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Nissan Pathfinder
SUV · Gas · 17 versions · owner report
Ranked #17 of 19 midsize SUVs on owner data, price and fuel economy
Every generation
Power
Combined, EPA 2026
What owners say
Our take, from owner reports
Sentiment is sharply divided by generation.
10 problems reported (4 very frequent, 5 recurrent, 1 isolated) · high confidence
Problems owners report
- Very frequentElectrical & Sensor Malfunctions
"No Key Detected" warnings, front collision/automatic emergency braking sensors flashing erratically or activating falsely, automatic high beams malfunctioning, volume/steering wheel control failures.
- Very frequentTransmission Harshness
Rough, pulling, or "slipping" sensations during low-speed shifts in city driving.
- Very frequentInfotainment System Failures
Screen going blank, Android Auto/Apple CarPlay disconnections, freezing, unresponsive touchscreen, poor GPS performance.
+ 7 more issuesShow fewer
- Very frequentCatastrophic CVT Transmission Failure
Complete failure often requiring full replacement, frequently recurring even with replacement units; associated with jerking, stalling, and error codes (e.g., P17F0, P17F1).
- RecurrentPremature Brake Wear
Rear brake pads and rotors wearing out extremely quickly, sometimes by 15,000 miles.
- RecurrentBuild Quality & Component Failures
Sunroof leaks, water drainage noise, failing power liftgate hydraulics, driver's seat material tearing, weak heated seats/steering wheel that don't activate with remote start, AC condenser/line failures.
- RecurrentErratic Auto Start/Stop System
Inconsistent activation even under similar conditions.
- RecurrentSMOD (Strawberry Milkshake of Death)
Radiator failure leading to coolant contamination of the transmission, primarily affecting 2005-2010 models.
- RecurrentGeneral Age-Related Failures
ABS module failure, heater core leaks, shifter assembly problems, various electrical gremlins.
- IsolatedOil Sludge/Engine Failure (2018+ V6)
Potential for severe engine damage due to oil sludge, with warranty coverage contingent on proof of strict 5,000-mile oil change intervals.
The version owners recommend
Insufficient owner data available to declare a consensus "best" version. The Rock Creek trim is mentioned for its styling but is also the subject of multiple complaint threads. Higher trims (Platinum, Rock Creek) are noted for having more features but also a higher incidence of the glitchy technology and sensor problems plaguing the current generation.
Competitors to consider
Owners compare it most often with the Toyota Highlander, Honda Pilot, Kia Telluride, Hyundai Palisade and Mazda CX-9/CX-90.
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Overall sentiment
Sentiment is sharply divided by generation. For the current generation (2022+), which replaced the CVT with a conventional 9-speed automatic, initial sentiment is mixed. Owners appreciate the comfortable seats, smooth V6 power, competitive fuel economy (reported 24 MPG combined), standard towing capacity, and the removal of the problematic CVT. However, a very frequent and severe pattern of electrical, sensor, and build quality issues is reported, particularly on higher-trim Rock Creek and Platinum models. For the previous generation (2013-2021) equipped with the CVT, sentiment is overwhelmingly negative, dominated by catastrophic and repeated transmission failures, often requiring multiple replacements well under 150,000 miles, leading to significant financial loss and a profound loss of trust in the brand. Older, body-on-frame generations (circa 1997-2012) are recalled with strong affection for their simplicity, durability, and "truck-like" reliability, though they have known age-related issues.
Positioning vs competitors
Positioned as a value-oriented, feature-rich three-row SUV with a smooth V6, often available with stronger incentives than key Japanese rivals. It is frequently compared unfavorably to the Honda Pilot for overall reliability and to the Kia Telluride/Hyundai Palisade for interior refinement, technology execution, and ride comfort. The Kia Telluride, in particular, is noted by owners who switched as being "a million times more comfortable," quieter, better put together, and having a far superior advanced driver-assist system. It is considered a pragmatic choice over the Toyota Highlander for immediate availability and price, but with acknowledged trade-offs in long-term reliability and resale value.
