We learned a lot from our experiences in this video. I built a heavy duty front hitch receiver to hold a winch and upsized my tires to 32" mud terrains. Mike purchased a rear hitch receiver and shackle attachment. We have a Kinetic rope and soft shackles to allow more reach if needed. If we were stuck in the same situation again we would have much more options. Live, learn, and always improve! Check out my new videos to see other off-road adventures!
don't forget to work your steering wheel left to right after you start spinning & start losing forward progress, this can make a difference when the going gets tuff
Getting my 02 3.3L SC running now. Loved it before it broke, took it to a shitty mechanic that threw the kitchen sink at it, messed it up bad. Can't wait until I can get it back to 100%
I have a 6 speed manual trans 2009. I have three bad accidents. Nissan fixed it and it’s running good. 13 years 105k. I sold my 6 speed frontier, it was hard decision.
Xterra Pro-4X models are the greatest SUV of all time. Perfect size (not too big, not too small), 4.0L V6 that is bulletproof as long as they are maintained properly, bulletproof 5-speed auto or 6-speed manual, Dana axle, Spicer transaxle, fully boxed frame, excellent stereo, reverse camera, shift on the fly 4WD, fold down back seats which become a flat cargo/sleeping area....
As an Xterra owner myself you gotta give it to the guy for taking a front wheel drive biased unibody SUV to areas that most folks wouldn’t even attempt Solid footage!
@@GratefulOverlander What’s bad about learning from failed experiences? It’s better that they are in precautions situation with an adult, that’s their father! Must be nice to live in a perfect world 🤣
I've owned both along with a Ridgeline and Frontier SE 4x4. I absolutely loved all three vehicles and regret selling any of them. The Pilot is a very good SUV...perfect size IMO. Generous seating and wonderfully comfortable on long road trips. I've drove across country from Miami FL to my hometown in Upper Michigan in both. I did put a 2" lift on the Ridgeline..it looked better, but didn't really like the result of it otherwise. It messed with the traction control over things like speedbumps. IMO, in the off road arena, the 2nd Gen Xterra is very hard to beat....especially if its like 2010+ where the SMOD (strawberry milkshake of death) issue was resolved. Mine was a '12 P4X with approx 6" lift from NissTec (extended travel kit) and another company that I sourced the shackles from with Radflos (f) Bilstein (r) and sliders from White Knuckle. Other mods were the rear diff breather relocation (highly recommend even on stock...literally costs under $15) and that's about it aside from tires. It was just a beast, and the only drawback IMO is you really have to off-road it often and keep the Radflos moving through their full travel or they can develop shock stiction and feel a little rough until you off road it. IMO the Pilot is better for families and it's road manners are much better. ..not that the Xterra is bad. The Xterra has a much higher potential for off-roading...maybe not a much aftermarket than a Jeep, Taco or 4 Runner but its decent enough. I did return the P4X to stock when I sold it and bought a Subaru Outback which sold and paid cash for the Pilot, then rear-ended and took the money to buy a '16 Frontier...installed all the same lift kit on the Frontier. It was better in some ways, but the added weight on the back did help w/ the Xterra, but the Fronty had a manual which I prefer. Ended up selling that when I moved to the EU, but I did sell it for $4k more than I bought it for...but now my life is boring in that respect. I like these kind of videos..sorry for the rambling
I'm planning to buy an 2011 Xterra with 99k miles. In your opinion do you recommend it? I live up north where it snows a lot and I'm tryign to use that car on the weekends mostly to move outdoor gear.
@@javiermendez9365 Yes. Earlier years of the X had some issues with the radiator/transmission cooler. However pretty much all kinks have been resolved since ~2009/2010. The engine in the X is fantastically reliable and strong. For a '11 w/ 99k miles, that's extremely low miles. As long as it's been reasonably cared, it should be a good buy! Do you know which trim level? 4WD or 2WD?
@@josh33172 Hey man thank you for the promp response and the details on the X issues of the earlier years. The one I'm looking at is a 2011 Nissan Xterra S 4WD. I asked for the history on the car, it did have an accident about a year ago, in which the driver side wheel assembly and Axel were damaged, and they had to replace thte entire assembly, axel and bumper. They replace the bumper and also installed a winch. I'm kinda hesitant now that I found out about the accident.
@@javiermendez9365 An older car will inherently have its issues but hopefully very few if it came from a good year and was reasonably cared for. An older vehicle that's been in an accident, all bets are off.
I knew the Honda was going to get stuck before I even saw the video! I have a 2012 Xterra and pulled my share out. Seriously looked you guys had a good time and were safe! Never wheel alone is a good rule of thumb, Get an ARB Snatch strap which actually will stretch
Thanks for your feedback. We both learned a lot from this past trip. I bought a 7/8" kinetic rope and he bought a nice snatch strap. FYI: I bottomed out in the rear between my wheels. The Xterra's center axle diff very well could have bottomed out worse. We are going to head that way soon to test :)
I just got an xterra in July I have skid plates and off-road tires is there anything you would recommend mods wise or should I just see how it goes first
@@lukejohnson6623 2" body lift only costs about $150-200 to do yourself and allows you to fit 32" tires and second remove rear sway bar for better flex in rear, they dont really even help for road ride as claimed on this truck. Ive had 3 xterras. These are the 2 first mods i do on every one. I hope it goes without saying get rid of the side step bars as the are thin and will cause a lot of body damage if you land on them
@@lukejohnson6623 my current xterra is an 08 and i titan pro 4x swapped the engine/trans and front suspension. Its beastly and oly really requires a 2"body lift and practically bolted right in with very little harness modifications.
A kinetic rope will be night and day compared to normal straps. And always keep the rope in tension to make sure you don't drive over it and damage it.
