Owners have filed 299 complaints
about the 2001 Nissan Pathfinder with NHTSA between 2000 and 2024.
The largest single group is the suspension.
Across this model's run it ranks 9 of 33 worst.
The letter says how bad. This says what kind — whether this year drew
an unusual number of complaints, unusually dangerous
ones, or failures that arrived unusually early.
The dashed ring is 50 — the national norm. Further out is worse.
Complaint volume — 49
Against the median year of the Nissan Pathfinder. 50 means typical for this
model; 100 means roughly double.
Severity — 64
12.4% of these complaints
involved a crash, fire, injury or death, against a national rate of
9.7%.
Early failure — 19
11% of failures with a mileage on record happened under
36,000 miles, against a national rate of
29%.
How 2001 compares with every other Nissan Pathfinder
NHTSA files every complaint against a named sub-assembly, not just a
system. This is the difference between knowing it was "the engine" and
knowing which part of it — the list to hand a mechanic.
Odometer readings owners gave when they filed. About half of all
complaints include one.
Under 1,000 miles
73.6%
1,000 – 9,999 miles
21.0%
10,000 – 24,999 miles
105.2%
25,000 – 49,999 miles
126.2%
50,000 – 74,999 miles
2512.9%
75,000 – 99,999 miles
3819.6%
100,000 – 149,999 miles
4925.3%
150,000+ miles
5126.3%
NHTSA crash tests
The agency crash-tested this model year itself. These are its own
photographs and star ratings.
These stars come from the pre-2011 crash test programme. NHTSA
rebuilt the programme for the 2011 model year and states that
ratings either side of that change are not comparable — so do
not read these against a 2011-or-newer car's stars.
Frontal crash test
Side barrier crash test
Frontal crash test
Photographs taken by NHTSA during its own New Car Assessment Program crash
tests of this model year. Public domain.
Configuration
Overall
Front
Side
Rollover
2001 Nissan Pathfinder 4-DR. w/SAB
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2001 Nissan Pathfinder 4-DR.
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When owners complained
A spike years after the car went on sale usually means a part wearing
out on schedule across the whole fleet — the kind of pattern no single
owner can see from inside their own car.
Sep 2000peak 8Oct 2024
NHTSA investigations into the 2001 Nissan Pathfinder
An investigation is the step before a recall: the agency has seen enough
complaints to look into a pattern itself. An open one means it thinks
something may be wrong and nothing has been fixed yet.
PE11004Opened 28 Jan 2011Closed 30 Jun 2011STEERING:COLUMN
Frame/Body Structure Corrosion
In their Defect Information Report (DIR) of April 20, 2011, Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) notified NHTSA that it would conduct a safety recall of certain 1996-2004 Nissan Pathfinder and 1997-2003 Infinity QX4 vehicles to repair corrosion damage to the driver's side front strut tower.The vehicles included in the recall are those that were originally sold, or are currently registered in salt belt states including Connecticut, Delaware, Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Massachusetts, Maine, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Islan...
Recalls on the 2001 Nissan Pathfinder
A complaint is one owner's allegation. A recall is the point at which
the manufacturer or a regulator agreed the defect is real and dangerous
enough to fix for free — however old the car is.
United States — NHTSA
11V244000
STEERING:COLUMN
NISSAN IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 1996-2004 PATHFINDER AND MODEL YEAR 1997-2003 INFINITI QX4 VEHICLES ORIGINALLY SOLD, OR CURRENTLY REGISTERED IN, CONNECTICUT, DELAWARE, IOWA, ILLINOIS, INDIANA, MASSACHUSETTS, MAINE, MARYLAND, MICHIGAN, MINNESOTA, MISSOURI, NEW HAMPSHIRE, NEW JERSEY, NEW YORK, OHIO, PENNSYLVANIA, RHODE ISLAND, VERMONT, WASHINGTON D.C., WEST VIRGINIA AND WISCONSIN. IN AREAS OF THE COUNTRY IN WHICH HEAVY CONCENTRATIONS OF ROAD SALT ARE USED, A MIXTURE OF SNOW/WATER AND SALT MAY ENTER AN ASSEMBLY LOCATION HOLE IN THE UPPER STRUT HOUSING, CAUSING WATER TO COLLECT AT THE MATING SURFACE OF THE STRUT HOUSING PANEL AND THE INNER HOOD LEDGE ASSEMBLY. OVER TIME, THIS SNOW/WATER AND SALT INTRUSION MAY RESULT IN CORROSION OF THE STRUT TOWER HOUSING IN SOME SUBJECT VEHICLES.
Risk: THE STRUT HOUSING MAY CRACK AND PULL AWAY FROM THE INNER HOOD LEDGE ASSEMBLY. THIS MAY LEAD TO GRINDING NOISES, INCREASED STEERING EFFORT, AND POSSIBLY THE STEERING COLUMN TO BREAK, RESULTING IN THE LOSS OF STEERING CONTROL, WHICH COULD RESULT IN A CRASH.
