Nissan Pathfinder problems

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The Nissan Pathfinder is a range of sport utility vehicles manufactured by Nissan since 1986. Until the third-generation model, the Pathfinder is based on Nissan's compact pickup truck platform which it shares with the Navara/Frontier. The front end of the D21 (first generation) and R51 (third generation) Pathfinder is notably identical with the Navara/Frontier up until the B-pillars.

The Pathfinder was marketed as the Nissan Terrano (Japanese: 日産・テラノ, Hepburn: Nissan Terano) outside North America. Beginning in 2004, the R51 series was marketed internationally as the Pathfinder.

In 2012, the R52 series Pathfinder was released as a three-row crossover SUV based on the unibody Nissan D platform, moving away from the body-on-frame chassis format. The role of a mid-size body-on-frame SUV in Nissan's global lineup was passed to the Terra/X-Terra, which was released in 2018 and based on the D23 series Navara.

photo of Nissan Pathfinder car production

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Nissan Pathfinder model years

nissan pathfinder 2024 photo
Pathfinder 2024
Nissan

10

2

32

2.7
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
nissan pathfinder 2023 photo
Pathfinder 2023
Nissan

55

1

23

2.4
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
nissan pathfinder 2022 photo
Pathfinder 2022
Nissan

87

5

38

2.2
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
nissan pathfinder 2020 photo
Pathfinder 2020
Nissan

32

0

25

3.2
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
nissan pathfinder 2019 photo
Pathfinder 2019
Nissan

50

2

33

3.1
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
nissan pathfinder 2018 photo
Pathfinder 2018
Nissan

64

3

35

3
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
nissan pathfinder 2017 photo
Pathfinder 2017
Nissan

165

2

35

3
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
nissan pathfinder 2016 photo
Pathfinder 2016
Nissan

96

2

22

1.9
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
nissan pathfinder 2015 photo
Pathfinder 2015
Nissan

297

5

34

2.4
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
nissan pathfinder 2014 photo
Pathfinder 2014
Nissan

527

11

34

2.4
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
nissan pathfinder 2013 photo
Pathfinder 2013
Nissan

846

11

37

2.8
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
nissan pathfinder 2012 photo
Pathfinder 2012
Nissan

21

2

23

2.7
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
nissan pathfinder 2011 photo
Pathfinder 2011
Nissan

43

2

30

2.9
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
nissan pathfinder 2010 photo
Pathfinder 2010
Nissan

39

5

24

2.7
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
nissan pathfinder 2009 photo
Pathfinder 2009
Nissan

37

4

39

2.6
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
nissan pathfinder 2008 photo
Pathfinder 2008
Nissan

327

5

37

2.4
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
nissan pathfinder 2007 photo
Pathfinder 2007
Nissan

560

2

39

2.5
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
nissan pathfinder 2006 photo
Pathfinder 2006
Nissan

835

5

34

3
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
nissan pathfinder 2005 photo
Pathfinder 2005
Nissan

1049

4

38

2.3
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
nissan pathfinder 2004 photo
Pathfinder 2004
Nissan

67

7

33

2.9
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
nissan pathfinder 2003 photo
Pathfinder 2003
Nissan

106

7

31

3.8
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
nissan pathfinder 2002 photo
Pathfinder 2002
Nissan

171

9

35

2.5
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
nissan pathfinder 2001 photo
Pathfinder 2001
Nissan

239

7

41

2.6
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
nissan pathfinder 2000 photo
Pathfinder 2000
Nissan

128

6

32

2.8
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
nissan pathfinder 1999 photo
Pathfinder 1999
Nissan

115

5

35

2.8
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
nissan pathfinder 1998 photo
Pathfinder 1998
Nissan

159

4

38

2.9
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
nissan pathfinder 1997 photo
Pathfinder 1997
Nissan

235

4

33

2.4
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
nissan pathfinder 1996 photo
Pathfinder 1996
Nissan

176

5

24

2.7
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
nissan pathfinder 1995 photo
Pathfinder 1995
Nissan