I had a silver pilot just like yours, it was surprisingly capable. Now, ironically enough, I have a white xterra pro4x! Lol. I love it, it’s probably the best all around vehicle I’ve ever owned. Great vid 👍
I have had a 1990 Full size Bronco, 85 Bullnose and an 03 xterra. Love them all. That little xterra is a little terror off road. Great vehicle snow, mud, sand and deep water. Great video. Keep the videos coming
He wasn't testing the Xterra. He brought him for help in reality. He was merely testing his own stupidity And you're right, this road is WEAK. This isn't overlanding
Sometimes going right through the middle of muck will give you better traction. That is where you want to be a little more aggressive with the speed. Sometimes lack of speed and bad tires will get you stuck.
That was fun. Man, that spot at 9:03!! Those dirt bikers thought we were both crazy!!! I must have found a hole under all of that water that you didn’t. There’s no way I took the same line that you took through that. look at the splash! Up into the grille! I am glad Nissan put the intake up high and shielded in the fender. I probably would have gotten stuck in that last bit too, so it’s a good thing I didn’t follow.
@@fernandobriseno8164 The X is pretty capable off-road, even in stock form. I have very tame all terrains (Cooper AT3's) on it, and it didn't have any trouble out there - but only because I didn't try that last mud hole after Aaron got stuck! If I had gone in there and gotten stuck we would have had a hard time recovering the X with no rear recovery point.
Good vid. I have been in some deep sh*t and some really backwoods areas with my 07 Xterra and always made it out! Last Fall navigating the Buffalo National River basin in Arkansas. My X never let me down!!
Long time owner of a 1st gen CR-V that I LOVED, but had to let go of recently Some years back, I test drove an Xterra and have wanted one ever since. But their reputations and durablity seem to be a 50/50 chance. Can say I wont be buying another Explorer. Despite mine being a solid deal and no major problems (other than horrible gas mileage). The Xterra and my Honda are a lot in the suburbs in comparison to city apt that my cramped explorer is.
I also know a guy that took a regular on road vehicle, put of roof rack on it, and referred to it as an "overland build". Results were shockingly similar
Just put down a deposit on a 2006 pilot. It'll be great for the kids and wife. 4x4 for when the weather gets bad. Don't think she'll be doing this sort of driving but good to have a decent 4x4 for more emergency type situations
I found a good way to short out the abs on my xterra... you have a wire for the abs in the glove box. If you run it through a rocker switch you can completely disengage abs. Even with traction control off the abs still engages. It's gotten me stuck a lot in deep snow
@GotterAdventure sorry. It's not the glove box... it's the middle console. You have to pop out the drink holder and the inside of the console (under the lid). To get everything back on you have to turn the switch off and then turn the key off and on. Sorry I don't have a link
Imho they're both great platforms. I have a lifted Subaru Outback and a 2004 Xterra on 33's. There have been places the X got stuck that the Outback walked through and vice versa. However for daily use, the Subie is much preferred. Cool vid, looks like you guys had a good time!
@@alexgarcia3900 it's AWD is superior to an open diff 4x4 system in slippery situations. Mud, wet rutted areas, and hill climbs in particular, as well as snow. Overall the Xterra is better off-road, especially by virtue of its better angles, suspension travel, and low range gearbox, but until it's got lockers it just can't touch Subaru's AWD for overall traction.
@@GotterAdventure I can't recall if you mention where you're located in your videos, but post-pandemic I plan to get the Subaru out for more adventures than I did in 2020. You'll find that Subarus are pretty capable out of the box, but every platform has strengths and weaknesses. It's a lot more fun when you go wheeling with a motley crew rather than all the same brand.
simaliaar looks! finally we got a video out like this! tho i think both would have gotten stuck either way because the pilot has a bigger lift and its up to half of the wheel.
Xterra sits on a fully boxed Titan frame and comes with a locking rear dana 44 with low range...kind of a one sided comparison but still fun to watch!!
Do NOT pull a vehicle out while going in reverse, the differential gears aren't cut to pull that much load going in that direction and you can break teeth off of them...always recover vehicles by pulling forward with the recovery vehicle...
I agree it's not ideal, however, we didn't have a choice that time around because my Xterra didn't have a rear recovery point at the time. No harm done, but I wouldn't do it that way unless you had to. I have a receiver hitch with a shackle mount on it now so it wont be an issue in the future.
I agree I pulled out of the mud a police 4 wd truck and a animal control van both at the same time. I made sure my I was in four low and the police truck.was in four low and the van was just in drive it took three trys but we all stayed on the gas and I pulled them out to the road about 600 feet . Every one was happy except the police officers because he got stuck all four wheels buried deep and my little 2007 bession xterra pulled all of them out at once . Because the regular town tow truck refused to go back in the back field of this high school to get them out . 😊 I was the proud peacock that got it done .
Looks like you had a blast with your kiddos and doggo. I would invest in a kinetic rope and a dedicated recovery point for that X. The front factory recovery point is intended for shipping purposes from what I understand and may snap (at least what people claim on the forum). Nonetheless, you’re doing things with your kids.
I appreciate you owning up to getting stuck. I've seen too many people try and protect their pride with lies about wheelin. My offroading days were 20 plus years ago when it was only trucks and Willyz /Wranglers /Land Cruisers. Nobody had anything with more than two doors lol. Nowadays all you see is lightly modded 4 door SUVs driving through town muddy. I have been thinking of getting back into offroading. Which of the Honda SUVs do you personally think would be best for terrain like this video? I think Honda Pilot and Toyota 4runner will more money than I am interested in spending to get what I want and those Xterra's are loved by their owners with prices coming down. I will never own another jeep as long as I live lol and no fords either. I wonder how well the compact SUVs like the RAV4 and CR-V do?
ok sorry but the irony here is dense >Nowadays all you see is lightly modded 4 door SUVs driving through town muddy. >I have been thinking of getting back into offroading. Which of the Honda SUVs do you personally think would be best for terrain like this video? >I wonder how well the compact SUVs like the RAV4 and CR-V do?