09E025000
EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS
DOPE, INC. IS RECALLING 42,540 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.
Risk: DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
09E012000
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
SABERSPORT IS RECALLING 16,270 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.
Risk: DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
07V435000
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY:FILLER PIPE AND CAP
ON CERTAIN VEHICLES ORIGINALLY SOLD IN OR CURRENTLY REGISTERED IN THE STATES OF CONNECTICUT, DELAWARE, IOWA, ILLINOIS, INDIANA, KENTUCKY, MASSACHUSETTS, MAINE, MARYLAND, MICHIGAN, MINNESOTA, NEW HAMPSHIRE, NEW JERSEY, NEW YORK, OHIO, PENNSYLVANIA, RHODE ISLAND, TENNESSEE, VERMONT, VIRGINIA, WEST VIRGINIA , WISCONSIN AND THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA, DURING THE COATING PROCESS OF THE FUEL FILLER TUBE ASSEMBLY, AN INSUFFICIENT AMOUNT OF COATING MAY HAVE BEEN APPLIED AT THE LOWER MOUNTING BRACKET. THIS COULD RESULT IN AN OPENING IN THE COATING WHICH CAN ALLOW WATER TO ENTER AND MAKE CONTACT WITH THE BARE METAL OF THE TUBE.
Risk: THIS MAY RESULT IN SURFACE RUST BUT NOT PERFORATION OF THE TUBE. HOWEVER, IN THOSE AREAS OF THE COUNTRY WHICH USE HEAVY CONCENTRATIONS OF ROAD SALT IN THE WINTER, IF A MIXTURE OF SNOW/WATER AND SALT MAKES CONTACT WITH THE BARE METAL, CORROSION MAY OCCUR TO A DEGREE WHICH RESULTS IN PERFORATION OF THE TUBE. IN THIS CASE FUEL LEAKAGE MAY OCCUR WHEN FILLING THE TANK. FUEL LEAKAGE, IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, COULD RESULT IN A FIRE.
06E049000
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
CERTAIN CK MOTORSPORTS COMBINATION HEADLIGHTS, CLEAR CORNER, BUMPER, AND SIDE MARKER LIGHTS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON THE PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS THAT ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.
Risk: WITHOUT THE AMBER REFLECTORS, THE VEHICLE WILL BE POORLY ILLUMINATED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.
06E026000
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
CERTAIN PRO-A MOTORS CORNER LAMPS, TURN SIGNALS, AND HEADLIGHTS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS THAT ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.
Risk: WITHOUT THE AMBER REFLECTORS, THE VEHICLE WILL BE POORLY ILLUMINATED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.
01V282000
STRUCTURE:BODY:HATCHBACK/LIFTGATE:HINGE AND ATTACHMENTS
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES. SOME OF THE BRACKETS USED TO ATTACH THE TWO GAS STRUTS TO THE REAR DOOR (HATCH) MAY HAVE BEEN IMPROPERLY MADE. AT HIGH AMBIENT TEMPERATURES, THE INCREASE IN GAS PRESSURE IN THE STRUT(S) COULD CAUSE ONE OR BOTH BRACKETS TO BEND, RESULTING IN THE STRUTS DETACHING FROM THE BRACKET(S) WHEN OPENING OR CLOSING THE REAR DOOR.
Risk: IF BOTH STRUTS DETACH FROM THE BRACKETS, THE DOOR WILL RAPIDLY FALL DOWN, POSSIBLY STRIKING SOMEONE AND CAUSING SERIOUS INJURY.
Canada — Transport Canada
Canada runs its own recall programme, and its campaigns do not
always mirror the American ones.
Recall 201116574,983 units in Canada
Structure
On certain vehicles operated in areas of heavy road salt usage during winter months, a mixture of snow/water and salt may enter an assembly location hole in the upper strut housing, causing water to collect at the mating surface of the strut housing panel and the inner hood ledge assembly. Over time, this snow/water and salt intrusion may result in corrosion of the strut tower housing structure. If the vehicle continues to be driven in this condition, the strut housing may crack and pull away from the inner hood ledge assembly. Should the strut housing separate and contact the steering column upper shaft, the steering shaft could break. A loss of steering control could result in a crash causing property damage and/or personal injury. Correction: Dealers will inspect the strut housing and, if no corrosion or only minor surface corrosion is present, an anti-corrosion seal will be applied. If moderate corrosion is present, resin patches will be applied in addition to the sealant. If there is evidence of more significant corrosion, a metal reinforcement plate will be used to reinforce the strut housing assembly. In instances where it is impossible to repair the vehicle, Nissan will provide an appropriate remedy.
