2003 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.
Social links
Common 2003 Nissan Pathfinder problems
Based on the sources provided, here are some common problems with the Nissan Pathfinder 2003 based on complaints from owners:
- Hydraulic Tailgate Strut Bracket: Some Pathfinders were affected by a fault with the bracket that attaches the hydraulic tailgate struts to the tailgate, leading to a recall for replacement.
- Fuel Filler Pipe Corrosion: In certain states with heavy road salt concentrations, insufficient anti-corrosion coating on the fuel filler pipe caused a recall for replacement.
- Corrosion in Upper Strut Housing: Corrosion issues in the upper strut housing due to a fault could lead to recalls in specific states with heavy road salt use during winter.
- Handbrake Cable Problems: The left-rear bracket for the parking brake cable can work loose, causing wear to the cable casing, leading to a squeaking noise over rough roads. The solution involves replacing the cable and bracket with upgraded parts.
- Accessory Drivebelt Issues: Owners might notice noise from the accessory drivebelt area, which could be due to the belt itself, pulleys, or the tensioner. The solution involves identifying the faulty component and following the replacement procedure outlined in the Haynes Pathfinder manual.
These problems highlight various issues that Nissan Pathfinder 2003 owners have faced, ranging from starting difficulties to corrosion-related recalls and maintenance issues with components like the handbrake cable and accessory drivebelt.
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.
How reliable is a 2003 Nissan Pathfinder?
These Nissan Pathfinders are almost indestructible. They offer great power, good handling, incredible 4 Wheel Drive performance in the rain or snow. The motors last a long time, and this car has been incredibly reliable.
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 Nissan Pathfinder engines reliable?
Quality and Reliability 78.0/100
The 2024 Nissan Pathfinder has a predicted reliability score of 78 out of 100.
2003 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:
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Suspension problems
- Air bags problems
- Service brakes problems
- Fuel/propulsion system problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2003 Nissan Pathfinder vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 2003 Nissan Pathfinder
The NHTSA has received 106 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2003 Nissan Pathfinder. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2003 Nissan Pathfinder vehicles.
2021-06-01
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-03-14
- VIN: JN8DR09X63W
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: The gas gauge stopped working a few months ago. Had an appointment to have the fuel sensor replaced. The fuel sensor is fine. The mechanic said it was most likely the gauge. In researching over the past several months, this appears to be a huge problem with the 2003 Pathfinder. This should be recalled. I'm not sure why it it isn't since it is a wide spread issue.
2020-12-23
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-02-01
- VIN: JN8DR09X73W
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: FUEL GAUGE DOES NOT WORK PROPERLY -- THIS HAS BEEN AN ISSUE FOR 2 YEARS NOW. WHEN I FILL IT UP, IT SHOWS AS FULL, BUT WILL NEVER GO LOWER THAN JUST OVER 1/2 TANK OF GAS. I HAVE TO RESET AND WATCH MY MILEAGE EVERY TIME I FILL UP THE TANK, AND MAKE SURE I REFILL IT EVERY 225 MILES, TO ENSURE I DON'T RUN OUT OF FUEL. MY MECHANIC HAS DONE EVERYTHING HE CAN THINK OF TO FIX THE PROBLEM, BUT SO FAR NOTHING HAS WORKED. I NOTICED I AM NOT THE ONLY ONE TO FILE A COMPLAINT ABOUT THIS ISSUE.
2020-11-14
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-05-15
- VIN: JN8DR09Y93W
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: FUEL GAUGE INDICATED FUEL TANK WAS AT LEAST HALF FULL. VEHICLE DID NOT START BECAUSE IT WAS OUT OF FUEL. MECHANIC REPLACED MANY THINGS UNTIL IT WAS DISCOVERED CAR WAS OUT OF FUEL. COST ME CLOSE TO $1,000. CAR COULD HAVE RUN OUT OF FUEL ON A HIGHWAY WHILE IN THE FAST LANE. MANY OWNERS HAVE REPORTED THIS PROBLEM ON THE INTERNET. THIS IS A SAFETY ISSUE. I AM 74 YEARS OLD AND NEVER HAD FAILED FUEL GAUGE. I AM TOLD THE WHOLE INSTRUMENT CLUSTER NEEDS TO BE REPLACED. NO WARNING WAS EVER PROVIDED BY NISSAN THAT THIS COULD HAPPEN. HOW MANY OF THEIR VEHICLES HAVE THIS PROBLEM.
