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: 2018
I recently traded in my 2017 Honda Pilot Touring AWD for a 2017 Nissan Pathfinder Platinum AWD midnight edition with family entertainment at my local Nissan dealership. The Pathfinder is a fantastic vehicle with superior technology compared to the Honda Pilot. Unlike the Pilot, the Pathfinder allows you to control the rear seat entertainment system from the driver's seat and all calls are automatically played through the Bluetooth. Additionally, the engine auto start/stop feature can be easily disabled through a setting, making it much more convenient. The Pathfinder's interior is also impressive and the ride is smoother, making it a well thought out vehicle. Nissan is currently offering great rebates, so I highly recommend considering the Pathfinder over the Pilot if you're in the market for a new car.
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Vehicle year: 2004
Initially, I was searching for a Tahoe or Yukon on a car lot. Unfortunately, the Yukon they had wasn't 'up to snuff', so I was ready to walk away. However, my husband spotted this olive green Pathfinder that I wasn't too fond of at first. But after months of searching, I was tired and it had less than 91,500 miles on it. A year and a month later, I absolutely love it! The Pathfinder is very roomy, has a sunroof, auto adjustable driver's seat, and leather interior. We have taken it on several road trips and it has never let us down. I try to keep up with the oil changes and it's about time for a tune-up. I'm so glad my husband talked me into this one - I'm sticking with Nissan for life! Three years and three months later, I still love my Pathfinder! I recently had it completely serviced for the first time and it's running great. Although I've been eyeing the Murano or an X5, newer models with all the bells and whistles that I want, I can't see myself without my baby! As long as I take care of her, she takes care of me!I put a brand new set of tires on my car in July 2019 and I keep up with regular tune ups and oil changes. Recently, I read that my car is supposed to have premium gas, but I've only ever used regular since I got it in April 2015. 🤷🏽♀️😅 A few months ago, I had my first major issue with my car - the intake manifold gasket and something else were leaking oil big time. But my car never stopped running, it just had a burning smell if I drove it longer than 30 minutes. Thank God I wasn’t making any long trips, just around the city. It cost $940 to fix, but now it's as good as new again! 🤩 It's been 8 years and 8 months since I got my car and I've had to do some maintenance like alignment, new set of tires, oil change, wiper blades, and tune up about 3 months ago. But I'm still in love ❤️. I thought of getting an Armada because we now have an 8 month old Cane Corso who’s already close to 100 lbs, but he seems fine and happy laying across the backseat so we’ll stick with it 😁👍🏽
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Vehicle year: 1990
Hi there! I just wanted to share my experience with my car. I bought it with 95,000 miles on it and have driven it another 102,000 miles. With 197,000 miles on the clock, I have only had to change the timing belt, tires, brakes and oil. Surprisingly, the clutch, alternator and water pump are still original, even though I tow things often. These cars are so well built that you never see them in the junk yard. They are definitely built to last!
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Vehicle year: 1995
This is the 4th new vehicle I've had, and it has been the best! I completely agree that any make can produce a lemon. I once leased a Nissan Quest which turned out to be a lemon and had to be promptly returned. However, this car has only needed a wrench once in 7 years (for brake pads) and has aged gracefully despite my harsh pounding.
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Vehicle year: 2016
We were in need of an SUV that could tow a boat and accommodate our family with a 3rd row seat. The Pathfinder met all of our requirements and we were able to get a great deal on a 2015 Platinum trim. After a month of driving, we are still thoroughly enjoying all of its features. I particularly appreciate the back-up camera and the 360 degree view it provides. Towing has been a breeze.
Rick Gleichner 2025-10-03
Vehicle year: 2001
This car looks, handles, and feels great. In 2001, it was more powerful than the 2001 Toyota 4Runner and more stylish. The engine was boosted to 240HP from a weak 168HP 3.3 liter, but this caused some MAF, O2, and crank position sensor failures. While premium fuel is recommended, it is more than worth it. The transmission is a bit weak, and there is aggressive rust on the under-body, so it's best to spray it prematurely if you can. There have been some strut tower failures. Realistic fuel economy is 14 city and 20 highway.
Lewis Tremblay 2025-10-02
Vehicle year: 1998
The previous owner of this model rated it as above average in reliability, which is great news for you!
Liam Dickinson 2025-10-02
Vehicle year: 2006
Before purchasing this vehicle used, we recommend doing a Google search for 'Nissan Pathfinder transmission problem'. It's important to be aware that after 80k-100k miles, there may be a complete transmission failure due to a defect in the radiator/transmission system. This can result in the need for a complete transmission and radiator replacement, which can cost around $5-6K. However, there is a class action lawsuit against Nissan USA and they may cover 1/2 of the expenses. It's also worth noting that there is a catalytic converter/O2 sensor issue that may prevent the vehicle from passing smog in California, which can cost $1200 to fix. We want to make sure you have all the information you need to make an informed decision about your purchase.
Stanley Zemlak 2025-10-02
Vehicle year: 2004
Hi there! I hope you enjoyed your ride. I just wanted to let you know that we are aware of the fuel consumption issue and are working on improving it. As for the leg room in the second row, we understand it can be a bit tight and are looking into ways to make it more comfortable. Thank you for your feedback!
Harrison Sawayn 2025-09-29
Vehicle year: 1997
I had to bring my car in three times for warranty repairs on the o2 sensors. Unfortunately, once the warranty expired, I had to bring it back in again to fix the throttle body. The mechanic mentioned that he had never seen this issue in his 15 years of experience. It's frustrating to have already spent over $1,000 and now be faced with an additional estimate of $1,500. Despite my negative experience, I still think the Nissan Maximas are awesome. Thank you for your help!