Recall 200730045,279 units in Canada
Fuel System
On certain vehicles, inadequate coating of the fuel filler tube assembly could allow water to penetrate past the coating and cause surface rust. In areas which use heavy concentrations of road salt in the winter, corrosion may occur to a degree which results in perforation of the tube. In this case, fuel leakage may occur when filling the tank or shortly thereafter. Fuel leakage, in the presence of an ignition source, could result in a fire. Correction: Dealers will replace the fuel filler tube assembly.
Recall 20012253,013 units in Canada
Structure
On certain vehicles, some of the brackets used to attach the two gas struts to the rear door (hatch) may have been improperly made. At high ambient temperatures, the increase in gas pressure in the strut(s) could cause one or both brackets to bend, resulting in the struts detaching from the bracket(s) when opening or closing the rear door. If both struts detach from the brackets, the door will rapidly fall down possibly striking someone. Correction: Dealers will replace the strut brackets.
Reports where the owner recorded a crash, a fire, an injury or a death.
at 10 milesNashville, TNFire
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
THE FUEL PUMP IS LEAKING. EXHAUSTED PIPE LEAK AND THE MUFFLER DAMAGED.
NHTSA complaint #10872085 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Brawley CA, CACrash
STEERING
MY CAR WAS PARKED OUT IN THE STREET IN FRONT OF THE HOUSE BY THE MAIL BOX, WHEN SOME GUY BACKED UP INTO MY CAR PUSHING IT ABOUT 4 FT BACK. DAMAGING THE FRONT FENDER, HOOD, AND WHEEL. THE STEERING WHEEL USED TO BE STRAIGHT NOW ITS TURNED HALF WAYS WHILE DRIVING, WHICH I ONLY WENT AROUND THE BLOCK CAUSE I GOT TOO SCARED. BUT APPARENTLY DRIVER HAS NO INSURANCE AND HES ON DISABILITY.
NHTSA complaint #10627370 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 170,000 milesSaint Paul, MNCrash1 injured
AIR BAGS
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 NISSAN PATHFINDER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING 40 MPH, THE VEHICLE CRASHED INTO ANOTHER VEHICLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT UPON IMPACT, THE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY AND THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED. THE CONTACT SUSTAINED INJURIES TO THE LEFT ROTATOR CUFF AND AN CONCUSSION. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED AND SENT SOMEONE TO LOOK AT THE VEHICLE WHO STATED THAT THE CRASH WAS NOT SIGNIFICANT ENOUGH FOR THE AIR BAGS TO DEPLOY. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 170,000.
NHTSA complaint #10496865 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 64,000 milesMorris Plains, NJCrash
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 NISSAN PATHFINDER. WHILE ENTERING A PARKING SPACE APPROXIMATELY 5 MPH, THE CONTACT ENGAGED THE BRAKES AND THE VEHICLE UNEXPECTEDLY ACCELERATED. THE VEHICLE FAILED TO SLOW DOWN AND CRASHED INTO AN UNOCCUPIED VEHICLE. THE ABS WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED THEN IMMEDIATELY, THE VEHICLE CAME TO A STOP WHILE EXTENSIVE FORCE WAS APPLIED TO THE BRAKE PEDAL. THERE WERE NO INJURIES. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC FOR DIAGNOSTIC TESTING AND TO BE REPAIRED. THE VEHICLE EXHIBITED SEVERE BODY DAMAGE. THE CONTACT WAS IN THE PROCESS OF NOTIFYING THE MANUFACTURER OF THE DEFECT. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 64,000. UPDATED 07/08/11
NHTSA complaint #10403879 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 64,000 milesMorris Plains, NJCrash
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 NISSAN PATHFINDER. WHILE ENTERING A PARKING SPACE APPROXIMATELY 5 MPH, THE CONTACT ENGAGED THE BRAKES AND THE VEHICLE UNEXPECTEDLY ACCELERATED. THE VEHICLE FAILED TO SLOW DOWN AND CRASHED INTO AN UNOCCUPIED VEHICLE. THE ABS WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED THEN IMMEDIATELY, THE VEHICLE CAME TO A STOP WHILE EXTENSIVE FORCE WAS APPLIED TO THE BRAKE PEDAL. THERE WERE NO INJURIES. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC FOR DIAGNOSTIC TESTING AND TO BE REPAIRED. THE VEHICLE EXHIBITED SEVERE BODY DAMAGE. THE CONTACT WAS IN THE PROCESS OF NOTIFYING THE MANUFACTURER OF THE DEFECT. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 64,000. UPDATED 07/08/11
NHTSA complaint #10403879 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 107,000 milesTucson, AZCrash1 killed
STEERING
TL*THE DRIVER OWNED A 2001 NISSAN PATHFINDER. THE DRIVER WAS INVOLVED IN A CRASH IN WHICH THE VEHICLE LOST CONTROL AND VEERED OFF THE ROAD. THE CONTACT WAS NOT INVOLVED SO THE EXACT DETAILS OF THE FAILURE WERE UNAVAILABLE. THE DRIVER DIED AS A RESULT OF THE CRASH. THE POLICE APPEARED ON THE SCENE. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED AND TOWED TO AN INSURANCE LOT BUT THEY HAVE NOT DIAGNOSED THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGES WERE 107,000.