Recommended configurations
For the current generation (2022+), the V6 and conventional automatic transmission are mandatory improvements over the previous CVT generation. All-wheel drive is recommended for winter conditions, though some owners express a lack of confidence in its snow performance. For older CVT-generation models (2013-2021), there is a unanimous and strong recommendation to avoid them entirely regardless of configuration. For pre-2013 body-on-frame models, a manual transmission is praised for durability and driving enjoyment.
General recommendations
For the current generation (2022+): Suitable for buyers prioritizing interior space, V6 power, and value who are willing to accept a higher risk of electronic gremlins and dealership visits for warranty repairs. A thorough extended test drive is essential to check for transmission harshness at low speeds, infotainment glitches (especially Android Auto/Apple CarPlay), and all sensor functions. Negotiate aggressively using known incentives. Purchase only with a comprehensive warranty and be prepared for potential part backorders. NOT recommended for buyers seeking top-tier build quality, refined technology, or proven long-term reliability. For the previous CVT generation (2013-2021): NOT RECOMMENDED. Universal owner advice is to avoid completely due to the extreme likelihood of costly CVT failure. For older generations (pre-2013): Recommended as a durable, simple used vehicle for buyers comfortable with older technology and routine maintenance, but must be checked for known issues like the SMOD (Strawberry Milkshake of Death) radiator failure on 2005-2010 models.
Remarks
The owner experience is a tale of two distinct vehicles: the modern, unibody Pathfinder (2013+) and the classic, body-on-frame Pathfinder (pre-2013). The introduction of the CVT in the 2013 model year created a profound and lasting reliability crisis that dominates the brand's reputation. The return to a conventional automatic in 2022 was a direct response to this but has been marred by a new wave of electronic and quality control issues, preventing the model from achieving a clean slate. Dealer service experiences are mixed, with reports of helpful part swaps but also dismissive attitudes ("that's just how it is") toward legitimate complaints. The data suggests a vehicle that can be satisfying when everything works but is burdened by an inconsistent execution of its technology and features. Analysis based on approximately 55 substantive owner discussions and comments spanning models from 1997 to 2026.
Generation by generation
Owner insights per generation and US complaint/recall records (NHTSA).
Complaints and recalls by model yearWorst year: 2014. Years to avoid: 2023, 2022, 2017, 2015, 2014, 2013Source: NHTSA (US)Show table
Each year graded against the model's other years: Year Score. See all Nissan Pathfinder years to avoid
| Year | Complaints | Recalls | Most-reported area |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | 10 | 0 | unknown or other |
| 2025 | 51 | 1 | unknown or other |
| 2024 | 81 | 2 | service brakes |
| 2023 | 104 | 1 | unknown or other |
| 2022 | 135 | 5 | service brakes |
| 2020 | 53 | 0 | engine |
| 2019 | 76 | 2 | unknown or other |
| 2018 | 77 | 3 | service brakes |
| 2017 | 186 | 2 | engine |
| 2016 | 107 | 2 | engine |
| 2015 | 320 | 5 | unknown or other |
| 2014 | 1,135 | 12 | power train |
| 2013 | 890 | 11 | power train |
| 2012 | 23 | 2 | suspension |
Complaint counts come from owner reports filed with the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Higher-selling years naturally accumulate more complaints.
Recall notices55 on record · Source: NHTSA (US)Show recalls
2025 · service brakes, hydraulic:foundation components:disc:calipercampaign 25V173000
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2025 Murano, Pathfinder, and INFINITI QX60 vehicles. One or both front brake caliper assemblies may have reduced strength and could break. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 135, "Light Vehicle Brake Systems."
2024 · air bags:frontal:driver side:inflator modulecampaign 24V154000
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2024 Titan, Frontier, Infiniti QX60, Pathfinder, 2023-2024 Sentra, Versa, Kicks, Infiniti QX50, and 2023 Rogue vehicles. Due to a manufacturing issue, the driver's air bag inflator may absorb moisture, and cause the air bag to deploy improperly.