185

0

37

2.5
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
nissan pathfinder 1994 photo
Pathfinder 1994
Nissan

109

2

35

2.3
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
nissan pathfinder 1993 photo
Pathfinder 1993
Nissan

56

0

23

2.5
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
nissan pathfinder 1992 photo
Pathfinder 1992
Nissan

36

0

22

2.9
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
nissan pathfinder 1991 photo
Pathfinder 1991
Nissan

47

1

25

2.9
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
nissan pathfinder 1990 photo
Pathfinder 1990
Nissan

43

2

14

2.5
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
nissan pathfinder 1989 photo
Pathfinder 1989
Nissan

15

2

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
nissan pathfinder 1988 photo
Pathfinder 1988
Nissan

17

2

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
nissan pathfinder 1987 photo
Pathfinder 1987
Nissan

28

2

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
nissan pathfinder 1986 photo
Pathfinder 1986
Nissan

1

0

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1

Common Nissan Pathfinder problems

The Nissan Pathfinder, a crossover/SUV produced since 1986, is known for its reliability. However, like any vehicle, it has faced certain issues over the years. This article, based on search results, outlines common problems with the Nissan Pathfinder, focusing on complaints from owners and available solutions.

  • Navigation system problems: The 2017 Pathfinder has been reported to have issues with the navigation display, including freezing controls, a stuck backup camera, and a malfunctioning reverse assist display.
  • Transmission issues: The 2005-2010 model years, in particular, have faced transmission problems. The automatic transmissions may fail around 90,000 miles due to a crack in the oil cooler tube, causing coolant to leak into the transmission system.
  • Climate system failure: A/C and heating system issues have been reported by many 2015 Pathfinder owners. The climate system may refuse to work, causing significant problems during extreme temperatures.
  • CVT issues: Nissan's CVT issues have been widespread, affecting the Pathfinder's transmission system. The CVT system has been reported to be slow to respond, overheat easily, and shutter while accelerating. This can be a safety risk during highway merges and may cause constant stuttering.
  • Timing chain issues: Pathfinder owners have reported issues with the timing chain guides, shoes, and tensioners. A loose timing chain can cause rattling or acceleration issues, and even lead to engine failure.
  • Engine stalled and doesn't restart: This issue is caused by contaminated contacts in the engine control module (ECM) and the ignition relay in the IPDM. The ECM and the ignition relay will need to be replaced, which is a fiddly DIY job, but can be done with the right parts and online guides.
  • Driver's power seat harness fault: The driver's power seat harness can become trapped between the seat lifter mechanism and the metal seat bracket. If left unattended, this can cause damage to the harness and potentially lead to accidents. Separating the harness from where it's trapped or replacing it with a new one can resolve the issue.
  • Whining power steering: This issue, which Nissan is largely ignoring, can be resolved by fitting a new insulator on the power steering module. Some drivers have managed to fix the problem this way.
  • Gearbox shuddering: This issue, which is a computer programming problem, can be resolved by having the computer checked and software updated at a Nissan dealer.
  • Fuel and temp gauges problems: This issue is caused by a failure with the voltage regulator behind the dashboard. Replacing the voltage regulator will sort the problem out.
  • Timing chain wear: Later models of the Pathfinder are prone to premature timing chain wear, usually around the 102,000-mile point. Replacing a worn timing chain is a big job, but it's more wallet-friendly to order a new belt and fit it yourself than hand the car over to a mechanic.
  • Brake pedal issues: Some Pathfinders have a defect that causes the clevis pin to come loose from the brake pedal and brake booster input rod assembly. This can be resolved by reattaching the clevis pin and securing it into place with a new clip.

In conclusion, while the Nissan Pathfinder is generally a reliable vehicle, certain model years and issues have been reported by owners. Regular maintenance and addressing these issues promptly can help ensure the longevity and reliability of the Pathfinder.

Nissan Pathfinder

What are the problems with the Nissan Pathfinder?