2020-11-10
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-11-10
- VIN: JN8DR09Y33W
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: NISSAN IS CLAIMING THAT NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 11V244000 WAS ALREADY ADDRESSED ON MY VEHICLE. I TOOK MY CAR INTO THE DEALERSHIP SEVERAL YEARS AGO FOR A RECALL BUT THEY NEVER FIXED THIS RECALL BECAUSE THEY WERE TOO BUSY. WHEN I CALL NISSAN RIGHT NOW THEY ARE CLAIMING IT WAS FIXED ALREADY. THIS WAS NEVER FIXED AND MY VEHICLE IS EXHIBITING THE EXACT ISSUES OUTLINED IN THE RECALL. MY VIN# [XXX]. I AM REQUESTING NISSAN TO FIX THIS ISSUE PER THE RECALL. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TR
2020-11-05
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-06-16
- VIN: JN8DR09Y73W
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: FUEL GAUGE IS NOT READING CORRECTLY REPEATEDLY HAVE TO TOP OFF MY TANK THAT COSTS ME MORE MONEY THAN IT SHOULD TO GET BACK AND FORTH TO WORK BECAUSE I RAN OUT OF GAS AND IT COSTED ME $200 TO FIGURE OUT THAT I NEED SOMETHING DONE ABOUT THE GAS GAUGE THERE'S SO MANY COMPLAINTS ABOUT THIS WHY HAS IT NISSAN DONE SOMETHING ABOUT IT THEY SHOULD NOT BE ABLE TO JUST LET THIS PROBLEM GO ON AND STICK THE CUSTOMERS THAT PAY THOUSANDS OF DOLLARS FOR THE VEHICLES. I WAS GOING DOWN THE HIGHWAY AFTER BEING AT THE HOSPITAL ALL NIGHT WITH MY MOTHER-IN-LAW AND ME AND MY WIFE HAD TO WALK SEVERAL MILES JUST TO GET CELL SERVICE TO GET PICKED UP AND MY CAR TOWED.
2020-01-02
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-10-15
- VIN: JN8DR09X43W
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: MY NISSAN PATHFINDERS AIR BAG DASH LIGHT IS FLASHING. I HAVE HAD IT RESET AND IT STARTS FLASHING AGAIN AFTER A FEW HOURS OF OPERATION.
2019-11-09
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-10-20
- VIN: JN8DR09Y13W
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: WE WERE DRIVING OUR PATHFINDER HOME IN THE WINTER THE ECSESSIVE AMOUNT OF SALT ON THE ROAD CAUSED OUR MAIN WATER FLOW TO CORRODE AND STALL THE ENGINE AND CAUSED THE RADIATORS THERMOSTAT TO BREAK AND THE CAR OVERHEATED.
2019-11-06
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-11-05
- VIN: JN8DR09Y23W
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 NISSAN PATHFINDER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT BOTH MUFFLERS WERE RUSTED OUT. WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS IN REVERSE, THE REAR MUFFLER AND REAR TAIL PIPE WERE DETACHED DUE TO THE RUST. IN ADDITION, FLUID WAS LEAKING FROM THE FRONT PASSENGER SIDE OF THE VEHICLE TO THE REAR. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER AND DEALER WERE NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURES. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 100,000.
2019-06-30
STEERING,SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-05-01
- VIN: JN8DR09X13W
- Components: STEERING,SUSPENSION
- Summary: AT SPEEDS OVER 50 MPH THE CAR BEGINS TO WOBBLE, HAVE BEEN TOLD THIS IS A COMMON PROBLEM INVOLING FAULTY TRAILING ARM BUSHING/ REAR ARM BUSHING AND BEARING NEED TO BE REPLACED CAUSING WHAT IS COOMMONLY KNOWN AS THE DEATH WOBBLE. BUT LETS UP WHEN YOU LET UP OFF THE GAS? TO ME THIS A MAJOR SAFETY ISSUE! THAT MANY HAVE HAD THIS PROBLEM, THAT I HAVE FOUND ON ON LINE FORUMS.. WHY HASN'T NISSAN RECALLED THIS ISSUE?
