1997 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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Common 1997 Nissan Pathfinder problems
Based on the search results, there are several common problems with the Nissan Pathfinder 1997 that owners have reported.
- Worn Engine Timing Belt: The timing belt connects the crankshaft sprocket to the upper camshaft sprockets on the engine, and it helps synchronize the valves with the crank. It wears out over time. The timing belt wears out over time and should be replaced every 100,000 miles or less depending on the model year. Intervals can be found in the owner’s manual.
- Worn Variable Valve Timing (VVT) Solenoid: The VVT solenoid can wear out and cause problems with the engine performance, including engine misfiring and rough running. The VVT solenoid controls the variable valve timing system, which adjusts the timing of the intake and exhaust valves for better fuel efficiency and performance.
- EVAP System Problems: The EVAP system is designed to prevent fuel vapors from escaping into the atmosphere. The most common problem with the EVAP system is a faulty purge solenoid, which can cause the check engine light to come on and the smell of fuel after stopping the vehicle. The purge solenoid can get stuck open or closed, causing vacuum leaks and affecting the engine performance.
- Rear Suspension Problems: The bushings in the lower and upper trailer arms wear out over time, causing the rear of the vehicle to wobble at higher speeds. This can affect the safety of the vehicle and should be addressed as soon as possible. Replacing the bushings or the entire trailer arm can solve this problem.
These are some of the common problems with the Nissan Pathfinder 1997 based on complaints from owners of this car. It is important to note that these problems may not affect all vehicles of this model, and regular maintenance and inspections can help prevent or detect these issues early on.
What is the biggest problem 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.
What year was bad for the Nissan Pathfinder?
Avoid: 2005 Nissan Pathfinder
CarComplaints says the 2005 Nissan Pathfinder is the worst model year for this three-row SUV. With a whopping 400+ written complaints, the Pathfinder struggled with the coolant leaking into the transmission, eventually leading to transmission failure.
Are 90s Pathfinder reliable?
What's Wrong with the 1st Generation (1987–1995) Pathfinder? Pathfinder owners have made 19 complaints about the 1987–1995 model years. Using our PainRank™ system we've ranked it 3rd out of 54 Nissan generations in overall reliability , with some engine and electrical concerns.
Does a 1997 Nissan Pathfinder have a timing belt or chain?
belt
The 3.6L engine has a belt, and it is recommended at the 105,000 mile service.
1997 Nissan Pathfinder car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Nissan Pathfinder problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Suspension problems
- Steering problems
- Power train problems
- Tires problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1997 Nissan Pathfinder vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 1997 Nissan Pathfinder
The NHTSA has received 235 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1997 Nissan Pathfinder. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 1997 Nissan Pathfinder vehicles.
SUSPENSION,POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-01-04
- VIN: JN8AR05Y1VW
- Components: SUSPENSION,POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: The vehicle swings left to right when cruising at about any speed. When the vehicle is pulling it does not swing or sway, however once the vehicle has got up to a desired speed and you try to maintain a steady speed it starts a “death wobble” which nearly cannot hold it on correct side of the road. You have to increase speed or reduce speed dramatically to regain control of the vehicle.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-09-17
- VIN: JN8AR05S9VW
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: I HAVE TAKEN MY NISSAN TO THE DEALERSHIP TO DECODE MY ENGINE LIGHT. I HAVE PAID FOR SEVERAL REPAIRS TO HAVE THE EVAL CODE CORRECTED. AFTER THE LAST ATTEMPT OF TRYING TO FIX THE PROBLEM, I WAS TOLD THAT MY EVAL TUBE IS CLOGGED THROUGHOUT AND THE PART IS NO LONGER AVAILABLE WITH NISSAN. I'M STUCK WITH A CLOGGED SYSTEM THAT IS UNREPAIRABLE.
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-01-24
- VIN: JN8AR05Y3VW
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: VEHICLE HAS A SEVERE SHIMMY WHEN LETTING OFF THE ACCELERATOR, EVEN AT LOW SPEEDS. DRIVING THE VEHICLE ON DRY PAVEMENT ON A STRAIGHT STRETCH OF HIGHWAY: AT AROUND 55-60 MPH, THE BACK END OF VEHICLE SWAYS VIOLENTLY, WITH NO WARNING OR APPARENT CAUSE. DRIVER FEELS THAT IF SPEED IS NOT IMMEDIATELY DECREASED, THE VEHICLE WOULD GO OUT OF CONTROL.