NHTSA complaint #10379924 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The most recent complaints
In the owners' own words, exactly as filed with NHTSA.
Hayword, CA
STRUCTURE
The contact owns a 2001 Nissan Pathfinder. The contact stated that the door open warning light was illuminated. In addition, the vehicle dome light remained on. The contact stated when opening the rear door hatch there was an abnormal noise present. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 01V282000 (Structure). The vehicle was taken to the dealer where she was informed that the remedy parts were no longer available. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.
NHTSA complaint #11619421 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 142,000 milesChatham, NJ
STEERING
The contact owns a 2001 Nissan Pathfinder. The contact stated while driving approximately 35 MPH, the contact was attempting to use her brakes to slow for traffic and was unable to stop. The contact had to depress the brake pedal to the floorboard to get the vehicle to stop. The contact stated that prior to the failure her ABS warning had been illuminated for a long period of time prior to the failure. The contact drove the vehicle to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed that due to a significant amount of rust, the front suspension and struts and brake pads, and rotors had to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 11V244000 (Steering and Suspension). The work had been previously completed by a dealer. The vehicle had not been repaired. The manufacturer had not been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 142,000.
NHTSA complaint #11478841 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 142,000 milesChatham, NJ
SUSPENSION
The contact owns a 2001 Nissan Pathfinder. The contact stated while driving approximately 35 MPH, the contact was attempting to use her brakes to slow for traffic and was unable to stop. The contact had to depress the brake pedal to the floorboard to get the vehicle to stop. The contact stated that prior to the failure her ABS warning had been illuminated for a long period of time prior to the failure. The contact drove the vehicle to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed that due to a significant amount of rust, the front suspension and struts and brake pads, and rotors had to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 11V244000 (Steering and Suspension). The work had been previously completed by a dealer. The vehicle had not been repaired. The manufacturer had not been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 142,000.
NHTSA complaint #11478841 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Orland Park, IL
STRUCTURE:BODY
Rear mount of front passenger control arm cracked where mounts to frame. Very little metal left where bolts hold bracket to body.
NHTSA complaint #11432536 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 106,523 milesReading, PA
WHEELS
FAMILY CAR;2001 NISSAN PATHFINDER, WE GOT IN THE TRUCK AND DROVE ABOUT 250 FEET TO THE STOP SIGN. I STOP. AS I STARTED MOVING AND SUDDENLY I HEAR A POP LOUD SOUND FROM ENGINE COMPARTMENT AND MY STEERING GOT HARD AND DIFFICULT TO STEER AND A GRINDING SOUND AS YOU TURN THE STEERING. DROVE BACK TO THE HOUSE SLOW AND PARK. OPEN THE HOOD AND I SEE THE STRUT TOWER UNDER NEATH THE BRAKE MASTER CYLINDER, THEN I LOOK BETWEEN LEFT SIDE (DRIVERS) TIRE THE STRUT TOWER JUST RIPPED FROM THE FACTORY WELD. MY FAMILY IN THE CAR WHEN THIS OCCUR. WHAT IF THIS OCCUR WHILE ON THE HIGHWAY AT HIGHER SPEEDS. MY TRUCK ONLY HAS 106523 MILES AND WAS SCHEDULED FOR A PA INSPECTION.
NHTSA complaint #11348789 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 106,523 milesReading, PA
STEERING
FAMILY CAR;2001 NISSAN PATHFINDER, WE GOT IN THE TRUCK AND DROVE ABOUT 250 FEET TO THE STOP SIGN. I STOP. AS I STARTED MOVING AND SUDDENLY I HEAR A POP LOUD SOUND FROM ENGINE COMPARTMENT AND MY STEERING GOT HARD AND DIFFICULT TO STEER AND A GRINDING SOUND AS YOU TURN THE STEERING. DROVE BACK TO THE HOUSE SLOW AND PARK. OPEN THE HOOD AND I SEE THE STRUT TOWER UNDER NEATH THE BRAKE MASTER CYLINDER, THEN I LOOK BETWEEN LEFT SIDE (DRIVERS) TIRE THE STRUT TOWER JUST RIPPED FROM THE FACTORY WELD. MY FAMILY IN THE CAR WHEN THIS OCCUR. WHAT IF THIS OCCUR WHILE ON THE HIGHWAY AT HIGHER SPEEDS. MY TRUCK ONLY HAS 106523 MILES AND WAS SCHEDULED FOR A PA INSPECTION.