@@dylanc2806 Okay, sorry too but what was your point? This video is about tiny SUVs so why are questions for the poster dense? Do you have any answers or any positive contributions or are you just complaining? Don't you think this world is negative enough without you adding to it? If you're going to say I am wrong then please tell me why, and what the right answer is.
@@asimpson164 haha. funny to see you get so worked up over my negativity over pointing out one thing. i literally just thought it was kinda hypocritical that you were pointing out that all you see are lightly modded SUVs in town covered in mud, and then proceeding to ponder getting one to do the exact same thing. are you glorifying people using SUVs for offroading or are you hating on them lmao. these messages are mixed
@@dylanc2806 You're seeing something that isn't there. I was pointing out that is used to be only pick up trucks but now it is only SUVs. I wasn't making judgment one way or the other, just an observation. I appreciate you clarifying your point, too often I see replies that are "no" or "ur wrong" and it doesn't help figure anything out. After getting a closer look at the small SUVs I realized they weren't for me, underpowered and too many small things that break too easy.
Probably true! I definitely feel the need for low range sometimes. In mud on flat ground like this video you would be surprised what the pilot can do when you lock VTM-4 :)
I have a 2010 Xterra Offroad Edition....slap some BF Goodrich MT tires and you will never look back. I've pulled out ditched (drainage ditches) Chev. Tahoes and Jeeps with my Xterra. They are beasts...
You knew the Pilot would get stuck. The pilot is a car with awd. The X-terra is a purpose built 4x4. Pilots weren’t designed to be taken off road. The X-terra has a transfer case. The pilot has a little stub shaft that sticks out of a puny aluminum housing that has been stuck on the bottom of a front wheel drive transmission like and afterthought.
LOL, I am having a ton of fun building up my unconventional offroader :) It has helped me to gain an audience because it is fun to watch a soccer mom car go through obstacles that no one thinks are possible. My Pilot is surprisingly capable offroad, Notice the Xterra didn't even attempt the area I got stuck in. That is because his rear diff would have hung even earlier than I did. You are not wrong to say that the Xterra is a better offroad vehicle, but you would be wrong to say the Pilot isn't pretty capable. Check out some of our other videos to see what we have done in our Pilot. We haven't broken down on the trail yet, and I don't baby it. Thanks for the watch!
@@GotterAdventure well I have to say I am somewhat reassured that the awd system in my pilot isn’t going to snap like a dry twig. It sure doesn’t inspire confidence when you view the actual assembly. The fellow in the X- terra doesn’t really seem to be into this particular adventure. He also doesn’t seem comfortable on camera. His attempts to free your pilot looked very tentative and it gives the impression he doesn’t have a lot of off road experience.
@@jonhunt5408 We are all learning. I don't think it is fair to make that assessment without knowing the guy. Do you have any off-road footage I can watch?
I was aired down to 20 psi running half worn 245-75-16 Goodyear Duratrac ATs. I bottomed out on the hard center ground. I believe the Xterra would have also, but we weren't brave enough to try without a proper kinetic rope.
@@GotterAdventure that’s the spirit. it’s like hypermiling- not having the best and getting 80mpg but trying to get the best possible mpg out of whatever you have 👍
J. Scott - it wasn’t about seeing whose truck was better. In some ways yeah, the X might be a better platform, sure. But you could do the same comparison with a Wrangler and the Xterra. Which one is better in that scenario? It’s not about whose truck is better. It’s about getting the most out of the truck you have and getting to the places you want to explore. Oh, and don’t forget having fun along the way. With his lift and tires he can get through a lot. It’s actually pretty darn impressive what that Pilot is capable of.. who knew?? We’re close on ground clearance. He might actually have a bit more clearance than my stock Xterra, and the duratracs are definitely better off road than my AT3’s. He can also seat 8 in the Pilot. I can only get 5 in my X, and I seriously doubt I could put three car seats in my back seat like he does, so there’s that too.
Honestly, not growing up in America is a good thing for me, so many naysayers and negativity. I see people go to all sorts of places in piece of junk cars more than 99% of the jeeps and SUV's Americans own.
Yeah, I live in the U.S. with a 2009 Camry with 205,000 miles…. BUT here in the southern states you’d better have working air conditioning or heat exhaustion can easily happen.
As a former Pilot owner, I already knew who would get stuck. As capable as it is (not very) comfortable, the Pilot is not much more than an all wheel drive minivan. I loved mine for 12 years, but I found out very early on, not to go off road in any kind of wet conditions. It just sinks, bottoms out, and there you are… The XTERRA, on the other hand, was limited only by the tires. It is a very capable off roader, comparable to the forerunners and jeeps. Honda, sadly, missed the boat with the pilot, and the CRV. They are catering to the yuppie crowd, who want comfort, and to be able to say they have 4 wheel drive. But god, don’t try to use it lol
The xterra and any vehicle with less that 15" of diff clearance would have bottomed out where my Pilot did. I disagree with your assessment of the vtm4 system. I love that it is actively engaged (up to 20mph) when I hit the gas on or off road and that I can activate both rear clutches to simulate a locked diff. The clutch design allows slip which helps protect axles. Obviously it won't compare to a full locked rig offroad, but for a family vehicle that can seat 8 it has done great for us. The biggest limitation is the lack of low range.
Pilot 4wd does it engage automatically? When you press the VTM-4 bottom does it display on dash screen. I got a 2011 pilot when I engage the VTM the light shows on the bottom only is that okay without displaying on dash screen light 4runner does
If you want to purchase a dedicated 4x4 then the Xterra is a proven platform. I am not sure how much they are worth used. I would check Kelly Blue Book for your area.
