2006 Nissan Pathfinder problems

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

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

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

2006 Nissan Pathfinder

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Common 2006 Nissan Pathfinder problems

Based on the information gathered from various sources regarding the Nissan Pathfinder 2006, here are the common problems reported by owners:

  • Transmission Problems (2013 Models):
    • The 2013 Nissan Pathfinder models experienced various transmission issues, including jerking and shaking during acceleration, non-engaging transmission, shifter stuck in Park, transmission slippage, and slipping out of Park. These problems were unrelated to the coolant leaking issue seen in earlier models.
  • Faulty Fuel Level Sensor:
    • Pathfinder models from 1994 to 2016 have faced issues with the fuel level sensor, resulting in erratic or inaccurate gauge readings. The common fix for this problem is to replace the fuel pump, which can cost between $673-$833.
  • Navigation System Problems (2017 Models):
    • Owners of the 2017 Pathfinder reported issues with the navigation display, such as freezing controls, backup camera getting stuck, and malfunctioning reverse assist display.
  • Climate System Failure (2015 Models):
    • Many 2015 Pathfinder owners experienced issues with the A/C and heating system, where the climate system would fail to work, especially during extreme temperatures.
  • CVT Transmission Issues:
    • The CVT transmission system in Nissan Pathfinders was reported to be slow to respond, prone to overheating, and causing shuddering during acceleration. Owners highlighted safety risks due to slow acceleration and constant stuttering experienced with the CVT system.
  • Timing Chain Problems:
    • Owners reported issues with the timing chain components, including guides, shoes, and chain tensioners. A loose timing chain could lead to rattling, acceleration problems, and even engine failure.

These common problems with the Nissan Pathfinder 2006 have been documented by owners and highlight various issues ranging from mechanical to electrical components. Owners have faced challenges with the transmission, coolant system, fuel sensor, navigation, climate control, CVT transmission, and timing chain, emphasizing the importance of thorough maintenance and potential costly repairs associated with these issues.

2006 Nissan Pathfinder engine

Is Nissan Pathfinder 2006 a good car?

The Pathfinder's powerful V6 provides ample power for just about any type of driving. Ride quality is generally smooth, but the 2006 Nissan Pathfinder feels a bit sloppy over bumps. During normal driving, body motions are well controlled and the steering is nicely weighted.

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.

Are there any recalls on a 2006 Nissan Pathfinder?

There are 3 recalls that may affect your 2006 Nissan Pathfinder. Check your 2006 Nissan Pathfinder for safety recalls and get them fixed for free at a Nissan dealership near you.

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.

2006 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:

  • Power train problems
  • Engine and engine cooling problems
  • Fuel system problems
  • Engine problems
  • Gasoline problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 2006 Nissan Pathfinder vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

Latest 25 complaints 2006 Nissan Pathfinder

The NHTSA has received 835 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2006 Nissan Pathfinder. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2006 Nissan Pathfinder vehicles.

2024-10-11

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-09-11
  • 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.
2024-06-12

POWER TRAIN PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-06-12
  • VIN: 5N1AR18W76C
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2006 Nissan Pathfinder. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the contact became aware of transmission failure during the gear shifting. The contact stated that the gear shifter would remain in neutral. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic and was diagnosed with transmission failure. The contact was informed that the transmission needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The dealer was contacted. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 128,364.
2023-11-24

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2023-11-21
  • Number Of Injuries: 1
  • Crash: 1
  • VIN: 5N1AR18W46C
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: I was hit on the drivers side, where the front drivers door stops and the back door begins. The other drivers was estimated at going 50-60 mph. My car spun and rolled over 360 degrees. None of the airbags deployed. The sheriff, ambulance, firefighters all told me to report it. The car was totaled at the scene so unfortunately no inspections were able to be made. There were not warning lights previous to the accident.
2022-09-14

POWER TRAIN,ENGINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2022-08-31
  • VIN: 5n1ar18u36c
  • Components: POWER TRAIN,ENGINE
  • Summary: Transmission oil cooler line in radiator broke causing coolant and transmission oil to mix and car is not driveable and needs $3,000 repairs
2022-09-02

