If you’re in the market for a used SUV, being aware of the Nissan Pathfinder models that are best steered clear of is essential for making a smart purchase.
Some certain years of production have been notorious for their reliability issues, potentially turning what seems like a good deal into a source of frustration and unexpected expense.
This article aims to shed light on those trouble-prone Pathfinders, contributing to your knowledge before you make the final decision.
But what could be the underlying issues contributing to these problematic years?
Nissan Pathfinder Years To Steer Clear Of
When searching for a used Nissan Pathfinder, some years stand out for their troubles and are best avoided. Key years to avoid include 2005-2007, renowned for transmission issues, and several models from 2013 that experienced jerking and shaking.
Notorious Nissan Pathfinder Models To Avoid
- The first generation (1987-1995) encountered engine problems.
- Models from the second generation (1996-2004) were plagued by rust and paint issues, notably the 2000 Nissan Pathfinder.
- 2005-2012 Pathfinders had various issues, transmission problems being most prevalent in 2005-2007 models.
- Third-gen 2011-2012 models are relatively more reliable but had their share of faults.
- In the fourth generation (2013-2020), 2013 and 2014 are recognized for their questionable reliability.
- Despite being newer, the 2017-2019 Pathfinders must be vetted carefully for CVT issues and other glitches.
Avoidable Years In Nissan Pathfinder History
Nissan Pathfinder has been a go-to family SUV since 1986. However, not all years are equal in terms of reliability.
A wise buyer would pay close attention to the specific model years that have amassed a sizeable number of NHTSA complaints and fall short of earning that ‘Awesome’ seal of approval. One such group to be particularly cautious of includes the 2005-2007 models.
These years are known for the notorious ‘Strawberry Milkshake’ incident, a term coined to describe the leakage of coolant into the transmission system, a problem that led to significant frustrations and hefty repair bills.
The 2013 Pathfinder also deserves a mention, as customers frequently report transmission issues, characterized by jerking and shaking during acceleration. It’s an era that Pathfinder fans generally advise to steer clear from.
Rust problems are another prevailing concern with the second-generation Pathfinders from 1996-2004. Rust can potentially compromise the vehicle’s integrity and lead to more severe issues down the line.
Nissan Pathfinder: Problematic Years Identified
Through the generations, certain years have emerged as notably problematic for the Nissan Pathfinder. Delving into data and customer reviews cements the years that should invoke caution in potential owners.
As mentioned, the 2005-2007 years are fraught with transmission issues. Moreover, the second-generation models, despite their strong reliability in certain aspects, have a tarnished reputation for rust issues and deteriorating paint jobs.
In the case of the first-generation Pathfinders, running from 1987-1995, reports of engine problems have been a red flag for buyers. These issues range from minor glitches to major catastrophes such as engine failure.
Furthermore, common problems across various years of Nissan Pathfinder include a faulty fuel level sensor, timing chain issues, and even exploding sunroofs. These defects, along with others like CVT transmission woes, have sullied the Pathfinder’s otherwise reliable image, sometimes earning it the dreaded ‘Avoid Like the Plague’ badge on car review sites like CarComplaints.com.
Cautionary Years For Nissan Pathfinder Buyers
Buying a Nissan Pathfinder requires knowledge of which years to sidestep.
The 2005-2007 models earned the ‘Avoid Like the Plague’ badge for serious CVT issues.
2005 saw the dreaded coolant leak into the transmission, causing widespread frustration.
Transmission failure was prevalent, with 2005-2007 Pathfinders violently shaking on acceleration.
In 2013, Pathfinder models inherited jerking and transmission slips, stirring up more complaints.
The second-generation models (1996-2004) struggle with severe rust, clouding their reliability.
And from the first generation (1987-1995), engine failures are frequently indicative problems.
Despite strong reliability scores, certain years come with more risks than rewards for buyers.
Avoiding these problematic years can save time, money, and ensure a more dependable experience.