2017 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 2017 Nissan Pathfinder problems
Based on complaints from owners of the 2017 Nissan Pathfinder, several common problems have been reported:
- Backup Camera Freezing: Another common problem is the backup camera freezing at around 5,000 miles. Software updates for the touchscreen can improve the reliability of the system, with most dealerships offering these updates for free or for a nominal fee.
- Brake Fluid Leaks and Recalls: The 2017 Nissan Pathfinder has two recalls related to brake fluid leaking into the ABS pump, which could lead to a fire risk. Nissan offers free replacement of the ABS actuator on affected models.
- Engine Seizure: Some owners have experienced engine seizure due to metal particles in the oil, computer failure, and engine seizing. This issue can be catastrophic and may require significant repairs or engine replacement.
- Oxygen (O2) Sensors: Problems with O2 sensors have been reported, triggering check engine lights and requiring replacement when the heater circuit inside them fails. This issue affects the fuel-air ratio and can impact engine performance .
- Fuel Level Sensor: Issues with the fuel level sensor can lead to inaccuracies in the fuel gauge display, causing confusion for drivers regarding the actual fuel level in the tank. Replacing the sending unit may be necessary to address this problem .
- Exhaust System Problems: Complaints include issues with the exhaust system components like the muffler, pipes, catalytic converter, exhaust manifold, and heat shields. Leaks and failures in these parts can affect vehicle performance and emissions.
These reported problems highlight various issues that owners of the 2017 Nissan Pathfinder have faced, ranging from transmission and A/C system issues to more serious engine and exhaust system concerns. Regular maintenance and prompt attention to these problems can help mitigate potential risks and ensure the longevity of the vehicle.
What are the problems with the 2017 Nissan Pathfinder?
Overall Rating 7/10 – 2017 is a bad year for the Nissan Pathfinder since there are mechanical problems which make it expensive to own. Owner reviews complain about transmission failures, a rough suspension, along with high maintenance costs.
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.
Is there a recall on 2017 Nissan Pathfinder?
(Nissan) is recalling certain 2015-2017 Nissan Murano, 2016-2017 Nissan Maxima, 2017-2018 Nissan Pathfinder, and 2017 Infiniti QX60 vehicles. The Anti-Lock Brake (ABS) actuator pumps may allow brake fluid to leak onto an internal circuit board. Tip: Recalls don't affect every vehicle of the same year, make and model.
Does 2017 Nissan Pathfinder have CVT?
There's a newfound gutsiness to this engine, complete with a bit of a muscular growl. We also like that Nissan enhanced the CVT's simulated shift points to make it seem more like a regular automatic transmission — last year's monotonous droning noises have mostly been exorcised.
2017 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
- Power train problems
- Electrical system problems
- Service brakes problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2017 Nissan Pathfinder vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 2017 Nissan Pathfinder
The NHTSA has received 165 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2017 Nissan Pathfinder. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2017 Nissan Pathfinder vehicles.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-01
- VIN: 5N1DR2MN0HC
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: Low beam headlamps becoming to dim to safely see at night resulting in having to replace entire headlamp Replacing bulb made no difference
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-25
- VIN: 5N1DR2MM8HC
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2017 Nissan Pathfinder. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle lost motive power. No warning lights were illuminated. The contact pulled over to the shoulder of the road and attempted to jumpstart the vehicle; however, the vehicle failed to restart. The vehicle was towed to the property and was later towed to a local dealer where it was diagnosed but no cause for the failure was identified. The contact stated that several weeks afterwards, the display screen went black before the vehicle lost motive power. The contact pulled over to the shoulder of the road and attempted to jump start the vehicle. The contact stated that the vehicle shut off as soon as the contact arrived at the local dealer. The vehicle was taken back to the same local dealer where it was diagnosed but no cause for the failure was identified. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 120,000.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-12
- VIN: 5N1DR2MM0HC
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Thursday 9/12/24 6:38 am temp 71 degrees. Driving on interstate and my 2017 Nissan Pathfinder sunroof exploded in the middle of the glass. No rocks were found. I reviewed dash cam front and rear footage and did not find any evidence of a vehicle close enough to throw a rock on the car.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VISIBILITY/WIPER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-05-01
- VIN: 5N1DR2MM6HC
