2024 Nissan Pathfinder

The 2024 Nissan Pathfinder is a mid-size SUV offering a blend of practicality and comfort, targeting families needing space and capability. A key selling point is its spacious interior and user-friendly technology. However, some common dislikes include the perceived lack of driving excitement compared to rivals, and some find the continuously variable transmission (CVT) to be less engaging than traditional automatic transmissions. It is only offered with one engine option: a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 284 horsepower and 259 lb-ft of torque. It is paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission.

Engine

3.5L V6

• Coolant leak from engine
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners report coolant leaks originating from the engine block or cylinder head area. This can result in overheating, coolant loss, and potential engine damage. There may be a visible leak or a smell of coolant.
  • Solution: Diagnosis by a qualified mechanic to pinpoint the exact source of the leak. Repair could involve replacing gaskets, seals, or even the cylinder head in severe cases.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Engine Misfires
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine misfires can cause rough idling, reduced power, and the check engine light to illuminate. Faulty ignition coils, spark plugs, or fuel injectors are possible causes.
  • Solution: Diagnosis to determine the cause of the misfire. Replacing faulty ignition components or cleaning/replacing fuel injectors is the common solution.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

9-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported harsh or abrupt shifts between gears, particularly at lower speeds. This can feel like a clunk or a jerk.
  • Solution: In some cases, a software update to the transmission control module (TCM) can resolve the issue. In other cases, replacement of the transmission may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Hesitation or Delay in Acceleration
  • Description/Symptoms: A noticeable delay or hesitation when accelerating, especially from a stop. This can be intermittent.
  • Solution: Could be related to the transmission control module (TCM) software, requiring a reflash or update. If the problem is mechanical, a transmission rebuild or replacement is needed.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

No Issues Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Freezing or Crashing
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment system, which controls navigation, audio, and other vehicle functions, may freeze, become unresponsive, or crash unexpectedly.
  • Solution: A software update for the infotainment system may resolve the issue. If the problem persists, the infotainment unit itself may need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Malfunctioning Sensors
  • Description/Symptoms: Problems with sensors, such as the blind spot monitoring system, lane departure warning, or parking sensors, may occur. These can generate false alerts or fail to operate correctly.
  • Solution: Diagnosis to identify the faulty sensor(s). Replacement of the defective sensor(s) is the usual fix.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ per sensor
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Automatic Liftgate Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: The automatic liftgate may fail to open or close properly, or may stop working altogether. This can be caused by a faulty liftgate motor, sensor, or latch.
  • Solution: Diagnosis to pinpoint the cause of the malfunction. Replacement of the faulty component is typically required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Rattling or Squeaking Noises
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported rattling or squeaking noises coming from various parts of the interior, such as the dashboard, seats, or trim panels.
  • Solution: Requires pinpointing the source of the noise and tightening loose components, adding padding, or replacing worn parts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2024 Nissan Pathfinder, while generally reliable, has exhibited issues primarily relating to the transmission, electrical system, and engine. Transmission issues (harsh shifting and hesitations) appear to be the most concerning, with repair costs potentially reaching significant levels if a full replacement is needed. Electrical glitches with the infotainment system and sensors can be annoying and may require software updates or component replacements. Engine issues are also a concern. Interior noises are less severe but can detract from the overall driving experience. It’s important to note that many of these issues are not widespread and affect only a subset of vehicles. As with any car purchase, a thorough inspection and test drive are highly recommended.