2012 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 2012 Nissan Pathfinder problems
The Nissan Pathfinder, a popular SUV, has faced several common problems over the years, particularly in the 2005-2012 model range. Here are some of the most frequently reported issues, based on owner complaints and expert analysis:
- Exploding Sunroofs: Some Nissan Pathfinder models equipped with the glass sunroof have been known to spontaneously explode due to a poor tempering process. This issue was so pervasive that a class-action lawsuit was brought against the company in 2017 .
- EVAP Canister Clogging: The EVAP canister, situated between the tank and the EVAP canister, is responsible for capturing and storing fuel vapors. However, it can become clogged over time, causing issues with the vehicle's fuel system. This issue is often more prevalent in high-mileage vehicles or those that have been driven in harsh conditions .
- Catalytic Converter Issues: The catalytic converter in the Nissan Pathfinder's V6 engine can become clogged over time, causing increased gas and oil use during the exhaust valve overlap phase. The ceramic powder from the catalytic converter can eventually wear away the cylinder walls, causing engine damage .
In conclusion, while the Nissan Pathfinder is a popular and capable SUV, it has faced several common problems over the years, particularly in the 2005-2012 model range. Owners of these vehicles should be aware of these issues and take proactive steps to maintain their vehicles and address any potential problems as soon as they arise.
What is most common problem on Nissan Pathfinder?
According to CarComplaints, one of the most common Pathfinder issues is transmission failure. This issue is said to be caused by coolant leaking into the transmission – which is also a huge issue.
How many miles will a 2012 Nissan Pathfinder last?
Having said that, the Nissan Pathfinder can last up to 150,000 to 200,000 miles before encountering any significant issues. As always, regular maintenance and timely repairs are vital for increasing the lifespan of your Pathfinder.
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.
What are the disadvantages of the Nissan Pathfinder?
Stiff Front Seat
If you're someone who needs a commuter vehicle to drive hours a day and don't want back pain, the Nissan Pathfinder might not be the right choice for you. Its front seats aren't the best around for a comfortable time behind the wheel.
2012 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 problems
- Unknown or other problems
- Air bags problems
- Suspension problems
- Electrical system problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2012 Nissan Pathfinder vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
2012 Nissan Pathfinder complaints
The NHTSA has received 21 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2012 Nissan Pathfinder.
SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-04-06
- VIN: 5N1AR1NBXCC
- Components: SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2012 Nissan Pathfinder. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked, he noticed that the rear tires were abnormally damaged. The contact stated that upon further inspection, he noticed that the subframe was severely corroded and fractured. The dealer was notified of the failure and provided an estimate for the repair. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and informed the contact that there would be no assistance because the vehicle was out of warranty. The failure mileage was approximately 133,000.
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-09-22
- VIN: 5N1AR1NB3CC
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: Rear lower control arm broke while driving. Vehicle had to be moved on a rollback. Upon replacing control arm, cracks have been found at several points on the crossmember subframe. As it stands, the vehicle is a danger to have on the road.
SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-04-11
- VIN: 5N1AR1NN9CC
- Components: SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2012 Nissan Pathfinder. The contact stated while driving approximately 35 MPH, the vehicle started to wobble as if the steering wheel was being turned to the left and to the right repeatedly. The contact stated the vehicle wobbled more violently after driving over bumps in the road. The contact stated no warning light was illuminated. The contact had not taken the vehicle to a local dealer or independent mechanic to be diagnosed or repaired. The contact’s husband checked the under carriage and observed that the driver's side rear tire was nearly rusted through. Additionally, there was an inch of room above the wheel well. The contact stated that wheel was turned inward the wheel well. The contact stated that her husband observed extensive rust on the rear subframe and members. The contact stated the vehicle was undrivable. The manufacturer had not been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 156,000.
STEERING,AIR BAGS,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-03-04
- VIN: 5N1AR1NB1CC
- Components: STEERING,AIR BAGS,ENGINE
- Summary: There was no incident but now I’m scared to drive my vehicle that I’m still paying for and my insurance telling me if I don’t get the recall resolve it’s going to be an issue.