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: AC Auto Amp failed and no cold or hot air is coming out of the vents. Nissan has identified the problem in May 2024 and as of September 2024 they still have not sourced a part that can be used to repair the issue. Safety was put at risk in two ways. First the windshield defroster and defogger do not work. When fog begins to appear on the windshield it affects visibility and has to be wiped off manually while driving. In summer months the temperature of the cabin is excessively hot which can be unsafe over long drives. Nissan has provided no ETA for being able to fix this and the cold NorthEast winter months are coming where it will get dangerously cold. This can be unsafe over long drives in sub freezing temps.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-06
- VIN: 5N1DR2MM4HC
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: The rear passenger window exploded while driving. It shattered all over the passenger seat and middle seat. Luckily, there was no one in the back seat when it occurred.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-29
- VIN: 5N1DR2MM9HC
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: On June 29, 2024, I was backing out of my driveway, and noticed the rear camera screen was black: guide lines were present as usual, but no image. I checked lens: it was unobstructed. Within about 30 minutes, the camera was functioning normally again.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-04-14
- VIN: 5N1DR2MM7HC
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: While driving and going down the highway my vehicles HUD and all electronics inside the vehicle will just randomly kick out momentarily for not no more the 30seconds, but the head lights stay one and the car still runs. It kicks the cruise control off and this just started happening.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-04-05
- VIN: 5N1DR2MM7HC
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Complete engine failure while driving on highway putting the safety of my family(including 2 young kids) at risk. We were able maneuver to the side of the road. We were stranded on side of highway in a very rural area at night with no power(no hazard lights, or heat) for a while. Car towed to Nissan dealership, who stated a new engine is needed. Paper work is available. For history, a new timing belt was installed in Fall 2023, but no issues since (no warnings, messages or problems).
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-03-22
- VIN: 5N1DR2MN0HC
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: The dealership is recommended a brand new engine despite it only having 130,000 on it.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-02-11
- VIN: 5N1DR2MN2HC
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: The contact owns a 2017 Nissan Pathfinder. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle briefly hesitated to shift into gear, displaying symptoms consistent with the transmission slipping. The vehicle returned to normal functionality, but the failure became a regular occurrence. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was not taken to the dealer or an independent mechanic. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 145,000.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-11-10
- VIN: 5N1DR2MM4HC
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: Airbag light blinks all the time. DTC B00A0-00 (OCCUPANT DETECTION SENSOR UNIT). I can't reset it even I tried everything using "diagnostic mode" with ignition on/off process or OBD II tool. Nissan has Service Bulletin NTB19-071 which includes my vehicle year(2017) in it, but I couldn't find it from the recall case. Only 2013~2016 Pathfinder has recall history with NTB16-054a. I think 2017 also have same issue. There's no issue to drive so far with airbag light blinking, but I'm not sure if the airbag will be deployed when it needs to do.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-01-09
- VIN: 5N1DR2MM6HC
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Radiator Fan Requiring Replacement due to failing bushings at 45k miles.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-10-06
- VIN: 5N1DR2MN5HC
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: I am told my transmission needs to be replaced and I need timing chain repair kit. I had transmission service in June 2023 and our car started with a funny noise. Had oil changed and tune up and still same sound Car started to jerk really hard on accelaration after 25mpg then would catch itself up and then loose power. I took to back to place that did my transmission service and they deemed 2 parts in my transmission went out. I have only driven my car for 54585 miles. When I got it it had 48583. I have not driven the car 100000 miles ourselves and this happens. I argued with them because Ihad no problems with my car, we were trying to follow the guidlelines of service for mileage. Now we are stuck with no car and the cost of repair 10,500 that we do not have plus having a high car payment. I asked when purchasing the car about the transmission because of things I had heard but the sales guy reasured us they have fixed the problems with the CVT engines. Not true thats why with the new models they went back to the standard transmission. WE NEED HELP!!!!
