The 2017 Nissan Pathfinder lasts around 150,000 miles with some serious transmission and A/C issues reported. At $16,500 to $31,350, it’s cheaper than other midsize SUVs, but still not worth the money when you’ll spend thousands on repairs.
Is the 2017 Nissan Pathfinder a Good Used SUV?
- 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.
- Interior, Comfort & Cargo 8/10 – Interior materials are nice compared to other midsize SUVs, the cabin is comfortable on long trips, cargo space is also good for its size.
- Reliability 6/10 – There are still some transmission problems found on the 2017 Pathfinder. Avoid models from 2013–2017, while 2018–2022 are more reliable.
- Performance 7/10 – Performance is okay from the standard V6 engine which offers similar power to other midsize SUVs.
- Safety 8/10 – The 2017 Pathfinder is safe, earning a perfect 5-star rating in government crash tests. It comes standard with a rearview camera, while adaptive cruise control along with automatic emergency braking are optional.
- Gas Mileage 8/10 – Fuel economy is good at up to 23 MPG, giving 448 miles of range from the 19.5 gallon tank. Gas costs are $45 cheaper than average, at $249 per month.
- Value 7/10 – The 2017 Nissan Pathfinder is cheaper than other midsize SUVs, although some transmission problems make it more expensive to own long-term.
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Do Critics Say About the Nissan Pathfinder?
- Consumer Reports says the 2017 Nissan Pathfinder is a softer and gentler SUV than earlier years, with average owner satisfaction scores as it ages.
- Edmunds rates the 2017 Pathfinder at 4.2/5, enjoying the strong V6 engine, but doesn’t like the lower cargo capacity compared to some other SUVs.
- Kelley Blue Book users give the Pathfinder a 4/5, praising the easy access to the third row, but owners don’t like the poor off-road performance.
What Common Problems Does the 2017 Nissan Pathfinder Have?
Common problems found on the 2017 Nissan Pathfinder include the transmission hesitating extremely loud noises from the A/C system, along with the backup camera freezing. Overall, these problems are worse than a lot of other midsize SUVs on the market, leading to more expensive repair costs as they age.
The transmission hesitating is the most widespread complaint from Pathfinder owners at around 40,000 miles. Nissan’s CVT transmissions are known to be a big problem, and the Pathfinder is no exception. If you notice the vehicle feels jerky or hesitating while accelerating, it may be a sign of CVT failure. The only way to fix the problem is by replacing the entire transmission, costing over $3,500.
Extremely loud noises from the A/C system have also been reported on the Pathfinder at around 60,000 miles. The problem is usually caused by worn out bearings in the blower motor, which has to be replaced. Changing out the blower motor is a time consuming process, costing around $950, depending on local labor rates.
The backup camera freezing is another problem found on the 2017 Pathfinder at around 5,000 miles. There are some software updates for the touchscreen which improve the reliability of the system. Most dealerships will install these updates for free, while others want around $50.
There are two recalls on the 2017 Nissan Pathfinder, which is less than some other midsize SUVs. Both of the recalls cover the brake fluid which may leak into the ABS pump and catch fire. Nissan will replace the ABS actuator on affected models for free.
How Long Will the 2017 Nissan Pathfinder Last?
A well-maintained 2017 Nissan Pathfinder can last around 150,000 miles before it starts to become too expensive to keep running, which is much shorter than other SUVs like the Toyota Highlander. Regular annual maintenance costs are similar to some competitors at $385 per year, according to data provided by Repair Pal.
As a used 2017 Pathfinder reaches 100,000 miles, and depending on the vehicle history, owners should be prepared to replace the airbag occupant sensor for $300, oxygen sensors costing $400, along with the timing belt which costs around $700.
I have not experienced any reliability issues or problems. I have had the vehicle serviced regularly at the Nissan dealer.
Yes it is a reliable car in my opinion. I have not had problems with the engine or any parts. It works great in gas although it is a v6 engine.
No it does not have any problems at all. Drives great love the sound system and tint on the windows it's a great car.
The Nissan pathfinder platinum is reliable. I have never noticed any problems. It has passed inspections easily.