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2022-09-02
  • VIN: 5N1AR18U36C
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
  • Summary: Car shuts off In the middle of driving & also when simply parked. It starts jerking like it’s trying to catch up then it kills. It’s happened in front of traffic and busy roadways/intersections. It has happened more than once.
2021-12-02

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2021-08-01
  • VIN: 5N1AR18W96C
  • Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: UNKNOWN. Every time I drive above 50 mph the car vibrates hard and it’s audible. It feels like the engine. I had it checked out by two mechanics but they couldn’t figure it out. I had my wheels balanced, bought new tires at the mechanic suggestion. That hasn’t helped. I’m not sure if this is safe to drive and it doesn’t make me feel safe. This has been going on for months. Please let me know if they’re similar complaints and what I should do about it. Thank you
2021-07-17

POWER TRAIN PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2021-07-17
  • VIN: 5n1ar18w56c
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: .Transmission failed do to coolant in transmission. .got stuck in traffic and couldn’t go anywhere .this is a known problem with these vehicles .vehicle has been inspected by owner who is a mechanic .there were no warning signs
2021-03-20

POWER TRAIN PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2021-03-18
  • VIN: 5N1AR18W76C
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: THE TRANSMISSION STARTED SLIPPING A LITTLE LET FOR US WHEN I START FROM THE STOP SIGN OR FROM A DEAD STOP WHEN THE ENGINE IS COOL AND I 1ST STOP IT RUNS FINE FOR THE 1ST MINUTE OR 2 BUT THEN AS I'M DRIVING ALL OF SUDDEN IT START SLIPPING REAL BAD IF I'M IN REGULAR DRIVE WOULD YOU OVERDRIVE ON WHICH IN 5TH GEAR CANNOT GO ON THE HIGHWAY AFTER 55 MILES AN HOUR AND JUST THAT SLIPPING REAL BAD UNLESS I PUT IT IN 4TH GEAR BY TAKING THE OVERDRIVE OFF DANIEL RIDE OKAY FOR A WHILE BUT IT'S SOON AS I GO TO A STOP SIGN OR I STOPPED THE VEHICLE TAKING OFF IT'S SLIP SO BAD IT ALMOST IS NOT MOVE AT ALL ONCE YOU GET SOME MOVING AND RUNS NOT TOO BAD BUT THE LONGER I DRIVE IT TO WHERE SHE GETS UNTIL I SHUT IT OFF COOLED OFF AND THEN IT WORKS AGAIN FOR A COUPLE OF MINUTES
2021-02-27

ENGINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2020-12-22
  • VIN: 5N1AR18W26C
  • Components: ENGINE
  • Summary: TIMMING CHAIN IS MAKING A BAD NOISE.
2020-11-03

POWER TRAIN PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2020-08-02
  • VIN: 5N1AR18W36C
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: TRANSMISSION ISSUE DUE TO LEAK MIXTURE OR RADIATOR FLUIDS. SEEMS TO BE A COMMON PROBLEM
2020-08-12

UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2020-07-16
  • VIN: 5N1AR18U66C
  • Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: RADIATOR FLUID GOING INTO THE TRANSMISSION CAUSING THE TCM FAIL
2020-08-05

POWER TRAIN PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2020-07-11
  • VIN: 5N1AR18W96C
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: THE VEHICLE WILL NOT SHIFT GEARS DUE TO COOLANT IN THE TRANSMISSION. THIS HAS ESSENTIALLY RUINED THE TRANSMISSION DUE TO THE RADIATOR FAILING AND ALLOWING COOLANT INTO THE TRANSMISSION VIA THE TRANSMISSION FLUID COOLANT LINES THAT RUN THROUGH THE BOTTOM OF THE RADIATOR.
2020-07-17

ENGINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2019-06-10
  • VIN: 5N1AR18W36C
  • Components: ENGINE
  • Summary: MY TIMING CHAIN ON MY PATHFINDER HAS BEEN DEFECTIVE. IT HAS ALWAYS BEEN NOISY BUT A FEW WEEKS AGO IT REALLY STARTED GETTING LOUD WHILE DRIVING IN MOTION AROUND . I HAD TO HAVE IT TOWED TO A SHOP AS TEETH WERE FALLING OFF THE 'CHAIN' INTO THE OIL. THEY SAY IT IS A KNOWN THING WITH 2005-2010 PATHFINDERS .
2020-03-08