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-11-26
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 5N1DR2MM9HC
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: The inside of my car was consumed by an electrical fire while it was parked.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-02-23
- VIN: 5N1DR2MM6HC
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: Was at a light making a left hand turn, the truck went forward and stopped in the middle of the traffic on a major highway. Passengers include myself and my 6 year old daughter. No check engine light on any lights came over the truck gave no physical warning that this was about to happen. The problem was confirmed by the Nissan dealership.
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-10-06
- VIN: 5N1DR2MN9HC
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: ABS pump "blew" lost compression and leaked all the brake fluid down the engine and all over the control arm. Brake pedal needed to go all the way to the floor to barely use the brakes. EBRAKE light stayed on even when not in use. Traction control light also came on and stayed on.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-09-08
- VIN: 5N1DR2MN3HC
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE
- Summary: I have had so many problems with my vehicle. I have spend so much on auto repair. Latest one I took in to a local mechanic and he diagnosed it with transmission issue with a timer. It’s hard to go from 30 to 40mph. He also looked it up and said there’s a recall. I called my local Nissan dealer and was told my vehicle is not under the recall. Every dealers being asking me if I have transmission issues and I finally said yes trying to trade my vehicle. They mentioned Nissan has transmission issues.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-09-21
- VIN: 5N1DR2MN0HC
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: Faulty airbag module. Error Code DTC-B0020-13. Requires replacement of the left front seat back assembly.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-05-01
- VIN: 5N1DR2MN4HC
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: According to the dealership the engine has sludge and unrepairable
STEERING,POWER TRAIN,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-06-04
- VIN: 5N1DR2MM0HC
- Components: STEERING,POWER TRAIN,ENGINE
- Summary: While driving at a speed of 60mph on the highway my pathfinder lost all power and became had to control as my car came to a complete stop causing me to be stuck in between to merging highways with traffic on each side . I was given no warning this was about to happen and it could have cost me my life . My car had to be picked up and towed I would assume it’s my transmission or my engine it is the 3rd. I could not accelerate or shift at all despite having NO warning lights on until I turned it off to save my battery and make my self able to keep my lights and flashers on without causing anymore damage to my car which has already had a complete engine ,diffrential, and transfcase, radiator, and tan blades replaced multiple times at just 2 years old but was out of mileage so Nissan wouldn’t honor them . Well I assumed with Nissans suite winces they know it’s their transmissions they would cover everyone’s since this is on going however they didn’t and only covered to mileage to my surprise .
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-10-18
- VIN: 5N1DR2MM7HC
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ENGINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2017 Nissan Pathfinder. The contact stated that upon starting the vehicle, the vehicle made abnormally loud sounds. Additionally, the check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where the cooling fan was replaced and the warning light was reset; however, the failure persisted. Additionally, the vehicle would only start after several attempts. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed that the PCV hose collapsed and was applying significant pressure on the crankcase, causing an engine misfire. The dealer replaced the PCV hose; however, the check engine warning light remained illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where the fractured exhaust clamps were replaced; however, the failure persisted. The dealer diagnosed that the cylinder #1 ignition coil might have failed. The dealer replaced the transmission fluid, coolant exchange kit, and brake fluid. The engine control module (ECM) reprogramming was completed. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and referred the contact to the dealer. The vehicle was taken to a second dealer; Zeigler Nissan of Gurnee (3175 Grand Ave, Lindenhurst, IL 60046), where it was diagnosed that the long block, exhaust manifold gasket, intake manifold, throttle body, the bank one #1 catalytic converter, and other unknown parts needed to be replaced. The manufacturer informed the contact that she was responsible for the cost of the engine assembly replacement prior to them assisting with the catalytic converter replacement. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 36,539.