@@GotterAdventure I was just asking your options. Blue book normally won't comply how much seller want to selling, specially for the vehicles that a lot of people looking for it.
@@ismedude I have a 09 white 4x4 xterra and its actually in great condition other than having over 225k miles. It might go for avout 5,000 in alabama. It all depends on the area and the mileage and model.
We learned a lot from our experiences in this video. I built a heavy duty front hitch receiver to hold a winch and upsized my tires to 32" mud terrains. Mike purchased a rear hitch receiver and shackle attachment. We have a Kinetic rope and soft shackles to allow more reach if needed. If we were stuck in the same situation again we would have much more options. Live, learn, and always improve! Check out my new videos to see other off-road adventures!
don't forget to work your steering wheel left to right after you start spinning & start losing forward progress, this can make a difference when the going gets tuff
Damn Nissan, when they will bring back a real SUV like the X? I love mine.
They talked about it. But didn't say too much about it. But I guess that gives us hope for a new one? haha
Getting my 02 3.3L SC running now. Loved it before it broke, took it to a shitty mechanic that threw the kitchen sink at it, messed it up bad. Can't wait until I can get it back to 100%
@@cwbgaming8913 yea.. the Pathfinder used to be the 4 Runner fighter back in the 90s to early 2010s until they turned it into a family crossover.
I have a 6 speed manual trans 2009. I have three bad accidents. Nissan fixed it and it’s running good. 13 years 105k. I sold my 6 speed frontier, it was hard decision.
nah.. they downgraded the x and slapped bunch if unecessary electronic thingy..
Xterra Pro-4X models are the greatest SUV of all time. Perfect size (not too big, not too small), 4.0L V6 that is bulletproof as long as they are maintained properly, bulletproof 5-speed auto or 6-speed manual, Dana axle, Spicer transaxle, fully boxed frame, excellent stereo, reverse camera, shift on the fly 4WD, fold down back seats which become a flat cargo/sleeping area....
"That's why you teach your kids about poisonous spiders" then pokes it with a stick haha. That's so real
LOL Right!
Xterra all the way
Isn’t it more fun to root for the under dog? 🥲
As an Xterra owner myself you gotta give it to the guy for taking a front wheel drive biased unibody SUV to areas that most folks wouldn’t even attempt
Solid footage!
@@l00tur Thanks for the props! LOL
@Owen Garcia same here
My 2012 xterra would have said to the pilot shift on reverse lol it would have worked the first time
Black widows are no joke. Glad the kiddos didn't touch it. An acquaintance nearly lost his leg and his life after a bite. Kudos on the awareness.
You're a great dad! Keep it up! Wish every father would be a man and take care of his kids! 💯
Thanks! I love raising my kids!
He has his kids with him. Good. Intentionally putting then into precarious situations! Bad
Think before you do stuff for YT vids.
@@GratefulOverlander Hes simply driving through water.
He is teaching them how to cope with life.
@@GratefulOverlander What’s bad about learning from failed experiences? It’s better that they are in precautions situation with an adult, that’s their father! Must be nice to live in a perfect world 🤣
I've owned both along with a Ridgeline and Frontier SE 4x4. I absolutely loved all three vehicles and regret selling any of them.
The Pilot is a very good SUV...perfect size IMO. Generous seating and wonderfully comfortable on long road trips. I've drove across country from Miami FL to my hometown in Upper Michigan in both. I did put a 2" lift on the Ridgeline..it looked better, but didn't really like the result of it otherwise. It messed with the traction control over things like speedbumps.
IMO, in the off road arena, the 2nd Gen Xterra is very hard to beat....especially if its like 2010+ where the SMOD (strawberry milkshake of death) issue was resolved.
Mine was a '12 P4X with approx 6" lift from NissTec (extended travel kit) and another company that I sourced the shackles from with Radflos (f) Bilstein (r) and sliders from White Knuckle. Other mods were the rear diff breather relocation (highly recommend even on stock...literally costs under $15) and that's about it aside from tires. It was just a beast, and the only drawback IMO is you really have to off-road it often and keep the Radflos moving through their full travel or they can develop shock stiction and feel a little rough until you off road it. IMO the Pilot is better for families and it's road manners are much better. ..not that the Xterra is bad. The Xterra has a much higher potential for off-roading...maybe not a much aftermarket than a Jeep, Taco or 4 Runner but its decent enough.
I did return the P4X to stock when I sold it and bought a Subaru Outback which sold and paid cash for the Pilot, then rear-ended and took the money to buy a '16 Frontier...installed all the same lift kit on the Frontier. It was better in some ways, but the added weight on the back did help w/ the Xterra, but the Fronty had a manual which I prefer. Ended up selling that when I moved to the EU, but I did sell it for $4k more than I bought it for...but now my life is boring in that respect.
I like these kind of videos..sorry for the rambling
I'm planning to buy an 2011 Xterra with 99k miles. In your opinion do you recommend it? I live up north where it snows a lot and I'm tryign to use that car on the weekends mostly to move outdoor gear.
@@javiermendez9365 Yes. Earlier years of the X had some issues with the radiator/transmission cooler. However pretty much all kinks have been resolved since ~2009/2010. The engine in the X is fantastically reliable and strong. For a '11 w/ 99k miles, that's extremely low miles. As long as it's been reasonably cared, it should be a good buy! Do you know which trim level? 4WD or 2WD?
@@josh33172 Hey man thank you for the promp response and the details on the X issues of the earlier years. The one I'm looking at is a 2011 Nissan Xterra S 4WD. I asked for the history on the car, it did have an accident about a year ago, in which the driver side wheel assembly and Axel were damaged, and they had to replace thte entire assembly, axel and bumper. They replace the bumper and also installed a winch. I'm kinda hesitant now that I found out about the accident.
