Owners have filed 1,209 complaints
about the 2013 Nissan Pathfinder with NHTSA between 2012 and 2026.
The largest single group is the transmission & drivetrain.
Across this model's run it ranks 2 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 — 100
Against the median year of the Nissan Pathfinder. 50 means typical for this
model; 100 means roughly double.
Severity — 18
3.6% of these complaints
involved a crash, fire, injury or death, against a national rate of
9.7%.
Early failure — 100
65% of failures with a mileage on record happened under
36,000 miles, against a national rate of
29%.
How 2013 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.
Body
6173.5%
Hood
56.0%
Brake Lights
44.8%
Frame AND Members
44.8%
Door
33.6%
Automatic Emergency Braking
22.4%
Latch
22.4%
Power Window Devices AND Controls
22.4%
When it fails
Odometer readings owners gave when they filed. About half of all
complaints include one.
Under 1,000 miles
14716.0%
1,000 – 9,999 miles
26128.4%
10,000 – 24,999 miles
12813.9%
25,000 – 49,999 miles
13714.9%
50,000 – 74,999 miles
10111.0%
75,000 – 99,999 miles
647.0%
100,000 – 149,999 miles
687.4%
150,000+ miles
141.5%
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.
Dec 2012peak 41Jul 2026
NHTSA investigations into the 2013 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.
PE21022Opened 9 Dec 2021Closed 8 Jul 2022LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:HOOD:LATCH
Hood Latch/Bell Crank Assembly
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened this preliminary evaluation to investigate consumer complaints alleging hood latch failures occurring on certain model year (MY) 2013-2016 Nissan Pathfinder vehicles. Complaints received indicated a sudden and unexpected opening of the hood while the vehicle was in motion, blocking the driver's visibility.During this investigation Nissan collected parts from the field to analyze for root cause of the alleged failures. On June 13, 2022, Nissan submitted a Defect Information Report (DIR) to NHTSA regarding a hood bell crank assembly defect in cert...
EA15004Opened 31 Aug 2015Closed 2 May 2017AIR BAGS:FRONTAL
Occupant Classification System Failure
In May 2016, Nissan North America issued a safety recall (16V-244) to address the problem of improper classification of adult front seat passengers in approximately 3.3 million vehicles, including those in the scope of this investigation when it was opened (almost one million vehicles) and additional vehicles, as shown below.Nissan models: certain model year 2013-2016 Altima, 2013-2016 LEAF, 2016-2017 Maxima, 2015-016 Murano and Murano Hybrid, 2013-2016 Pathfinder, 2014-2015 Pathfinder Hybrid, 2014-2017 Rogue, 2013-2016 Sentra, 2013-2016 NV200, and 2014-2016 Taxi.Infiniti models: certain model...
RQ15001Opened 18 Mar 2015Closed 1 Sep 2015AIR BAGS:FRONTAL
Occupant Classification System Failure
In April 2014, Nissan North America launched Safety Recall 14V-138 to address problems with the Occupant Classification System (OCS) algorithm in the following vehicles: model year (MY) 2013-2014 Nissan Altima, Pathfinder, Sentra and LEAF; MY 2013 Infiniti JX35; MY 2014 Infiniti QX60 and Q50; and MY 2013 Nissan NV 200/Taxi vehicles.According to Nissan, the OCS may misclassify adult front passenger occupants and turn off the passenger's frontal air bag for an adult occupant of sufficient weight.In March 2015, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened this Recall Query after the agency re...
PE13029Opened 29 Aug 2013Closed 31 Mar 2014POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:COOLING UNIT AND LINES
Transmission cooler hose separation
On March 25, 2014, Nissan North America (Nissan) submitted a Defect Information Report to NHTSA describing a defect of inadequate hose clamping force that may result in the internal transmission oil cooler (ITOC) hose detaching from the cooler.According to Nissan, transmission fluid leakage from a detached ITOC hose results in a progressive series of symptoms beginning with malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) illumination, followed by noise and vibration and culminating in loss of power due to transmission failure.Many of the incident vehicle drivers interviewed by ODI indicated that the loss of...
Recalls on the 2013 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
22V420000
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:HOOD:LATCH
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2013-2016 Pathfinder vehicles. On certain Pathfinder vehicles, the secondary hood latch may malfunction and remain in the unlatched, unsecured, position when the hood is closed.
Risk: An unsecured hood could unexpectedly open while driving, obstructing the driver's view, and increasing the risk of a crash.
