PROBLEM GUIDE

2013–2016 Nissan Pathfinder Common Problems

Here's what owners are experiencing, based on our research of real owner reports and repair data.

Last updated May 2026

890

complaints filed for the 2013 model year

2013–2016

Model years affected

$1,200 – $6,000

Typical repair cost, by problem

A rear subframe "completely rusted through," with a mechanic quoted as saying the vehicle "should not be as corroded as it is," is one of several subframe rust reports on this generation. Separately, one owner reports going through four CVT transmissions in the past year — a repair that did not hold.

Quick Scan: 15 Issues

Click a problem for the full write-up — symptoms, what we found, and typical repair costs where we have them.

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PROBLEM DETAILS

Rear subframe completely rusted through

Premature corrosion at 100,000-145,000 miles

Check engine light: Off

The rear subframe is "completely rusted through," with owners reporting premature corrosion and a mechanic quoted as saying the vehicle "should not be as corroded as it is."

100,000 – 145,000 mi

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CVT transmission repeat failures

One owner reports four CVT transmissions in a year

Check engine light: On

CVT transmission repeat failures are documented, with one owner reporting going "through four CVT transmissions, including three replacements within the past year."

$4,215 – $6,000

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Hood unlatches and opens independently while driving

The hood unlatches and opens while driving; also reported on the Nissan Rogue

Check engine light: Off

The hood unlatches and opens independently while driving — the same hood-latch defect is reported on the Nissan Rogue.

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Transmission cooler/radiator cross-contamination

Coolant and transmission fluid mix, causing failure

Check engine light: On

Transmission cooler/radiator cross-contamination causes transmission failure — the same "strawberry milkshake" defect seen on this nameplate's first generation persists into the second generation.

$4,215 – $6,000

The same problem was reported on the previous-generation Pathfinder.

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Timing chain issues, valve seat failure

Requiring engine replacement

Check engine light: On

Timing chain issues occur across a wide mileage range, and a valve seat failure required a full engine replacement ($6,400).

$1,200 – $2,40045,000 – 225,000 mi

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Check Engine Light Due to Faulty Fuel Level Sensor

The check engine light comes on due to a faulty fuel level sensor

Check engine light: On

The check engine light comes on due to a faulty fuel level sensor. This is among the more frequently reported issues on this generation, with 321 owner reports on file.

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Engine Won't Crank Due to Starter Relay Failure

The engine won't crank due to starter relay failure

Check engine light: Off

The engine won't crank due to starter relay failure. This is among the more frequently reported issues on this generation, with 220 owner reports on file.

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Noise From the Front of the Engine

A noise comes from the front of the engine

Check engine light: Off

A noise comes from the front of the engine. This is among the more frequently reported issues on this generation, with 195 owner reports on file.

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No Start, Engine Stalls

The engine has no start, or stalls

Check engine light: Off

The engine has no start, or stalls. This is among the more frequently reported issues on this generation, with 53 owner reports on file.

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Stall or Misfire Due to Failed Mass Air Flow Sensor

A stall or misfire occurs due to a failed mass air flow sensor

Check engine light: On

A stall or misfire occurs due to a failed mass air flow sensor. This is among the more frequently reported issues on this generation, with 33 owner reports on file.

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Upgraded Ignition Coil Available From Nissan to Correct Misfire Issue

An upgraded ignition coil is available from Nissan to correct a misfire issue

Check engine light: On

An upgraded ignition coil is available from Nissan to correct a misfire issue. This is among the more frequently reported issues on this generation, with 38 owner reports on file.

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Check Engine Light Due to Failed Intake Valve Timing Sensor

The check engine light comes on due to a failed intake valve timing sensor

Check engine light: On

The check engine light comes on due to a failed intake valve timing sensor. This is among the more frequently reported issues on this generation, with 24 owner reports on file.

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Loose Screws Inside Intake Manifold Can Cause Internal Damage if They Fall Out

Loose screws inside the intake manifold can cause internal damage if they fall out

Check engine light: Off

Loose screws inside the intake manifold can cause internal damage if they fall out. This is among the more frequently reported issues on this generation, with 19 owner reports on file.

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Exhaust Manifold Can Warp and Cause the Studs to Break Off

The exhaust manifold can warp and cause the studs to break off

Check engine light: Off

The exhaust manifold can warp and cause the studs to break off. This is among the more frequently reported issues on this generation, with 16 owner reports on file.

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Erratic or High Idle After Cleaning Throttle Body

Erratic or high idle occurs after cleaning the throttle body

Check engine light: Off

Erratic or high idle occurs after cleaning the throttle body. This is among the more frequently reported issues on this generation, with 16 owner reports on file.

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Enter your VIN to check for open recalls and technical service bulletins on your specific car.

The information on this page is for general educational purposes only and is not a diagnosis. It is compiled from aggregated owner-reported data and publicly available sources, not from an inspection of your vehicle. Symptoms described here can have multiple causes, and the presence of a commonly reported problem does not mean your vehicle has it. Repair cost ranges are estimates that vary by region, shop, vehicle condition, and parts availability. Recall and service campaign information may be incomplete or out of date — verify current recall status with NHTSA or your manufacturer. MyGearGuru is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by any vehicle manufacturer; manufacturer and model names are used for identification only. Always consult a qualified technician before making repair decisions.

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