My 2017 pathfinder is very reliable. My truck has never had any problems. With proper maintenance my truck runs efficiently and smoothly.
The vehicle has been reliable to me this far. I have not had any issues. I was worried with the push button start but it has been great. The mechanics of the car have been great and easy to maintain.
It is a reliable car- Nissans in general are safe and reliable cars.. I am not aware of any problems.
The Nissan Pathfinder has been very reliable. In the two years that I've had it, I have not had any mechanical issues and the interior is still in great shape. It has been reliable during a time that I commutes between Memphis and Nashville very frequently.
How Is the Technology?
Entertainment technology is very good, offering a standard 8-inch touchscreen. Optional upgrades include a more powerful Bose stereo system, along with rear entertainment features.
Standard safety technology is fairly basic, only offering a rearview camera.
Optional driver assistance features include:
- Rear parking sensors
- Adaptive cruise control
- Surround-view camera
- Blind spot monitoring
- Rear cross traffic alert
- Automatic emergency braking
Is the 2017 Nissan Pathfinder a Good Value?
No, the 2017 Nissan Pathfinder is not a good value since there are still a lot of transmission problems reported. The blue book fair purchase price ranges from $16,500 to $31,350, making it less than a Subaru Outback or Honda Pilot. When new, the price range was $30,290 to $43,760. Depreciation is worse than some competitors, losing about 15% of its current value per year.
What are the Different Models of the Nissan Pathfinder?
There are four main models of the Nissan Pathfinder offered in 2017, from the entry-level S to the more luxurious Platinum. It comes standard with front-wheel drive while all-wheel drive is available as an optional upgrade.
S is the entry-level model with:
- 18-inch alloy wheels
- LED running lights
- Rear privacy glass
- Roof rails
- Tri-zone automatic climate control
- Rearview camera
- Keyless ignition and entry
- Height-adjustable driver seat
- Cloth upholstery
- 60/40-split reclining, sliding and folding second-row seat
- Bluetooth connectivity
- 8-inch touchscreen interface
- Six-speaker sound system with HD and satellite radio, a CD player, and a USB media player interface
SV is a step up, adding:
- Includes S features, plus:
- Automatic headlights
- Fog Lights
- Rear parking sensors
- Eight-way power driver seat
- Leather-wrapped steering wheel
- Auto-dimming rearview mirror
- SV Cold package: heated front seats, steering wheel, and mirrors
- SV Tech package: blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, navigation system, and Nissan Connect emergency services
SL is next in the lineup with:
- Includes SV features, plus:
- Cold package items
- Hill-descent control
- Power liftgate with hands-free operation
- 360-degree parking camera system with moving object detection/warning
- Leather upholstery (first and second rows, vinyl in the third row)
- Upgraded seats (two-way power lumbar and memory settings for the driver seat, four-way power passenger seat, heated second-row seats)
- Upgraded interior trim
- SL Tech pack: navigation system, NissanConnect services, towing package, and 13-speaker Bose audio system
- SL Premium package: above items plus panoramic sunroof
Platinum is the flagship model which has:
- Includes SL Premium package features, plus:
- 20-inch wheels
- Towing package
- LED headlights
- Extra chrome exterior trim
- Adaptive cruise control
- Forward collision warning and emergency braking system
- Heated and ventilated front seats
- Power-adjustable steering wheel
- Wood interior trim
- Optional Family Entertainment package: two 8-inch headrest-mounted displays, USB and HDMI ports, and a DVD player
What Engines Come In the Nissan Pathfinder?
The 2017 Nissan Pathfinder comes with a 3.5L V6 engine producing 284 horsepower and 259 lb-ft of torque while getting up to 23 MPG. It is mated to a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). The Pathfinder’s towing capacity is rated at up to 6,000 pounds. As for acceleration, it goes from 0 to 60 mph in around 7.4 seconds.
What Colors Does the Nissan Pathfinder Come In?
How Comfortable Is the Nissan Pathfinder?
The 2017 Nissan Pathfinder is lauded for its comfortable ride quality and versatile cabin. It seats up to seven passengers across three rows, providing ample space for all occupants to stretch out and relax. The seats are upholstered in quality materials, with the front seats in particular praised for their comfort even on long journeys.