POWER TRAIN PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2020-01-07
  • VIN: 5N1AR18W56C
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: I HAVE A 2006 NISSAN PATHFINDER AND I WAS DRIVING TO THE DOCTOR AND THERE WAS A SHUDDER. I DIDN'T KNOW EXACTLY WHAT IT WAS UNTIL I DID SOME RESEARCH WHICH EXPLAINS THERE ARE A LOT OF PROBLEMS WITH NISSAN TRANSMISSIONS IN GENERAL. I CAN'T AFFORD TO FIX IT DUE TO BEING ON A FIXED INCOME. I'M PAYING PAYMENTS ON IT AND ALSO INSURANCE WHICH I CAN'T EVEN DRIVE IT. I NEED MY VEHICLE TO GET PLACES I NEED TO GET. I'M NOT SURE WHAT TO DO. I REALLY BELIEVE NISSAN SHOULD RECALL TRANSMISSIONS AND FIX THEM.
2020-03-08

POWER TRAIN PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2020-01-07
  • VIN: 5N1AR18W56C
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: TO ADD TO MY PREVIOUS COMPLAINT MY TRANSMISSION TOTALLY WENT OUT WHEN I WAS DRIVING TO MY MOMS FRIENDS HOUSE. I CAN'T EVEN DRIVE IT TO GET PLACES I NEED TO GO.
2020-02-20

SUSPENSION,POWER TRAIN PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2019-07-08
  • VIN: 5N1AR18U16C
  • Components: SUSPENSION,POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: THE TRANSMISSION IS SHUTTERING, FEELS LIKE IT IS SLIPPING AT TIMES. THE COOLANT LOOKS LIKE CREAMY PASTE. THE SUV WANTS TO BOUNCE OR PULL TO THE SIDES. ALSO AT TIMES IT FEELS LIKE THE MOTOR IS RUNNING HIGH AND THE VEHICLE WILL MOVE SLOW.
2019-12-04

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2017-08-01
  • VIN: 5N1AR18UX6C
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: MY CAR SHOW THE LIGHT ON OF THE AIR BAG PASSENGER WITH OR WITH OUT A PASSENGER EVERY TIME WHEN THE CAR IS ON STREEYS OR FREEWAY OR AT HOME .
2019-11-03

UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2016-02-12
  • VIN: 5N1AR18U06C
  • Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: MY TRANSMISSION STOPPED WITH NO WARNING
2019-10-07

POWER TRAIN PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2019-09-09
  • VIN: 5N1AR18U96C
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: EL VEHICULO COJE LA REVERSA PERO NO EL DRIVE Y NO QUIERE ARRACAR NO LA PUEDO USAR NI MOVER HACIA FRENTE
2019-09-16

ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2013-04-20
  • VIN: 5N1AR18U66C
  • Components: ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
  • Summary: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:STORAGE:AUXILLARY TANK
2019-09-05

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2018-09-01
  • VIN: 5N1AR18U26C
  • Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2006 NISSAN PATHFINDER. WHILE DRIVING VARIOUS SPEEDS, THE VEHICLE STALLED, BUT WAS ABLE TO RESTART. ADDITIONALLY, THE VEHICLE RANDOMLY REVVED UP AND ACCELERATED. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE'S DYNAMIC CONTROL SLIP OFF, SERVICE ENGINE SOON, AND WASHER FLUID WARNING INDICATORS ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHO STATED THAT THE CRANKSHAFT SENSOR AND BATTERY NEEDED TO BE REPAIRED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED, BUT THE FAILURE RECURRED. THE LOCAL DEALER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED AND PROVIDED CASE NUMBER: 37003562. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 175,000.
2019-08-13

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2015-06-15
  • VIN: 5N1AR18W76C
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
  • Summary: THE MOMENT I PURCHASED THIS VEHICLE IT HAD CHECK ENGINE LIGHT AND TRANSMISSION PROBLEMS AND CATALYTIC CONVERTERS WERE BAD. WOULD NOT PASS INSPECTION.
2019-06-25