21V020000
EXTERIOR LIGHTING:BRAKE LIGHTS:SWITCH
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2013-2015 Nissan Pathfinder vehicles. The location of the brake light switch may cause the brake light switch relay to repeatedly open and close. Overtime, this can cause the relay to stick in the "ON" position, with the brake lights remaining illuminated even when the brakes are not applied. Additionally, this may interfere with the brake-shift interlock, allowing the driver to shift the vehicle out of the "Park" position, without depressing the brake pedal.
Risk: Continual illumination of the brake lights can prevent other drivers from realizing the vehicle is actually slowing down, increasing the risk of a crash. With the brake override activated, the driver will not be able to accelerate normally, increasing the risk of a crash. The driver can shift the vehicle out of the "PARK" position without depressing the brake, allowing the vehicle to rollaway, increasing the risk of injury.
16V380000
EXTERIOR LIGHTING:BRAKE LIGHTS:SWITCH
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain model year 2013-2014 Pathfinder vehicles manufactured June 20, 2012, to June 13, 2013. The brake light switch may have been installed incorrectly causing the relay to make intermittent contact and repeatedly cycle. This may result in the relay remaining in the "ON" position, causing the brake lights to remain illuminated even when the brakes are not applied. Additionally, the brake light switch may interfere with the brake-shift interlock, allowing the driver to shift the vehicle out of the "Park" position, without depressing the brake pedal.
Risk: If the brake override is activated, the driver will not be accelerate normally, increasing the risk of a crash. If the brake lights remain illuminated, other drivers may fail to stop when the vehicle actually brakes, increasing the risk of a crash. If the driver inadvertently shift the vehicle out of the "PARK" position without depressing the brake, the vehicle may rollaway, increasing the risk of injury.
16V244000
AIR BAGS:SENSOR:OCCUPANT CLASSIFICATION
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain model year 2016-2017 Nissan Maxima, 2013-2016 Nissan Altima, NV200, LEAF, Sentra, and Pathfinder, 2014-2016 Nissan NV200 Taxi, Infiniti QX60, QX60 Hybrid, and Q50 Hybrid, 2014-2017 Nissan Rogue and Infiniti Q50, 2015-2016 Nissan Murano, Murano Hybrid, and Chevrolet City Express, 2014-2015 Nissan Pathfinder Hybrid, and 2013 Infiniti JX35 vehicles. In these vehicles, the front seat passenger Occupant Classification System (OCS) may incorrectly classify an adult passenger as a child or classify the seat as empty despite it being occupied. As a result, the passenger frontal air bag may be turned off and not deploy in the event of a crash.
Risk: If the passenger frontal air bag does not deploy as intended in the event of a crash, the passenger is at an increased risk of injury.
15V681000
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain model year 2013-2015 Altima and Pathfinder vehicles, 2013-2014 Nissan Sentra vehicles, 2013 Infiniti JX35 vehicles, 2014-2015 Infiniti QX60 vehicles and 2014 Infiniti QX60 Hybrid vehicles. The affected vehicles received an incorrect occupant classification system (OCS) control unit during a repair. These OCS control units may incorrectly classify the front passenger seat as empty, when it is occupied by an adult.
Risk: If the OCS does not detect an adult occupant in the passenger seat, the passenger air bag would be deactivated. Failure of the passenger airbag to deploy during a crash (where deployment is warranted) could increase the risk of injury to the passenger.
15V033000
STRUCTURE:BODY:HOOD:HINGE AND ATTACHMENTS
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain model year 2013-2014 Nissan Pathfinder vehicles manufactured June 20, 2012, to November 18, 2013, 2014 Nissan Pathfinder Hybrid vehicles manufactured July 18, 2013, to November 18, 2013, 2013 Infiniti JX35 vehicles manufactured November 29, 2011, to June 14, 2013, and 2014 QX60 vehicles manufactured May 16, 2013, to November 18, 2013, and 2014 Infiniti QX60 Hybrid vehicles manufactured July 18, 2013, to November 18, 2013. In the affected vehicles the hood release cable assembly may have been installed incorrectly preventing the latching claw from fully engaging. The secondary latch may remain in the open position when the hood is closed.
Risk: If the primary hood latch is released and the secondary latch fails during operation of the vehicle, it could cause the hood to open during vehicle operation impairing the driver's vision, increasing the risk of a vehicle crash.
14V142000
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:COOLING UNIT AND LINES
Nissan North America (Nissan) is recalling certain model year 2013 Pathfinder vehicles manufactured April 18, 2012, through October 3, 2012, and equipped with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). In the affected vehicles, the internal oil cooler (ITOC) hose may detach from the cooler due to inadequate clamping force, allowing transmission fluid to leak.
Risk: The loss of transmission fluid could cause the transmission to function improperly and the vehicle to stop accelerating, increasing the risk of a crash.