NHTSA complaint #11348789 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 106,523 milesReading, PA
SUSPENSION
FAMILY CAR;2001 NISSAN PATHFINDER, WE GOT IN THE TRUCK AND DROVE ABOUT 250 FEET TO THE STOP SIGN. I STOP. AS I STARTED MOVING AND SUDDENLY I HEAR A POP LOUD SOUND FROM ENGINE COMPARTMENT AND MY STEERING GOT HARD AND DIFFICULT TO STEER AND A GRINDING SOUND AS YOU TURN THE STEERING. DROVE BACK TO THE HOUSE SLOW AND PARK. OPEN THE HOOD AND I SEE THE STRUT TOWER UNDER NEATH THE BRAKE MASTER CYLINDER, THEN I LOOK BETWEEN LEFT SIDE (DRIVERS) TIRE THE STRUT TOWER JUST RIPPED FROM THE FACTORY WELD. MY FAMILY IN THE CAR WHEN THIS OCCUR. WHAT IF THIS OCCUR WHILE ON THE HIGHWAY AT HIGHER SPEEDS. MY TRUCK ONLY HAS 106523 MILES AND WAS SCHEDULED FOR A PA INSPECTION.
NHTSA complaint #11348789 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 198,000 milesSnellville, GA
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
IN APRIL 2019, I WAS DRIVING AT ABOUT 55 MPH TOWING A SMALL TRAILER IN THE RIGHT MOST LANE OF A 3 LANE HIGHWAY. AS I APPROACHED A HILL, THE PATHFINDER SUDDENLY SMELLED LIKED SOMETHING WAS ON FIRE AND THE ENGINE STOPPED RUNNING. I MANAGED TO PULL OFF THE HIGHWAY AND COAST TO A STOP ON THE SHOULDER. THE BURNING SMELL LASTED ABOUT 5 MINUTES, BUT I COULD NOT TELL WHERE THE SOURCE WAS AT THE TIME. I RAN SEVERAL DIAGNOSTIC TESTS, INCLUDING ECU CODES, BUT DID NOT FIND ANYTHING INDICATIVE OF A PROBLEM OF THIS NATURE. IN JANUARY 2020, I ATTEMPTED TO START THE VEHICLE AFTER REPLACING SEVERAL WORN OUT DRIVETRAIN COMPONENTS (CLUTCH, ENGINE, RADIATOR, ENGINE GASKETS) AND FOUND THAT IT WOULD NOT START. I FOUND A BURNED OUT FUSE TO THE ECCS2, 10 AMP CIRCUIT. I REPLACED THE FUSE AND IMMEDIATELY NOTICED THAT THERE WAS SMOKE COMING FROM UNDERNEATH THE DASHBOARD EVEN THOUGH THE VEHICLE WAS NOT ON OR RUNNING AT THE TIME. AGAIN THE SMOKE LASTED SEVERAL MINUTES. THIS TIME I WAS ABLE TO SEE SMOKE COMING FROM THE COMPUTER CASING OF THE VEHICLE'S ECU. I DISCONNECTED THE BATTERY IMMEDIATELY AND REMOVED THE ECU FROM THE VEHICLE. I DISCOVERED A BURNED CHIP INSIDE. AFTER SEVERAL HOURS OF RESEARCH, I WAS ABLE TO IDENTIFY THE CAUSE AND LEARN THAT THIS HAPPENS TO MANY OTHER MODELS OF NISSAN VEHICLES OF SIMILAR YEAR MODEL. THE CAUSE IS ALWAYS THE SAME - THE IDLE AIR CONTROL VALVE SEALS FAIL, THEN WATER GETS INSIDE THE ELECTRIC IACV MOTOR AND WHEN THE ECU TRIES TO COMPENSATE FOR THE IACV FAILURE, IT OVERLOADS THE ELECTRICAL CIRCUIT AND SHORTS OUT THIS PARTICULAR CHIP. SOME PEOPLE HAVE REPORTED SPENDING SEVERAL THOUSAND DOLLARS TO HAVE NISSAN REPLACE PARTS AND REPAIR THEIR ECU AS THESE VEHICLES ARE NOW OUT OF WARRANTY.
