2020 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 2020 Nissan Pathfinder problems
Based on the complaints from owners of the 2020 Nissan Pathfinder, several common problems have been identified:
- Service Brakes: Owners have reported issues related to the service brakes, including complaints about brake failure, low brake fluid, and faulty speed sensors. These problems can pose serious safety risks and should be addressed promptly to ensure the vehicle's braking system functions correctly.
- Electrical Problems: The 2020 Nissan Pathfinder has been associated with various electrical issues. These complaints range from issues with the electrical system affecting components like the AC, battery, brake lights, and power steering, to more specific problems such as the hood latch assembly, ignition switch, and sensors like the mass air sensor and oil pressure sensor.
- CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) Concerns: Some owners have reported experiencing vibration and shuddering when accelerating, especially at speeds between 10-30mph and when going uphill. Additionally, there have been concerns about dark smoke coming from the exhaust upon startup, which could indicate potential engine or transmission issues.
- Gas Mileage: Despite the 26mpg highway rating, owners have noted lower than expected gas mileage, with some reporting around 21mpg on the highway. While various factors can affect fuel efficiency, including driving conditions and maintenance, a drop in mileage could be linked to underlying issues like a malfunctioning CVT.
- Sun Visor Malfunction: Complaints have been raised about sun visors not staying up, which can be a nuisance and impact visibility while driving. This seemingly minor issue can be frustrating for owners and may require repairs or replacements to ensure proper functionality.
These problems highlight the importance of regular maintenance, prompt attention to any warning signs, and seeking professional assistance from authorized dealerships or qualified mechanics to address issues effectively and maintain the optimal performance of the 2020 Nissan Pathfinder.
What issues does the 2020 Nissan Pathfinder have?
The 2020 Nissan Pathfinder lasts around 200,000 miles, with some relatively minor transmission software and stereo system issues reported. At $23,550 to $34,850, it's a good value for a midsize SUV with decent reliability ratings and good practicality.
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 Nissan Pathfinder 2020?
There are currently no recorded recalls for this car.
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.
2020 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
- Service brakes problems
- Electrical system problems
- Unknown or other problems
- Fuel/propulsion system problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2020 Nissan Pathfinder vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 2020 Nissan Pathfinder
The NHTSA has received 32 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2020 Nissan Pathfinder. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2020 Nissan Pathfinder vehicles.
SERVICE BRAKES,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-01-02
- VIN: 5N1DR2CN8LC
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
- Summary: My 2020 Nissan Pathfinder SL has once again developed problems with the Emergency forward Brake System. The ABS AEB was replaced in January 2024 at Southwest Nissan in Weatherford Tx . Today, [XXX] the AEB light came back on. This is also the second time I have had to replace the Brake light located under the brake pedal. This is the second time I am reporting this problem to NHTSA. Research on several car repair sites shows this is a common problem with the 2020 Nissan Pathfinder, but NHTSA has failed to issue a recall. The original cost for repair at the dealership was over $4000. Please review and confirm problems with this model and year. This is an ongoing safety issue. Southwest Nissan Weatherford, Tx was where my car was repaired in January 2024. They will be able to provide all documentation. The mechanic also stated in writing that this was a common occurrence with the Pathfinder. Thank you, [XXX] [XXX] [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
SUSPENSION,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-09-01
- VIN: 5N1DR2CN4LC
- Components: SUSPENSION,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: I have a 2020 Nissan Pathfinder SL with under 70k miles. I had an awful squeal start, upon stopping. I had a private shop say I needed brakes, pads and rotors. And this began the issue. This was in 22-23. It is currently Oct 24, and I have had 3 sets of brakes pads and rotors. When this began the dealership told me my brakes were wearing and near needing replacement. So I had been alerted by them initially. There are zero warning lamps. Vehicle is available for inspection anytime.
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-01
- VIN: 5N1DR2BNXLC
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: I've replaced both CV axles, all brakes, and had service completed with the wheel hubs. Still get a grinding noise located at the front wheels.
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-12-07
- VIN: 5N1DR2BM2LC
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: Car does not display the correct amount of fuel remaining once it hits half a tank left. Can read quarter of a tank remaining, and the distance to empty meter shows 40 miles. Or it will show 97 miles to empty and car will be on empty on fuel gauge. Then once I arrive at my destination, they flip. Driving 3 miles reports driving over 10-15 miles from distance to empty, the gauge starts moving. Never an accurate reading.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-11-14
- VIN: 5N1DR2DM7LC
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: This has been an on going issue with this vehicle where it will cut out start to shutter or is lurching as driving on the road has happened when coming off a stop sign and coming up to 25 mph, has happened when driving on the interstate at 75 to 80 mph, will normally come back to normal operations, has been into the dealership a number of times for this issue, only to be told that it's not coding and will not do it for them when test driving. We have been in contact with Nissan Cusomer Affairs, with the result being that if the vehicle will not have the problem with a Nissan representative to witness then it does not exist. The fact that want is happening should be sending a code and apparently is not sending a code is not a issue?