2019-02-27
STEERING,SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-11-01
- VIN: JN8DR09Y63W
- Components: STEERING,SUSPENSION
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 NISSAN PATHFINDER. THE CONTACT CALLED TO INQUIRE ABOUT NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 11V244000 (STEERING, SUSPENSION). THE PREVIOUS OWNER HAD THE RECALL REPAIRED AT MARTIN NISSAN (5240 GOLF RD, SKOKIE, IL 60077, (866) 800-1100) AND THEY STATED THAT THE RECALL REPAIR WAS ONLY PERFORMED ON THE DRIVER'S SIDE OF THE FRAME. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE FAILURE WAS CURRENTLY ON THE PASSENGER SIDE OF THE FRAME. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED AND CONFIRMED THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 120,000.
2018-12-22
AIR BAGS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-11-26
- VIN: JN8DRO9Y73W
- Components: AIR BAGS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: I WAS SENT TO POST CARDS AT DIFFERENT TIMES TO FIX THE RECALL ONE WAS AFTER THANKSGIVING ABOUT THE 28TH OF NOVEMBER 2018 I WENT OUT THERE THEY FAILED TO FIX THE PROBLEM THEY DIDN'T HAVE THE PARTS OR THE MECHANIC WASN'T AVAILABLE SO THEY SENT ANOTHER POSTCARD SAYING CALL BACK THE PARTS ARE AVAILABLE NOW I GO THERE WHICH TODAY DECEMBER 23RD AND SHE'S TELLING ME THERE'S NO MECHANIC PEOPLE HAVE PLAYED GAMES WITH ME I WORK I DON'T HAVE TIME TO KEEP RUNNING BACK AND FORTH IF THEY'RE NOT GOING TO FIX THE CAR PLEASE SEND ME TO A NISSAN THAT WILL FIX THIS RECALL PROBLEM IF I GET IN AN ACCIDENT AND SOMETHING HAPPENS TO ME I'M GOING TO SUE MAJOR BIG.
2018-09-19
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-08-25
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: 2003 NISSAN PATHFINDER. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO AIRBAG RECALL. *AS THE CONSUMER RECEIVED A NOTIFICATION PERTAINING TO THE AIRBAG RECALL, BUT WAS INFORMED THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED IN THE RECALL. THE CONSUMER REQUESTED AN INVESTIGATION TO CONFIRM WHETHER NOT THE VIN WAS INCLUDED. THE DEALER AND THE MANUFACTURER WERE NOTIFIED. *JS
2018-06-23
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-06-01
- VIN: JN8DR09X53W
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: RECENTLY DISCOVERED A SERIOUS PROBLEM THAT FREQUENTLY SHOWS ITSELF WHEN DRIVING AT HIGHER SPEEDS (OVER 45) AND ONE HITS A BUMP OR SMALL POT HOLE THE VEHICLE SUDDENLY DEVELOPS AN EXTREME WOBBLE MAKING IT VERY HARD TO CONTROL. I SUDDENLY WAS IN AN ADJACENT LANE AND WAS ALMOST HIT. DOING SOME RESEARCH ON THE INTERNET IT SEEMS TO BE A COMMON PROBLEM AND EVEN HAS BEEN GIVEN A NAME. IT'S REFERRED TO AS THE DEATH WOBBLE. IF ONE QUICKLY SLOW DOWN TO WOBBLE WILL GO AWAY. I WAS TOLD BY SEVERAL MECHANICS DON'T DRIVE ON THE HIGHWAY YOU'LL STAND A GOOD CHANCE OF FLIPPING THE VEHICLE. IT SEEMS THE PROBLEM IS FAILED BUSHINGS IN REAR CONTROL ARMS. UNFORTUNATELY WHEN THE PROBLEM SHOWS WHEN THE CAR BECOMES DIFFICULT AND DANGEROUS TO CONTROL. REPAIRS ARE COSTLY AND OFTEN MISDIAGNOSED. IT APPEARS NISSAN IS AWARE BUT NO SAFETY WARNING OR RECALL HAS BEEN ISSUED. THERE ARE NUMEROUS DISCUSSIONS ON THE WEB DESCRIBING THIS ISSUE AS ON GOING WITH MANY MODEL YEARS ON PATHFINDERS AND SOME INFINITY MODELS
2018-05-15
STEERING,SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-04-30
- VIN: JN8DR09Y33W
- Components: STEERING,SUSPENSION
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 NISSAN PATHFINDER. WHILE DRIVING OVER BUMPS IN THE ROAD AT VARIOUS SPEEDS, THE CONTACT HEARD AN ABNORMAL NOISE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHERE THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE STRUTS WERE RUSTED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER (EXECUTIVE NISSAN, 900 UNIVERSAL DR N, NORTH HAVEN, CT 06473), BUT WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE DEALER STATED THAT THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 11V244000 (STEERING, SUSPENSION). THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 64,325.