The Pathfinder is equipped with tri-zone automatic climate control, allowing each area of the vehicle to adjust to its own comfort level, making it easier to accommodate different preferences for drivers and passengers. Noise insulation is also excellent in the Pathfinder, reducing road and wind noise to provide a quiet cabin environment, enhancing the overall comfort during travel.
How Much Storage Space Does the Nissan Pathfinder Have?
The 2017 Nissan Pathfinder offers generous storage space that is well-suited for both everyday use and long road trips. The vehicle provides 16.2 cubic feet of space behind the third row, which can comfortably accommodate a stroller or several bags of groceries. For larger loads, the Pathfinder reveals a spacious 47.8 cubic feet of storage when the third row is folded down, capable of holding camping gear, suitcases, or a small piece of furniture.
For the most substantial needs, like moving or transporting large items, folding down both the second and third rows opens up a cavernous 79.8 cubic feet of cargo space, enough to fit a bicycle or even a small kayak. This flexible storage space makes the 2017 Nissan Pathfinder a versatile option for those with a range of cargo needs.
What Are the Differences Between Years?
The fourth generation of the Nissan Pathfinder was introduced for the 2013 model year.
2015: SL and Platinum models have blind-spot warning and rear cross traffic alert, other standard equipment shuffled.
2016: Cold weather package added to the SV model.
2017: More powerful engine, higher towing capacity, larger touchscreen, along with minor exterior styling changes.
2018: Standard automatic emergency braking, more USB charging ports, along with optional adaptive cruise control.
2019: More driver aids found on many models, new Rock Creek Edition styling package.
2020: No major changes from earlier years.
2022: Fully redesigned for the fifth generation after skipping the 2021 model year with new styling, engine, and technology.
How Does the Nissan Pathfinder Compare to the Competition?
The 2017 Nissan Pathfinder is a bad midsize SUV since there are a lot of mechanical problems which develop as it ages, there are improvements for other years, making those a better choice.
The Nissan Rogue is a smaller SUV from Nissan which costs around $3,000 less. Steering is more responsive in the Nissan Rogue, while the Nissan Pathfinder offers better passenger room. We recommend avoiding both SUVs for the 2017 model year since they have a lot of transmission problems.
The Toyota Highlander is another midsize SUV which is available for about $4,500 more. Long-term reliability ratings are better on the Toyota Highlander, while the Nissan Pathfinder has slightly more passenger room in the second row. We recommend the Toyota Highlander since it’s cheaper to own long-term.
Do Owners Recommend the Nissan Pathfinder?
Yes, I believe so. I have had no quality issues, it gets better overall mileage than I expected and it has a comfortable ride..
Yes it rides well and is good on gas and comes with great features. It has the rear camera for parking and reversing. It has three rows for extra space and back row comes down to allow for storage. It also has DVD player with two screens on the back rows also in front there is a screen to watch movies but only if it is in park. You can view anything in front screen if the car is moving for safety reasons.
Yes it is a great vehicle. It has a lot of room drives great. Seems to be a safe comfortable vehicle.
It is a great car. It has never had any mechanical problems. It does not use much gasoline. It is heavy enough that if it collides, no one will be injured. It is comfortable in the back so much so that someone could fall asleep there.
Absolutely. Great in all types of weather. My vehicle has 4 wheel drive, heated seats, heated steering wheel and many other luxuries. Very comfortable and smooth ride. Good gas miles. Reliable. If my truck needs any service a light will let me know.
I love my Pathfinder. It give me great gas mileage. I feel safe while driving the vehicle. The car is spacious and I love having the Thor row seat and the cargo space in the trunk. It comfortably seats 7 adults.
Yes. It has 3rd row seating which provides a lot of room. It also had many nice features and good safety reviews.
Yes. It was affordable and has enough room for my family of 5 including a car seat. I love the seat warmers; even in summertime they are like a nice heating pad so your back doesn't get sore on long road trips. I have not had any mechanical issues with the vehicle since I purchased it two years ago.