SERVICE BRAKES, AIR,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-11-13
- VIN: 5N1DR2CN8LC
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, AIR,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2020 Nissan Pathfinder. The contact stated that while stopped at a stop sign, she observed a beeping sound, and the ABS warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a dealer where it was diagnosed that the brake switch, ABS control module, and the AEB sensor needed to be replaced after two months. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 55,139.
POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-04-19
- VIN: 5N1DR2CM2LC
- Components: POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: 1. The vehicle going less then 25 mph accelerates with out foot on the gas paddle. This problem has occurred multiple times on and off. 2. The Transfer case and axle seal started leaking at 74000 miles. Purchased the vehicle as a CPO dealer asking for $4000 to make repairs I only had the vehicle for 8 months. Are there recall to fix this issues?
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-03-04
- VIN: 5N1DR2DNXLC
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: The contact owns a 2020 Nissan Pathfinder. The contact stated while driving 35 MPH, the passenger’s side headlight began to fog up. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, where it was diagnosed that there was condensation in the headlight housing and that the headlight housing needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was approximately 38,000.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-01-02
- VIN: 5N1DR2BN3LC
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: At recommend 60k interval transmission was having issues and advised the Nissan Dealership concerning issue. After consulting with Master tech on site and Corporate Nissan service was completed and still have issues. Transmission slips at all different intervals for the known cvt transmission that is in vehicle. Nissan suggested to have a ecm/tcm update to possibly diagnose the problem wanted to charge $150 for no guarantee of any results. Did ride alone with shop Forman. Still have issues and no check engine light or other lights are showing on dash.
ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-11-27
- VIN: 5N1DR2CN8LC
- Components: ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: There's been a loss of power when accelerating, engine has made an odd noise during startup and occasionally a knocking noise when driven longer than a 10 mins. Dealership said there's metal in the oil pan. I saw an article today that said only nissan three and four cylinder vehicles have these issues but my pathfinder has the same problems.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-10-13
- VIN: 5N1DR2CMXLC
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Engine misfiring on left side due to faulty timing chains. Car would not start at times, and engine light flashing. Safety was at risk due to engine being unreliable, misfiring, and we were advised it could possibly stall/cut-out while driving. Problem confirmed by independent service center. Dealer service center would not diagnose without taking engine apart at our expense, they recommended replacing the whole engine, and the car is only 3 years own. There is a know issue with the timing chains on this model of vehicle, yet they did nothing to resolve the problem.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-09-22
- VIN: 5N1DR2CM2LC
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: I have a Sun roof with panoramic roof. Driving on highway, with no warning sunroof exploded and shattered. No debris came through the roof just sunroof exploded and glass cut my foot and my husbands hand who was driving. Glass in hair and clothes. No issues before incident. Purchased special edition vehicle brand new in 2020. Next edition released 2023 and 2024 and it is not equipped or offered with either sun roof or panoramic roof. I reached out to manufacturer and was advised to go through insurance and that there was nothing that they could do as per the headquarters in Tennessee. Pictures have been sent to Insuramce adjuster.
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-01-02
- VIN: 5N1DR2BM4LC
- Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: The contact owns a 2020 Nissan Pathfinder. The contact stated while parked in the driveway, the key fob was left in the cupholder, and the contact went to unlock the vehicle, and all the doors were inadvertently locked. The Police were called to assist in unlocking the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where the battery and the key fob were replaced. After the battery and key fob were replaced, the failure reoccurred again with the key fob in the purse of the contact’s wife on the passenger’s seat. The contact stated that his daughter was inside the vehicle at the time and was able to unlock the door from inside the vehicle. The contact stated that his wife pushed the button to unlock the doors and all the doors locked. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and informed the contact that the vehicle could not be diagnosed. The failure mileage was unknown.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-07-13
- VIN: 5N1DR2CN6LC
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE
- Summary: Back in nov 2022 my car had to go in the shop due to its jerking, shuddering, shaking while accelerating. Then suddenly just stopped wouldn’t let me accelerate turn break nothing locked up luckily I was able to pull over and shut off the car because it was still on during this time. I had just picked my young kids up from elementary school. The dealer ship had us pay the deductible and told us it was the ecm they replaced it and we were 0 dollars out of pocket due to warranty. Well 2023 may it started showing low oil pressure light then it would go off the engine light comes on then goes off and while the lights are coming on and going off the car with shake and studder. Got an oil change it it had stopped. Now July 2023 the engine light is one constantly as well as low oil pressure vehicle is constantly studderling making a clanckung noise when accelerating but stops when breaks are hit. Lags when turning on and off vehicle hard to take in and out of gear. White exhaust comes out of exhaust pipe when stoppped at stop lights. It’s so unsafe to travel with all 5 of my kids because the vehicle is so unpredictable. We can drive it and have no problems then turn around the next time it is making all these sounds and having problems We are to the point it’s not worth paying for It and just want to do a voluntary repo because the deal else ship won’t take it back so we can get another vehicle.