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-03-01
- VIN: JN8AR05Y6VW
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: A DEFECT IN THE COATING PROCESS OF THE FILL TUBE ALLOWED ROAD SALT TO FORM RUST ON THE FUEL FILL AND OR VENT TUBE RESULTING IN FUEL VAPORS TO ESCAPE IN THE AIR AROUND THE GAS TANK. IT IS HEAVY AT TIMES. THERE IS A RECALL FOR THIS PROBLEM BUT NISSAN SAYS MY VIN IS NOT INCLUDED. THIS IS NOTICED WHEN EVER YOU WALK BY THE CAR. STATIONARY. ANY WHERE
STEERING,SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-01-30
- VIN: JN8AR05S3VW
- Components: STEERING,SUSPENSION
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 NISSAN PATHFINDER. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 11V244000 (STEERING , SUSPENSION) HOWEVER, THE PARTS TO DO THE REPAIRS WERE UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT 40 MPH, THE CONTACT OBSERVED AN LOUD ABNORMAL SOUND FROM THE DRIVER SIDE AND THE STEERING WHEEL FAILED. IN ADDITION, THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 229,000. PARTS DISTRIBUTION DISCONNECT.
STEERING,SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-01-01
- VIN: JN8AR05S3VW
- Components: STEERING,SUSPENSION
- Summary: THE VEHICLE LOST STRUTS, STEERING RACK, AND HAS SERIOUS ISSUES THAT HAVE NOT BEEN RESOLVED. I SPOKE WITH THE DEALER AND THEY SAID THEY DON'T NEED TO FIX. THE ENTIRE FRONT END IS FALLING APART.
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-10-05
- VIN: JN8AR05Y8VW
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 NISSAN PATHFINDER. WHILE DRIVING 40 MPH, THE REAR OF THE VEHICLE WOBBLED VIOLENTLY ESPECIALLY WHEN MAKING A TURN. THE FAILURE RECURRED NUMEROUS TIMES. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER, BUT WAS NOT DIAGNOSED NOR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 105,000.
STEERING,SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-07-15
- VIN: JN8AR05Y1VW
- Components: STEERING,SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE
- Summary: DRIVING TRUCK GOT SO BAD IT WAS HARD TO KEEP IN ROAD..WOULD GO SIDE TO SIDE ON HIGHWAY AND TURNS WERE NOT EASY TO SAY IN LANE.TOOK TO CLARKTIRE CO ..THEY REPLACED LOTS OF PARTS AND SAID MOUNTS FOR SHOCKS AND STRUTS WERE PRETTY BADLY RUSTED CAUSING EXCESSIVE MOVEMENT OF THOSE.
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-07-16
- VIN: JN8AR05Y5VW
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 NISSAN PATHFINDER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 55 MPH, THE VEHICLE INDEPENDENTLY SWAYED FROM LEFT TO RIGHT INDEPENDENTLY. THE CONTACT REDUCED SPEED AND WAS ABLE TO GAIN CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE. THE FAILURE RECURRED MULTIPLE TIMES. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 130,000.