SUSPENSION,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-12-17
- VIN: 5N1DR2MM3HC
- Components: SUSPENSION,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: Wire connector harness on alternator wires malfunctioned causing incorrect readings to computer, causing alternator to fail and battery replaced four times till mechanic replaced wire connector harness an wires.. control arm, and CV Axle failed
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-03-10
- VIN: 5N1DR2MM4HC
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: CVT code P17FO, variable transmission going less than 90k miles. Always dealer maintained, Niassan says "sorry"
POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-02-26
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 5N1DR2MM8HC
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2017 Nissan Pathfinder. The contact stated that while driving at 60 MPH, the vehicle lost motive power without warning. Due to the failure, another vehicle crashed into the vehicle at a low rate of speed. The air bags did not deploy upon impact. Due to the snowy weather, the contact was advised by the police that both drivers pull off to the nearest exit and exchange information. A Police report was not filed. No medical assistance was required; however, the contact did sustain mental trauma due to the sudden failure. After the contact exchanged information with the other driver, the failure occurred two more time before she reached her destination. The contact stated that the low battery warning light appeared on the instrument panel after the second failure and the traction control warning light appeared after the third failure. The contact attempted to reach the manufacturer but was informed that she had called after business hours. The vehicle was taken to a body shop where it remained in their possession for an inspection. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was 52,700.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-02-05
- VIN: 5N1DR2MN1HC
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: Recently, I have noticed that my SUV has not had good luminating ability so I naturally assumed it was a faulty or weak bulb. I have since then changed the bulbs to LED and still the same issue exists, I cannot see 3 feet in front of me at night. It is a danger to me, my occupants and others. It seems that the headlamp assembly is delaminating from the inside causing the reflective piece to become ineffective, regardless of how strong of a bulb you have. I researched this issue and seems to be prevalent in Nissans, in fact, Nissan had a recall on their Nissan Altima headlamps for the same reason. That recall ended last year but did not include my vehicle. Please help me since each assembly is approximately $250-$300 each, plus installation.
2017 Nissan Pathfinder recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 2017 Nissan Pathfinder.
- Manufacturer: Nissan North America, Inc.
- Park Out Side: 1
- Park Out Side: 1
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP
- Summary: Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2015-2018 Nissan Murano, 2016-2018 Nissan Maxima, and 2017-2019 Nissan Pathfinder and Infiniti QX60 vehicles. These vehicles were previously recalled and unrepaired, or inspected and determined to not need a repair, under recall number 18V-601. In addition, this recall expands the previous population. The Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) actuator pumps may allow brake fluid to leak onto an internal circuit board.
- Consequence: A brake fluid leak on the circuit board may result in an electrical short, increasing the risk of a fire.
- Remedy: Nissan will notify owners, and dealers will replace the ABS actuator, free of charge. Owners will receive a second notice when remedy parts become available, currently expected to be during summer 2020. Owners may contact Nissan customer service at 1-800-867-7669. Note: If the ABS warning light remains illuminated for more than 10 seconds after engine start up, owners are advised to park the vehicle outdoors away from other vehicles or structures and to not drive the vehicle.
- Manufacturer: Nissan North America, Inc.
- Park Out Side: 1
- Park Out Side: 1
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP
- Summary: Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2015-2017 Nissan Murano, 2016-2017 Nissan Maxima, 2017-2018 Nissan Pathfinder, and 2017 Infiniti QX60 vehicles. The Anti-Lock Brake (ABS) actuator pumps may allow brake fluid to leak onto an internal circuit board.
- Consequence: A brake fluid leak on the circuit board may result in an electrical short, increasing the risk of a fire.
- Remedy: Nissan will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the serial number on the ABS actuator, replacing it as necessary, free of charge. The recall began October 29, 2018. Owners may contact Nissan customer service at 1-800-867-7669. Note: When brake fluid has leaked onto the circuit board, the ABS warning lamp will remain illuminated for more than 10 seconds after engine start up. If this occurs, owners are advised to park the vehicle outdoors away from other vehicles or structures and to not drive the vehicle.
