Browse over 9,000 car reviews

Nissan Pathfinder Problems

Are you having problems with your Nissan Pathfinder? Let our team of motoring experts keep you up to date with all of the latest Nissan Pathfinder issues & faults. We have gathered all of the most frequently asked questions and problems relating to the Nissan Pathfinder in one spot to help you decide if it's a smart buy.

Should I buy a 2008 Nissan Pathfinder diesel?

The bottom line here is that even if the vehicle was incredibly cheap, you might find it’s a false economy once you have to start making repairs. Regardless of what make or model four-wheel-drive you’re looking at, the first thing to do is determine how it’s been used and how it’s been serviced. Check the service handbook for signs that correct maintenance has been performed, and try to gauge how much off-road work it’s done. Any example with mud tyres and a winch can be assumed to have led a hard life.

On a model-specific basis, this was not Nissan’s finest hour in turbo-diesel engines. The 2.5-litre four-cylinder diesel is notorious for suffering stretched and failed timing chains. And repairing that could easily be more than the value of a 300,000km example. EGR (exhaust gas recirculation, part of the emissions-control equipment) coolers can also fail expensively. There are better choices, to be honest.

My 2011 Nissan Pathfinder won't shift into four-wheel-drive

There are many reasons, some mechanical, some electrical, why a vehicle won't select four-wheel-drive when the driver requests it. But the first thing we'd check would be the electrical connections from the rotary dial on the dashboard and the mechanical components that dial controls.

In the old days, four-wheel-drive was selected by mechanical levers that moved the internal bits of the transfer case to the correct position to engage the front driveshaft and, in turn, the front differential and axles. But in your Pathfinder (and many other makes and models) manufactures started using electrical switches instead of actual levers. The idea was that by electrically controlling this function, there was less effort required from the driver. The reality is that these dials are as susceptible to electrical gremlins as any other part of the car.

Check the fuses that protect the selection dial and if that's not the problem, have the rotary dial itself checked for faults.

Should we replace our Holden Commodore with a Subaru Outback?

A car with a little extra ground clearance is great for camping as it often allows you to get a little farther away from the masses in their caravans who tend to huddle around the shower block at bush campsites.

The Subaru Outback is a good, solid choice and if you can find an independent workshop to service it, you’ll avoid the cost of dealership prices. And you’re right, the all-wheel-drive would be great for gravel roads. Another vehicle to look at would be a late-model Ford territory diesel which is big and clever inside and has the option of all-wheel-drive. The diesel engine is a plus on the bush where that fuel is more readily available (in really remote areas) and gives you more range for big holidays in the mulga.

Don’t rule out things like the Mitsubishi Pajero, either, which won’t be as around-town friendly, but is a proven quantity and is absolutely tremendous off-road. The same goes for a Toyota Prado or Nissan Pathfinder prior to the current model (which is a bit less hard-core adventure).

Nissan Pathfinder recalled for possible brake fault fire risk
Nissan is recalling almost 400,000 cars globally, including more than 6000 Pathfinder SUVs in Australia, due to a brake fault which could cause vehicles to catch fire.
Read the article
What are the best 7-seat SUV's?

A better option for someone with a tribe to transport would be a peoplemover, such as the Kia Carnival, Hyundai iMax, or VW Transporter. They’re made for that purpose and much more practical than an SUV.

Ram 2500 and 3500 lead latest round of safety recalls
The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) has issued its latest round of safety recalls, led by American Special Vehicle’s converted Ram 2500 and 3500 pick-ups.
Read the article
Failed clutch in 2006 Nissan Pathfinder

I would doubt that he has any claim; clutches are considered a wear and tear item and not covered by warranty.

Will a Nissan Pathfinder tow a horse float?

You don’t specify a model, but it’s a sure bet that a Pathfinder will handle at least 1250 kg, whichever model you have.

What's a fuel efficient SUV on the market?

I don’t believe that what you want is out there, and can only reiterate past advice, buy a Patrol/Pajero/Prado/LandCruiser.

Toyota Prado: Buying tips

Your choices are limited if you want a four-wheel drive for serious off-roading. You could look at a Mitsubishi Pajero, Nissan Pathfinder, or maybe one of the popular 4WD utes. A ute will do everything you need, and they are quite comfortable on the road.

Disclaimer: You acknowledge and agree that all answers are provided as a general guide only and should not be relied upon as bespoke advice. Carsguide is not liable for the accuracy of any information provided in the answers.
Have a new question for the CarsGuide team?
More than 9,000 questions asked and answered.
Complete guide to Nissan Pathfinder
Complete guide to Nissan Pathfinder CarsGuide Logo
Reviews, price, specs and more