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-08-02
- VIN: JN8AR05Y1VW
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: STEERING SHAFT WAS BROKEN IN 2011 ( REPLACED WITH USED PART ) STEERING SHAFT WAS BROKEN IN 2013 ( REPLACED WITH NEW NISSAN ORIGINAL PART) STEERING SHAFT WAS BROKEN 10 2014 (REPLACED WITH NEW NISSAN ORIGINAL PART) CORRODED STRUT TOWER. STEERING SHAFT RESTING ON THE CORRODED STRUT TOWER/ STEERING TOWER BREAKING WHILE DRIVING. IN ONE OF THE INCIDENTS, IT BROKE ON A MAJOR STREET IN THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA ( 11TH AND PENNSYLVANIA AVE ) COST OF TOWING WAS $150.00. *TR
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-04-09
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: THE TRAILER ARMS FAILED. THIS IS WHAT HOLDS THE REAR AXLE STEADY AND WILL CAUSE THE TRUCK TO SWAY OR HULA HOOP THE REAR END. I REPLACED THEM MYSELF $160.00 FOR THE PARTS 3HOURS UNDER THE CAR. ALSO REPLACED THE SHOCKS 5 DAYS LATER. RIDES LIKE NEW. LOOKS LIKE THE FRAME IS ALSO ROTTING OUT. HOPE THEY OPEN A RECALL ON THE FRAME. I WILL CHECK THE FRONT STRUT HOUSING FOR RUST. *TR
SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-10-03
- VIN: JN8AR05Y3VW
- Components: SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE
- Summary: THE FRAME, INCLUDING CHASSIS, SUSPENSION AND BODY HAS EXTENSIVE RUST. THE SUSPENSION IS CAVING INTO THE CHASSIS DUE TO EXTENSIVE CHASSIS RUST. THE RUST IS NOT DUE TO NORMAL WEAR AND TEAR OF VEHICLE. IT IS DUE TO INADEQUATE COATING TO PREVENT RUST. THE VEHICLES OF SAME MODEL (YEAR) OF OTHER MAKES HAVE MINIMAL RUST COMPARED TO THIS VEHICLE. EVEN THE MECHANICS I HAVE APPROACHED HAVE SIMILAR OPINION THAT THIS VEHICLE ACROSS THE BOARD IS POORLY BUILT, AND MORE RUST PRONE. THE VEHICLE CAN BE POTENTIALLY CATASTROPHIC IF THE RUST EATS THROUGH AND MAKES SUSPENSION/AXLES COLLAPSE, ESPECIALLY WHILE DRIVING. THIS VEHICLE HAD A RECALL FOR RUST ISSUES, BUT THE RECALL ONLY COVERED PART OF THE PROBLEM, WHILE THERE IS MORE EXTENSIVE ISSUES WITH THIS VEHICLE. *TR
SUSPENSION,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC) PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-08-09
- VIN: JN8AR05SQVW
- Components: SUSPENSION,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
- Summary: THE VEHICLE STARTS SWAYING DANGEROUSLY, AT A SPEED OF 20 MPH . AT A HIGHER SPEED THE CAR WILL STARTS BACK SWAYING AND FISH TAILING AND WOULD FLIP SPECIALLY ON A WET ROADS, NO CONTROL TO IT. *TR
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-06-11
- VIN: JN8AR05Y9VW
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: THE ROUND RUNNING BOARDS ARE RUSTING SEVERELY AND POSE A DANGER TO ANYONE ENTERING OR EXITING THE VEHICLE. THIS ITEM SHOULD BE RECALLED. *TR
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-04-22
- VIN: JN8AR05Y7VW
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: WHEN I DRIVE AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS THE TRUCK WILL START TO ROCK AND FISHTAIL AT RANDOM AND ERRATIC TIMES CAUSING A POTENTIALLY DANGEROUS ACCIDENT. I HAVE READ THOUSANDS OF OTHER PEOPLES EXPERIENCE WITH THIS SAME INCIDENT AND FEEL NISSAN SHOULD CORRECT THERE ENGINEERING FAILURE. *TR
STEERING,SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-04-01
- Components: STEERING,SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE
- Summary: AT AROUND 120000 MILES THE VEHICLE BEGAN TO SWAY UNCONTROLLABLY. MECHANICS COULD FIND NOTHING WRONG. ONLY WAY TO STOP THE SWAY IS TO TAP THE BRAKES OR ACCELERATE. HAPPENS QUITE OFTEN AND IS DOWNRIGHT SCARY AT TIMES. ALSO THE ENTIRE UNDERBODY / FRAME IS EXTREMELY CORRODED. VEHICLE SHOULD NOT CORRODE THAT QUICKLY. ALL UNDERBODY PARTS ARE EXTREMELY RUSTED. *TR
STEERING,SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-08-22
- VIN: JN8AR05Y4VW
- Components: STEERING,SUSPENSION
- Summary: AT RANDOM... THIS PATHFINDER WILL GO INTO A CRAZY DEATH WOBBLE, TO THE POINT TO WERE IT WANTS TO PUT YOUR HEAD AND THE HEADS OF YOUR CHILDREN THREW THE WINDOWS. I HAVE REPLACED THE SHOCKS IN THE CAR. BUT YET THE PROBLEM REMAINS. MY CAR IS AT THE NISSAN DEALERSHIP RIGHT NOW RACKING UP A BILL THAT I CAN NOT AFFORD, FOR SOMETHING THEY WILL MOST LIKELY NOT BE ABLE TO FIX. I HAVE READ A HUNDRED COMPLAINTS ON LINE THAT DESCRIBE THE SAME PROBLEM TO A T. GOD HELP US! *TR