POWER TRAIN,ENGINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2018-02-15
  • VIN: 5N1AR18U46C
  • Components: POWER TRAIN,ENGINE
  • Summary: ALL 4 OF MY CATALYTIC CONVERTERS HAVE HAD TO BE REPLACED (OR NEED TO BE REPLACED - I'VE ALREADY REPLACED BANK 1. NOW BANK 2 IS BAD) IN THE PAST 12 MONTHS OR SO AND NOW MY RADIATOR IS LEAKING INTO MY TRANSMISSION. I DISCOVERED THERE WAS A CLASS-ACTION LAWSUIT ON THE RADIATOR/TRANSMISSION ISSUE, BUT I'M OUTSIDE OF THE WARRANTY PERIOD. WITH RESPECT TO THE CATALYTIC CONVERTERS, I OCCASIONALLY SMELL EXHAUST, BUT THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHTS STAY ON. WITH THE TRANSMISSION, IT STARTED OUT AS GEAR SLIPPING, CAUSING ROUGH DRIVING (WHICH THE DEALERSHIP TOLD ME WAS THE CATALYTIC CONVERTER). THEN, IT STARTED RUNNING SLOW OUT OF FIRST GEAR AND HARD SHIFTING. I TOOK IT TO A TRANSMISSION PLACE THAT PULLED TRANSMISSION CODES AND WHEN THEY DROPPED THE PAN, THE FLUID LOOKED LIKE A MILKSHAKE. THE ROUGH DRIVING/GEARS SLIPPING DIDN'T MATTER - IT COULD BE ON THE HIGHWAY OR IN THE CITY. I DON'T KNOW THE EXACT DATE IN 2018 THAT I HAD THE ISSUE, BUT I'VE BEEN DEALING WITH THIS ISSUE FOR A YEAR.
2019-06-16

UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2019-06-16
  • VIN: 5N1AR18U86C
  • Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: LATELY, MY 2006 NISSAN PATHFINDER HAS BEEN STALLING OR SHUTTING DOWN WHILE I AM DRIVING MY VEHICLE. I AM NOT SURE WHY, BUT EVERYTHING STAYS ON AND RUNS FINE, IT IS JUST THAT THE VEHICLE WILL NOT MOVE. I HAVE TO MOVE MY CAR TO THE SIDE, IF I CAN GET IT THERE ON TIME, AND TURN IT OFF. THEN I WAIT A COUPLE OF SECONDS AND START IT BACK IT. AT TIMES, AFTER THE STARTUP, THE CAR WILL RUN FINE, BUT AT OTHER TIMES, I WILL BE ABLE TO DRIVE FOR A LITTLE BIT AND THEN MY CAR STALLS AGAIN OR DIES DOWN. I ALSO HAVE ISSUES WITH THE FUEL SENSOR. IT DOES NOT WORK AND THERE IS A RECALL FOR THIS, BUT MY VEHICLE DOES NOT FALL INTO THE RECALL, EVEN THOUGH THERE IS A 2006 NISSAN PATHFINDER FUEL SENSON RECALL. I HAVE ALWAYS CAUSED NUMEROUS ACCIDENTS BECAUSE OF MY VEHICLE STALLING OR RUNNING OUT OF GAS IN THE MIDDLE OF THE FREEWAY BECAUSE MY FUEL LEVER DOES NOT WORK BECAUSE OF THE FUEL SENSOR.
2019-06-13