POWER TRAIN,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-05-27
- VIN: 5N1AR1NN1CC
- Components: POWER TRAIN,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE
- Summary: Check engine light comes on and vehicle will not cycle through gears. Will go into drive, reverse, neutral but not 1st, second, third. Vehicle will go back to normal after I disconnect the battery for a few minutes but the same issue will happen a few days later
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-10-25
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 5N1AR1NB3CC
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: The contact owns a 2012 Nissan Pathfinder. The contact stated that the vehicle was parked on the road outside his friend's residence. The contact stated that as he approached the vehicle, he saw smoke coming from the windows. The contact stated that when he opened the vehicle, he saw that the headliner of the vehicle and the seats had burned. The contact stated that the fire had extinguished itself as the windows were closed. The contact stated that he was able to start the vehicle and drive it to his residence. There were no warning lights illuminated. The contact did not sustain any injuries. A police report was not filed. The dealer was not notified of the failure. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and advised the contact that they could not assist as the vehicle was out of warranty. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The approximate failure mileage was 111,000.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-06-16
- VIN: 5N1AR1NN6CC
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE
- Summary: We purchased the truck in 2018. Starting last year the truck starting losing power, not cutting on. Replaced the battery and have had 5 mechanics check it. Not one mechanic has been able to find the issue. Today my truck cut off in a tunnel with my children in the car. This could have and felt like an extremely dangerous situation. Upon further research Nissans losing power is a common issue. Nissan needs to take action and fix the malfunctions. I can’t afford to be without a car, nor should I have to repair an issue that Nissan is responsible for.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-02-16
- VIN: 5N1AR1NN9CC
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: THE GEAR SHIFT WILL NOT ENGAGE ALLOWING ME TO SHIFT FROM P TO D AND PUT THE CAR IN GEAR WITHOUT MANUALLY OVERRIDING AND STICKING A SCREW DRIVER DOWN IN THE SHIFTER ASSEMBLY.*JB*JB
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-02-08
- VIN: 5N1AR1NN5CC
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: WHEN I STEPPED ON THE BRAKES THEY SEEMED TO REACT NORMALLY. THEN THE PEDAL WENT TO THE FLOOR. AT THAT POINT IT WAS BRAKING BUT NOT AS EFFICIENTLY AS IT SHOULD. THE INEFFICIENCY OF THE BRAKES WOULD HAVE CAUSED ME TO OVERSHOOT THE STOPPING POINT OF THE INTERSECTION. RATHER THAN STOP IN THE MIDDLE OF THE INTERSECTION, I APPLIED THE ACCELERATOR TO GET THROUGH THE INTERSECTION. THE BRAKES CONTINUED TO OPERATE IN THAT MANNER FOR THE REMINDER OF THAT TRIP. ON ALL SUBSEQUENT USES OF THE TRUCK, WHICH WAS TO GET BACK TO OUR HOMETOWN DEALERSHIP, THE BRAKES DID RESPOND NORMALLY. IT HAS BEEN AT THE DEALER SINCE 2/9/20 AND THEY HAVE NOT BEEN ABLE TO REPLICATE THE PROBLEM. THEY HAVE CHECKED DTC'S, WIRING, VACUUM HOSES, ROTORS, PADS, BRAKE BOOSTER, MASTER CYLINDER, AND FLUID AND CANNOT FIND ANY PROBLEMS.*DT
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-04-12
- VIN: 5N1AR1NN3CC
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: WHEN DRIVING AT ANY TIME, MORNING, AFTERNOON.... CHECK ENGINE LIGHT WILL GO ON AND WITHIN SECONDS, MINUTES..., ENGINE WILL REV, SEIZE AND WHEN PRESSING GAS, ENGINE WILL REV BUT BARELY ANY PROPULSION. IF DRIVING AT 60MPH, ENGINE WILL SEIZE AND SPEED WILL DROP IMMEDIATELY. NO CONTROL OF MOTOR OR SPEED. THIS IS THE 15TH TIME I'M 2 YEARS THAT THIS HAS HAPPENED.
ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC) PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-08-02
- VIN: 1C3CCCAB1FN
- Components: ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
- Summary: I BOUGHT MY NISSAN PATHFINDER JUNE 2012 BRAND NEW...I HAVEN'T HAD ANY ISSUES WITH MY VEHICLE UNTIL AUGUST 2, 2018 IN MY GARAGE I TRIED TO START IT BUT IT WOULDN'T CRANK. I HAD IT TOWED TO NISSAN SERVICE....I WAS TOLD IT SHOULDN'T BE DOING THIS IF YOU BOUGHT YOUR CAR NEW...AFTER DIAGNOSIS THEY TOLD ME IT WAS MY COMPUTER (ECM)SO, IS THAT NORMAL FOR A 6 YEAR OLD CAR?ALSO, NO WARNING SIGNS OR ANYTHING..
PARKING BRAKE,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-02-23
- Components: PARKING BRAKE,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: IF THE TRANSMISSION IN THE "N" POSITION (NEUTRAL), THE PARKING BREAK CAN'T HOLD THE CAR ON INCLINE SPACE! THAT PROBLEM EXIST IN ALL NISSAN PATHFINDERS YEAR 2012 AND UP, WE FIND IT IN THE OTHER PATHFINDERS ON THE DEALERSHIP TOO (THAT MEANS IT IS NOT THE SINGLE PROBLEM JUST WITH MY CAR), BUT THE DEALERSHIP TECHNICIAN TOLD ME THAT THIS IS NORMAL FOR THIS MODEL(?!?) IF THE TRANSMISSION IN THE "P" POSITION (PARK) THAT PROBLEM DOES NOT EXIST (BECAUSE THE TRANSMISSION HOLDS THE CAR) BUT THE PARKING BREAK ITSELF CAN NOT HOLD THE CAR ON INCLINE! I DID NOT FIND THE SAME PROBLEM ON ANY OTHER MODELS/MAKES...
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-05-17
- VIN: 5N1AR1NN3CC
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: WHILE VEHICLE IS IN MOTION, THE ENGINE WILL ALL OF A SUDDEN SEIZE. THIS HAS HAPPENED 5 TIMES, 2 TIMES ON THE FREEWAY AT 55 - 65 MPH, SEIZED IN MOTION, STEPPED ALL THE WAY DOWN ON GAS AFTER ENGINE SEIZED, ENGINE REVS, HARDLY ANY POWER, ALMOST DOWN TO 10 MPH IN LESS THAN 10 SECONDS. BOTH TIMES, WAS AFTERNOON RUSH HOUR AND WHILE TRYING TO GET TO THE SHOULDER LANE, I HAD TO CROSS 2-3 LANES OF VERY FAST TRAFFIC, DROPPING TO ROUGHLY 10 MPH, BARELY MISSING IMPACT WITH OTHER CARS, BOTH TIMES. THE OTHER 2 TIMES, I WAS YIELDING WHILE MAKING A CORNER AND THE CAR SEIZED, SAME SPOT AND SAME EXPERIENCE AS THE FREEWAY, WHAT FEELS LIKE ALMOST COMPLETE ENGINE FAILURE. 5TH TIME HAPPENED TODAY, MAKING A CORNER, TRIED TO EXCEL, ENGINE REVED AND SEIZED. ALL TIMES, THE ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON PRIOR TO. PLEASE NOTE, THERE WAS A RECALL FOR WHAT APPEARS TO BE THE SAME ISSUE, NHSTA RECALL 11V-592. WHEN I CHECKED WITH NISSAN AND DEALER, THEY BOTH SAID MY VIN WASN'T PART OF THE RECALL, BUT I'M EXPERIENCING THE SAME ISSUE DESCRIBED IN THE RECALL. THIS IS A MAJOR ACCIDENT WAITING TO HAPPEN.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-02-29
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: I WAS IN A 40MPH CAR ACCIDENOT AND MY FRONT AIRBAGS DID NOT DEPLOY.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-12-16
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 5N1AR1NN1CC