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-08-12
- VIN: JN8AR05Y4VW
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 NISSAN PATHFINDER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING 65 MPH, THE VEHICLE BEGAN TO SHAKE VIOLENTLY. THE FAILURE RECURRED NUMEROUS TIMES. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A DEALER AND THE CONTACT WAS AWAITING DIAGNOSIS OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE HAD NOT BEEN REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 127,000 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 157,000.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-02-11
- VIN: JN8AR05SXVW
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: VEHICLE SWAYS VERY BAD DURING MODERATE ACCELERATION AND STOP IF YOU PUSH THE BRAKE OR SPEED UP. FEELS REALLY DANGEROUS AND FOUND OTHERS WITH SAME VEHICLE AND SAME PROBLEM. *TR
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-03-14
- VIN: JN8AR05Y1VW
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: EXTREME REAR END WOBBLE (SWAY) AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS. *TR
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-07-10
- VIN: JN8AR05Y5VW
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS 1997 NISSAN PATHFINDER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT VEHICLE DISPLAYED HAVING A QUARTER TANK OF FUEL IN THE FUEL GAUGE AND WAS DRIVEN SHORTLY AFTER THE VEHICLE STALLED BECAUSE THERE WAS NO FUEL. THE VEHICLE WOULD NOT START IF IT WAS PARKED ON AN INCLINE OR DOWNHILL POSITION. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHO DIAGNOSE THAT THE FUEL FENDING UNIT WAS DEFECTIVE AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE HOWEVER NO FURTHER ASSISTANCE WAS PROVIDED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 60,000 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 97,000.
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-07-24
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 NISSAN PATHFINDER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A LOCAL MECHANIC FOR ROUTINE MAINTENANCE WHEN THE MECHANIC NOTICED A SEPARATION OF THE FRONT DRIVER SIDE STRUT. THE CONTACT WAS ADVISED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DRIVABLE AND COULD NOT BE REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE ISSUE. THE VIN WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 183,000.
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-06-03
- VIN: JN8AR05Y9VW
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 NISSAN PATHFINDER. THE CONTACT WAS DRIVING 30 MPH WHEN THE VEHICLE ACCELERATED OVER A SPEED BUMP AND THE REAR OF THE VEHICLE SWAYED BACK AND FORTH. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER. THE DEALER STATED THAT THE FRONT AND REAR STRUTS NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 170,000 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 174,000. UPDATED 8/24/12 *CN THE CONSUMER ALSO STATD THE FRONT AND REAR SWAY BAR LINKS NEEDED TO BE REPLACED.
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-04-20
- VIN: JN8AR05Y6VW
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 NISSAN PATHFINDER. THE VEHICLE WAS INCLUDED AND REPAIRED UNDER NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER: 11V244000 (STEERING:COLUMN). WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 35 MPH, THE DRIVER OF THE VEHICLE NOTICED THAT THE STEERING WHEEL BECAME DIFFICULT TO MANEUVER. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE DEALER. THE TECHNICIANS STATED THE FAILURE WAS NOT DUE TO THE RECALL AND DID NOT INFORM THE CONTACT OF THE REPAIRS NEEDED. THE CONTACT INSPECTED THE VEHICLE AND STATED THAT THE STRUT HOUSING WAS CORRODED AND THE RECALL REPAIR HAD FAILED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED A SECOND TIME. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 166,600.