POWER TRAIN,ENGINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2019-06-05
  • VIN: 5N1AR18W16C
  • Components: POWER TRAIN,ENGINE
  • Summary: I WAS DRIVING ON AN INTERSTATE AT NORMAL HIGHWAY SPEED WHEN THE CAR SHUDDERED AS IF GOING OVER ROUGH PAVEMENT. THE ENGINE STARTED RACING, BUT THE CAR GRADUALLY LOST FORWARD PROPULSION. I STEERED TO THE EMERGENCY LANE AND STOPPED. AFTER A MINUTE, THE CAR REGAINED JUST ENOUGH FORWARD MOTION TO GET ME TO THE NEXT EXIT, ACROSS AN INTERSECTION (WHERE THE LIGHT JUST HAPPENED TO BE GREEN, THANK GOODNESS), AND INTO THE PARKING LOT OF A LARGE GROCERY STORE BEFORE THE VEHICLE LOST ALL PROPULSION. WE PUSHED THE CAR THE LAST FEW FEET INTO A PARKING SPOT. IT WAS TOWED TO A NISSAN DEALERSHIP. I WAS TOLD THE NEXT DAY THAT THE TRANSMISSION WARMER HAD FAILED, ALLOWING RADIATOR COOLANT TO LEAK INTO THE TRANSMISSION, WHICH RUINED THE TRANSMISSION. THE REPAIR WOULD COST $6000. I CANNOT PUT ANOTHER $6000 INTO A 13-YEAR-OLD VEHICLE, EVEN THOUGH I'VE ONLY HAD IT FOR FIVE MONTHS, SO NOW I'VE LOST THE MONEY I PUT INTO IT AND WILL HAVE TO START OVER WITH ANOTHER VEHICLE.

2006 Nissan Pathfinder recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 5 recalls for different components of the 2006 Nissan Pathfinder.