@@javiermendez9365 An older car will inherently have its issues but hopefully very few if it came from a good year and was reasonably cared for. An older vehicle that's been in an accident, all bets are off.
I knew the Honda was going to get stuck before I even saw the video! I have a 2012 Xterra and pulled my share out. Seriously looked you guys had a good time and were safe! Never wheel alone is a good rule of thumb, Get an ARB Snatch strap which actually will stretch
Thanks for your feedback. We both learned a lot from this past trip. I bought a 7/8" kinetic rope and he bought a nice snatch strap. FYI: I bottomed out in the rear between my wheels. The Xterra's center axle diff very well could have bottomed out worse. We are going to head that way soon to test :)
I just got an xterra in July I have skid plates and off-road tires is there anything you would recommend mods wise or should I just see how it goes first
@@lukejohnson6623 recovery gear would be a good place to focus next. Then you can find out any other mods you need for wheeling you area.
@@lukejohnson6623 2" body lift only costs about $150-200 to do yourself and allows you to fit 32" tires and second remove rear sway bar for better flex in rear, they dont really even help for road ride as claimed on this truck. Ive had 3 xterras. These are the 2 first mods i do on every one. I hope it goes without saying get rid of the side step bars as the are thin and will cause a lot of body damage if you land on them
@@lukejohnson6623 my current xterra is an 08 and i titan pro 4x swapped the engine/trans and front suspension. Its beastly and oly really requires a 2"body lift and practically bolted right in with very little harness modifications.
Proud Xterra owner here! I've got a 2015 Pro-4X. BEST vehicle purchase I've ever made!
A kinetic rope will be night and day compared to normal straps. And always keep the rope in tension to make sure you don't drive over it and damage it.
Thanks for the advice! I am definitely looking for a kinetic rope to add to my recovery gear!
At least y’all are out there having fun with your kids and friends. Who cares what other think.
Thanks!
Good vidoe, im an Xterra guy, i would have liked to see the xterra try a go at the spot you got stuck in.
We will soon!
Tires & gears. 75% driver. Gratifying to see them not tearing up the land & river.
I had a silver pilot just like yours, it was surprisingly capable. Now, ironically enough, I have a white xterra pro4x! Lol. I love it, it’s probably the best all around vehicle I’ve ever owned. Great vid 👍
The Xterra is definitely more capable, but I like being unique :)
I have had a 1990 Full size Bronco, 85 Bullnose and an 03 xterra. Love them all. That little xterra is a little terror off road. Great vehicle snow, mud, sand and deep water. Great video. Keep the videos coming
Dude that terrain is a cakewalk for the Xterra Offroad. I have a 2010 Xterra Offroad, and you should see what it can really do off road.
That is awesome! I am looking forward to off-roading at an OHV park this weekend with Michael and his Xterra!
He wasn't testing the Xterra. He brought him for help in reality.
He was merely testing his own stupidity
And you're right, this road is WEAK. This isn't overlanding
@@GratefulOverlander A HOLE
@@GratefulOverlander You’re a hypocrite where’s your videos at Mr. “ Grateful Overland”? It’s a family channel, if you don’t like, it don’t watch it?!
These old Xterras, Frontiers, and Pathfinders were the BEST from Nissan!!!
Sometimes going right through the middle of muck will give you better traction. That is where you want to be a little more aggressive with the speed. Sometimes lack of speed and bad tires will get you stuck.
This video should just be called "Vibing with the boys for 18 minutes" lol, they're straight up just chilling 🤣
Thanks B. Have 04 Xterra. It was pleasant to see you make it family. God Bless
Thanks!
That was fun. Man, that spot at 9:03!! Those dirt bikers thought we were both crazy!!! I must have found a hole under all of that water that you didn’t. There’s no way I took the same line that you took through that. look at the splash! Up into the grille! I am glad Nissan put the intake up high and shielded in the fender.
I probably would have gotten stuck in that last bit too, so it’s a good thing I didn’t follow.
It was fun Mike! Your entry speed might explain the difference in the apparent water depth.
I wanted to see what the pro4x could do. I got my girl one but it's never seen mud. We've always just used my f150 to play.
@@fernandobriseno8164 The X is pretty capable off-road, even in stock form. I have very tame all terrains (Cooper AT3's) on it, and it didn't have any trouble out there - but only because I didn't try that last mud hole after Aaron got stuck! If I had gone in there and gotten stuck we would have had a hard time recovering the X with no rear recovery point.
@@Mike.D.843 yeah man I hear you. A hitch comes in pretty handy for stuff like that. Just wish I could have seen the X in deep mud.
@@fernandobriseno8164 check out my page to see a 2nd gen Xterra in mud and off-road.
Great footage! I miss off-roading in my 03 pilot. It breakdown every time it rains. 🤦♂️
Thanks!
Yes!!! We were holding our breath when you got stuck! We love our off-roading our Pilot and love seeing the crazy stuff it can do!
Thanks! It was definitely crazy there for a moment :)
Yes, as an Xterra driver, I enjoyed this a great deal
Thanks for the feedback!
I owned a 2004 nissan Xterra in fact I'm so proud of it
Just bought a 2008 Honda Pilot and oh man I’m excited despite this experiment lol. 192k miles but it’s been in a garage all it’s life you can tell.
Great find!
The Pilot is a good SUV. You will be surprised how well the VTM-4 lock actually works.
@@ColoradoStreaming thank you can’t wait to test that feature out! So roomy of a vehicle
Good vid. I have been in some deep sh*t and some really backwoods areas with my 07 Xterra and always made it out! Last Fall navigating the Buffalo National River basin in Arkansas. My X never let me down!!
Long time owner of a 1st gen CR-V that I LOVED, but had to let go of recently
Some years back, I test drove an Xterra and have wanted one ever since. But their reputations and durablity seem to be a 50/50 chance.
