Nissan Pathfinder problems
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.
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Nissan Pathfinder model years
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.
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:
- Nissan Pathfinder 2005
- Nissan Pathfinder 2013
- Nissan Pathfinder 2006
- Nissan Pathfinder 2007
- Nissan Pathfinder 2014
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 drivers 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 drivers 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
Latest positive Nissan Pathfinder car reviews
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Vehicle year: 2000
Performance is acceptable and handling is excellent, much better than the 97 Explorer and 94 Grand Cherokee. The ride is a bit truck-like, but the seats are much more comfortable in the Explorer. The construction is far superior to the other two vehicles. I have 55,000 miles on it and the body is still solid, and the engine runs very smoothly.
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Vehicle year: 1995
I really love my 1995 Nissan Pathfinder LE 4X4! It's such a reliable and rugged vehicle. Even though I've done some pretty stupid things with it, it's still going strong. The four wheel drive system is really impressive, but I learned the hard way that it doesn't make you invincible. When I first got my Pathfinder, I had a few things fixed up, like the speedometer and the transmission fluid. I also got new tires and changed the oil. Overall, I'm really happy with my choice and I feel like I made a great decision.
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Vehicle year: 2002
We purchased our Nissan Pathfinder used after comparing it to Honda, Infinity, and Toyota. We found that the ride was better in the Nissan and we couldn't justify paying close to 30k for a used vehicle. We tried to buy GM, but we couldn't find anything that compared. We knew someone who had two Pathfinders in the past without needing any repairs. The ride is nice and comfortable, and we love the options on the LE. We think it's put together better than GM - we've owned several GM vehicles in the past and they always needed lots of repairs and small things went wrong after 2 to 3 years. This vehicle is so solid! We searched hard to find a used LE - it must say something!
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Vehicle year: 2013
Hi there! I'm glad to hear that you're enjoying your new SL 4x4! It sounds like you made a great decision switching from your previous Enclave, especially since you're now getting around 22 mpg. The front seats seem to be really comfortable and spacious, and it's great that the 2nd row can now hold 3 people instead of just 2. While the 2nd and 3rd row seats may be a bit low for taller adults, it's good to hear that the size of the Pathfinder meets your family's needs. It's also great to hear that the Pathfinder drives better than the Enclave and gives you more confidence on the road. Thanks for sharing your experience with us!
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Vehicle year: 2010
I've had this SUV for a couple of months now and so far, I haven't had any problems whatsoever. I've been off-roading several times and it has matched the performance of those from Xterra and FJ cruisers. It has plenty of power to tow, thanks to its durable and reliable V6. Additionally, it's really quiet on the highway.
Are you having problems with your Nissan Pathfinder?
Rogelio Kassulke 2025-10-22
Vehicle year: 2024
Hello, we are sorry to hear about the issues you have experienced with the new Nissan Pathfinder. We understand that safety is a top priority for you and your family. We would like to help resolve this issue as soon as possible. Please contact us directly so we can work together to find a solution. Thank you for bringing this to our attention.
Omari Torp 2025-10-22
Vehicle year: 2019
Bought new in 2018. It's been a good car, but unfortunately, I've been having some trouble with the fob. It wouldn't start the car or lock or unlock, and even AAA couldn't get it started. I couldn't find any solutions in the owner's manual, and the dealership charges $150/hr just to diagnose the problem. I'm feeling frustrated, but I'm hopeful that I can find a solution soon. Thanks for listening.
Carmel Bergnaum 2025-10-21
Vehicle year: 2014
I am experiencing a shudder problem with my car at 28 mph, and despite taking it in for repairs multiple times, the issue persists. The service team has been unable to replicate the problem, but I remain frustrated with the situation. Based on my experience, I cannot recommend this car to others.
Clair Williamson 2025-10-18
Vehicle year: 2000
You have a very well-built automobile! While there are no major issues to report, you may want to consider either improving its power or fuel economy. If it's going to be slow, it shouldn't have such poor gas mileage.
Stanford Powlowski 2025-10-15
Vehicle year: 2001
After owning the pathfinder for 7 years and driving 60,000 miles, I have an accurate assessment to share. Despite getting 3,000 mile oil changes, I have experienced numerous mechanical issues and failures such as ignition coils, front springs, air conditioning, and exhaust system. After reviewing my old bills, I realized that I was spending between 1500-2000 dollars a year on it at the dealership. I am truly disappointed in Nissan and this will be my last one ever. Their quality control is terrible and I had hoped that Renault would correct that, but unfortunately, it has only gotten worse.