Most Common Nissan Pathfinder Problems

  • Nissan Pathfinder Transmission Problems. According to CarComplaints, one of the most common Pathfinder issues is transmission failure. ...
  • Coolant Leaking into Transmission. ...
  • Worn Timing Chain. ...
  • A/C and Heating Problems. ...
  • Faulty Fuel Level Sensor.

Are Nissan Pathfinders good reliable cars?

Quality and Reliability 78.0/100

The 2024 Nissan Pathfinder has a predicted reliability score of 78 out of 100.

How many miles does a Nissan Pathfinder last?

The estimated lifespan of a Nissan Pathfinder is 232,000mi, before reaching the life expectancy upper limit. Fuel type is a major factor when looking into a vehicles lifespan/life expectancy.

What are the best years to buy Pathfinder?

Buy: 2017-2019 Nissan Pathfinder

If you're searching for a newer Pathfinder with good reliability, these three model years are worth checking out. Apart from minor electrical issues, these Pathfinder models have no significant problems.

Percentage distribution of complaints by Nissan Pathfinder years

We have researched Nissan problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Nissan Pathfinder cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Nissan Pathfinder model years:

Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Nissan Pathfinder model years.

Distribution of the number of complaints by Nissan Pathfinder years

We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:

Nissan Pathfinder car problems categorized by type of issue

After analysing all complaints related to Nissan Pathfinder , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:

  • Power train problems
  • Engine and engine cooling problems
  • Engine problems
  • Fuel system problems
  • Air bags problems

The graph below shows statistics for all Nissan Pathfinder vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Pathfinder model years

A total of 295 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.

Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Pathfinder model years

There were a total of 50 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.

Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Pathfinder model years

There were a total of 295 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.

Distribution of the number of complaints with deaths by Pathfinder model years

There were a total of 17 complaints that resulted in a death. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.

The NHTSA has received 7073 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Nissan Pathfinder . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Nissan Pathfinder vehicles.