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 NISSAN PATHFINDER. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING AT 75 MPH, A DEER JUMPED INTO THE ROAD CAUSING THE CONTACT TO CRASH INTO IT. THE AIR BAGS FAILED TO DEPLOY. THERE WAS NO INJURIES SUSTAINED AND THERE WAS A POLICE REPORT FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS NOT AVAILABLE.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-09-17
- VIN: 5N1AR1NB0CC
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: WE BOUGHT A 2012 NISSAN PATHFINDER ON SEPTEMBER 17TH, 2015 USED FOR $27,999.00. WE PUT $3,000.00 DOWN PAYMENT ON THE VEHICLE. WE WERE UNDER THE IMPRESSION, AND WERE TOLD BY OUR SALESMAN THAT WE DIDN'T HAVE TO PAY WI TAXES AND THAT ANY OTHER TAXES WOULD BE INCLUDED IN OUR LOAN. THAT PROVED TO BE FALSE! IF WE WOULD'VE KNOWN THE IL TAXES WASN'T INCLUDED, WE WOULDN'T HAVE PUT SUCH A LARGER DOWN PAYMENT ON THE VEHICLE. WE'VE HAD THIS VEHICLE NOW FOR ALMOST 3 MONTHS AND WERE THINKING,... "WHY MAKE PAYMENTS ON SOMETHING THAT HAS A LOT OF MILES, WHEN WE COULD MAKE PAYMENTS ON A BRAND NEW VEHICLE WITH NO MILES?" SO WE WENT TO A DIFFERENT DEALERSHIP TO BUY A NEW 2015 VEHICLE. WHILE WE ARE AT THIS DEALERSHIP, THEY INFORM US THAT WHEN THEY RAN THE VIN #:, IT CAME UP THAT OUR PATHFINDER HAS "STRUCTURAL DAMAGE" AS WELL AS "LEFT FRONT DAMAGE." ALL OF WHICH WE WERE UNAWARE OF. MAD CITY SALES NEVER SHOWED US A CAR FAX, ALTHOUGH THEY CLAIM THEY DID. THEY DID NOT HAVE A BUYERS GUIDE ON THE VEHICLE WHEN WE TEST DROVE IT. IF THEY WOULD'VE, WE WOULD NOT HAVE PURCHASED THIS VEHICLE. WHEN WE QUESTIONS MAD CITY ABOUT THE DAMAGE, THEY SAID THEY DIDN'T KNOW ABOUT IT, BUT WERE SURE THEY HAD TOLD US. THEN, THEY CALL BACK AND SAY THEY FOUND PAPERS WITH OUR SIGNATURES/INITIALS STATING THAT THEY SHOWED US. THESE PAPERS ARE DATED FOR JULY 21ST, 2015. WE BOUGHT THE VEHICLE IN SEPTEMBER!! SO I DON'T SEE HOW OUR SIGNATURES GOT ON THESE FORMS. IT LOOKS LIKE THEY SOMEHOW COPY AND PASTED OUR SIGNATURES ONTO THESE FORMS. WE FEEL CHEATED AND USED AND MISINFORMED ABOUT THE VEHICLE WE PURCHASED. I'VE SINCE THEN CHECKED INTO REVIEWS OF THIS COMPANY, AND THERE ARE PLENTY OF OTHER CUSTOMERS WHO HAVE COMPLAINED ABOUT THE EXACT SAME ISSUE! THEY FALSIFY DOCUMENTS TO MAKE A SALE. WE WOULD LIKE A FULL REFUND ON THIS VEHICLE AS WELL AS THE MONEY THEY TOOK FROM US.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-11-08
- VIN: 5N1AR1NN3CC
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 NISSAN PATHFINDER. WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS UNDERGOING ROUTINE MAINTENANCE, THE DEALER NOTICED THAT THE PASSENGER SIDE ENGINE MOUNT FAILED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 28,000.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-05-24
- VIN: JN8DRO9X22W
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: I RECEIVED THE RECALL LETTER, TOOK MY CAR IN, THEY SAID IT WAS DONE, IT WAS NOT DONE CORRECTLY, I TOOK IT BACK WAS TOLD IT WAS A CLIP NOT CLIPPED CORRECTLY,. THE AIRBAG LIGHT STARTED FLASHING AGAIN. I CALLED AND TOLD THE RECALL WAS EXPIRED AND I WOULD HAVE TO PAY.. I'M DRIVING W IT FLASHING STILL.. I FEAR ONE DAY IT WILL GO OFF ON ITS OWN. I AM 68 YRS OLD AND LOW INCOME ... I CANNOT PAY FOR SOMETHING THAT WAS NOT REPAIRED... MY CAR WAS FINE BEFORE THEY TOUCHED IT ...HOW DO I GET THEM TO HAVE MY CAR REPAIRED?