2010-10-28
  • Manufacturer: NISSAN NORTH AMERICA, INC.
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
  • Summary: NISSAN IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2004-2006 ARMADA, TITAN, INFINITI QX56 AND MODEL YEAR 2005-2006 FRONTIER, PATHFINDER AND XTERRA VEHICLES. THE INTELLIGENT POWER DISTRIBUTION MODULE (IPDM) ASSEMBLY CONTAINS AN ENGINE CONTROL MODULE (ECM) RELAY THAT HAS A DIODE FOR ELECTRICAL CURRENT NOISE REDUCTION. THE ECM RELAY MAY ALLOW SILICON VAPOR TO FORM AND, OVER TIME, THE SILICON EVAPORATES FROM THE DIODE MOLDING WHICH CAUSES SILICON OXIDE TO DEVELOP ON THE ECM RELAY CONTACT DUE TO ARCING.
  • Consequence: THIS COULD CAUSE ENGINE STALLING INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
  • Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE ECM RELAY INSIDE THE IPDM ASSEMBLY. THIS SERVICE WILL BE PERFORMED FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON DECEMBER 6, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT NISSAN AT 1-800-647-7261.
2010-05-20
  • Manufacturer: NISSAN NORTH AMERICA, INC.
  • Components: SUSPENSION:FRONT:CONTROL ARM:LOWER ARM
  • Summary: NISSAN IS RECALLING CERTAIN FRONT AND REAR LOWER LINKS, P/NOS. 54501ZQ00A, 54500ZQ00A, 551A1ZQ00A, 551A0ZQ00A , 54501EA00A, 54500EA00A, 551A1EA500, 551A0EA500, 54501ZR00A, AND 54500ZR00A, SOLD BETWEEN NOVEMBER 25, 2009 AND MAY 14, 2010 AS REPLACEMENT PARTS FOR MODEL YEAR 2004 THROUGH 2010 TITAN, ARMADA, AND QX56, AND MODEL YEARS 2005 THROUGH 2010 FRONTIER, XTERRA, AND PATHFINDER VEHICLES. THE LOWER CONTROL LINK ASSEMBLY HAS TWO CYLINDRICAL COLLARS FORMING THE INBOARD ATTACHMENT POINTS TO THE CHASSIS. DUE TO AN IMPROPER WELDING PROCESS SOME COLLARS MAY CONTAIN WELDS THAT DO NOT MEET STRENGTH SPECIFICATIONS.
  • Consequence: IF THE COLLAR WELD SEPARATES, THE VEHICLE HANDLING WILL DETERIORATE, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
  • Remedy: NISSAN WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND DEALERS WILL REPLACE ANY AFFECTED LOWER LINK FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 12, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT NISSAN AT 1-800-647-7261.
2010-03-03
  • Manufacturer: NISSAN NORTH AMERICA, INC.
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:STORAGE:AUXILLARY TANK
  • Summary: NISSAN IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2006 AND MODEL YEAR 2008 FRONTIER, XTERRA AND PATHFINDER VEHICLES. THE MOLDED FUEL TANK SHELLS CAN DEFORM, CAUSING THE FUEL SENDER FLOAT ARM TO CONTACT AN EMBOSSMENT MOLDED INTO THE TANK SHELL CAUSING THE INSTRUMENT PANEL FUEL GAUGE TO SHOW THAT THE VEHICLE HAS APPROXIMATELY ONE QUARTER TANK WHEN THE FUEL TANK IS EMPTY.
  • Consequence: THIS COULD CAUSE THE VEHICLE TO RUN OUT OF GAS AND STALL IN TRAFFIC, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
  • Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE FUEL LEVEL SENDING UNIT INSIDE THE FUEL TANK WITH A NEW ONE THAT HAS A MODIFIED FLOAT ARM. THIS SERVICE WILL BE PERFORMED FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN ON OR BEFORE MARCH 22, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT NISSAN AT 1-800-647-7261.
2008-12-29
  • Manufacturer: NISSAN NORTH AMERICA, INC.
  • Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL
  • Summary: NISSAN IS RECALLING 242,720 MY 2005-2009 PATHFINDER, FRONTIER AND XTERRA VEHICLES ORIGINALLY SOLD IN OR CURRENTLY REGISTERED IN THE STATES OF CONNECTICUT, DELAWARE, ILLINOIS, INDIANA, IOWA, MAINE, MARYLAND, MASSACHUSETTS, MICHIGAN, MINNESOTA, MISSOURI, NEW HAMPSHIRE, NEW JERSEY, NEW YORK, OHIO, PENNSYLVANIA, RHODE ISLAND, VERMONT, WEST VIRGINIA, WISCONSIN, AND THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA. IN THOSE AREAS OF THE COUNTRY WHICH USE HEAVY CONCENTRATIONS OF ROAD SALT IN THE WINTER, A MIXTURE OF SNOW/WATER AND SALT CAN ENTER INTO THE FRONT CRASH ZONE SENSOR (CZS) HOUSING. IF THIS OCCURS, THE CZS MAY INTERNALLY RUST RESULTING IN A SIGNAL INTERRUPTION. IF THIS HAPPENS, THE RED AIR BAG WARNING LIGHT WILL ILLUMINATE TO ALERT THE VEHICLE OPERATOR.
  • Consequence: THIS ISSUE COULD RESULT IN THE NON-DEPLOYMENT OF THE DRIVER AND PASSENGER FRONT AIR BAGS IN A CRASH, INCREASING THE RISK OF PERSONAL INJURY.
  • Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE FRONT CZS WITH A REDESIGNED SENSOR. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JANUARY 26, 2009. OWNERS IN THE OTHER STATES WILL RECEIVE EXTENDED WARRANTY COVERAGE FOR THE SENSOR TO 10 YEARS. THESE OWNERS WILL BE NOTIFIED OF THE WARRANTY EXTENSION BY MAIL AND WILL RECEIVE A STICKER TO PLACE IN THEIR WARRANTY BOOKLET EXPLAINING THE EXTENDED WARRANTY COVERAGE. OWNERS MAY CONTACT NISSAN AT 1-800-647-7261.
2007-07-03
  • Manufacturer: HOPKINS MANUFACTURING CORP.
  • Components: EQUIPMENT
  • Summary: CERTAIN HOPKINS AFTERMARKET TRAILER BRAKE CONTROL CONNECTION HARNESSES SOLD FOR USE ON CERTAIN MODELS OF NISSAN VEHICLES WHICH ARE LISTED ABOVE. THE INTERNAL PART NUMBERS WITHIN HOPKINS ARE: 1010476025, 1040376025, 1110476025, 1170376025, 1290376025, 1010476035, 1040376035, 1110476035, 1170376035, AND 1290376035. A WIRE MAY HAVE BEEN PLACED IN AN INCORRECT POSITION IN THE ELECTRICAL CONNECTOR HOUSING. THIS RESULTS IN AN INCORRECT ROUTING OF WIRES BETWEEN THE TRAILER BRAKE CONTROLLER AND THE TOWING VEHICLE WIRING SYSTEM.
  • Consequence: THIS HARNESS WOULD RESULT IN POWER FROM THE TRAILER BRAKE CONTROLLER GOING TO THE TOWING VEHICLE DASH LIGHT CIRCUIT RATHER THAN THE TRAILER BRAKES. THIS RESULT WOULD BE THE LACK OF TRAILER BRAKING WHEN THE TOWING VEHICLE BRAKES WERE APPLIED. IT WOULD ALSO RESULT IN THE TOWING VEHICLES DASH LIGHTS BEING ACTIVATED WHEN THE VEHICLE BRAKES WERE APPLIED. THE FAILURE OF THE APPLICATION OF THE TRAILER BRAKE COULD RESULT IN REDUCED ABILITY TO STOP AND CONTRIBUTE TO A POSSIBLE CRASH.
  • Remedy: HOPKINS WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE ORIGINAL HARNESS WITH A REVISED HARNESS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN AUGUST 17, 2007. OWNERS CAN CONTACT HOPKINS AT 800-835-0129.