Latest 25 complaints

Nissan Pathfinder 2014
  • Date Of Incident: 2023-08-13
  • Date Complaint: 2024-10-25
  • VIN: 5N1AR2MM0EC
  • Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: 3 of my door handles have broken once before I had taken ownership of the vehicle. Since owning the vehicle those same 3 door handles have broken again. This is a cause for concern because if you were in a motor vehicle accident you wouldn’t be able to get the doors open from the inside of the vehicle. For the past few months I have been rolling the windows down to open the door from the outside handle..
Nissan Pathfinder 2020
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-01-02
  • Date Complaint: 2024-10-24
  • VIN: 5N1DR2CN8LC
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
  • Summary: My 2020 Nissan Pathfinder SL has once again developed problems with the Emergency forward Brake System. The ABS AEB was replaced in January 2024 at Southwest Nissan in Weatherford Tx . Today, [XXX] the AEB light came back on. This is also the second time I have had to replace the Brake light located under the brake pedal. This is the second time I am reporting this problem to NHTSA. Research on several car repair sites shows this is a common problem with the 2020 Nissan Pathfinder, but NHTSA has failed to issue a recall. The original cost for repair at the dealership was over $4000. Please review and confirm problems with this model and year. This is an ongoing safety issue. Southwest Nissan Weatherford, Tx was where my car was repaired in January 2024. They will be able to provide all documentation. The mechanic also stated in writing that this was a common occurrence with the Pathfinder. Thank you, [XXX] [XXX] [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Nissan Pathfinder 2020
  • Date Of Incident: 2022-09-01
  • Date Complaint: 2024-10-19
  • VIN: 5N1DR2CN4LC
  • Components: SUSPENSION,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,SERVICE BRAKES
  • Summary: I have a 2020 Nissan Pathfinder SL with under 70k miles. I had an awful squeal start, upon stopping. I had a private shop say I needed brakes, pads and rotors. And this began the issue. This was in 22-23. It is currently Oct 24, and I have had 3 sets of brakes pads and rotors. When this began the dealership told me my brakes were wearing and near needing replacement. So I had been alerted by them initially. There are zero warning lamps. Vehicle is available for inspection anytime.
Nissan Pathfinder 2015
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-10-19
  • Date Complaint: 2024-10-19
  • VIN: 5N1AR2MN7FC
  • Components: POWER TRAIN,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
  • Summary: $4000 worth of work. 4 visits to a local shop. 3 visits to the Nissan dealership, who claims to have replaced cylinders every time. My engine violently shakes even worse. Has cut off midst driving with no power to crank again. 4 batteries & 4 alternator replacements. Barely press on gas pedal and it shakes the whole car, then smells like something rotting.
Nissan Pathfinder 2013
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-09-24
  • Date Complaint: 2024-10-17
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: See attached document for complaint.
Nissan Pathfinder 2015
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-10-01
  • Date Complaint: 2024-10-16
  • VIN: 5N1AR2MM4FC
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2015 Nissan Pathfinder. The contact stated while driving at 25 MPH, the front driver's side air bag and the driver's side curtain air bags suddenly deployed without impact. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent or dealer. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The contact was awaiting a response from the manufacturer. The failure mileage was approximately 61,464.
Nissan Pathfinder 2022
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-09-12
  • Date Complaint: 2024-10-15
  • VIN: 5N1DR3CD2NC
  • Components: WHEELS,SERVICE BRAKES
  • Summary: The rear breaks wore off really fast at around 10,000 miles as well as all the tires. It was inspected and the mechanic said that it’s normal for the breaks in these cars to wear off quickly. I never recieved any warning lamps about the breaks needing to be changed.
Nissan Pathfinder 2010
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-10-15
  • Date Complaint: 2024-10-15
  • VIN: 5N1AR1NB8AC
  • Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: rear sub frame rusted through. Vans in Mansfield Ohio showed us were were the frame was completely rusted out.
Nissan Pathfinder 2006
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-09-11
  • Date Complaint: 2024-10-11
  • VIN: 5N1AR18U76C
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
  • Summary: The contact stated that the company owns a 2006 Nissan Pathfinder. The contact stated that the fuel gauge displayed a full tank, then suddenly displayed that the fuel was empty, improperly displaying the fuel level. The vehicle was taken to the dealer who determined that the fuel level sensor was high causing the fuel pump to fail. The contact was informed that the fuel pump needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was 130,000.
Nissan Pathfinder 2001
  • Date Of Incident: 2014-03-10
  • Date Complaint: 2024-10-11
  • VIN: JN8DR09XX1W
  • Components: STRUCTURE
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2001 Nissan Pathfinder. The contact stated that the door open warning light was illuminated. In addition, the vehicle dome light remained on. The contact stated when opening the rear door hatch there was an abnormal noise present. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 01V282000 (Structure). The vehicle was taken to the dealer where she was informed that the remedy parts were no longer available. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.
Nissan Pathfinder 2022
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-10-11
  • Date Complaint: 2024-10-11
  • VIN: 5N1DR3BD1NC
  • Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER,SERVICE BRAKES,ENGINE
  • Summary: My car jerks violently into first gear often. Slow acceleration. Exclamation mark inside a triangle warning light came on and my car wouldn't accelerate over tha 2 miles per hrs. When in park or at a stop light it idles roughly. Rear brakes have been prematurely expired. I have since replaced them
Nissan Pathfinder 2023
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-10-01
  • Date Complaint: 2024-10-11
  • VIN: 5N1DR3DK7PC
  • Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
  • Summary: Jerking and most of the times lag on first and second gear most mornings..
Nissan Pathfinder 2024
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-10-06
  • Date Complaint: 2024-10-09
  • VIN: 5N1DR3CD9RC
  • Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: While merging onto the parkway, the gas pedal snapped off during acceleration. There was no warning at all, it just snapped off when I stepped on the pedal. I was fortunate enough to pull over onto the shoulder of the parkway without incident, but I had no way to accelerate the car if I needed to. I was very lucky that nothing happened, but I'm very concerned about driving this vehicle and the potential danger it poses to myself and others if this happens again. I believe this is a serious issue and should be looked into with urgency. I've attached pictures of where the pedal snapped off. It appears to be a cheaply made piece of plastic that completely broke off. There is another picture with the pedal intact and circled in red, you can see an indentation towards the top of the pedal. This is where I believe the pedal broke off from.
Nissan Pathfinder 2022
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-06-05
  • Date Complaint: 2024-10-07
  • VIN: 5N1DR3BC0NC
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
  • Summary: the car is burning through brakes first brakes was repaired under warranty from nissan at 15k miles now the car needed
Nissan Pathfinder 2017
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-10-01
  • Date Complaint: 2024-10-06
  • VIN: 5N1DR2MN0HC
  • Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
  • Summary: Low beam headlamps becoming to dim to safely see at night resulting in having to replace entire headlamp Replacing bulb made no difference