SUSPENSION,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC) PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-03-15
- VIN: JN8AR05Y3VW
- Components: SUSPENSION,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
- Summary: I BOUGHT MY 1997 NISSAN PATHFINDER A FEW MONTHS AGO AS MY SECOND VEHICLE TO GET BACK AND FORTH TO WORK SOME 30 MILES ONE WAY. I CAN'T DRIVE IT MORE THAN UP THE STREET BECAUSE IT HAS DEVELOPED A SEVERE SWAYING DEFECT WHEN DRIVING AT SPEEDS OVER 40 MPH. IT IS SO BAD THAT IT FEELS LIKE AN AMUSEMENT PARK RIDE!. IT IS VERY VERY DANGEROUS TO DRIVE ON THE HIGHWAY. AFTER LOOKING ON THE INTERNET TO TRY TO GET SOME INFORMATION ABOUT THIS PROBLEM, I FOUND OUT THAT THERE ARE WAY TOO MANY COMMENTS FROM PEOPLE OVER SEVERAL YEARS THAT HAVE EXPERIENCED THIS "DEATH SWAY" THAT IT IS ACTUALLY APPALLING THAT NISSAN OR THE CONSUMER SAFETY DEPARTMENT HASN'T STEPPED IN TO CORRECT THIS DANGEROUS PROBLEM. THE MAJORITY OF THE PEOPLE FOUND THAT IT IS A REAR UPPER AND LOWER BUSHING ARM THAT SEEMS TO FIX THE PROBLEM BUT AT A HEFTY EXPENSE OF UP TO $1,000. A LIFE SHOULDN'T HAVE TO BE TAKEN FOR NISSAN TO ACCEPT RESPONSIBILITY FOR THIS WELL DOCUMENTED DEFECT. NISSAN NOT BEING HELD ACCOUNTABLE FOR THIS DEFECT IS INEXCUSABLE. *TR
1997 Nissan Pathfinder recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 4 recalls for different components of the 1997 Nissan Pathfinder.
- Manufacturer: NISSAN NORTH AMERICA, INC.
- Components: STEERING:COLUMN
- Summary: NISSAN IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 1996-2004 PATHFINDER AND MODEL YEAR 1997-2003 INFINITI QX4 VEHICLES ORIGINALLY SOLD, OR CURRENTLY REGISTERED IN, CONNECTICUT, DELAWARE, IOWA, ILLINOIS, INDIANA, MASSACHUSETTS, MAINE, MARYLAND, MICHIGAN, MINNESOTA, MISSOURI, NEW HAMPSHIRE, NEW JERSEY, NEW YORK, OHIO, PENNSYLVANIA, RHODE ISLAND, VERMONT, WASHINGTON D.C., WEST VIRGINIA AND WISCONSIN. IN AREAS OF THE COUNTRY IN WHICH HEAVY CONCENTRATIONS OF ROAD SALT ARE USED, A MIXTURE OF SNOW/WATER AND SALT MAY ENTER AN ASSEMBLY LOCATION HOLE IN THE UPPER STRUT HOUSING, CAUSING WATER TO COLLECT AT THE MATING SURFACE OF THE STRUT HOUSING PANEL AND THE INNER HOOD LEDGE ASSEMBLY. OVER TIME, THIS SNOW/WATER AND SALT INTRUSION MAY RESULT IN CORROSION OF THE STRUT TOWER HOUSING IN SOME SUBJECT VEHICLES.
- Consequence: THE STRUT HOUSING MAY CRACK AND PULL AWAY FROM THE INNER HOOD LEDGE ASSEMBLY. THIS MAY LEAD TO GRINDING NOISES, INCREASED STEERING EFFORT, AND POSSIBLY THE STEERING COLUMN TO BREAK, RESULTING IN THE LOSS OF STEERING CONTROL, WHICH COULD RESULT IN A CRASH.
- Remedy: NISSAN WILL INSPECT THE STRUT HOUSING AND REPAIR THE VEHICLES AS NECESSARY, FREE OF CHARGE. AN INTERIM NOTIFICATION LETTER WAS SENT OUT IN MAY 2011. THE SECOND NOTICE WAS MAILED ON JULY 25, 2011. OWNERS MAY CONTACT NISSAN AT 1-800-647-7261.
- Manufacturer: NISSAN NORTH AMERICA, INC.