2018-04-06
SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-04-05
- VIN: JN8DR09Y23W
- Components: SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING 2003 NISSAN PATHFINDER I HIT POTHOLE ON A CITY STREET, HEARD LOUD BANG, SHORTLY AFTER COMPLETELY LOST ALL BRAKING ABILITIES, UPON BRINGING MY VEHICLE HOME AND EXAMINING I NOTICE THE RIGHT FRONT STRUT HOUSING HAD SEPARATED FROM FRAME SNAPPING THE BRAKE LINE ON THE RIGHT FRONT. APPEARS TO BE THE SAME CORROSION ISSUE AS THE RECALL ON THE LEFT FRONT STRUT HOUSING.
2017-12-11
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-06-12
- VIN: JN8DR09Y03W
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: "TAKATA RECALL' THE SOUTHERN DISTRICT COURT FLORIDA OF UNITED STATES INFORMED ME THAT MY TRUCK HAD A SAFETY RECALL. I WAS ALSO TOLD BY NISSAN DEALERSHIP TO BRING MY TRUCK FOR REPAIR. IN DECEMBER 06, 2017, I WENT TO THE DEALER GOT IT FIX AFTER A LONG 9 HRES WAIT.
2017-11-19
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-08-13
- VIN: JN8DR09X83W
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TAKATA RECALL HELLO, I RECEIVED A SAFETY RECALL LETTER FROM NISSAN TO HAVE MY AIRBAGS INSPECTED. I WENT IN AND LEFT WITH NO ISSUES AND NO REPAIR WAS DONE, JUST AN INSPECTION. TWO MONTHS LATER THE AIRBAG LIGHT STARTED BLINKING. I CALLED THEM AND ASKED THAT THEY FIX IT. THEY SAID IT WILL COST ME $150 TO DIAGNOSE THE PROBLEM. I STATED THAT THEY CAUSED THE PROBLEM DURING THEIR INSPECTION AS IT WAS WORKING JUST FINE UNTIL THEN. THEY REFUSED TO FIX THE PROBLEM THE CREATED. THIS IS OBVIOUSLY A SCAM TO GET MORE MONEY OUT OF CONSUMERS FOR AN UNNECESSARY REPAIR. WHAT CAN I DO TO GET THEM TO FIX THE PROBLEM FOR FREE? I HAVE BEEN DRIVING THE VEHICLE AROUND FOR TWO YEARS WITH THE ISSUE. I HAVE CONTACTED THE DEALER MULTIPLE TIMES, COMPLAINED AND NOW THAT MY SON IS TO DRIVE THE VEHICLE I NEED THIS ADDRESSED AND YOU ARE MY LAST EFFORT. THANKS [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TR
2017-11-06
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-07-13
- VIN: JN8DR09X63W
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TAKATA RECALL CAN'T GET MY AIRBAGS FIXED BUT I HAVE HAD 2 RECALLS
2017-11-05
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-11-01
- VIN: JN8DR09Y33W
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TAKATA RECALL
2017-10-10
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-09-13
- VIN: JN8DR09Y73W
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: STRONG SMELL OF GASOLINE AFTER FILLING TANK. A LEAK FROM FUEL FILLER NECK WAS THE ISSUE. REPAIR WAS MADE, BUT IT WAS OVER $400. SAW 2 OTHER COMPLAINS ON NHTSA #S 10781139 AND 10703027. THERE WAS A RECALL FOR THIS ISSUE ON PATHFINDERS THROUGH 2001. PERHAPS IT IS TIME THIS BE INVESTIGATED ON 2003S AS WELL.
2017-09-13
STEERING,SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-09-03
- VIN: JN8DR09YX3W
- Components: STEERING,SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE
- Summary: NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER 11V244000 THE STRUT HOUSING CORRODED ON THE FRONT DRIVERS SIDE WHEEL ON MY 2003 NISSAN PATHFINDER WHEN I WAS DRIVING DOWN THE HIGHWAY. HAD PROBLEM WITH STEERING BEING HARD TO TURN I HAVE FOUND A RECALL ON THIS PROBLEM BUT BEING THAT I LIVE IN TEXAS THEY WILL NOT ACCEPT THIS RECALL.