Latest 5 recalls Nissan Pathfinder

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 138 recalls for different components of the Nissan Pathfinder.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.

  • Model: Nissan Pathfinder 2024
  • Report Received Date: 2024-03-05
  • Manufacturer: Nissan North America, Inc.
  • Components: SEAT BELTS:PRETENSIONER
  • Summary: Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2024 Pathfinder and Infiniti QX60 vehicles. The lap belt pretensioner in the left-side front seat belt assembly may be improperly secured, due to a missing rivet. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard numbers 208 "Occupant Crash Protection," 209 "Seat Belt Assemblies," and 210 "Seat Belt Assembly Anchorages."
  • Consequence: An unsecured lap belt pretensioner will not properly restrain an occupant during a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
  • Remedy: Dealers will inspect and replace the left-side front lap seat belt pretensioner assemblies as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 18, 2024. Owners may contact Nissan customer service at 1-800-867-7669. Owners may contact Infiniti customer service at 1-800-662-6200. Nissan's numbers for this recall are PD106 and PD107.
  • Model: Nissan Pathfinder 2024
  • Report Received Date: 2024-02-27
  • Manufacturer: Nissan North America, Inc.
  • Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
  • Summary: Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2024 Titan, Frontier, Infiniti QX60, Pathfinder, 2023-2024 Sentra, Versa, Kicks, Infiniti QX50, and 2023 Rogue vehicles. Due to a manufacturing issue, the driver's air bag inflator may absorb moisture, and cause the air bag to deploy improperly.
  • Consequence: An air bag that deploys improperly may not protect the driver as intended during a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
  • Remedy: Dealers will replace the front driver's air bag assembly, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 10, 2024. Owners may contact Nissan customer service at 1-800-867-7669. Nissan's numbers for this recall are PD103, PD104, and PMA34.
  • Model: Nissan Pathfinder 2023
  • Report Received Date: 2023-04-13
  • Manufacturer: Nissan North America, Inc.
  • Components: SEATS:CRITICAL FASTENERS
  • Summary: Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2023 Rogue, Pathfinder, and Infiniti QX60 vehicles. The driver's powered seat may not be fully secured to the seat frame, causing the seat frame welds to detach from the rear inboard seat bracket.
  • Consequence: An unsecured seat with broken welds may not properly restrain an occupant during a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
  • Remedy: Dealers will inspect the driver's seat rail clearance, and if necessary, replace the driver's seat cushion frame, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed June 10, 2023. Owners may contact Nissan's customer service at 1-800-867-7669. Nissan's number for this recall is PC966, PC967.
  • Model: Nissan Pathfinder 2011
  • Report Received Date: 2023-02-10
  • Manufacturer: Nissan North America, Inc.
  • Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL
  • Summary: Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2008-2011 Titan, Frontier, Xterra, Pathfinder, Armada, and 2008-2009 Quest vehicles. The resin emblem on the driver's air bag cover may develop cracks and detach during air bag deployment.
  • Consequence: A detached emblem can become a projectile during air bag deployment, increasing the risk of injury to vehicle occupants.
  • Remedy: Dealers will replace the driver’s airbag cover. Owner letters were mailed December 8, 2023. Owners may contact Nissan's customer service at 1-800-867-7669. Nissan's number for this recall are PC944, PC945, and PC946.
  • Model: Nissan Pathfinder 2008
  • Report Received Date: 2023-02-10
  • Manufacturer: Nissan North America, Inc.
  • Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL
  • Summary: Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2008-2011 Titan, Frontier, Xterra, Pathfinder, Armada, and 2008-2009 Quest vehicles. The resin emblem on the driver's air bag cover may develop cracks and detach during air bag deployment.
  • Consequence: A detached emblem can become a projectile during air bag deployment, increasing the risk of injury to vehicle occupants.
  • Remedy: Dealers will replace the driver’s airbag cover. Owner letters were mailed December 8, 2023. Owners may contact Nissan's customer service at 1-800-867-7669. Nissan's number for this recall are PC944, PC945, and PC946.

