Credov

Nissan Nissan Pathfinder common problems: what to check before you buy

Credov's researched list of the 2 faults the Nissan Nissan Pathfinder is known for (2005–2015), 2 of them serious or costly. Each one says what to look for when you check the car, so you can spot it before you buy. Not every car has these faults: they are the ones worth checking on this model.

Known problems on the Nissan Nissan Pathfinder

CVT revs but won't move

Safety risk

2013–2020 · VQ35DE, VQ35DD · petrol · Gearbox

What to look for: Accelerate from a stop and check the car gains speed with the revs, not revving with no drive.

Why it matters: US 2013 owners report it at about 92,000 km on average with repairs about US$4,600, usually a replacement CVT. Loss of drive while crossing traffic is a safety risk.

Sources: 1 2 3

Radiator cooler leaks into gearbox

Costly if missed

2005–2015 · YD25DDTi, VQ40DE · Gearbox

What to look for: Open the coolant cap cold and check for a pink or milky film, and check auto fluid is clear red.

Why it matters: The fix is a new radiator plus a rebuilt or replacement gearbox; prevention is a new radiator before it fails and an external cooler that bypasses the radiator. Affects the 5-speed automatic (RE5R05A) fitted to the 2.5 diesel and 4.0 V6 petrol; manuals are not affected, and the 3.0 V6 diesel used a different 7-speed automatic (RE7R01B).

Sources: 1 2 3

Got a question about a Nissan Nissan Pathfinder? Ask Credov: a noise, a warning light, a part or how to fix it.

Also check on every car

On top of the faults above, every Credov inspection covers the basics: fuel smell, leaks or filler rust, engine oil leaks, power steering fluid leak, drive belt cracks or squeal, rust underneath: chassis and mounts, engine mounts, engine oil level and colour, coolant level, colour and leaks, head gasket failure signs, cold start: rattle, knock or smoke, rough or hunting idle, engine running hot on gauge, gearbox or diff oil leak, swapped gearbox without lvv and more.

Other Nissan models

Researched by Credov from manufacturer recalls and service bulletins, owner reports and workshop sources. Repair prices are typical ranges, not quotes. See also fault codes and repair costs.