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-07-16
- VIN: 5N1DR2CN0LC
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: On multiple occasions now, but not consistently, you go to start the vehicle and the lights turn on, radio comes on, seat moves into position, ac blows cold, everything fine, except the car doesn’t start. The brake is harder to push when this does occur, and most times a 2nd or 3rd try, it finally turns the car on. Went to have car checked, the battery, starter, and alternator checked 100% fine. One time it took nearly 30 minutes for it to start.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-04-05
- VIN: 5N1DR2DN8LC
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: I drove from Pine Bluff, AR to Memphis, TENN in pouring rain. There were many tractor trailers on the highway throwing water back on my vehicle. When I got into Memphis, my vehicle shut down and would not re-start for several hours. I believe this to be a safety issue because if I had driven a little farther and it suddenly shut down in traffic, this would have caused a terrible accident.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-02-17
- VIN: 5N1DR2CM1LC
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: The contact owns a 2020 Nissan Pathfinder. The contact stated while driving 25 MPH, the vehicle failed to properly accelerate. The contact stated that after several minutes, the vehicle operated as designed. While approaching a stop sign, the vehicle independently accelerated. The contact depressed the brake pedal desperately to stop the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to the dealer and the dealer stated that no failure was found. The dealer also stated that the manufacturer was aware of the rough transmission shifting, but no recall had been issued for the failure. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was 80,000.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,BACK OVER PREVENTION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-01-23
- VIN: 5N1DR2BN8LC
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,BACK OVER PREVENTION
- Summary: Back up camera issues hardly works
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-10-07
- VIN: 5N1DR2BN7LC
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: My backup camera continues to glitch/black screen in the middle of me reversing or as soon as I place my vehicle in reverse.
VISIBILITY/WIPER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-12-29
- VIN: 5N1DR2CMXLC
- Components: VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: Defroster does not work properly. Will allow my vehicle to warm up for 15 to 20 minutes to allow proper heating as this has been an on going issue. While driving in colder temperatures the front windshield will freeze over a on the inside of the vehicle only effecting the drivers side. There will be a distinct line up the middle of the windshield where the drivers side is frosted over and the passenger side is clear. We have taken to a local Nissan dealer where they state everything works as it should and that even the owners brand new Nissan pick up also does this. This is a major safety concern!!! We are forced to continue to drive as once you pull over you will loose all heat causing the entire windshield to freeze over. This has been happening since we purchased the vehicle Dec 2021
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-11-18
- VIN: 5n1dr2cm2lc
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: No defroster and no heat. Can't defrost or de-fog windows. Fan doesn't turn on failing to defrost windows. No heat, no air conditioning, no air movement. Powering off and on the pathfinder didn't solve it, turning on and off heat, defrost doesn't work. All fuses are OK.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-11-13
- VIN: 5N1DR2CN9LC
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: I was driving at highway speed and heard a loud bang. Sounded like an explosion. I quickly moved to the slow lane and noticed my sunroof had exploded outward with pieces of glass on me when it shattered.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-08-15
- VIN: 5n1dr2cm3lc
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: Moisture ingression into the passenger side front lighting assembly (head light). Visable water droplets and some accumulartion . 1st indication was an errror message along with reduced visibility. 2nd indication was failue of that headlight.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-06-25
- VIN: 5N1DR2CN6LC
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Engine failure while driving. Abnormal engine oil consumption. Oil level dropped without warning and without any warning lights from the vehicle. The vehicle oil level as checked 1 day prior to failure.
ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-07-27
- VIN: 5n1dr2cm2lc
- Components: ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: Engine pinging/knocking and engine hesitation / surging most obvious in second gear steady throttle around 2k rpm. Doesn't matter what gas is used. Engine hesitation and pinging/knocking is getting worse. NISSAN states its normal operation.
Negative 2020 Nissan Pathfinder car reviews
Positive 2020 Nissan Pathfinder car reviews
-
I'm glad to hear that you had a successful trip to Denver from Prov., RI! I understand that back issues can be a concern when driving for extended periods of time, but it sounds like the 2020 Pathfinder was a great choice for you. With its spacious interior and comfortable design, it's no wonder that it will be at the top of your list when it's time to replace your wife's car next July. Additionally, the Pathfinder's ample storage space made it easy to transport all of your luggage and gifts, and it was perfect for transporting up to six people to a wedding site in the mountains. If you're in the market for a three row SUV, I highly recommend checking out the Pathfinder. Its comfort and styling are truly exceptional!