2017-02-23
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-05-06
- VIN: JN8DR09Y93W
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: INNER WHEEL WELL AREA ROTTING, NEAR THE STRUT MONT
2017-01-19
SUSPENSION,EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-06-13
- VIN: JN8DR09YX3W
- Components: SUSPENSION,EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: TAKATA RECALL WHEN DRIVING ON HIGHWAYS THE BACK-END SWAYS OFF AND ON WHICH CAN CAUSE YOU TO LOSE CONTROL. THE HEAD LIGHTS DON'T APPEAR TO SHINE BRIGHT ENOUGH. ABS LIGHT REMAINS ON EVEN AFTER REPLACING THE SENSORS. *TR
2016-08-23
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-08-05
- VIN: JN8DR09Y03W
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: AIR BAG LIHT IS ON
2016-08-05
STEERING,SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-07-22
- VIN: JN8DR09YX3W
- Components: STEERING,SUSPENSION
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 NISSAN PATHFINDER. WHILE MAKING A TURN AT 30 MPH, AN UNKNOWN NOISE WAS HEARD WHENEVER A TURN WAS MADE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A DEALER WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE STRUT TOWER FAILED AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 11V244000(STEERING, SUSPENSION). THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 148,000.
2003 Nissan Pathfinder recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 7 recalls for different components of the 2003 Nissan Pathfinder.
2020-01-09
- Manufacturer: Nissan North America, Inc.
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2001-2003 Maxima, 2002-2006 Sentra, 2002-2004 Pathfinder, 2007-2011 Versa Sedan and Versa Hatchback, 2001-2004 Infiniti I30 and I35, 2002-2003 Inifiniti QX4, 2003-2008 Infiniti FX35 and FX45 and 2006-2010 M35 and M45 vehicles. The vehicles are equipped with non-desiccated, frontal passenger air bag inflators containing phase stabilized ammonium nitrate (PSAN) propellant that were used as interim remedy parts for previous Takata recalls. These inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, high temperatures, and high temperature cycling.
- Consequence: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
- Remedy: Nissan will notify owners, and dealers will replace the front passenger air bag inflators with alternate desiccated inflators, free of charge. The recall began February 12, 2020. Owners may contact Nissan customer service at 888-737-9511 or Infiniti customer service at 888-810-3715.
2015-05-15
- Manufacturer: Nissan North America, Inc.
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain model year 2001-2003 Nissan Maxima, 2002-2004 Pathfinder, 2002-2006 Sentra, 2002-2003 Infiniti QX4 and I35, 2003 FX35 and FX45, and 2001 I30 vehicles. Upon deployment of the passenger side frontal air bag, excessive internal pressure may cause the inflator to rupture.
- Consequence: In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passenger's frontal air bag, the inflator could rupture with metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants potentially resulting in serious injury or death.
- Remedy: Nissan will notify owners, and dealers will replace the passenger air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began on June 15, 2015. Owners may contact Nissan customer service at 1-800-647-7261. Note: On December 18, 2015 Nissan informed NHTSA of an amendment of this recall to remove 2004-2005 Infiniti FX35 and FX45 vehicles.
2011-04-20
- 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.
2009-05-11
- Manufacturer: DOPE, INC.
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS
- Summary: DOPE, INC. IS RECALLING 42,540 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.
- Consequence: DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: DOPE, INC. WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 28, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT DOPE, INC. AT 1-626-272-1798.
2009-04-07
- Manufacturer: SABERSPORT
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: SABERSPORT IS RECALLING 16,270 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.
- Consequence: DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: SABERSPORT WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 11, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SABERSPORT AT 1-909-598-7589.
2006-05-24
- 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.
2006-03-23
- 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 2003 Nissan Pathfinder car reviews
Positive 2003 Nissan Pathfinder car reviews
-
You've got yourself an excellent SUV that beats the competition hands down!
-
The car is good, but it lacks some leg room in the back. It might not be comfortable to fit three people in the back. Additionally, the back seats are not easy to fold, which can limit the cargo space. The seatbelt buckles often get stuck under the seat, making them hard to take out. However, the car rides very nicely and has a lot of power.
-
I'm from Montreal, Canada and I just got a fully equipped 2003 Pathfinder LE in silver. I absolutely love it! It was a bit pricey at $45,000 plus taxes (in Canadian dollars), but it was definitely worth it. If you're considering getting one, trust me, you won't regret it!
-
This has been the best vehicle I've ever owned! It's fast, sturdy, and air-tight. I haven't heard one squeak! Since my family is growing, I'm excited to look into a full-size SUV from Nissan (rumored anyway).