Negative 2006 Nissan Pathfinder car reviews

  1. Orval Cremin 2025-01-06

    Since 2000, my family and I have purchased a total of 5 Nissans, both new and used. My mother, who is now 74 years old, has owned 3 Xterras, while I have owned 2 Pathfinders. While we have had some issues with our 2006 Pathfinder, including a faulty front impeller shaft joint at 40K, a replaced steering column at 46K, a loose running board, and temperamental fog lights at 60K, we have still enjoyed our Nissan vehicles. Unfortunately, at 87K, the radiator failed and mixed the coolant and transmission fluid. Despite Nissan only offering a discounted repair price of $4000, I was able to find a replacement radiator on eBay for $100 and had Jiffy Lube flush the transmission. Ultimately, I decided to trade in the Pathfinder for a Silverado 4x4 crew cab due to some slipping in the transmission. While there may not be many Pathfinders of this series around, we still appreciate the quality of Nissan vehicles, especially compared to older Pathfinders that are still easy to find.

  2. Billy Mosciski 2024-09-11

    You've put about 25,000 miles on this truck in the past 12+ months. You've used it for towing up to 4,000 lbs, general highway and city driving. While the power is great and the major mechanical components are strong, it could use some improvement in overall refinement. The seats are below average in comfort and there have been a few trips to the dealer for electrical and traction control issues. Additionally, some body trim has started to peel off. However, with some attention to these issues, this truck could be a reliable and capable vehicle for your needs.

  3. Jabari Schultz 2024-08-28

    I have owned a 2006 Pathfinder since it was brand new and unfortunately, I have experienced several issues. Although some problems were covered under warranty, I had to replace the fuel gauge, IPDM, and AC. Additionally, I had to purchase two catalytic converters, a new radiator, and a torque converter. Despite my initial expectations of the car lasting up to 200,000 miles, it began to fall apart after reaching 100,000 miles. While this has been a disappointing experience, I am confident in my decision to not purchase another Nissan in the future.

  4. Kellen Pfeffer 2024-07-18

    Hey there! Just wanted to let you know that sometimes the radiators on these cars can crack, which can cause fluid to leak into the transmission. Unfortunately, this can end up ruining the whole car. It's definitely something to keep an eye on!

  5. Eddie Wuckert 2024-06-07

    Hi there! I noticed that there might be some transmission issues due to water contamination caused by a radiator leak. It's important to keep in mind that fixing this issue might cost around $5000 at 90,000 miles. If you're considering buying this vehicle, make sure to check if the transmission and radiator have been replaced. Hope this helps!

Positive 2006 Nissan Pathfinder car reviews

  1. Alden Leannon 2025-01-09

    I bought my Pathfinder brand new in 2006 and it has been my trusty companion ever since. With two kids and a demanding job, I spend a lot of time on the road, but my SUV has never let me down. It has taken me on countless adventures and I have always been able to rely on it. Of course, I make sure to keep up with regular maintenance, including changing the oil and replacing the tires and brakes when needed. Overall, it has been a fantastic vehicle that has served me well. The only downside is the requirement for 93 octane fuel, which can be expensive in today's market. However, I have found that using 87 octane fuel negatively affects the performance, so I stick with the higher grade. Out of the nine vehicles I have owned in my life, this is the only one that has never given me any trouble. I highly recommend it to anyone in the market for a reliable SUV.

