Buying a vehicle with confidence seems like a normal expectation. Sometimes, manufacturers like Nissan cannot predict problems that occur in their vehicles, including the Pathfinder. These concerns can show up months or even years later. These may be reported as customer complaints, initially. Some may become repairs or recalls later.
Are there Nissan Pathfinder problems that you should know about before you buy this vehicle?
Yes, there are a few key problems to consider, including these:
- Check engine light from fuel level sensor
- Engine fails to crank
- Noise coming from the front of the engine
- Transmission stops working
- Screws may become loose
- Airbags not deploying
It’s always important to know as much as you can about a vehicle before you buy it. We’ll go through these Nissan Pathfinder problems to make sure you know what to expect. You can also check out the Nissan Pathfinder’s Vehicle History page to learn more.
Check Engine Light from Fuel Level Sensor
Some owners reported problems with the Nissan Pathfinder’s fuel level sensor. They noted that the sensor itself can fail to work. Some noted the sensor can act erratic and provide inaccurate fuel gauge readings.
In situations where this occurs, the driver does not know what the accurate level of fuel is, leading them to potentially run out of gas while on the roadway.
In some situations, drivers also reported the check engine light would come on. In 2008, Nissan recalled several vehicles for this problem.
They repaired the fuel gauge itself in this situation. However, drivers continued to experience problems with an inaccurate fuel level sensor for several years to come on more recent models.
Engine Fails to Crank
Some drivers reported problems with the Nissan Pathfinder’s engine not cranking or turning over. This is a common problem related to older model vehicles dating back to prior to 2000. However, this problem was significant then. These older vehicles would not start when the driver turned the key to the start position.
The problem in this vehicle was due to a starter relay failing to function. Some people believed that the starter was defective. Nissan issued a service bulletin for this problem.
Noise Coming from the Front of the Engine
Some drivers reported problems with the Nissan Pathfinder vehicle for model years 2005 through 2014. These problems were infrequent across any one year. However, the problem remains rather straightforward.
In these vehicles, the driver notices whining or buzzing noise that comes from the timing chain area. It is believed this is due to an excessive amount of slack in the secondary timing chains.
Nissan was alerted to this problem and issued a service bulletin for it. Technicians were able to inspect and replace the secondary timing chains in these vehicles. In addition, they also had to service the tensioner shoes. Nissan also recommended the engine oil and filter also being replaced.
Transmission Stops Working
The 2013 Nissan Pathfinder is one of the most recognized vehicles for transmission problems. This is not surprising since this vehicle has a CVT transmission in it.
This transmission has been noted to cause problems for most Nissan vehicles it was put into (a total of 15 different models over a period of 2002 through 2014).
These transmission problems were reported by various drivers. Common problems included the transmission jerking or jolting. Some drivers also reported vibrations in the steering wheel, as well as the gas pedal. In these vehicles, the transmission fails to engage properly.
This can lead to the transmission failing to operate properly, including loss of acceleration on the highway at high speeds.
Nissan noted these problems. It did not issue a recall for the vehicle. However, it has issued a number of different service bulletins.
Screws May Become Loose
Another problem impacted the Nissan Pathfinder vehicles from 2004. Drivers reported the vehicle had screws inside of the intake manifold that would loosen over time. When this happens, they can cause internal engine damage. The screws can completely loosen and fall out of place.
Technicians could only fix this problem by replacing the components. They were able to use a thread locker on the power valve butterfly screws to help stop the problem from occurring.
Airbags Not Deploying
Another complaint from consumers relates to the 2013 and 2014 Nissan Pathfinder. Drivers reported that, in some of these vehicles, the airbags should have deployed during a crash but did not do so. Some reported the airbag light issued a faulty notice, but others did not.
In addition to this, there have been recalls related to the vehicle’s seat belts and airbags. Nissan reported improper use or manufacturing in these vehicles. That can lead to situations where the airbag may not deploy properly, or it may deploy at the wrong time.
A key concern relates to a sensor on the vehicle that is not alerting to the proper size of the passenger in the front seat.
Should You Be Worried About Nissan Pathfinder Problems?
All people buying a new car should care about the problems with it. That includes problems with the Nissan Pathfinder’s main systems.
While these issues reported here are significant, they represent a small portion of the vehicles on the road today from this make and model. That’s good news for any buyer. However, you should still do some research.
Before buying a pre-owned Nissan Pathfinder, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration website. Input the vehicle’s VIN into the system. This will produce a list of recalls and specific repair requirements that are necessary for the vehicle.
It will also list the key consumer complaints issued for the vehicle. That can give you the insight you need.