Latest negative Nissan Pathfinder car reviews

  1. Jadon Kozey 2025-06-01

    Vehicle year: 1994

    Hi there! I used to own a 94 Pathfinder that I recently sold. I just wanted to give you a heads up on a couple of things to keep in mind if you're considering buying one. While these vehicles are generally reliable and fun to drive, there are a couple of issues you should be aware of. Firstly, the automatic transmissions on these vehicles tend to fail earlier than expected. Nissan is aware of this problem and has even issued a service bulletin about it, but unfortunately, there's no recall. The issue is that the transmission cooler can clog up with debris, causing the transmission to overheat and fail. This can be a costly repair, with a rebuild costing around $2800. Secondly, the exhaust manifolds can overheat and crack or even break away from the engine block. However, as long as you keep these things in mind, you should be able to enjoy your Pathfinder for years to come!

  2. Theodore Bednar 2025-05-27

    Vehicle year: 2022

    The Pathfinder SV has several areas that require improvement. The passenger seat is too low, making the sun visor unusable and obstructing the view over the hood line. The back-up camera quality is poor and the drive is rough, particularly in the passenger seat. The side mirrors are too high and the seats are uncomfortable. Additionally, the transmission shifts roughly in low gears and the key fob has limited range. The app also has reliability issues. Despite these shortcomings, the Pathfinder has good storage options and impressive AWD capabilities. With some attention to quality control, the Pathfinder could be an excellent vehicle.

  3. Conor Kerluke 2025-05-25

    Vehicle year: 2016

    I had to replace the transmission at 65,000 miles due to total transmission failure. The issue was diagnosed by a Nissan dealer and confirmed by an independent transmission shop. Unfortunately, the failure was sudden and without warning. The dealer quoted me $4,500 to replace it, but I was able to find an independent transmission shop who replaced the same transmission for $3,500. Although the vehicle was 5,000 miles over the warranty period, I discovered that this transmission has been a problem for Nissan in earlier model years, not only for the Pathfinder, but most with this new CVT transmission. In fact, they were sued in a Class action in which they lost. I wish I had done my due diligence and investigated it before hand. This is my 1st Nissan and my last. However, I do have to say that the air conditioner works well, but the road noise is quite loud. If you are considering a Nissan product, I would recommend doing your research before making a decision. Good luck!

  4. Murphy Weissnat 2025-05-25

    Vehicle year: 2007

    Hello! I wanted to share my experience with my vehicle. I purchased it brand new to replace my old car with high mileage. While I have enjoyed driving it, I have noticed that some of the interior materials are made of cheaper plastic. At around 55k miles, I did have an issue with the fuel sending unit, but thankfully it was covered under warranty. Recently, after owning the car for 7 years, I experienced a potentially serious issue with the plastic inlet hose nipple to the heater core breaking and spraying coolant throughout the engine compartment. Upon further inspection, I noticed some cross contamination of ATF/AF in the radiator and overflow tank, which I understand can be a common problem with this vehicle after 100k miles. Overall, I still appreciate my car and hope to continue driving it for many more years to come!