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-12-02
- VIN: 5N1AR1NN5CC
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: STEERING THE VEHICLE, GRADUALLY BECAME HARDER (IT WOULD PULL SLIGHTLY TO THE RIGHT. WHEN CHECKING AIR PRESSURE, I NOTICED THE FRONT TIRES WERE WORN EXCESSIVELY. I THEN TOOK THE VEHICLE IN FOR REPAIR, WHERE I WAS TOLD I MUST HAVE HIT A CURVE OR HAD BEEN INVOLVED IN AN ACCIDENT, NEITHER WAS THE CASE. I HAD TO HAVE THE COMPLETE FRONT-END OF THE VEHICLE REPLACED BY AUTO NATION SOUTH BAY NISSAN OF HAWTHORNE,CA INVOICE #685460, WHICH INCLUDED: RACK AND PINION, STEERING ANGLE SENSOR, GEAR AND LINKAGE, SWITCH ASSEMBLY COMBINATION, AND CORE.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-04-07
- VIN: 5N1AR18U85C
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,POWER TRAIN
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING I WAS HEARING A RUMBLING SOUND EVERYTIME I PRESS THE GAS PEDAL. I TOOK IT TO NISSAN OF BRANDON ON 4-11-14 AND WAS INFORMED THAT I HAVE CROSS CONTAMINATION OF ENGINE COOLANT AND TRANSMISSION FLUID. NISSAN ADVISED IT WOULD BE $5800 TO FIX. THERE WAS A CIVIL LAWSUIT FILED AGAINST NISSAN TO REPAIR OR REIMBURSE THE OWNERS FOR OUT OF POCKET EXPENSE. HOWEVER, BECAUSE THE LAW SUIT ONLY COVERED UP TO 100,000 MILES AND I'M AT 130,000 NISSAN WILL NOT REPAIR THE PROBLEM. *TR
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-06-04
- VIN: 5N1AR1NB6CC
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: I WAS TRAVELING ON THE HIGHWAY AT 65 MPH (POSTED SPEED LIMIT) AT 1150PM WITH NO OTHER VEHICLES IN THE NEAR VICINITY IN FRONT OF ME OR BEHIND ME WHEN THE REAR WINDOW EXPLODED ON MY 2012 NISSAN PATHFINDER. THERE WAS NO APPARENT CAUSE AND THE DEALER STATED NISSAN WOULD NOT REPAIR UNDER WARRANTY OR DEFECTIVE PARTS. *TR
2012 Nissan Pathfinder recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 2012 Nissan Pathfinder.
- Manufacturer: Nissan North America, Inc.
- Components: SUSPENSION:FRONT:HUB
- Summary: Nissan is recalling certain model year 2012 Frontier, Pathfinder, and Xterra two-wheel drive vehicles manufactured from June 19, 2012, through July 12, 2012. These vehicles may have been equipped with front wheel hubs that may not meet the design hardness specifications. A wheel hub that was manufactured below hardness specification may wear prematurely and eventually crack.
- Consequence: If the vehicle is driven in this condition, the wheel hub may break, possibly resulting in a vehicle crash.
- Remedy: Nissan will notify owners, and dealers will replaced the left and right side front wheel hub assemblies free of charge. The safety recall began on October 22, 2012. Owners may contact Nissan Customer Service at 1-800-647-7261.
- Manufacturer: NISSAN NORTH AMERICA, INC.