14V138000
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain model year 2013-2014 Altima, LEAF, Pathfinder, and Sentra, model year 2013 NV200 (aka Taxi) and Infiniti JX35 and model year 2014 Infiniti Q50 and QX60 vehicles. In the affected vehicles, the occupant classification system (OCS) software may incorrectly classify the passenger seat as empty, when it is occupied by an adult.
Risk: If the OCS does not detect an adult occupant in the passenger seat, the passenger airbag would be deactivated. Failure of the passenger airbag to deploy during a crash (where deployment is warranted) could increase the risk of injury to the passenger.
Canada — Transport Canada
Canada runs its own recall programme, and its campaigns do not
always mirror the American ones.
Recall 202231337,115 units in Canada
Structure
Issue: Over time, dirt buildup could cause the secondary hood latch to stick open after it is used. If this happens, and the primary hood latch is released, the hood may open suddenly while driving. Safety Risk: A hood that opens suddenly while driving could block the driver's view and increase the risk of a crash. Corrective Actions: Nissan will notify owners by mail and advise you to take your vehicle to a dealership to replace the secondary hood latch.
Recall 202102029,876 units in Canada
Lights And Instruments
Issue: On certain vehicles, the stop lamp switch may not have been installed correctly. Over time, this could cause the stop lamp relay to fail and stick in the on position. If this happens, engine power may be reduced and the brake lights will stay on. Additionally, the vehicle may be started and shifted into gear without pressing the brake pedal. Note: This recall replaces Transport Canada recall 2016-264. Vehicles that were repaired under that recall require a second inspection. Safety Risk: The ability to shift the vehicle out of park without depressing the brake pedal and/or starting the engine without depressing the brake pedal could increase the risk of a crash. Brake lights that stay on could cause other road users not to recognize when the vehicle is braking. This could increase the risk of a crash. Corrective Actions: Nissan will notify owners by mail and instruct you to take your vehicle to a dealer for an inspection of the stop lamp switch and relay. If the stop lamp relay was deleted during a previous repair, no further action is required. For all other vehicles, the dealer will adjust or move the stop lamp switch and replace the stop lamp relay.
Recall 20162644,795 units in Canada
Lights And Instruments
This recall was replaced by Transport Canada Recall No. 2021-020. On certain vehicles, the stop lamp switch may not have been installed properly causing and intermittent contact that could repeatedly cause the switch to cycle on and off. Over time, this may result in the stop lamp relay sticking in the on position, causing the stop lamps to remain illuminated. This could also impair the brake-shifter interlock, allowing the vehicle to inadvertently be shifted out of park position. These situations could increase the risk of a crash or a vehicle rollaway causing injury and/or damage to property. Correction: Dealers will inspect the stop lamp switch for proper installation, if the switch is not installed correctly it will be repositioned and the stop lamp relay will be replaced.
Recall 2016179257,130 units in Canada
Seats And Restraints
On certain vehicles, a defect in the occupant classification system could allow an adult sitting in the front passenger seat to be classified as a child or an “empty seat”. This would suppress the airbag, which could increase the risk of injury in a crash. Correction: For affected Altima, Maxima, Murano, Rogue and Sentra vehicles, dealers will reprogram the airbag control unit and the occupant classification system control unit. For affected Leaf, NV200, Pathfinder, Q50 and JX35/QX60 vehicles, dealers will replace the occupant classification system electronic control unit.
Recall 2015491184 units in Canada
Airbag
Certain vehicles serviced as part of recall 2014-093 or which had the Occupant Classification System (OCS) module replaced during servicing may have been fitted with an incorrect replacement OCS module. An incorrect OCS module would impair the effectiveness of the OCS, potentially failing to properly classify an adult passenger seated in the front passenger seat. This could increase the risk of injury to the occupant in a crash. Correction: Dealers will reprogram the OCS module.
Recall 201503115,972 units in Canada
Other
On certain vehicles the hood release cable assembly may have been installed incorrectly, preventing the latching claw from fully engaging. This could cause the secondary latch to remain in the open position and allow the hood to open suddenly while driving if the primary hood latch was not engaged properly or accidentally released. This could compromise the driver’s ability to see the road and its users, as well as cause damage to the windshield, which could result in a crash causing injury and/or property damage. Correction: Dealers will adjust the angle of the hood release mechanism to provide additional length to the release cable.
Recall 2014095873 units in Canada
Powertrain
On certain vehicles, the transmission oil cooler hose may detach due to the use of clamps with insufficient clamping force, causing transmission fluid leakage and the illumination of the malfunction indicator light in the dashboard. Continued operation in this condition could result in noise, vibration and a loss of motive power which could increase the risk of a crash causing injury and/or property damage. Correction: Dealers will affect repairs.