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY:FILLER PIPE AND CAP
- Summary: ON CERTAIN VEHICLES ORIGINALLY SOLD IN OR CURRENTLY REGISTERED IN THE STATES OF CONNECTICUT, DELAWARE, IOWA, ILLINOIS, INDIANA, KENTUCKY, MASSACHUSETTS, MAINE, MARYLAND, MICHIGAN, MINNESOTA, NEW HAMPSHIRE, NEW JERSEY, NEW YORK, OHIO, PENNSYLVANIA, RHODE ISLAND, TENNESSEE, VERMONT, VIRGINIA, WEST VIRGINIA , WISCONSIN AND THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA, DURING THE COATING PROCESS OF THE FUEL FILLER TUBE ASSEMBLY, AN INSUFFICIENT AMOUNT OF COATING MAY HAVE BEEN APPLIED AT THE LOWER MOUNTING BRACKET. THIS COULD RESULT IN AN OPENING IN THE COATING WHICH CAN ALLOW WATER TO ENTER AND MAKE CONTACT WITH THE BARE METAL OF THE TUBE.
- Consequence: THIS MAY RESULT IN SURFACE RUST BUT NOT PERFORATION OF THE TUBE. HOWEVER, IN THOSE AREAS OF THE COUNTRY WHICH USE HEAVY CONCENTRATIONS OF ROAD SALT IN THE WINTER, IF A MIXTURE OF SNOW/WATER AND SALT MAKES CONTACT WITH THE BARE METAL, CORROSION MAY OCCUR TO A DEGREE WHICH RESULTS IN PERFORATION OF THE TUBE. IN THIS CASE FUEL LEAKAGE MAY OCCUR WHEN FILLING THE TANK. FUEL LEAKAGE, IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, COULD RESULT IN A FIRE.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE FUEL FILLER TUBE ASSEMBLY WITH A NEW ONE WITH AN IMPROVED COATING PROCESS. THE RECALL BEGAN ON NOVEMBER 26, 2007. OWNERS MAY CONTACT NISSAN AT 1-800-647-7261.
- Manufacturer: CK MOTORSPORT, INC.
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: CERTAIN CK MOTORSPORTS COMBINATION HEADLIGHTS, CLEAR CORNER, BUMPER, AND SIDE MARKER LIGHTS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON THE PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS THAT ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.
- Consequence: WITHOUT THE AMBER REFLECTORS, THE VEHICLE WILL BE POORLY ILLUMINATED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.
- Remedy: CK MOTORSPORT WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE NONCOMPLIANT LAMPS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 1, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT CK MOTORSPORT AT 1-909-610-7211.
- Manufacturer: PRO-A MOTORS, INC.
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: CERTAIN PRO-A MOTORS CORNER LAMPS, TURN SIGNALS, AND HEADLIGHTS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS THAT ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.
- Consequence: WITHOUT THE AMBER REFLECTORS, THE VEHICLE WILL BE POORLY ILLUMINATED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.
- Remedy: PRO-A MOTORS WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER TO REPURCHASE THE LAMPS. THE RECALL BEGAN ON APRIL 3, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT PRO-A MOTORS AT 323-838-2988.
Negative 1997 Nissan Pathfinder car reviews
Positive 1997 Nissan Pathfinder car reviews
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I really love this vehicle! It's so dependable and nice. Plus, it's extremely capable off-road. I'm always having to pull my friends out of the mud!
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I bought this Pathfinder up in Minneapolis and I absolutely love it! It's so much fun to drive, with its 5-speed 4x4 and high seating position that beats all other SUVs and Jeeps. The ground clearance is impressive and the interior and exterior are incredibly durable. The engine roars with great power, and I highly recommend getting the 5-speed with this truck. I've already replaced all the hoses and belts, air filter, and oil, and even got it repainted for $400 so it looks brand new and turns heads. The seats are comfortable and I feel very safe in my Pathfinder. The only downside is that it needs a new manual tranny rebuilt, which will cost me about $1500 to $2500. But I'm willing to invest in this truck because I know it will last forever!
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Mileage, handling, braking, and transmission are all better than when the car was new. The engine runs smoothly and quietly. I have been changing the oil every 3,000 miles and the transmission every 30,000 miles, and I have only had it serviced at the dealer. I have also been using Michelin Mud and Snow tires with Nitrogen, which has really improved the MPG. On the highway, I get an honest 19 mph.