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: NISSAN IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2011 INFINITI FX, MODEL YEAR 2012 INFINITI M, MODEL YEAR 2011-2012 NISSAN FRONTIER, MODEL YEAR 2011-2012 NISSAN XTERRA, MODEL YEAR 2011-2012 NISSAN PATHFINDER, AND MODEL YEAR 2012 NISSAN NV VEHICLES. SOME OF THE BOLTS THAT CONNECT THE ENGINE OIL COOLER AND THE ENGINE OIL FILTER TO THE ENGINE IN THESE VEHICLES MAY HAVE BEEN MANUFACTURED TO BELOW SPECIFICATION STRENGTH. AS A RESULT, THE BOLT MAY BREAK AT THE OIL FILTER ATTACHMENT POINT AND CAN CAUSE AN ENGINE OIL LEAK.
- Consequence: IF THERE IS AN ENGINE OIL LEAK, THE ENGINE OIL PRESSURE WOULD DROP AND THE ENGINE COULD SEIZE, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
- Remedy: NISSAN WILL NOTIFY OWNERS, AND DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE CONNECTOR BOLTS FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON JANUARY 30, 2012. OWNERS MAY CONTACT NISSAN AT 1-800-647-7261.
Negative 2012 Nissan Pathfinder car reviews
Positive 2012 Nissan Pathfinder car reviews
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I'm so glad to hear that you've had your device since 2016 and have never experienced any issues with it. It's great to know that it's still running just as well as the day you got it!
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Hi there! I wanted to share my recent experience using the new PF to tow crushed stone. I was pleasantly surprised at how effortless it was to pull 2,800 lbs. The best part was that the truck hardly sank at all when the bucket loader was filling the trailer. This is a huge improvement from our old '03, which used to drop its tail end so much that it looked like the rear wheels would rub. I do need to get a larger drop hitch though, as the trailer is at quite an angle coming off the 2
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It sounds like you found exactly what you were looking for! Although it may be an older model, it's great to hear that it's still strong and durable. With three kids and all their stuff, having plenty of space is a must, and it's fantastic that you've found a vehicle that can accommodate everyone comfortably.
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High marks for style, comfort, and driveability! Although, I would love to see better mileage from a six cylinder. The excellent views to the rear make lane changing a breeze, and the height provides great visibility in all directions.
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I absolutely love this truck! Even though I don't have much space to write, I just had to express my admiration for it. I've been fortunate enough to have it for three years now, and I'm dreading the end of its lease in April with over 100K miles on it. It's reliable, fun, and economical, all at the same time. Can you believe it? I drive almost a full tank of gas each day for work, and I spend more time in it than my own bed! I've taken it through all kinds of weather conditions and even rough terrain, and it has never let me down. If you think this truck drives too much like a truck, then you probably haven't owned a real truck before, and you've probably had some pretty lousy cars too. I'll be so sad to see my truck go, but...
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2012 Nissan Pathfinder problems:
Considering a 2012 Pathfinder with the V6. Anything to look for ...
Mar 4, 2022 ... The biggest thing to check for is a leak that causes coolant to contaminate the transmission fluid. Start it and let it warm up then check ...
2012 Nissan Pathfinder Problems and Complaints - 5 Issues
Top 2012 Nissan Pathfinder Problems · Check Engine Light Due to Faulty Fuel Level Sensor. 319 people have reported this · Engine won't crank due to starter ...
Common Problems with 2012 Nissan Pathfinder: Lowered Nissan ...
Oct 10, 2012 ... One way to get rid of it is to raise the idle to about 700-750 rpms. dsmtuner1 : When ...
2012 Nissan Pathfinder Problems | Kelley Blue Book
How reliable is the 2012 Nissan Pathfinder? See the most common repairs performed and learn if your vehicle is at risk for major repairs in the next 12 ...
2005 to 2012 nissan pathfinder problems - 3rd Gen Pathfinder - 1A ...
Mar 29, 2021 ... 1. Erratic Fuel Gauge is a Common 2005 to 2012 Nissan Pathfinder Problem · 2. No Crank No Start · 3. Timing Chains · 4. Cracked Radiator · 5.
Other years of Nissan Pathfinder
Are you having problems with your 2012 Nissan Pathfinder?