Can say I wont be buying another Explorer. Despite mine being a solid deal and no major problems (other than horrible gas mileage). The Xterra and my Honda are a lot in the suburbs in comparison to city apt that my cramped explorer is.
I also know a guy that took a regular on road vehicle, put of roof rack on it, and referred to it as an "overland build". Results were shockingly similar
Good one LOL
Honda don’t know nothing about making a rugged tough vehicle they’re all for reliability and being practical
Bingo ! 100 % correct. My mint 2000 xterra SE is a beast in snow and off road. Actully have pulled my friends Honda pilot put many times, lol.
Black widows don’t go far from the nest. There are hundreds near by. Great job kid!
I have both an 11 pathfinder & 05 pilot. I knew before this vid even started that the pathfinder would be superior off road.
The Nissan didn't even attempt the hole I got stuck in...
If you had traction controls off and VTM-4 Lock engaged. I think you would be able to get through the mud.
I will be back to try again!
VTM-4 Lock is the real deal. Its funny Honda put an actual locker on their SUV when even some Jeeps dont have a factory rear locker.
Just put down a deposit on a 2006 pilot. It'll be great for the kids and wife. 4x4 for when the weather gets bad. Don't think she'll be doing this sort of driving but good to have a decent 4x4 for more emergency type situations
Good video! Extra points for the Overland Pup!
Thanks! She is always down for a drive!
I found a good way to short out the abs on my xterra... you have a wire for the abs in the glove box. If you run it through a rocker switch you can completely disengage abs. Even with traction control off the abs still engages. It's gotten me stuck a lot in deep snow
That is a great trick!
@GotterAdventure sorry. It's not the glove box... it's the middle console. You have to pop out the drink holder and the inside of the console (under the lid).
To get everything back on you have to turn the switch off and then turn the key off and on. Sorry I don't have a link
Imho they're both great platforms. I have a lifted Subaru Outback and a 2004 Xterra on 33's. There have been places the X got stuck that the Outback walked through and vice versa. However for daily use, the Subie is much preferred.
Cool vid, looks like you guys had a good time!
It is really fun testing your vehicles capability! Welcome to the channel! Hopefully I can find a subie to wheel with too.
Are you serious? How would the Subaru ever beat a xrerra in any situation?
@@alexgarcia3900 it's AWD is superior to an open diff 4x4 system in slippery situations. Mud, wet rutted areas, and hill climbs in particular, as well as snow.
Overall the Xterra is better off-road, especially by virtue of its better angles, suspension travel, and low range gearbox, but until it's got lockers it just can't touch Subaru's AWD for overall traction.
@@GotterAdventure I can't recall if you mention where you're located in your videos, but post-pandemic I plan to get the Subaru out for more adventures than I did in 2020.
You'll find that Subarus are pretty capable out of the box, but every platform has strengths and weaknesses. It's a lot more fun when you go wheeling with a motley crew rather than all the same brand.
@@a.sanford8731 we are located near Charleston Sc
Looks like it’s close to Orangeburg, S.C. I use to fish in the Edisto River when I lived there long ago.
simaliaar looks! finally we got a video out like this! tho i think both would have gotten stuck either way because the pilot has a bigger lift and its up to half of the wheel.
Tip:
If you install your d-ring vertically it will eliminate the side to side high tension rubbing forces on your straps and soft shackles.
I would need to drill out my adapter… great tip though
Your kid identifying a Black Widow and staying safe is awesome 💪
Xterra sits on a fully boxed Titan frame and comes with a locking rear dana 44 with low range...kind of a one sided comparison but still fun to watch!!
Thanks! 😂
No they are based off the Frontier.
@@atx-cvpi_99 and the frontier uses the titan boxed frame ya point
Do NOT pull a vehicle out while going in reverse, the differential gears aren't cut to pull that much load going in that direction and you can break teeth off of them...always recover vehicles by pulling forward with the recovery vehicle...
Thanks for the advice!
I agree it's not ideal, however, we didn't have a choice that time around because my Xterra didn't have a rear recovery point at the time. No harm done, but I wouldn't do it that way unless you had to. I have a receiver hitch with a shackle mount on it now so it wont be an issue in the future.
I agree I pulled out of the mud a police 4 wd truck and a animal control van both at the same time. I made sure my I was in four low and the police truck.was in four low and the van was just in drive it took three trys but we all stayed on the gas and I pulled them out to the road about 600 feet . Every one was happy except the police officers because he got stuck all four wheels buried deep and my little 2007 bession xterra pulled all of them out at once . Because the regular town tow truck refused to go back in the back field of this high school to get them out . 😊 I was the proud peacock that got it done .
I own a 2010 Pilot but hate the cylinder deactivation. The newer Pilots seem more crossover type
I agree with you on that. You can buy an adapter to disable VCM. 03-08 4wd Pilots don't have VCM.
I have these two trucks. I love both. The Pilot is more comfortable for long trips. The x terra is stronger
They are both great!
Just found your channel. Been binge watching . I'm impressed with your knowledge of Pilots. Kids are awesome! Thanks !!
Welcome aboard!
Looks like you had a blast with your kiddos and doggo. I would invest in a kinetic rope and a dedicated recovery point for that X. The front factory recovery point is intended for shipping purposes from what I understand and may snap (at least what people claim on the forum). Nonetheless, you’re doing things with your kids.
Thanks for the advice! I bought a 7/8 kinetic rope and michael bought a rear hitch receiver:)
Never forget to take traction control off it will always make you stuck. Sucks but true
How much lift is in the Pilot?? There isn't any in the Xterra.
Pilot has 2.5" and you are correct the Xterra is stock.
Awesome video and you are a great dad!
I didn't know Honda Pilot could go off road!
I have one and its surprisingly capable as long as you are careful. The VTM-4 is a true rear lockers and has pulled my up some gnarly hills.