Recall 201409360,022 units in Canada
Airbag
On certain vehicles, the front passenger seat occupant classification system software may incorrectly classify the passenger seat as empty, when it is occupied by an adult. If this occurs, the passenger airbag would be deactivated without the illumination of the airbag warning lamp. Failure of the passenger airbag to deploy during a crash (where deployment is warranted) could increase the risk of injury to the seat occupant. Correction: Dealers will reprogram the occupant classification system.
Reports where the owner recorded a crash, a fire, an injury or a death.
Rowlett, TX1 injured
POWER TRAIN
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 NISSAN PATHFINDER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE STATIONARY AND IN THE PARK POSITION, HER VEHICLE SUDDENLY BEGAN TO ROLL BACKWARDS AS SHE WAS STANDING OUTSIDE OF THE DRIVER SIDE DOOR. THE VEHICLE HAD ROLLED OVER THE CONTACT'S LEFT FOOT AND SUDDENLY CAME TO A STOP AFTER ROLLING A FEW FEET. AN AMBULANCE WAS CALLED TO THE SCENE AND THE CONTACT WAS TREATED FOR A BROKEN ANKLE AND BRUISING TO LEFT KNEE. AS A RESULT, THE CONTACT HAD TO HAVE SURGERY ON HER LEFT ANKLE. CONSUMER ALSO HAD BRUISES ON LEFT AND RIGHT LEG. THE DEALER NOR THE MANUFACTURER HAD YET TO BE NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE HAD YET TO BE SERVICED OR DIAGNOSED FOR THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS UNKNOWN.*DT
NHTSA complaint #11403119 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 37,000 milesSouth Richmond Hill, NYCrash2 injured
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 NISSAN PATHFINDER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 5 MPH DOWNHILL WHEN THE VEHICLE BEGAN TO ROLL DOWNHILL INCREASING IN SPEED. THE CONTACT ATTEMPTED TO PRESS THE BRAKE PEDAL HOWEVER IT FAILED TO STOP. THE VEHICLE ROLLED OVER A NEARBY HILL AND CRASHED INTO A TREE. THE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. A POLICE REPORT WAS NOT FILED. THE CONTACT RECEIVED INJURIES TO THEIR BACK, NECK, CHEST, AND LEGS. THE PASSENGER RECEIVED INJURIES TO THEIR NECK AND LEGS. MEDICAL ATTENTION WAS NEEDED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE DEALER (NISSAN OF QUEENS 93-25 ROCKAWAY BLVD, OZONE PARK, NY 11417; (718) 835-8300) AND INFORMED THE CONTACT THAT THEY WERE UNABLE TO IDENTIFY THE CAUSE OF FAILURE. THEN ABOUT 2 MONTHS AFTER, WHILE STOPPED AT A STOP SIGN THEY ATTEMPTED TO ACCELERATE BUT THE ENGINE BEGAN TO REV UP WITHOUT ACCELERATING. THE VEHICLE BEGAN TO AGGRESSIVELY SHAKE AND ALL THE EXTERIOR AND INTERIOR LIGHTS BEGAN TO ILLUMINATE. THE CONTACT HAD TURNED OFF THE VEHICLE AND HAD THE VEHICLE TOWED TO THE DEALER MENTIONED ABOVE WHERE THEY WERE UNABLE TO IDENTIFY THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE HAD OCCURRED AGAIN AND DURING THE MOST RECENT FAILURE THE CONTACT HAD TO PRESS THE EMERGENCY BRAKES AT THE SAME TIME OF THE BRAKE PEDAL TO TURN OFF THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT HAD THE VEHICLE TOWED BACK TO THE DEALER MENTIONED ABOVE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOW INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 21V020000 (EXTERIOR LIGHTING) HOWEVER THE VEHICLE HAD NOT BEEN REPAIRED UNDER THE RECALL AS OF YET. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF ALL THE FAILURES. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 37,000.