NHTSA complaint #11299157 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 187,000 milesIndependence, MN
STEERING
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 NISSAN PATHFINDER. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 15 MPH AND MAKING A LEFT TURN, THE LOWER STEERING COLUMN FRACTURED WITHOUT WARNING. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND INFORMED THE CONTACT TO TAKE THE VEHICLE TO A DEALER. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO WALSER NISSAN WAYZATA (612-426-6995, LOCATED AT 15906 WAYZATA BLVD, WAYZATA, MN 55391) VIA THE AFTER HOUR SERVICE. THE CONTACT LEFT A MESSAGE FOR THE TECHNICIAN TO DIAGNOSE THE FAILURE AND PROVIDE A REPORT. THE CONTACT WENT ON A VACATION. OVERNIGHT, THE GENERAL MANAGER OF THE DEALER CALLED THE CONTACT AND INFORMED HIM TO MOVE THE VEHICLE FROM THE PREMISES BEFORE 8AM THE FOLLOWING DAY. THE CONTACT EXPLAINED THAT HE WAS OUT OF TOWN. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN IMPOUND LOT BY THE DEALER. FOUR YEARS PRIOR TO THE FAILURE, THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED PER NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 11V244000 (STEERING, SUSPENSION). THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 187,000. The contact is requesting a call back from a NHTSA Supervisor or Administrator.
NHTSA complaint #11231413 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 155,000 milesIndependence, MN
STEERING
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 NISSAN PATHFINDER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE STEERING SHAFT WAS FRACTURED ON THE BOTTOM OF THE STEERING COLUMN. WHILE DRIVING, THE VEHICLE LOST ALL POWER STEERING ABILITY. THE VEHICLE DROVE OVER A CURB AND WAS ABLE TO BE STOPPED. THERE WERE NO WARNING INDICATORS ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE CONTACT'S RESIDENCE. THE CONTACT TOOK PICTURES OF THE FAILURE AND SENT THEM TO KLINE NISSAN (LOCATED AT 3090 HWY 31 N, MAPLEWOOD, MN 55109, (877) 284-5230). THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED PER NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 11V244000 (STEERING, SUSPENSION) YEARS AGO. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO A DEALER OR AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC FOR DIAGNOSTIC TESTING. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 155,000.
NHTSA complaint #11228817 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Independence, MN
STEERING
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 NISSAN PATHFINDER. THE CONTACT'S VEHICLE WAS INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 11V244000 (STRUCTURE) AND REPAIRED IN 2015. WHILE THE CONTACT'S DAUGHTER WAS DRIVING AT A VERY LOW SPEED, SHE ATTEMPTED TO MAKE A U-TURN AND THE STEERING COLUMN FRACTURED. AS A RESULT, THE VEHICLE DROVE FORWARD AND RAN INTO A CURB. THE DRIVER WAS ABLE TO REVERSE THE VEHICLE AND ALIGN THE VEHICLE AGAINST THE CURB, ALTHOUGH THE STEERING FAILED. THE VEHICLE WAS LEFT AT THE SCENE. KLINE NISSAN (3090 HWY 61 N, MAPLEWOOD, MN 55109, (877) 284-5230) WAS CONTACTED AND STATED THAT THE RECALL REPAIR WAS ALREADY PERFORMED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE RECURRING FAILURE AND REFERRED THE CONTACT BACK TO THE DEALER. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS UNKNOWN.
NHTSA complaint #11228822 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 166,400 milesAnnandalle, VA
STEERING
DRIVER'S SIDE STRUT TOWER HAS RUSTED TO THE POINT WERE THE TRUCK WILL PASS VA STATE SAFETY INSPECTION. THERE WAS A RECALL PERFORMED BY SEVERAL YEARS AGO BY NISSAN FOR THE RUST ISSUE ON BOTH INNER WHEEL WELLS AND STRUT TOWER AREA.
NHTSA complaint #11197090 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 166,400 milesAnnandalle, VA
SUSPENSION
DRIVER'S SIDE STRUT TOWER HAS RUSTED TO THE POINT WERE THE TRUCK WILL PASS VA STATE SAFETY INSPECTION. THERE WAS A RECALL PERFORMED BY SEVERAL YEARS AGO BY NISSAN FOR THE RUST ISSUE ON BOTH INNER WHEEL WELLS AND STRUT TOWER AREA.
NHTSA complaint #11197090 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 166,400 milesAnnandalle, VA
STRUCTURE:BODY
DRIVER'S SIDE STRUT TOWER HAS RUSTED TO THE POINT WERE THE TRUCK WILL PASS VA STATE SAFETY INSPECTION. THERE WAS A RECALL PERFORMED BY SEVERAL YEARS AGO BY NISSAN FOR THE RUST ISSUE ON BOTH INNER WHEEL WELLS AND STRUT TOWER AREA.