They can't ! without breaking something ! ask me how I know, I wheel with a friend that has one, lol
never use straps or chain. always a kinetic rope ! Words of wisdom from the off- road recovery wizard - Matt
We have since purchased appropriate recovery gear
I appreciate you owning up to getting stuck. I've seen too many people try and protect their pride with lies about wheelin. My offroading days were 20 plus years ago when it was only trucks and Willyz /Wranglers /Land Cruisers. Nobody had anything with more than two doors lol. Nowadays all you see is lightly modded 4 door SUVs driving through town muddy.
I have been thinking of getting back into offroading. Which of the Honda SUVs do you personally think would be best for terrain like this video? I think Honda Pilot and Toyota 4runner will more money than I am interested in spending to get what I want and those Xterra's are loved by their owners with prices coming down. I will never own another jeep as long as I live lol and no fords either. I wonder how well the compact SUVs like the RAV4 and CR-V do?
ok sorry but the irony here is dense
>Nowadays all you see is lightly modded 4 door SUVs driving through town muddy.
>I have been thinking of getting back into offroading. Which of the Honda SUVs do you personally think would be best for terrain like this video?
>I wonder how well the compact SUVs like the RAV4 and CR-V do?
@@dylanc2806 Okay, sorry too but what was your point? This video is about tiny SUVs so why are questions for the poster dense?
Do you have any answers or any positive contributions or are you just complaining? Don't you think this world is negative enough without you adding to it? If you're going to say I am wrong then please tell me why, and what the right answer is.
@@asimpson164 haha. funny to see you get so worked up over my negativity over pointing out one thing. i literally just thought it was kinda hypocritical that you were pointing out that all you see are lightly modded SUVs in town covered in mud, and then proceeding to ponder getting one to do the exact same thing. are you glorifying people using SUVs for offroading or are you hating on them lmao. these messages are mixed
@@dylanc2806 You're seeing something that isn't there. I was pointing out that is used to be only pick up trucks but now it is only SUVs. I wasn't making judgment one way or the other, just an observation. I appreciate you clarifying your point, too often I see replies that are "no" or "ur wrong" and it doesn't help figure anything out.
After getting a closer look at the small SUVs I realized they weren't for me, underpowered and too many small things that break too easy.
Almost sold my Xterra, but definitely keeping it until it dies
I think that is a great idea!
Pilot is a cross over vehicle that came out to play on the Xterra playground
Probably true! I definitely feel the need for low range sometimes. In mud on flat ground like this video you would be surprised what the pilot can do when you lock VTM-4 :)
It's a beast in 4x4. I got an 04 x
Yes they are!
I just sold my raptor. Bought a 2010 xterra.this little car is actually a prettty good 4x4.
I have a 2010 Xterra Offroad Edition....slap some BF Goodrich MT tires and you will never look back. I've pulled out ditched (drainage ditches) Chev. Tahoes and Jeeps with my Xterra. They are beasts...
Best thing to do is get one of those recovery hooks for your toe hitch and a sturdy set of straps and you’re all good
I agree!
I also own a 2010 Xterra, and your friends license plate says he is too. I'd be interested in talking with him.
Of course the xterra got it. Got one myself decent vehicles that's for sure
You knew the Pilot would get stuck. The pilot is a car with awd. The X-terra is a purpose built 4x4. Pilots weren’t designed to be taken off road. The X-terra has a transfer case. The pilot has a little stub shaft that sticks out of a puny aluminum housing that has been stuck on the bottom of a front wheel drive transmission like and afterthought.
LOL, I am having a ton of fun building up my unconventional offroader :) It has helped me to gain an audience because it is fun to watch a soccer mom car go through obstacles that no one thinks are possible. My Pilot is surprisingly capable offroad, Notice the Xterra didn't even attempt the area I got stuck in. That is because his rear diff would have hung even earlier than I did. You are not wrong to say that the Xterra is a better offroad vehicle, but you would be wrong to say the Pilot isn't pretty capable. Check out some of our other videos to see what we have done in our Pilot. We haven't broken down on the trail yet, and I don't baby it. Thanks for the watch!
@@GotterAdventure well I have to say I am somewhat reassured that the awd system in my pilot isn’t going to snap like a dry twig. It sure doesn’t inspire confidence when you view the actual assembly. The fellow in the X- terra doesn’t really seem to be into this particular adventure. He also doesn’t seem comfortable on camera. His attempts to free your pilot looked very tentative and it gives the impression he doesn’t have a lot of off road experience.
@@jonhunt5408 We are all learning. I don't think it is fair to make that assessment without knowing the guy. Do you have any off-road footage I can watch?
I'm curious because I have a manual and it's supposedly the same rear end as the pro4x
Can you put lockers on a rear end without them
Is your tires Mt and did you. Air down your tires ? When you got stuck
I was aired down to 20 psi running half worn 245-75-16 Goodyear Duratrac ATs. I bottomed out on the hard center ground. I believe the Xterra would have also, but we weren't brave enough to try without a proper kinetic rope.
@@GotterAdventure nice try though you almost made it I believe if you had new tires. you would of have made it through luv the vdo 👍
Both can do Medano Pass in CO. Easily can hit up beaches in TX. See ya on the Gulf Coast
The stock tires SUCKED on my 2007 Xterra,, nothing a set of KO2's couldn't fix. The tires on the Pilot look capable.
I have stepped up to MTs since this and they are crazy in the muck!
No Seat belt safety for the kids?
Where can I get that roof rack?
The dog was my favorite part..lol ..pilots rock. Js
Underrated video
Thanks! It was a ton of fun to make!
Really cool video to watch! Cool to see what all people use to get out and explore!
I’m more surprised that the kids know their Spiders
What kind of lift did you get? I have an 06 I can’t figure out what lift to get.