Domingo Cummerata 2024-10-13
undefinedAfter owning the Pathfinder for over 6 months, I have discovered some issues that may affect its usability. While it is great for off-road adventures and solo trips, it may not be the best option for those who want to take friends along. The brake system is not strong enough to safely pull a camper, and the gas mileage is average at best. However, the vehicle is in great mechanical shape and has no leaks. Despite this, there are some electrical issues that need to be addressed, such as the clock and radio not staying programmed and the key fob not being recognized. Additionally, the sun visors sag and cannot be used in the side position. Overall, the interior quality is poor. Despite these issues, I still enjoy driving the Pathfinder and hope it will last a long time. I had to replace the whole brake system and unfortunately, 4 weeks later, the brakes started grinding again. Although they have not locked up yet, I am terrified to go down a hill any time it is wet, just waiting for the brakes to throw me out of control. My son drove my Pathfinder yesterday and commented on how little room there is around the driver. The blind spot is really annoying as I cannot see out of the right side. Overall, I am not happy with this vehicle. I would recommend spending a lot of time in it before you buy it. In my experience, this vehicle is not worth buying. I have had it for a couple of years and have not enjoyed almost any moment. Unfortunately, I cannot afford to sell and buy something else, so I am stuck with this vehicle. It is not worth the fear and headache. On a positive note, now that we have had daylight savings, I no longer have to subtract an hour every time I look at the clock. However, the clock cannot be set.
Garrick Prosacco 2024-08-29
This is my third Pathfinder, and I must say that my previous 1996 and 1999 models were unbelievably reliable and fun to drive SUVs. However, I have had a different experience with this truck. It rides horribly on all road conditions and after 1 year, I am still trying to figure out why the transmission shifts at inappropriate times. In my opinion, there are much better choices out there, especially if you want to achieve any type of respectable MPG.
Nikko Pfannerstill 2024-05-29
I previously owned a 2008 PF before upgrading to a 2012 model. As someone who has owned 3 Maximas before these Pathfinders, I consider myself a Nissan fan. However, my experience with this 2012 PF has been disappointing and I am unlikely to purchase another Nissan in the future. Both PFs I've owned have had loud engines and spongy brakes, while the suspension feels boaty and the gas mileage is poor. While they do look cool and handle well in the snow, I don't have many other positive things to say about these trucks.
Rogelio Welch 2024-02-08
Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I wanted to share my experience with my Nissan Pathfinder that I bought less than 2 months ago. While hand-washing my vehicle about 3 weeks into ownership, I noticed some chips on my passenger side doors. I didn't think much of it at first, but when I showed my dad, who is a retired body man and paint expert, we discovered that there were actually several chips all over the vehicle. My dad explained that it was due to something called 'surface tension' and unfortunately, it would only get worse over time. I took my concerns to the dealership where I purchased the vehicle, Waco Nissan, and they promised to get in touch with the local Nissan Rep. to help resolve the issue. After waiting for three weeks and playing phone tag with the associate responsible for my case, I was offered a repaint. However, I did some research and found out that repainting could negatively impact the resale value of my vehicle. I'm still waiting for a better solution from Nissan, but I wanted to share my story with you. Thanks for listening!She would call and leave a message saying I could return her call, but never answered. After a few days, she finally called to say they had rejected my claim. On the same day, they revealed that they had rejected my request for a replacement vehicle. However, when I had taken it in for the first oil change, I talked to the owner of Waco Nissan, the same person who sold me the vehicle, and he said that Nissan had not contacted him for any pictures or sent anyone else to look at the vehicle. Basically, Nissan made their decision based on hearsay and without any evidence. No one cared to look at it and see what was going on with the paint, besides the original rep who came out a month ago. Since then, the chips have become more noticeable and the spots which were once bubbles have become chips. At this point, I don't know what to do. I feel that all Nissan is doing is working to get that signature on the dotted line and doesn't care to take fault for anything that happens in their factory. It's not fair for them to expect me to pay a new price for a car that needs to be repainted right off the lot. It's clear that they don't care. The consultant who delivered the news even went so far as to offer the number for the BBB.