NHTSA complaint #11398702 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 37,000 milesSouth Richmond Hill, NYCrash2 injured
ENGINE
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 NISSAN PATHFINDER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 5 MPH DOWNHILL WHEN THE VEHICLE BEGAN TO ROLL DOWNHILL INCREASING IN SPEED. THE CONTACT ATTEMPTED TO PRESS THE BRAKE PEDAL HOWEVER IT FAILED TO STOP. THE VEHICLE ROLLED OVER A NEARBY HILL AND CRASHED INTO A TREE. THE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. A POLICE REPORT WAS NOT FILED. THE CONTACT RECEIVED INJURIES TO THEIR BACK, NECK, CHEST, AND LEGS. THE PASSENGER RECEIVED INJURIES TO THEIR NECK AND LEGS. MEDICAL ATTENTION WAS NEEDED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE DEALER (NISSAN OF QUEENS 93-25 ROCKAWAY BLVD, OZONE PARK, NY 11417; (718) 835-8300) AND INFORMED THE CONTACT THAT THEY WERE UNABLE TO IDENTIFY THE CAUSE OF FAILURE. THEN ABOUT 2 MONTHS AFTER, WHILE STOPPED AT A STOP SIGN THEY ATTEMPTED TO ACCELERATE BUT THE ENGINE BEGAN TO REV UP WITHOUT ACCELERATING. THE VEHICLE BEGAN TO AGGRESSIVELY SHAKE AND ALL THE EXTERIOR AND INTERIOR LIGHTS BEGAN TO ILLUMINATE. THE CONTACT HAD TURNED OFF THE VEHICLE AND HAD THE VEHICLE TOWED TO THE DEALER MENTIONED ABOVE WHERE THEY WERE UNABLE TO IDENTIFY THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE HAD OCCURRED AGAIN AND DURING THE MOST RECENT FAILURE THE CONTACT HAD TO PRESS THE EMERGENCY BRAKES AT THE SAME TIME OF THE BRAKE PEDAL TO TURN OFF THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT HAD THE VEHICLE TOWED BACK TO THE DEALER MENTIONED ABOVE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOW INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 21V020000 (EXTERIOR LIGHTING) HOWEVER THE VEHICLE HAD NOT BEEN REPAIRED UNDER THE RECALL AS OF YET. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF ALL THE FAILURES. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 37,000.
NHTSA complaint #11398702 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 37,000 milesSouth Richmond Hill, NYCrash2 injured
SERVICE BRAKES
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 NISSAN PATHFINDER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 5 MPH DOWNHILL WHEN THE VEHICLE BEGAN TO ROLL DOWNHILL INCREASING IN SPEED. THE CONTACT ATTEMPTED TO PRESS THE BRAKE PEDAL HOWEVER IT FAILED TO STOP. THE VEHICLE ROLLED OVER A NEARBY HILL AND CRASHED INTO A TREE. THE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. A POLICE REPORT WAS NOT FILED. THE CONTACT RECEIVED INJURIES TO THEIR BACK, NECK, CHEST, AND LEGS. THE PASSENGER RECEIVED INJURIES TO THEIR NECK AND LEGS. MEDICAL ATTENTION WAS NEEDED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE DEALER (NISSAN OF QUEENS 93-25 ROCKAWAY BLVD, OZONE PARK, NY 11417; (718) 835-8300) AND INFORMED THE CONTACT THAT THEY WERE UNABLE TO IDENTIFY THE CAUSE OF FAILURE. THEN ABOUT 2 MONTHS AFTER, WHILE STOPPED AT A STOP SIGN THEY ATTEMPTED TO ACCELERATE BUT THE ENGINE BEGAN TO REV UP WITHOUT ACCELERATING. THE VEHICLE BEGAN TO AGGRESSIVELY SHAKE AND ALL THE EXTERIOR AND INTERIOR LIGHTS BEGAN TO ILLUMINATE. THE CONTACT HAD TURNED OFF THE VEHICLE AND HAD THE VEHICLE TOWED TO THE DEALER MENTIONED ABOVE WHERE THEY WERE UNABLE TO IDENTIFY THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE HAD OCCURRED AGAIN AND DURING THE MOST RECENT FAILURE THE CONTACT HAD TO PRESS THE EMERGENCY BRAKES AT THE SAME TIME OF THE BRAKE PEDAL TO TURN OFF THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT HAD THE VEHICLE TOWED BACK TO THE DEALER MENTIONED ABOVE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOW INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 21V020000 (EXTERIOR LIGHTING) HOWEVER THE VEHICLE HAD NOT BEEN REPAIRED UNDER THE RECALL AS OF YET. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF ALL THE FAILURES. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 37,000.
