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2004 Nissan Pathfinder

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By Research the Car 5 min read

2004 Nissan Pathfinder

The 2004 Nissan Pathfinder is a mid-size SUV that offers a comfortable and spacious interior, along with capable off-road performance. It is available with two engine options: a 3.5L V6 with 240 horsepower and 263 lb-ft of torque, and a 4.0L V6 with 270 horsepower and 291 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission.

The Pathfinder has received praise for its rugged exterior styling, spacious interior, and strong performance. However, it has also been criticized for its lack of fuel economy, poor handling, and unrefined interior.

Engine

3.5L V6

  • Intake Manifold Runner Control (IMRC) System Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The IMRC system controls the flow of air into the engine. When it fails, it can cause rough idling, stalling, and reduced power.
    • Solution: Replace the IMRC system.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,200
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Timing Chain Tensioner Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The timing chain tensioner helps keep the timing chain in place. When it fails, it can cause rattling noises, rough idling, and reduced power.
    • Solution: Replace the timing chain tensioner.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $900
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Oil Cooler Line Leak
    • Description/Symptoms: The oil cooler line carries oil from the engine to the radiator. When it leaks, it can cause low oil pressure, engine overheating, and oil leaks.
    • Solution: Replace the oil cooler line.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
    • Recalls: None Found

4.0L V6

  • Head Gasket Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The head gasket seals the combustion chamber. When it fails, it can cause coolant leaks, engine overheating, and reduced power.
    • Solution: Replace the head gasket.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Timing Belt Replacement
    • Description/Symptoms: The timing belt synchronizes the crankshaft and camshaft. It should be replaced every 105,000 miles or 10 years, regardless of drivability symptoms.
    • Solution: Replace the timing belt and related components (water pump, tensioner, idler pulleys).
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Valve Cover Gasket Leak
    • Description/Symptoms: The valve cover gasket seals the valve cover to the cylinder head. When it leaks, it can cause oil leaks and engine smoke.
    • Solution: Replace the valve cover gasket.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic Transmission

  • Transmission Solenoid Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The transmission solenoid controls the flow of fluid through the transmission. When it fails, it can cause gear slipping, delayed shifting, and harsh shifting.
    • Solution: Replace the transmission solenoid.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $700
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Torque Converter Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The torque converter transfers power from the engine to the transmission. When it fails, it can cause shuddering, overheating, and loss of power.
    • Solution: Replace the torque converter.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

  • Strut Mount Bearing Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The strut mount bearing supports the strut and allows it to rotate. When it fails, it can cause clunking noises, vibration, and poor handling.
    • Solution: Replace the strut mount bearing.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Lower Control Arm Bushing Wear
    • Description/Symptoms: The lower control arm bushings connect the lower control arm to the frame. When they wear out, it can cause clunking noises, poor handling, and premature tire wear.
    • Solution: Replace the lower control arm bushings.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Rear Shock Absorber Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The rear shock absorbers absorb shock from the road. When they fail, it can cause poor handling, reduced ride comfort, and increased braking distance.
    • Solution: Replace the rear shock absorbers.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

  • Alternator Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The alternator charges the battery. When it fails, it can cause electrical problems, such as dim headlights, flickering interior lights, and difficulty starting the engine.
    • Solution: Replace the alternator.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Battery Drain
    • Description/Symptoms: A battery drain can cause the battery to discharge over time, resulting in difficulty starting the engine. It can be caused by various factors, such as a faulty alternator, parasitic draw, or a failing battery.
    • Solution: Diagnose and repair the cause of the battery drain.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

  • Tail Light Seal Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The tail light seal prevents moisture from entering the taillight assembly. When it fails, it can cause water leaks and condensation inside the taillight.
    • Solution: Replace the tail light seal.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Antenna Mast Breakage
    • Description/Symptoms: The antenna mast allows the radio to receive signals. When it breaks, it can affect radio reception.
    • Solution: Replace the antenna mast.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
    • Recalls: None Found

Interior

  • Climate Control Switch Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The climate control switch controls the heating and cooling system. When it fails, it can cause the system to malfunction, resulting in uncomfortable cabin temperatures.
    • Solution: Replace the climate control switch.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Airbag Sensor Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The airbag sensor detects the presence of an occupant and deploys the airbags in the event of an accident. When it fails, it can cause the airbags to not deploy as intended.
    • Solution: Replace the airbag sensor.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
    • Recalls: 95N09, 01V213000
  • Dashboard Rattle
    • Description/Symptoms: A dashboard rattle can be caused by loose components or fasteners. It can be annoying and distracting while driving.
    • Solution: Identify and tighten or replace loose components.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2004 Nissan Pathfinder is a generally reliable SUV, but it is not without its issues. The most common problems are related to the engine, transmission, and electrical system. Engine issues can be costly to repair, particularly head gasket failure and timing chain issues. Transmission issues can also be expensive, such as torque converter failure. Electrical problems can range from minor annoyances to more serious safety concerns.

Overall, the severity and cost of the issues with the 2004 Nissan Pathfinder vary depending on the specific problem. However, it is important to be aware of these potential issues and to factor them in when considering the purchase or ownership of this vehicle.

Nissan, Pathfinder
Nissan Pathfinder 2004
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