NHTSA complaint #11197090 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 164,000 milesHatfield, PA
STEERING
THE SUB-FRAME/CRADLE 54400-0W00 ON THE PASSENGER SIDE IS ROTTED OUT TO THE POINT THAT IT WILL NOT PASS A PA STATE INSPECTION. THIS WAS FOUND BY MY MECHANIC WHILE HE WAS REPLACING THE FRONT ROTORS AND BRAKES. MY MECHANIC HAS ORDERED A NEW SUB FRAME + BOLTS TO REPLACE THE ROTTED OUT SUB-FRAME. I WONDER HOW MANY OTHER SUB-FRAMES ARE ROTTED OUT ON PATHFINDERS FROM 1996 TO 2004 WHICH IS WHEN NISSAN USED THIS PARTICULAR PART. MY CONCERN IS IF THIS PART FAILS COMPLETELY WHAT WILL HAPPEN??? I HAVE RESTRICTED DRIVING MY PATHFINDER UNTIL THE NEW PART IS INSTALLED. I THINK SOMEONE SHOULD LOOK INTO THIS PROBLEM, BECAUSE WHEN IT FAILS AND IT WILL SOMEONE WILL GET HURT OR EVEN KILLED? THE CONTROL ARMS MOUNTED TO THIS PART WHICH CONTROLS STEERING. THIS PART PLUS LABOR WILL COST ME ABOUT $1500.00.
NHTSA complaint #11191510 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 164,000 milesHatfield, PA
SUSPENSION
THE SUB-FRAME/CRADLE 54400-0W00 ON THE PASSENGER SIDE IS ROTTED OUT TO THE POINT THAT IT WILL NOT PASS A PA STATE INSPECTION. THIS WAS FOUND BY MY MECHANIC WHILE HE WAS REPLACING THE FRONT ROTORS AND BRAKES. MY MECHANIC HAS ORDERED A NEW SUB FRAME + BOLTS TO REPLACE THE ROTTED OUT SUB-FRAME. I WONDER HOW MANY OTHER SUB-FRAMES ARE ROTTED OUT ON PATHFINDERS FROM 1996 TO 2004 WHICH IS WHEN NISSAN USED THIS PARTICULAR PART. MY CONCERN IS IF THIS PART FAILS COMPLETELY WHAT WILL HAPPEN??? I HAVE RESTRICTED DRIVING MY PATHFINDER UNTIL THE NEW PART IS INSTALLED. I THINK SOMEONE SHOULD LOOK INTO THIS PROBLEM, BECAUSE WHEN IT FAILS AND IT WILL SOMEONE WILL GET HURT OR EVEN KILLED? THE CONTROL ARMS MOUNTED TO THIS PART WHICH CONTROLS STEERING. THIS PART PLUS LABOR WILL COST ME ABOUT $1500.00.
NHTSA complaint #11191510 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Orlando, FL
WHEELS
THERE IS AN EXCESSIVE AMOUNT OF RUST ON THE VEHICLE INCLUDING THE WHEEL WELL, DOOR JAMS, FLOOR BOARD, AND FRAME. I WAS ALMOST UNABLE TO RECEIVE A REPLACEMENT WINDSHIELD BECAUSE THE FRAME IS RUSTING OUT. I PURCHASED THE VEHICLE IN THE NORTH THEN MOVED SOUTH AND THE PROBLEM HAS GROWN WORSE. THE COMPARTMENT THAT IS HOLDING THE SPARE TIRE UNDER THE VEHICLE IS RUSTING OUT AS WELL. THIS COULD POTENTIALLY BECOME A SAFETY PROBLEM IF THE SPARE TIRE SEPARATES FROM ITS SUPPORTS WHILE OPERATING ON A ROADWAY. RUST HAS BEEN AN ONGOING PROBLEM WITH THIS VEHICLE WITH NO SPECIFIC START DATE NOR END DATE.
NHTSA complaint #11165645 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Orlando, FL
SUSPENSION
THERE IS AN EXCESSIVE AMOUNT OF RUST ON THE VEHICLE INCLUDING THE WHEEL WELL, DOOR JAMS, FLOOR BOARD, AND FRAME. I WAS ALMOST UNABLE TO RECEIVE A REPLACEMENT WINDSHIELD BECAUSE THE FRAME IS RUSTING OUT. I PURCHASED THE VEHICLE IN THE NORTH THEN MOVED SOUTH AND THE PROBLEM HAS GROWN WORSE. THE COMPARTMENT THAT IS HOLDING THE SPARE TIRE UNDER THE VEHICLE IS RUSTING OUT AS WELL. THIS COULD POTENTIALLY BECOME A SAFETY PROBLEM IF THE SPARE TIRE SEPARATES FROM ITS SUPPORTS WHILE OPERATING ON A ROADWAY. RUST HAS BEEN AN ONGOING PROBLEM WITH THIS VEHICLE WITH NO SPECIFIC START DATE NOR END DATE.