NHTSA complaint #11398702 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 97,000 milesColorado Springs, COCrash2 injured
AIR BAGS
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 NISSAN PATHFINDER. THE CONTACT STATED PRIOR TO HIS COLLISION THE VEHICLE WOULD DISPLAY 'AIR BAGS DEPLOYED' MESSAGE AS WELL AS FRONT PASSENGER SIDE AIR BAGS OFF WARNING LIGHT WOULD ILLUMINATE WHEN OCCUPIED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO WOODMEN NISSAN (6840 VINCENT DR, COLORADO SPRINGS, CO 80918) WHERE THE FAILURE DIAGNOSES WAS NOT KNOWN TO THE CONTACT. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC IN TEXAS WHERE A SUB HARNESS AND OCCUPANT SEAT MODULE WAS REPLACED. HOWEVER, THE CONTACT STATED IN DECEMBER OF 2019 WHILE DRIVING 40 MPH AND MAKING A LEFT TURN, WHEN HE IMPACTED ANOTHER VEHICLE. THE CONTACT STATED THE FRONT DRIVER AIR BAGS SEMI DEPLOYED AND THE FRONT PASSENGER SIDE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. HE SUSTAINED HEAD INJURIES WHILE HIS DAUGHTER WAS SITTING IN THE FRONT PASSENGER SEAT SUSTAINED BACK AND LEG INJURIES THAT REQUIRED MEDICAL ATTENTION. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A TOW LOT AND DEEMED A TOTAL LOSS BY THE INSURANCE COMPANY. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF ISSUES HOWEVER, NO ASSISTANCE WAS OFFERED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 97,000.*DT*JB *DT *TR*DT*DT*DT *AS*JB MANUFACTURER STATES THAT AIR BAGS FUNCTIONED PROPERLY. THEY STATE THAT THEIR INSPECTION SHOWED THE FULL DEPLOYMENT OF THE DRIVER AIR BAG. THE PASSENGER AIR BAG WAS SUPPRESSED DUE TO A DETECTED CHILD.
NHTSA complaint #11310653 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 97,000 milesColorado Springs, COCrash2 injured
ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 NISSAN PATHFINDER. THE CONTACT STATED PRIOR TO HIS COLLISION THE VEHICLE WOULD DISPLAY 'AIR BAGS DEPLOYED' MESSAGE AS WELL AS FRONT PASSENGER SIDE AIR BAGS OFF WARNING LIGHT WOULD ILLUMINATE WHEN OCCUPIED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO WOODMEN NISSAN (6840 VINCENT DR, COLORADO SPRINGS, CO 80918) WHERE THE FAILURE DIAGNOSES WAS NOT KNOWN TO THE CONTACT. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC IN TEXAS WHERE A SUB HARNESS AND OCCUPANT SEAT MODULE WAS REPLACED. HOWEVER, THE CONTACT STATED IN DECEMBER OF 2019 WHILE DRIVING 40 MPH AND MAKING A LEFT TURN, WHEN HE IMPACTED ANOTHER VEHICLE. THE CONTACT STATED THE FRONT DRIVER AIR BAGS SEMI DEPLOYED AND THE FRONT PASSENGER SIDE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. HE SUSTAINED HEAD INJURIES WHILE HIS DAUGHTER WAS SITTING IN THE FRONT PASSENGER SEAT SUSTAINED BACK AND LEG INJURIES THAT REQUIRED MEDICAL ATTENTION. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A TOW LOT AND DEEMED A TOTAL LOSS BY THE INSURANCE COMPANY. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF ISSUES HOWEVER, NO ASSISTANCE WAS OFFERED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 97,000.*DT*JB *DT *TR*DT*DT*DT *AS*JB MANUFACTURER STATES THAT AIR BAGS FUNCTIONED PROPERLY. THEY STATE THAT THEIR INSPECTION SHOWED THE FULL DEPLOYMENT OF THE DRIVER AIR BAG. THE PASSENGER AIR BAG WAS SUPPRESSED DUE TO A DETECTED CHILD.
NHTSA complaint #11310653 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The most recent complaints
In the owners' own words, exactly as filed with NHTSA.
at 168,000 milesElizabeth, NJ
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
The contact owns a 2013 Nissan Pathfinder. The contact received notification for NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V420000 (Latches/Locks/Linkages); however, the recall repair failed to prevent a failure from occurring. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the hood unlatched and opened independently. No warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer, where the contact was advised to return the vehicle to the initial dealer for diagnostic testing. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 168,000.
NHTSA complaint #11749493 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Arden Hills, MN
STEERING
Rear sub frame near radial rod on drivers side of vehicle has corroded through without warning. Vehicle is unstable during breaking menuvers and pitches towards on coming traffic. Sudden loss of control or collision could occur without notice during breaking.
NHTSA complaint #11745784 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Arden Hills, MN
SUSPENSION
Rear sub frame near radial rod on drivers side of vehicle has corroded through without warning. Vehicle is unstable during breaking menuvers and pitches towards on coming traffic. Sudden loss of control or collision could occur without notice during breaking.
NHTSA complaint #11745784 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Arden Hills, MN
SERVICE BRAKES
Rear sub frame near radial rod on drivers side of vehicle has corroded through without warning. Vehicle is unstable during breaking menuvers and pitches towards on coming traffic. Sudden loss of control or collision could occur without notice during breaking.
