Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2004 Nissan Quest
The 2004 Nissan Quest has moderate issues based on recalls and complaints. Key concerns include seat safety and electrical problems, with the most significant recalls involving seats and airbag systems. While there are numerous complaints about the electrical system and power train, the overall data suggests typical issues for its age. Test drive diligently to spot any problems, especially in cooler temperatures.
NHTSA data on file today
The 2004 Nissan Quest has 4 NHTSA recall campaigns and 445 owner complaints on file as of . Recall data is refreshed daily from NHTSA.
Recall campaigns on file
- NHTSA #05V480000 FOLDING THIRD ROW REAR SEAT NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #05V474000 SEAT ADJUSTMENT MECHANISM/PINCHED FINGERS NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #04V186000 NISSAN/POWER SLIDING DOORS NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #04V103000 NISSAN/FMVSS 208/ODS AIR BAG SENSOR NHTSA notice
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Electrical System 77 complaints
- Power Train 72 complaints
- Structure 70 complaints
- Latches/Locks/Linkages 61 complaints
- Engine and Engine Cooling 48 complaints
- Air Bags 42 complaints
Of the 445 complaints on file, 7 report a crash and 10 a fire; across all 445 complaints, owners report 39 injuries and 4 deaths (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).
Known issues to inspect
Seat assembly weld failure
How to check: Inspect welds on third-row seat brackets for breaks.
Power sliding door actuator binding
How to check: Operate sliding doors in cool weather; check for binding.
Airbag sensor non-compliance
How to check: Verify airbag lights and responses with test buttons.
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Listen for unusual noises from engine or electrical issues.
Red flag: Loud knocking or electrical failures.
- 02
Idling after startup
What to check: Check dashboard lights, especially airbags and engine.
Red flag: Persistent warning lights.
- 03
Initial acceleration
What to check: Ensure smooth power delivery, no hesitations.
Red flag: Stuttering or poor acceleration.
- 04
Moderate braking
What to check: Feel for smooth, responsive braking action.
Red flag: Vibration or long stopping distances.
- 05
Low-speed turns
What to check: Check for unusual noises from suspension or steering.
Red flag: Knocking or grinding sounds.
- 06
Highway acceleration
What to check: Check for powertrain noise or transmission slip.
Red flag: Slipping gears or loud whine.
- 07
Cruising at highway speed
What to check: Feel for alignment issues or vibrations.
Red flag: Pulling to one side or shaking.
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Has the sliding door actuator been serviced?
- Any airbag sensor issues addressed before?
- Have the third-row seat welds been inspected?
- Any recurring electrical problems?
- Service records for the engine?
- Any past accidents affecting the structure?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Recall repairs documentation
- Complete service history
- Third-row seat inspection report
- Airbag system inspection records
- Warranty transfers
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2004 Nissan Quest at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
Looking at a specific 2004 Nissan Quest? Check the actual car
This checklist covers the model. From your free try.vin dashboard you can go further — paste the seller's listing for a deal score, or drop their photos for an AI condition report.