NHTSA complaint #11165645 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Orlando, FL
STRUCTURE:BODY
THERE IS AN EXCESSIVE AMOUNT OF RUST ON THE VEHICLE INCLUDING THE WHEEL WELL, DOOR JAMS, FLOOR BOARD, AND FRAME. I WAS ALMOST UNABLE TO RECEIVE A REPLACEMENT WINDSHIELD BECAUSE THE FRAME IS RUSTING OUT. I PURCHASED THE VEHICLE IN THE NORTH THEN MOVED SOUTH AND THE PROBLEM HAS GROWN WORSE. THE COMPARTMENT THAT IS HOLDING THE SPARE TIRE UNDER THE VEHICLE IS RUSTING OUT AS WELL. THIS COULD POTENTIALLY BECOME A SAFETY PROBLEM IF THE SPARE TIRE SEPARATES FROM ITS SUPPORTS WHILE OPERATING ON A ROADWAY. RUST HAS BEEN AN ONGOING PROBLEM WITH THIS VEHICLE WITH NO SPECIFIC START DATE NOR END DATE.
NHTSA complaint #11165645 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 162,000 milesOrland Park, IL
SUSPENSION
DRIVER SIDE FRONT STRUT TOWER MADE A LOUD "POP" SOUND WHEN DRIVING. BOTTOM PORTION OF STRUT TOP CRACKED THROUGH. STRUT TOWER BEARING NOW MOANING WHEN TURNING, OUT OF GIMBLE.
NHTSA complaint #11142193 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 113,000 milesStafford, VA
STEERING
VEHICLE WAS STOPPED, WAITING TO MAKE RIGHT HAND TURN; ATTEMPTING TO TURN RESULTED IN THE STEERING WHEEL SPINNING FREELY; VEHICLE HAD TO BE TOWED; INITIAL INSPECTION REVEALED STEERING COLUMN SHAFT SNAPPED IN HALF; UPON FURTHER INSPECTION THE DRIVERS SIDE FRONT STRUT TOWER HAD RIPPED AWAY FROM THE BODY OF THE TRUCK; **THIS VEHICLE HAD RECALLS ISSUED IN THE PAST, IT WAS TAKEN TO LECKNER NISSAN IN STAFFORD, VA BUT THEY OBVIOUSLY DID NOT MITIGATE THE PROBLEM - THEY SIMPLY CLEARED THE RECALL FROM THE COMPUTER**
NHTSA complaint #11124083 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 113,000 milesStafford, VA
SUSPENSION
VEHICLE WAS STOPPED, WAITING TO MAKE RIGHT HAND TURN; ATTEMPTING TO TURN RESULTED IN THE STEERING WHEEL SPINNING FREELY; VEHICLE HAD TO BE TOWED; INITIAL INSPECTION REVEALED STEERING COLUMN SHAFT SNAPPED IN HALF; UPON FURTHER INSPECTION THE DRIVERS SIDE FRONT STRUT TOWER HAD RIPPED AWAY FROM THE BODY OF THE TRUCK; **THIS VEHICLE HAD RECALLS ISSUED IN THE PAST, IT WAS TAKEN TO LECKNER NISSAN IN STAFFORD, VA BUT THEY OBVIOUSLY DID NOT MITIGATE THE PROBLEM - THEY SIMPLY CLEARED THE RECALL FROM THE COMPUTER**
NHTSA complaint #11124083 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Spearfish, SD
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
FUEL LEAK DUE TO CORRODED FUEL FILLER NECK. NISSAN ISSUED A RECALL DUE TO THIS ISSUE DUE TO ROAD SALT CAUSING CORROSION. NTB07-078 LISTS THE RANGE OF 2001 NISSAN PATHFINDERS AS JN8(*)R0(***)1W 500001 ' 617275. MY VIN #[XXX] AND THUS SHOULD BE INCLUDED IN THIS RECALL. WHEN I CONTACTED NISSAN THEY INDICATE IT IS NOT. NOT SURE HOW TO PROCEED. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).
NHTSA complaint #11114138 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 175,000 milesST Cloud, MN
STEERING
THE 01 THRU 04 PATHFINDER HAS SOME KIND OF REAR SUSPENSION FLAW. THE ONLINE FORUMS CALL IT A DEATH SWAY AND I AGREE. IT IS BEYOND ME WHY THIS HAS NOT BEEN RECALLED AS OF YET. IF YOU HAVE SOMETIME I WOULD LOVE TO TAKE YOU ON A RIDE BECAUSE I KNOW THAT SOMETHING WOULD GET DONE AFTER RIDING WITH THIS PROBLEM. THANKS
NHTSA complaint #11103436 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 175,000 milesST Cloud, MN
SUSPENSION
THE 01 THRU 04 PATHFINDER HAS SOME KIND OF REAR SUSPENSION FLAW. THE ONLINE FORUMS CALL IT A DEATH SWAY AND I AGREE. IT IS BEYOND ME WHY THIS HAS NOT BEEN RECALLED AS OF YET. IF YOU HAVE SOMETIME I WOULD LOVE TO TAKE YOU ON A RIDE BECAUSE I KNOW THAT SOMETHING WOULD GET DONE AFTER RIDING WITH THIS PROBLEM. THANKS
NHTSA complaint #11103436 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