NHTSA complaint #11745784 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Shippensburg, PA
POWER TRAIN
The vehicle is a 2013 Nissan Pathfinder experiencing a major transmission/CVT failure that creates serious safety concerns. Only 69 days after purchase, the transmission began failing and the vehicle became unsafe and unreliable to operate. The vehicle experiences severe transmission-related drivability problems, including hesitation, loss of proper acceleration, delayed response when attempting to move, jerking/shifting issues, and concern that the vehicle may suddenly lose the ability to move or maintain speed while driving. These issues create a dangerous situation, especially while driving in traffic, entering highways, crossing intersections, or transporting passengers. The transmission failure affects the vehicle’s ability to safely accelerate and maintain normal operation. A sudden loss of power or inability to properly accelerate could increase the risk of a crash, rear-end collision, or becoming stranded in traffic. The condition became severe enough that the vehicle is no longer dependable transportation. After the failure, the vehicle was evaluated by Nissan and I was informed the transmission showed signs of serious pre-existing issues. I was also advised there were possible indications that diagnostic trouble codes may have been cleared or hidden before the vehicle was sold, preventing the full condition of the vehicle from being discovered before purchase. The estimated repair cost is approximately $15,000. Due to the severity of the transmission defect, I do not believe the vehicle is safe for normal operation without major repair or replacement of the transmission/CVT system. This defect has created significant safety concerns for myself, my family, and others on the road because of the risk of sudden transmission failure, inability to safely accelerate, or loss of vehicle movement during operation.
NHTSA complaint #11736776 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Odometer Fraud. The contact purchased a 2013 Nissan Pathfinder. It was discovered that there was a mileage discrepancy. The vehicle was a private sale. At the time of the purchase, the mileage was 93,653. It was later discovered that the mileage was approximately 209,000. The contact reported the fraud to the Secretary of State and had since found other vehicles to have been included in an odometer fraud ring.
NHTSA complaint #11731621 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 118,000 milesHouma, LA
POWER TRAIN
The contact owns a 2013 Nissan Pathfinder. The contact stated that while accelerating from a stop, there was a slight jerking or hesitation before the vehicle accelerated. The failure was intermittent. While driving approximately 45 MPH after stopping at a stoplight, the vehicle shuddered and pulled to the left. The contact stated that excessive force was needed to turn the steering wheel to the right to avoid a crash. The vehicle was pulled over and parked. The vehicle was turned off until a friend arrived at the scene to assist. The friend started the vehicle; however, the vehicle failed to respond in drive or in reverse. The vehicle was towed to the residence. Several days later, when the vehicle was started, the check engine warning light was illuminated, and the vehicle failed to operate. The vehicle was inspected by two persons with automotive knowledge, and the contact was informed that the Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) had failed. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 118,000.
NHTSA complaint #11731140 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Jacksonville, FL
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
The Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) assembly failed completely, rendering the vehicle inoperable. The transmission is currently available for inspection at the independent service center where repairs are being performed. The vehicle was purchased in September 2025 with approximately [UNKNOWN/LOW] mileage. Within the first week of ownership, the driver experienced violent shuddering and juddering when attempting to accelerate. This symptom worsened over a few days, eventually progressing to complete transmission failure — the vehicle could no longer accelerate or move under its own power. An independent transmission specialist identified a faulty casting in the CVT torque converter that caused internal belt/chain slippage. Once slippage began, the entire CVT assembly was damaged beyond repair. The specialist confirmed this is a known manufacturing defect in 2013 Nissan Pathfinders, not a result of owner misuse or maintenance neglect. A full CVT replacement was required.The sudden loss of transmission function while the vehicle was in operation created an immediate safety hazard. The vehicle could not accelerate when needed and could not be safely operated on roadways. This defect creates an unreasonably dangerous situation and increases the risk of crash or collision, particularly in traffic situations where acceleration is needed to avoid hazards. YES — The failure was confirmed and diagnosed by an independent transmission service center. The specialist identified the faulty torque converter casting as the root cause and confirmed this is a known defect pattern in 2013 Pathfinder CVT transmissions. The transmission is available for inspection. The vehicle was NOT inspected by a Nissan dealership prior to repair. The owner contacted Nissan Consumer Affairs multiple times (via phone and written correspondence) before taking the vehicle to the independent service center, but did not receive assistance or an inspection appointment.
NHTSA complaint #11723210 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Jonesboro, AR
POWER TRAIN
transmission started jerking & went out leaving me stranded.
NHTSA complaint #11711739 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Seguin, TX
POWER TRAIN
My car has been having issues with what seems to be the transmission. This Nissan Pathfinder has CVT, which is continuous variable transmission. Three months ago I had a radiator blowout and had to change that and the thermostat. I believe that it was due to the transmission issues. currently I have an oil leak and I believe it’s due to your issues with the transmission.