  2. Moses Conroy 2024-11-20

    Your new Pathfinder with all the bells and whistles sounds like a true joy! It's great to hear that your two young grandchildren love riding in the spacious back seat where they can easily see out the windows, have their own heat or air, and watch their favorite videos. The dogs also seem quite content to sit in the third seat or to have the whole cargo area. It sounds like you have a wonderful vehicle for your family and pets!

  3. Jocelyn Carter 2024-10-28

    The Pathfinder is an exceptional SUV that offers both toughness and luxury. It's an all-in-one package that won't disappoint. Purchasing a Pathfinder is a great decision, as it's as important as buying a house. It's not only fun to drive but also great for towing, and the ride is incredibly smooth. You'll feel like you're riding on clouds, even at high speeds. Just be careful not to get any speeding tickets! This wonderful vehicle is perfect for the whole family.

  4. Keanu D'Amore 2024-09-16

    Hello! Thank you for sharing your experience with us. It's great to hear that you're enjoying your 2006 Pathfinder more than your previous one. It sounds like you made a great choice with the comfort and performance packages. The gas economy seems reasonable for a vehicle of this size. It's good to know that the only issue you had was resolved by the dealer and that your Pathfinder has been trouble-free ever since. Thank you again for sharing your thoughts with us!

  5. Flavio Rolfson 2024-08-14

    I purchased my Pathfinder brand new in December 2005 and have since driven it for 97,000 miles without any issues. It has only been to the dealership for routine maintenance. I am confident that it will remain reliable for well over 200,000 miles. I have even towed my son's 6 x 12 kart trailer over 1000 miles, with a good mix of flat and mountain terrain, and still averaged 16.5 MPG. The SUV handles surprisingly well and the Bose stereo is fantastic. The 3rd row seats have come in handy for my 10-year-old twins and their friends. Overall, it's a great all-around SUV with a good combination of performance, quality, features, and size - not too big or small.

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Additional sources

More sources of information about 2006 Nissan Pathfinder problems:

Looking to buy 05 or 06 Pathfinder. Issues? | Nissan Forum
Looking to buy 05 or 06 Pathfinder. Issues? | Nissan Forum
https://www.nissanforums.com/threads/looking-to-buy-05-or-06-pathfinder-issues.170532/

May 17, 2012 ... Looking to buy 05 or 06 Pathfinder. Issues? · 1) internal leak in the radiator causing coolant to mix with the transmission fluid. · 2) the ...

common problems on a 2005-2006 pathfinder - Nissan Forum ...
common problems on a 2005-2006 pathfinder - Nissan Forum ...
https://forums.nicoclub.com/common-problems-on-a-2005-2006-pathfinder-t472502.html

Jan 14, 2010 ... catalytic converters also go bad fairly regularly in the 05-06 Pathfinder, Xterra, and Frontier. Nissan was getting crap cats, and they were ...

2006 Nissan Pathfinder Problems and Complaints - 7 Issues
2006 Nissan Pathfinder Problems and Complaints - 7 Issues
https://repairpal.com/2006-nissan-pathfinder/problems

Problem with your 2006 Nissan Pathfinder? Our list of 7 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 2006 Nissan Pathfinder.

Buying a 2006 pathfinder need advice : r/nissanpathfinder
Buying a 2006 pathfinder need advice : r/nissanpathfinder
https://www.reddit.com/r/nissanpathfinder/comments/f44pq1/buying_a_2006_pathfinder_need_advice/

Feb 15, 2020 ... I already plan to change the coolant tank due to the transmission collant problem they have once the tank cracks. Let me know what you guys ...

Nissan Pathfinder 2006 reliability
Nissan Pathfinder 2006 reliability
https://www.4x4community.co.za/forum/showthread.php/316787-Nissan-Pathfinder-2006-reliability

Jun 22, 2019 ... Fantastic vehicles. I've had a few minor issues, and one major one. The injectors went and the repair bill was R35K at 175k km. Mine is the 2010 ...

Other years of Nissan Pathfinder

nissan pathfinder 2007 photo
Pathfinder 2007
Nissan

560

2

24

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

327

5

25

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

37

4

31

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

39

5

17

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

43

2

23

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

21

2

16

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1

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