Nissan Pathfinder Issues
Common Complaints
The 2013 Nissan Pathfinder has faced numerous complaints regarding transmission issues. Owners reported problems like jerking, shaking during acceleration between 15 mph and 30 mph, non-engaging transmission, shifter stuck in Park, and transmission slippage. Even after repair or replacement, these issues often recurred. However, by the 2014 model year, the severity of transmission problems diminished significantly.
The first-generation Pathfinders (1987-1995) had many complaints about the engine, such as loss of power and bucking during acceleration, often pointing to underlying transmission issues. Despite positive reviews about the 3.0-liter V6 engine, these mechanical problems were a significant headache for owners.
Model-Specific Problems
The 2014 Nissan Pathfinder has been plagued by numerous complaints regarding electrical system problems reported to the NHTSA from various locations across the United States as recently as August 2023. It is recommended to inspect for any signs of electrical issues before considering this model.
Additionally, the 2013/2014 Pathfinder models experienced transmission failure, shuttering and vibration, and coolant leakage, affecting the vehicle’s overall performance and reliability.
For older models, Nissan issued a DO NOT DRIVE warning for certain 2002-2004 Pathfinder vehicles due to Takata airbag recalls, which could be a potential hazard. Owners of these vehicles are strongly advised to complete the free repair immediately.
The second-generation Pathfinders (1996-2004) and particularly the 1999 models faced significant rust and paint problems. Severe rust issues can lead to long-term structural problems, making it essential to inspect any used Pathfinder carefully (CoPilot Search).
For more detailed insights on specific model problems, explore our dedicated sections on Nissan models:
- 2013 Nissan Altima Problems
- 2012 Nissan Rogue Problems
- Nissan CVT Transmission Problems
- 2017 Nissan Pathfinder Problems
- 2009 Nissan Murano Problems
2014 Nissan Pathfinder Concerns
The 2014 Nissan Pathfinder has faced several issues, primarily in the areas of the electrical system and transmission, as well as coolant leakage. These concerns are crucial for prospective buyers to understand.
Electrical System Challenges
There have been numerous complaints about electrical system problems in the 2014 Nissan Pathfinder reported to the NHTSA. These reports come from various locations across the United States and have been documented as recently as August 2023. Some common electrical issues include malfunctioning of the body control module (BCM), which controls various electronic functions in the vehicle.
The BCM issues can lead to various electrical failures such as:
- Intermittent Malfunctions in Interior Electronics
- Faulty Headlights and Taillights
- Problems with Power Windows and Door Locks
For identifying and fixing these issues, the body control module configuration should be saved and written to any new BCM if a replacement is needed. This process requires an advanced level scanner for reprogramming the keys (JustAnswer).
Transmission and Coolant Issues
Transmission and coolant problems have been a significant concern for owners of the 2014 Nissan Pathfinder. Some of the recurring issues reported include:
- Transmission Failure
- Shuddering and Vibration During Acceleration
- Coolant Leakage
Owners of the 2013 and 2014 Pathfinder models have frequently reported problems like transmission jerking and shaking during acceleration between 15 mph and 30 mph, non-engaging transmission, and transmission slippage. Despite some improvements in the 2014 model, these issues were still more prevalent compared to later years.
| Problem | Description | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Transmission Failure | Jerking, shaking between 15-30 mph, slippage | Pathfinder Talk Forum, CoPilot Search |
| Electrical Malfunctions | Faulty lights, power windows, and door locks | Carcomplaints.com, JustAnswer |
| Coolant Leakage | Coolant system failures causing overheating issues | Pathfinder Talk Forum |
For more details on common vehicle problems and solutions with other Nissan models, check out our related articles on nissan cvt transmission problems, nissan titan 7 speed transmission shifting problems, and 2017 nissan pathfinder problems.
Recall Alerts
Takata Airbag Recall
Nissan issued an immediate DO NOT DRIVE warning for certain model year 2002-2006 Nissan Sentra and 2002-2004 Nissan Pathfinder vehicles due to open Takata airbag recalls. This recall affects approximately 84,000 vehicles in the United States and Canada.
Owners of vehicles affected by the Takata airbag recall are strongly advised to stop driving their vehicles immediately and contact their local authorized Nissan dealer for a free repair. Dealers are prepared to provide free towing, mobile repair, or loaner cars in select locations.
Rear Visibility System Recall
The Nissan Pathfinder is also affected by the Rear Visibility System Recall. This recall pertains to the rearview camera and display settings. The issue arises when the driver adjusts these settings to the extent that the rear image is no longer visible. This malfunction could increase the risk of accidents if the driver does not re-adjust the settings before reversing.
For those interested in more specific issues related to Nissan vehicles, you can check our detailed articles on nissan titan problems, 2017 nissan pathfinder problems, and nissan cvt transmission problems.
Older Nissan Pathfinder Problems
Past Model Challenges
Examining past models of the Nissan Pathfinder reveals several common issues that prospective buyers should be aware of.
First Generation (1987-1995):
- The first-generation Pathfinders faced significant complaints about the engine. Despite the positive reception of the 3.0-liter V6 engine, common issues included loss of power and bucking during acceleration, suggesting underlying transmission problems.
Second Generation (1996-2004):
- Perhaps the most notorious issue with second-generation Pathfinders was rust and paint problems. The 1999 models were particularly prone to severe rusting (CoPilot Search). It’s essential to check the vehicle’s rust condition thoroughly before purchasing.
Rust and Transmission Issues
Third Generation (2005-2012):
- A significant issue known as the “Strawberry Milkshake” problem plagued the third-generation Pathfinders, particularly from 2005 through 2007. Coolant would leak into the transmission, causing severe transmission and radiator problems. Although this issue decreased each year, it wasn’t fully resolved until the fourth generation (CoPilot Search).
Fourth Generation (2013-2020):
- While many of the severe transmission problems from earlier generations were minimized, the 2013 models still reported issues. Common complaints included jerking and shaking during acceleration between 15 mph and 30 mph, as well as transmission slippage and shifters stuck in Park. The 2014 models saw fewer of these issues, but potential buyers should still be cautious and thorough in their inspections.
| Generation | Years | Common Issues |
|---|---|---|
| First | 1987-1995 | Engine power loss, acceleration bucking |
| Second | 1996-2004 | Severe rust, paint problems |
| Third | 2005-2012 | Coolant leaks, transmission slippage, “Milkshake” |
| Fourth | 2013-2020 | Jerking, shaking during acceleration, minor slipping |
For more detailed analysis and comparison with other Nissan models, visit our sections on 2013 Nissan Rogue SV problem and Nissan Altima transmission problems.