I had an ebay kit, but I would look at the HRG 3" ultimate lift
The xterra will outdo that Honda Pilot offroad any day. The xterra has a solid rear axle and the Pilot is Unibody.
You’ve got to admit what this guy has done to and with his Pilot is pretty impressive.
Thanks, FishEyeGuy Outdoors! I enjoy pushing the limits of the vehicle I own. I have never said it is the best, but it is fun to see what it can do!
@@GotterAdventure that’s the spirit. it’s like hypermiling- not having the best and getting 80mpg but trying to get the best possible mpg out of whatever you have 👍
@@fisheyeguy I told him the same thing when we went wheeling. Before seeing this channel I didn’t know the Pilot could do this stuff.
J. Scott - it wasn’t about seeing whose truck was better. In some ways yeah, the X might be a better platform, sure. But you could do the same comparison with a Wrangler and the Xterra. Which one is better in that scenario? It’s not about whose truck is better. It’s about getting the most out of the truck you have and getting to the places you want to explore. Oh, and don’t forget having fun along the way.
With his lift and tires he can get through a lot. It’s actually pretty darn impressive what that Pilot is capable of.. who knew??
We’re close on ground clearance. He might actually have a bit more clearance than my stock Xterra, and the duratracs are definitely better off road than my AT3’s. He can also seat 8 in the Pilot. I can only get 5 in my X, and I seriously doubt I could put three car seats in my back seat like he does, so there’s that too.
Honestly, not growing up in America is a good thing for me, so many naysayers and negativity. I see people go to all sorts of places in piece of junk cars more than 99% of the jeeps and SUV's Americans own.
Yeah, I live in the U.S. with a 2009 Camry with 205,000 miles…. BUT here in the southern states you’d better have working air conditioning or heat exhaustion can easily happen.
@@Dexion845 can't go wrong with a Camry
Another question.... I drive lots of gravel and my xterra leaks dust in horribly.... anyone have this or dealt with it
You need some Matt's Recovery Rope's he's a Utuber that dose off road recovery
We bought kinetic ropes after this trip!
As a former Pilot owner, I already knew who would get stuck. As capable as it is (not very) comfortable, the Pilot is not much more than an all wheel drive minivan. I loved mine for 12 years, but I found out very early on, not to go off road in any kind of wet conditions. It just sinks, bottoms out, and there you are…
The XTERRA, on the other hand, was limited only by the tires. It is a very capable off roader, comparable to the forerunners and jeeps. Honda, sadly, missed the boat with the pilot, and the CRV. They are catering to the yuppie crowd, who want comfort, and to be able to say they have 4 wheel drive. But god, don’t try to use it lol
The xterra and any vehicle with less that 15" of diff clearance would have bottomed out where my Pilot did. I disagree with your assessment of the vtm4 system. I love that it is actively engaged (up to 20mph) when I hit the gas on or off road and that I can activate both rear clutches to simulate a locked diff. The clutch design allows slip which helps protect axles. Obviously it won't compare to a full locked rig offroad, but for a family vehicle that can seat 8 it has done great for us. The biggest limitation is the lack of low range.
Great video! It that in Columbia near the Saluda River?
I love my truck it has 190,000 miles on it and runs beautiful
The locker on the nissan xterra only works in 4Lo. Doesnt work in 4 hi
What do you mean by locker? Is it the same as traction control?
That's correct when stock. I have it modded now so it works in all drive modes, it's a complete game changer! Must have mod.
Do Pilots share engine with the Ridgelines? Are they FWD based or RWD based for the AWD?
The engines are shared, but the might not be interchangeable. They are fwd based for all models.
hey bro, what's the year model of the Pilot?
Pilot 4wd does it engage automatically? When you press the VTM-4 bottom does it display on dash screen. I got a 2011 pilot when I engage the VTM the light shows on the bottom only is that okay without displaying on dash screen light 4runner does
I only have experience with my pilot. The button light is the only indicator that you are locked.
Where did you guys go? Im near Edisto and would like to test my 4x4 rig sometime
I did predict that the Pilot would be the one to get stuck. It’s just so boxy and heavy.
Finny. I own both of those. 07 Pilot EXL AWD and just bought yesterday 11 Xterra Pro4x. Nice cars 👍
Yes they are!
Except they aren't cars🙄
He ( or she ) who hesitates is LOST.
How much you think (in your opinion) is worth to buy one of those used 4x4 Xterra (Condition just like one in this video)?
If you want to purchase a dedicated 4x4 then the Xterra is a proven platform. I am not sure how much they are worth used. I would check Kelly Blue Book for your area.
@@GotterAdventure I was just asking your options. Blue book normally won't comply how much seller want to selling, specially for the vehicles that a lot of people looking for it.
@@ismedude That is true
@@ismedude I have a 09 white 4x4 xterra and its actually in great condition other than having over 225k miles. It might go for avout 5,000 in alabama. It all depends on the area and the mileage and model.
So... apparently when your frame is on the ground like that it's called "turtling"... It's not very fun!!! 😅
That is pretty funny! I will be sure to use that term in the future. LOL
Everyone I've met in the "off-road" community have been the best bunch of people I've ever had the pleasure!!! You guys be safe & have fun. 😉
@@dr.ez-0695 Will do!
Lmao the dog is having more fun than anyone! 😊 🐶 🐕 🐴 🤷♂️
Saphira (our dog) loves the adventures!
Good comparison---Body on Frame vs Unibody
What do you mean ? Total different 4x4 setup.
The Xterra never attempted the tough spot....
What kind of tires do you recommend for my pilot. Plan on going through the desert, rain. But will stay away from mud and snow. I'm a photographer.
Check out the falken wildpeak at3w
Awesome
Props to your kiddo!
What year/ trim is the pilot?
👍 for the kid that screamed “ black widow “
Where is this? I want to take my gx470.