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I hope you're doing well! I wanted to share my experience with my SUV. I purchased it back in 8/05 with 118K miles on it, and now it has over 182K miles. I've only had to replace a thermostat, water pump, and muffler (which cost me a total of $600) besides routine maintenance and tires. I would highly recommend this vehicle to anyone looking for a reliable SUV. Let me know if you have any questions!
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Overall, this is a great car. It is a little too heavy on gas, but generally excellent with no major complaints. There are a few minor points to consider, such as the fog lamp on one side that kept going out every year. I replaced it for a while, but now I have given up. It is steady on the road, but it needs good tires all the time.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1997 Nissan Pathfinder problems:
1997 Nissan Pathfinder Problems and Complaints - 4 Issues
Top 1997 Nissan Pathfinder Problems · Engine won't crank due to starter relay failure. 217 people have reported this · Check Engine Light Due to Failed EVAP ...
Common Nissan Pathfinder Problems - 2nd Gen (1996-2004) - 1A ...
Dec 10, 2020 ... Top 5 Common Issues on the 2nd Gen 1996 to 2004 Nissan Pathfinder · 1. Distributor Problems · 2. Worn Engine Timing Belt · 3. Worn Variable Valve ...
Any serial problems with '95-'05 Pathfinders? : r/nissanpathfinder
Aug 8, 2018 ... They also have very very common failure in the rear control arm bushings, above 55mph the whole rear of the truck will sway. Get on the highway ...
1997 Nissan Pathfinder Q&A: Common Problems, 4WD, Engine ...
Jan 8, 2013 ... Was this answer helpful? up Yes. down No. Finish.
R50 Life Span? - 96-2004 R50 Pathfinders - NPORA Forums
Aug 4, 2011 ... Mine has been doing that after i put about 2.5k miles on an oil change, i must be burning oil and i know that is a common problem with nissans ...
Other years of Nissan Pathfinder
Are you having problems with your 1997 Nissan Pathfinder?
Rahul Lehner 2024-11-27
I purchased this vehicle as a leftover demo. Although I have enjoyed driving the Pathfinder, it has required several repairs over time. These include broken bolts at the manifold/exhaust interface, which I discovered when a valve between the fuel tank and engine needed replacement. Additionally, I had to replace the front brakes at 52K, the clutch at 60K, and the struts at 65K, despite never engaging in more than light off-roading. The cost of replacing each strut was $1000. The climate control system has been a bit clumsy, resulting in the truck being either too cold or too warm. Perhaps Nissan could benefit from focusing on improving their vehicles rather than trying to compete with Toyota and Honda.
Imani Marvin 2024-09-20
Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I just wanted to say that I really enjoyed reading about your Pathfinder. It sounds like you made a great choice in purchasing it, especially with all those awesome features! I'm glad to hear that it's been such a reliable and fun vehicle for you, and it's great to know that it can handle those mountain trails like a champ. Thanks for sharing your experience with us!
Montana Cormier 2024-09-17
This SUV has proven to be incredibly reliable, with only one minor issue occurring at 97,000 miles when the heater motor needed to be replaced. Overall, it has been a trouble-free vehicle.
Michael Spencer 2024-08-25
I will never buy another Nissan, any make or model. Since I bought this car used from my uncle with 98,000 miles, it has been nothing but trouble. I had to replace the manual transmission and drive shaft for $1800. The struts and shocks are so bad that the car wobbles as you drive. Unfortunately, the drive shaft has already malfunctioned again. As an experienced owner, I can confidently say that this car has not met my expectations.
Lance Wolff 2024-05-14
I hope you're doing well! I just wanted to share a little bit about our 1997 Pathfinder. We actually bought it new in 1998 and got a great deal on it. For the first 8 years, we only drove it about 4,000 miles a year since it was our spare vehicle. However, everything changed when our daughter started driving it. She doubled the mileage in just 3 years! Despite that, we've only had to replace/repair the normal things, with the A/C evaporator being the biggest repair so far. I'm really happy to say that I'm very comfortable with our daughter driving it full time. Unfortunately, it has to be inspected next month and if we get bad news, we may have to look around at some other SUVs. We can't afford another Pathfinder, but that Hyundai 10 year 100,000 power train warranty is looking pretty good. Take care!