  5. Keshaun Yost 2025-05-16

    Vehicle year: 2000

    Hi there! I just wanted to share my experience with my 2000 car. I bought it for a great price of 1700.00, even though it had 245000 miles on it. After some maintenance work, including replacing the cv joints, heater core, front struts, rear shocks, front bearings and front drive shaft bearings, it feels like a brand new car! I'm so happy with it that I would drive it anywhere.

Latest positive Nissan Pathfinder car reviews

  1. Heber Kling 2025-06-03

    Vehicle year: 2008

    I recently picked up my 2008 Pathfinder SE with Premium package and only 42K's on it. I drove 134km from home to get the best deal, and the drive back was an absolute pleasure. Despite mixed road conditions, including snow and freezing rain, the Pathfinder handled it with ease. All the instrument features are intuitive and extremely easy to use, so there's no need to reference the owner's manual. The dual climate control and heated seats are fantastic, and the LCD screen is a great size to view all the information. For how much kit you get, it's great value for your money. The full side curtain airbags and active head restraints make me feel safe and secure. I considered an LR3, but I'm extremely glad I went with the Pathfinder. The build quality is superior inside and out!

  2. Wilbert Daugherty 2025-06-03

    Vehicle year: 2008

    This is my second Pathfinder and I've used them for company vehicles. The '08 has 132,000 miles and the '06 has 185,000, but I can't seem to wear them out. They're also cheap to maintain due to having a chain instead of a timing belt. The engine is super reliable and durable, it just goes and goes. The body integrity is also excellent, much better than the big Armadas. In fact, it's the best vehicle I've ever driven. It gets fuel mileage from 18-23 and pulls everything I hook up to it. The seating position is very comfortable too.

  3. Dee Sawayn 2025-06-03

    Vehicle year: 2007

    Congratulations on your new Pathfinder! It sounds like you made a great choice by going for a 2007 SE with leather and low mileage. It's always a smart move to go for a known quantity, and the Pathfinder is a fantastic SUV that offers plenty of room, power, and comfort. I'm glad to hear that you haven't had any major issues with either of your Pathfinders. Enjoy your new ride!

  4. Elroy Mante 2025-06-02

    Vehicle year: 2022

    I've owned 4 different Pathfinders in the past 20 years, and I can tell you that the 2022 model is by far the greatest of them all. I must mention that none of the previous models gave me any headaches, just regular maintenance. My new 2022 SV (base model, no premium package) is full of tech gadgets and safety features like ProPilot, lane assist, automatic emergency breaking, Blind spot intervention and many more. The ride is extremely comfortable and quiet. The fuel economy I am getting is around 25 MPG in a mix of highway/city which is excellent by my standards for a pretty large SUV like the Pathfinder. As other people have already mentioned, the auto-start/stop feature is useless and causes jolting of the tranny/engine. To remediate that, every time I start the engine, I have gotten into the habit of turning this feature off by the button in the center console. There are a couple of things I don't like: 1. The towing package is a part of the Premium Package, which means instead of costing $700-800, you have to cough up $2100. 2. The reason I bought the SV without the premium package is because I MUST have a bench seat on the second row. The Premium Package comes with captain's chairs. Captain's chairs and Tow Package should be sold like any other dealer-installed accessory. In general, I am VERY happy with my purchase.

  5. Kenyon Wolf 2025-06-01

    Vehicle year: 2017

    I bought one for my wife and then, two years later, I got the same exact one, just a little newer. You need to adapt to the CVT and understand when the 'gears' will change in order to continue accelerating through the roads, so it doesn't downshift and rev up. These vehicles are a great value. They have the best legroom of any SUV on the market, both in the front and rear seats. However, both the 2015 and our 2017 had hood issues. When going over 70-80mph on the interstate, the hood would look like it's going to fly up and off, so we took them in to be tightened. The 2017 platinum sits a little squatty, and people flash me a lot thinking I have my brights on. The headlights are extremely bright, and you can tell when on low beam they're a little high. I feel bad for some oncoming drivers. The city/highway average is 19.5mpg at 14,000 miles.

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