-
Fun to drive and practical at the same time! It's the best bang for your buck. If you're looking for a status symbol, go for the X5. But if you're looking for something economical, practical, and still fun to drive, you'll love this one. I certainly do!
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2003 Nissan Pathfinder problems:
2003 Nissan Pathfinder Problems and Complaints - 7 Issues
https://repairpal.com/2003-nissan-pathfinder/problems
Top 2003 Nissan Pathfinder Problems · Check Engine Light Due to Faulty Fuel Level Sensor · Engine won't crank due to starter relay failure · Check Engine Light ...
Looking at buying a 2003 Nissan Pathfinder, 105k miles. Anything I ...
https://www.reddit.com/r/MechanicAdvice/comments/62z2wc/looking_at_buying_a_2003_nissan_pathfinder_105k/
Apr 2, 2017 ... If the fluid is clean now, I'd either proactively replace the radiator or do the bypass. Issue is common to the Xterra and Frontier with the 4.0 ...
2003 nissan pathfinder issues - Maintenance/Repairs - Car Talk ...
https://community.cartalk.com/t/2003-nissan-pathfinder-issues/164822
May 25, 2020 ... Assuming you just said yes, this is what may have happened or is still happening. Sometimes the system does not fully switch the xfer case into ...
Q&A: 2003 Nissan Pathfinder Problems & Common Issues
https://www.justanswer.com/nissan/4256t-hi-2003-nissan-pathfinder-today-car-starts.html
Oct 2, 2010 ... You could have a bad mass air flow sensor. Or the snorkel from the mass air flow sensor to the throttle body could be ripped. Both are very ...
Common Nissan Pathfinder Problems - 2nd Gen (1996-2004) - 1A ...
https://blog.1aauto.com/2nd-gen-nissan-pathfinder-problem/
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 ...
Other years of Nissan Pathfinder
Are you having problems with your 2003 Nissan Pathfinder?
Clifton Stamm 2024-11-06
My toddler was bleeding from the head, so we rushed to the emergency room in my bronze Nissan Pathfinder. On the way, we passed a silver Infiniti QX4 and my son pointed out of the window, saying 'Daddy's car.' It's amazing how even a concussed two-year-old can see through the exterior shiny trim of a QX4 that hides the Pathfinder beneath. Why spend an extra $5,000 on an Infiniti when you can buy a Pathfinder and save yourself some money? By the way, my son is fine now...
Eduardo Reichert 2024-10-14
I currently own a 2003 Nissan Pathfinder SE. It's a great truck with RWD/4WD and I have no complaints about its performance. It's also quite comfortable. I haven't had any issues with storage and it has some pretty good features for an 03 model. However, I have had some maintenance issues with it over the past 4 years. The biggest problem has been with the 3-speed automatic transmission. Unfortunately, it stopped shifting past 2nd gear about a year after I got it. I had to buy a brand new transmission for $800, but it still barely shifts and won't go in reverse. I don't want to generalize and say that all Nissans are bad, but I've had some issues with the Pathfinder models.
Giovanny McLaughlin 2024-03-18
Although I experienced a stalling/idling problem on the day I picked up the Pathfinder, I am confident that the issue has been resolved after the dealer made $1500 worth of torque converter warranty repairs. Despite the windshield stress crack that occurred at 6 months due to improper installation, I still enjoy driving this Pathfinder. However, as a confident driver, I am concerned about its long term reliability, especially since I have another 30 months on my lease. Rest assured, I will continue to monitor the vehicle's performance and address any issues that may arise with the same level of confidence and assertiveness.
Izaiah Stamm 2024-03-02
The brakes were of poor quality and the stereo was broken from the start, which had to be replaced four times. Unfortunately, my experience with Poughkeepsie Nissan was not satisfactory. The front bumper was damaged and poorly repainted before delivery, and the dealer refused to take responsibility for it. I am currently seeking legal assistance to obtain a full refund. Nissan customer support has not been helpful in this matter. I would advise anyone interested in purchasing a Pathfinder to avoid this dealership.
Reece Bode 2024-01-12
It seems like the dealerships may not have all the information needed to assist you. Additionally, the radio/cd changer has failed twice and the brakes may need some attention. It's unfortunate that the dealership and manufacturer have been unwilling to address these issues. The exterior build quality could be improved as well, as the decals tend to peel off and the plastic can warp. Perhaps some changes could be made to the transmission as well. Overall, it seems like there are some areas that could use some improvement.