2024 · seat belts:pretensionercampaign 24V176000
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2024 Pathfinder and Infiniti QX60 vehicles. The lap belt pretensioner in the left-side front seat belt assembly may be improperly secured, due to a missing rivet. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard numbers 208 "Occupant Crash Protection," 209 "Seat Belt Assemblies," and 210 "Seat Belt Assembly Anchorages."
2023 · seats:critical fastenerscampaign 23V268000
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2023 Rogue, Pathfinder, and Infiniti QX60 vehicles. The driver's powered seat may not be fully secured to the seat frame, causing the seat frame welds to detach from the rear inboard seat bracket.
2022 · seats:mid/rear assembly:head restraintcampaign 21V742000
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2022 Pathfinder vehicles. The third-row headrests may have an improper weld or misaligned internal components, which can allow the headrest to move or detach. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 202, "Head Restraints."
2022 · seats:critical fastenerscampaign 21V743000
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2022 Pathfinder vehicles. The second-row seat back frames may have insufficient welds that could separate.
2022 · latches/locks/linkages:hood:latchcampaign 21V706000
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2022 Pathfinder vehicles. Insufficient welds may allow the secondary hood latch retainer bracket to detach from the front bumper assembly. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 113, "Hood Latch System."
2022 · seats:critical fastenerscampaign 22V111000
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2022 INFINITI QX60 and Nissan Pathfinder vehicles. The second-row seat track may be missing a mounting bolt. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 210, "Seat Belt Assembly Anchorages."
2022 · back over prevention: sensing system: cameracampaign 22V527000
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Rogue, 2022 Frontier, Pathfinder, and Titan rental vehicles. When the Sirius XM subscription is set to "Not Subscribed," it may cause the infotainment head unit to reboot, resulting in an inoperative rearview camera. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."
2019 · back over prevention: sensing system: cameracampaign 19V654000
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2018-2019 Nissan Altima, Armada, Frontier, Kicks, Leaf, Maxima, Murano, NV, NV200, Pathfinder, Rogue, Rogue Sport, Sentra, Titan, Titan Diesel, Versa Note and Versa Sedan vehicles, as well as Infiniti Q50, Q60, QX30 and QX80 vehicles. Additionally included are 2019 Nissan GT-R and Taxi and Infiniti QX50, QX60, Q70, Q70L vehicles. The back-up camera and display settings can be adjusted such that the rear view image is no longer visible and the system will retain that setting the next time the vehicle is placed in reverse. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 111, "Rear Visibility."
2019 · service brakes, hydraulic:antilock/traction control/electronic limited slipcampaign 19V807000
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.
2018 · service brakes, hydraulic:antilock/traction control/electronic limited slipcampaign 19V807000
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.
2018 · service brakes, hydraulic:antilock/traction control/electronic limited slipcampaign 18V601000
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.
2018 · back over prevention: sensing system: cameracampaign 19V654000
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2018-2019 Nissan Altima, Armada, Frontier, Kicks, Leaf, Maxima, Murano, NV, NV200, Pathfinder, Rogue, Rogue Sport, Sentra, Titan, Titan Diesel, Versa Note and Versa Sedan vehicles, as well as Infiniti Q50, Q60, QX30 and QX80 vehicles. Additionally included are 2019 Nissan GT-R and Taxi and Infiniti QX50, QX60, Q70, Q70L vehicles. The back-up camera and display settings can be adjusted such that the rear view image is no longer visible and the system will retain that setting the next time the vehicle is placed in reverse. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 111, "Rear Visibility."
2017 · service brakes, hydraulic:antilock/traction control/electronic limited slipcampaign 18V601000
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.
40 older recalls not shown. Check nhtsa.gov with your VIN for the full history.
Specifications
Rock Creek 3.5 V6
3.5L 6-cylinder · 295 hp · AWD · automatic
Built 2025–2026