-
I recently traded in my 2016 Murano, which I absolutely loved, for this Pathfinder because the deal was too good to pass up. While it is reliable, has a great stereo system, nice features, and a pretty blue color, I do have a few complaints. The appearance is a bit boring and could use a refresh to bring it into the 21st century. Additionally, the seats are uncomfortable and the ride is too stiff, making my husband's truck a more comfortable option. I also found the Nissan app to be quite difficult to navigate. Overall, it's a decent vehicle, especially if you need it for towing, but it's not the most comfortable or stylish option out there. It's worth noting that it doesn't perform well in winter, but that may be due to the tires that came with it not being the best for snow.
-
This is a wonderful driving vehicle with many luxury upgrades.
-
You'll be pleased to know that this vehicle has great fuel economy on the highway, with a rate of 8.8 liters per 100km. However, it's important to note that in town, the fuel economy is a bit higher at 13 liters per kilometer. On the plus side, it has a great towing capacity and plenty of space for luggage when the 3rd row is down. Additionally, this vehicle is known for its reliability, so you can feel confident in your purchase.
-
Going from an SL to an S to lower my monthly payment wasn't easy, but I had to! Although I don't have all the bells and whistles anymore, it's still a great SUV to drive.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2020 Nissan Pathfinder problems:
2020 Nissan Pathfinder Problems | Kelley Blue Book
How reliable is the 2020 Nissan Pathfinder? See the most common repairs performed and learn if your vehicle is at risk for major repairs in the next 12 ...
2020 Nissan Pathfinder Platinum 4WD - CVT? or Engine? or ...
Nov 18, 2022 ... I thought it might be an engine problem as sometimes when I start the car a cloud of dark smoke with come out of the exhaust, and then run fine.
2020 Nissan Pathfinder Review, Problems, Reliability, Value, Life ...
Oct 31, 2023 ... Reliability 8/10 – There are no widespread complaints on the 2020 Pathfinder. Avoid models from 2013–2017 which have a lot of transmission ...
2019-2020 Transmissions | Nissan Pathfinder Forum
Aug 20, 2020 ... Rough cold idle, misfires, stalling. Not taking off from a stand-still under certain conditions. I've never seen definitive conclusions. The ...
4th Generation (2013-2020) Pathfinder Problems
Common 2013-2020 Nissan Pathfinder Problems · Visor Keeps Falling Down · Can You Trust Nissan's CVT? · Nissan Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) Problems · Sunroof ...
Other years of Nissan Pathfinder
Are you having problems with your 2020 Nissan Pathfinder?
Malcolm Nikolaus 2024-08-28
I was debating between a Pathfinder, Murano, or the new 2022 Pathfinder model. Unfortunately, I regret choosing the 2020 model as it already needs a new AC compressor (which isn't covered) and new tires after only 40,000 miles. I used to get 80-90,000 miles on my tires. However, I do appreciate the power of the engine, the traction, and utility that the 2020 Pathfinder provides. Although the electronics are a bit outdated, it still works well overall. I must admit, I am envious of the owners of the new Pathfinder model. Additionally, I have noticed that the power passenger seat sits quite low and only offers a 4-way power option on any of the models.
Neal Emmerich 2024-08-13
If you are purchasing this vehicle in Canada, please keep in mind that it is a US-based model. The GPS system may not be up-to-date, and you may need to purchase an update in $US. Unfortunately, there is a US$30 shipping fee for the update, but the dealer may offer to cover this cost. Nissan Canada has explained that the mapping is provided by a US-based company. Additionally, the fan motor may not be as strong as you would like, and it may take longer than expected to warm up the vehicle in cold winter weather. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause. Our customer service team is always available to help resolve any issues you may have. We appreciate your feedback and will take it into consideration for future models. Thank you for choosing Nissan, and we hope you enjoy your new vehicle!
Arnaldo Ritchie 2024-05-10
My mom has owned this car for 2 years and I can honestly say that despite some minor issues at the start, it has been a decent car overall. While there were some problems such as jerking when accelerating and issues with the gear lever, the ride itself is great and the car is powerful. I don't own it myself, so I can't provide too much detail, but I can say that it's been a good car despite the initial problems.
Orion Rogahn 2024-04-11
I had an issue with the left head gasket of my 2019 Pathfinder with 35,367 kms, but fortunately, it was covered under warranty. Although the repair cost around $4000, I am confident in the quality of the vehicle. While the CVT transmission failed at 54,467 kms, I still believe in the overall performance of the car. I am a proud owner of a Toyota!