Negative 2017 Nissan Pathfinder car reviews
Positive 2017 Nissan Pathfinder car reviews
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Great mileage for a 3.5L V6 (combined 25 mpg), which is giving competition to V4 engines. The ride is really awesome, with better control. You may not even feel that you are moving at 65/70 MPH speed. It feels very smooth and quiet.
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I'm so glad to hear that you're still enjoying your Pathfinder after almost 3 years! It's great to know that you have no complaints or concerns.
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Overall, I'm happy with the vehicle. I've had it for 3 1/2 years and I'm ready to trade it in for another one. The only slight problem I had was that every time I would back out of my driveway and shift the vehicle from reverse to drive then accelerate, I would hear a very slight popping sound. I took it into Nissan and they replaced something that had to do with the transmission CVT. However, it still made the sound. By the way, I must say that Nissan has great service. (Ed Hicks in Corpus Christi, TX.)
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I drive my red Pathfinder with pride. It really turns heads. It's comfortable and secure, with plenty of storage. Although I've had some electrical issues and I'm disappointed with the gas mileage, I'm hopeful that a recent repair and breaking in the engine will solve both issues.
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Fantastic SUV with lots of space for a large family
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2017 Nissan Pathfinder problems:
2017 Nissan Pathfinder Review, Problems, Reliability, Value, Life ...
Jun 23, 2023 ... Overall Rating 7/10 – 2017 is a bad year for the Nissan Pathfinder since there are mechanical problems which make it expensive to own. Owner ...
2017 PF... knocking noise coming from engine- warranty says they ...
Jul 1, 2021 ... I have 2017 Nissan pathfinder, that I bought a year ago in June 2020. It had 35k miles and now has 50k miles. I have done 2 oil changes.
2017 Nissan Pathfinder Problems | Kelley Blue Book
How reliable is the 2017 Nissan Pathfinder? See the most common repairs performed and learn if your vehicle is at risk for major repairs in the next 12 ...
2017 pathfinder | Nissan Pathfinder Forum
Mar 15, 2021 ... car won't turn on no lights are on. Had to get it towed to dealer ship. They are now telling me that there is medal particles in the oil, engine ...
2017 Nissan Pathfinder SV 4WD 284 horsepower w/ new ...
Mar 13, 2022 ... Hi everyone, I just wanted some opinions on a 2017 Nissan pathfinder 4WD ,284 horsepower with 141,000 miles at the local dealership.
Forrest Douglas 2024-11-25
The front seats may not be the most comfortable and the back seats may not fold down level, but there are still some great features to appreciate. Although it may have less storage than the previous model, it still has some useful compartments. Additionally, the gas mileage is comparable to the previous model. Overall, there are some downsides, but there are still some positive aspects to consider.
Caleb Bergnaum 2024-10-22
Great family vehicle
Douglas Bogisich 2024-09-28
Having to replace trans and trans-axle fluid at 30, 60, and 90K simply because it is now in sealed units that cannot be accessed for inspection is a total ripoff! It's frustrating to deal with this kind of design, but we can help you take care of it.
Columbus Yost 2024-09-12
This car comfortably fits 7 people, which is why we chose it. The exterior design was also a factor in our decision, as we preferred it over the Honda Pilot. There are many pros to this car if you're looking for a spacious vehicle. For example, the interior is very roomy. The S Trim also has a touch screen, although the apps aren't particularly useful. The larger screens on the SV and SL trims didn't impress us either.
Boris Hartmann 2024-07-24
The CVT Transmission has had some issues since the beginning, unfortunately. If you look into it, you will find that due to the underlying design flaws of this transmission, there is no guaranteed way to prevent problems. Therefore, I would recommend avoiding this vehicle unless you enjoy working on transmissions.