered a unique alternative to more mainstream options. However, its discontinuation in 2017 leaves potential buyers wondering: is a used Nissan Quest a good buy, and what can you expect in terms of resale value? We'll dive into the Quest's strengths, weaknesses, and resale performance to help you make an informed decision.
What Made the Nissan Quest Unique (and Not-So-Unique)?
The Nissan Quest, particularly the fourth generation (2011-2017), aimed to stand out from the minivan crowd. It had some interesting features, but also faced stiff competition from very well-established rivals.
Standout Styling (Subjective, of Course): Nissan took a different approach to the Quest's exterior design. It was boxier and more angular than the Chrysler Pacifica or Honda Odyssey, which some found appealing and others considered awkward. The "floating roof" design element, where the rear pillars were blacked out, was a distinctive feature.
A Luxurious Interior (in Higher Trims): Higher trim levels of the Quest (like the LE) offered a surprisingly upscale interior. Leather seats, a premium sound system, and a host of comfort features aimed to provide a near-luxury experience for minivan occupants.
Effortless Power: The 3.5-liter V6 engine provided ample power for hauling people and cargo. Acceleration was generally good, and the Quest felt confident on the highway.
Practicality (Mostly): The Quest offered a spacious cabin and a decent amount of cargo space. However, it had some drawbacks compared to its rivals.
Where the Quest Fell Short
Despite its attempts to differentiate itself, the Nissan Quest had some significant shortcomings that ultimately contributed to its demise.
No Stow 'n Go: Unlike the Chrysler Pacifica (and Town & Country before it), the Quest lacked fold-flat second-row seats. This was a major disadvantage for families who frequently needed to switch between passenger and cargo configurations. Removing the seats was a cumbersome process.
Sliding Door Issues: Many owners reported problems with the power sliding doors, including them getting stuck or failing to operate properly. This was a common complaint and a significant inconvenience.
Reliability Concerns: The Quest, particularly in its later years, suffered from reliability issues beyond the sliding doors. Transmission problems, electrical glitches, and other mechanical failures were reported by owners. This negatively impacted its reputation.
Lower Fuel Economy: Compared to some of its competitors, the Quest's fuel economy wasn't particularly impressive. This could be a significant consideration for families on a budget.
Limited Availability of Features: Some features that were standard or optional on other minivans (like advanced safety systems) were not available on the Quest, or were only offered on the highest trim levels.
The Resale Value Rundown: What's a Used Quest Worth?
Now, let's get to the crucial question: what kind of resale value can you expect from a used Nissan Quest? Keep in mind that resale values fluctuate based on several factors:
- Model Year: Newer models will generally be worth more than older ones.
- Trim Level: Higher trim levels (like the SL or LE) with more features tend to hold their value better than base models.
- Mileage: Lower mileage vehicles will command a higher price.
- Condition: A well-maintained Quest in excellent condition will be worth more than one with damage or deferred maintenance.
- Location: Regional market conditions can affect resale values.
- Overall Market Demand: Demand for minivans in general can influence prices.
Here's a general idea of what you might expect to pay for a used Nissan Quest, based on current market data:
- 2011-2013 Quests: These older models typically range from ,000 to ,000, depending on condition, mileage, and trim. These are the most affordable options, but be prepared for potential maintenance costs due to their age.
- 2014-2017 Quests: These newer models generally range from ,000 to ,000, depending on the factors mentioned above. These are a better option if you're looking for a more reliable vehicle with more modern features.
Important Note: These are just estimates. Always check reputable sources like Kelley Blue Book (KBB) or Edmunds to get the most accurate and up-to-date pricing information for your specific location and the vehicle you're considering.
How Does the Quest's Resale Value Compare?
Compared to the Honda Odyssey and Toyota Sienna, the Nissan Quest typically has lower resale value. These two competitors have a stronger reputation for reliability and hold their value exceptionally well. The Chrysler Pacifica/Town & Country's resale value is generally more comparable to the Quest, but can vary depending on the specific model year and condition.
Factors Affecting Quest Resale Value:
- Reliability Concerns: As mentioned earlier, the Quest's reliability issues have negatively impacted its resale value. Potential buyers are often wary of potential repair costs.
- Lack of Fold-Flat Seats: The absence of fold-flat second-row seats is a major drawback that detracts from its practicality and resale value.
- Discontinuation: The fact that the Quest is no longer in production can also affect its resale value. Parts availability might become a concern in the future.
- Brand Perception: Nissan, while a reputable brand, doesn't have the same minivan reputation as Honda or Toyota.
What to Look For When Buying a Used Nissan Quest
If you're still considering a used Nissan Quest, here are some key things to look for:
- Thorough Inspection: Have a qualified mechanic inspect the vehicle before you buy it. Pay close attention to the transmission, engine, and electrical systems.
- Check the Sliding Doors: Test the power sliding doors thoroughly to ensure they operate smoothly and reliably.
- Review the Maintenance History: Ask for the vehicle's maintenance records to see if it has been properly maintained.
- Research Common Problems: Familiarize yourself with the common problems reported by Quest owners so you know what to look for.
- Consider a Pre-Purchase Inspection (PPI): This is a comprehensive inspection performed by an independent mechanic. It can uncover potential problems that you might miss.
- Don't Overpay: Given the Quest's resale value and potential reliability issues, be sure to negotiate a fair price.
The Sweet Spot: Which Quest Years Offer the Best Value?
While all used cars require careful consideration, some model years of the Quest might present a better value proposition than others.
2015-2017 Models: These are generally considered the most reliable of the fourth-generation Quests. Nissan had addressed some of the earlier issues by this point. They also have more modern features.
Avoid Early Production Years (2011-2013): These models are more likely to have the initial production issues that plagued the fourth-generation Quest.
Remember: Even within these ranges, a well-maintained 2012 Quest could be a better buy than a poorly maintained 2016 model. Condition and maintenance are paramount.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the Nissan Quest reliable?
A: The Nissan Quest has a mixed reputation for reliability, with some model years experiencing more problems than others, particularly with the sliding doors and transmission.
Q: Does the Nissan Quest have fold-flat seats?
A: No, the Nissan Quest does not have fold-flat second-row seats, which is a significant disadvantage compared to some competitors.
Q: Is the Nissan Quest good on gas?
A: The Nissan Quest's fuel economy is average for a minivan but not particularly impressive compared to some of its rivals.
Q: Why was the Nissan Quest discontinued?
A: The Nissan Quest was discontinued due to declining sales and increasing competition in the minivan segment.
Q: Are parts readily available for the Nissan Quest?
A: Parts are currently readily available, but availability might become a concern in the future as the vehicle ages.
The Verdict: Is a Used Nissan Quest a Good Buy?
The Nissan Quest can be a decent option for families on a tight budget who need a spacious vehicle. However, it's crucial to carefully inspect any used Quest you're considering and be aware of its potential reliability issues and lower resale value. Consider the pros and cons carefully before making a decision, and always get a pre-purchase inspection.