NHTSA complaint #11710236 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Columbus, OH
POWER TRAIN
I have a 2013 Pathfinder that is experiencing a High pitch whine coming from the transmission. when shifting in lower gears, there is a soft kick. i have only experienced a shutter once and only at lower speeds and rpm. once I'm at a higher speed it seems to get less. I have had the vehicle for 8 months. just started in the the last week. It has 157k miles.
NHTSA complaint #11706461 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Hampton, VA
POWER TRAIN
My name is [XXX] , and I am requesting urgent escalation regarding my 2013 Nissan Pathfinder, which has now gone through four CVT transmissions, including three replacements within the past year. All repairs were performed by a Nissan dealership, yet the same failure continues to occur. I have maintained my vehicle properly. This situation is becoming unsafe and financially damaging, and I am asking for Nissan’s support in resolving it fairly and promptly. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11705797 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Marco Island, FL
AIR BAGS
Brought our 2013 Nissan Pathfinder to Naples Nissan because of a flashing airbag warning light and a Warning light that passenger airbag was not working . Dealer fixed other recalls and charged us $179 to tell us we needed 2 new OCS sensors for $1050. We provided copy of OCS sensor recall for 2013 pathfinder (PC216 13V -069. NYB13-035a) which states dealer is responsible to remove OCS sensors and check the lot codes for campaign eligibility . Dealer has ignored the request and simply repeated that the all outstanding recalls have been taken care of and we would need to pay $1050 to repair this important safety problem . Please help us ?
NHTSA complaint #11698762 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
South Bend, IN
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
When I push on break it doesn’t engage to Release car from park.
NHTSA complaint #11695024 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
South Bend, IN
SERVICE BRAKES
When I push on break it doesn’t engage to Release car from park.
NHTSA complaint #11695024 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Slocomb, AL
POWER TRAIN
What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? - The issue lies within the CVT. There is violent shuddering when accelerating. It is available for inspection upon request. How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? - The violent and intense shuddering caused by the failing CVT incapacitates the ability the properly steer and the potential for random loss of power could directly impact traffic conditions. Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center? - Not yet; I have been cautious to drive the vehicle since the issue escalated. Has the vehicle or component been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives or others? - No, the vehicle has remained parked since the issue became much more serious. Were there any warning lamps, messages or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure, and when did they first appear? - No, the shuddering was vague and seemingly only happened upon acceleration and at low RPM’s when it initially began. It has now progressed to violent shuddering consistently occurring regardless of speed, RPM’s, or acceleration.
NHTSA complaint #11693862 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Chandler, OK
POWER TRAIN
Starts with juddering, loss of power. While driving you can experience a total complete loss of power which deceleration quickly which can cause other vehicles to hit you from behind. End result, shifter moves but doesnt engage gears, like you're in neutral. Engine rev's but you're getting nowhere. You're lucky to maneuver off the highway. Requires a tow and a transmission replacement without warning.
NHTSA complaint #11689041 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Lexington, TN
STRUCTURE:BODY
Rear subframe rusted through and unable to be repaired. Contacted Nissan and would not assist even though some VIN # of the same year were recalled and replaced. Having a hard time finding a replacement even with a family friend who is a service advisor looking. Vehicle has not been in an accident that would cause this type of fracture in the frame. Unable to drive the vehicle for obvious safety reasons.
NHTSA complaint #11687997 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Jamaica, NY
POWER TRAIN
The transmission shudders. Causes jerking and hard shifts that makes the car move in unwanted ways. Car may shut off if shutter gets too hard. It’s pretty bad , even the repairs do not fix the issue. This definitely needs to be a recall for Nissan to take a look at
NHTSA complaint #11687266 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Bridgeview, IL
POWER TRAIN
Transmission is making a noise after acceleration once the car gets to 40 miles an hour it starts jerking. Just purchased the car and has not even been 30 days. I first noticed this a week after purchasing.
NHTSA complaint #11686622 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Vallejo, CA
POWER TRAIN
The transmission appears to be failing. When accelerating, the RPM increases but the vehicle speed does not respond immediately, creating a slipping and jerking effect. The vehicle is available for inspection if requested. The vehicle hesitates and jerks when accelerating, especially when merging into traffic or driving at highway speeds, which creates a risk of collision due to the loss of proper acceleration. The front tires also shake unexpectedly, making it difficult to maintain control of the vehicle. The issue is known and widely reported for this model year. Similar symptoms have been documented as transmission failures in 2013 Nissan Pathfinders. The vehicle has not yet been inspected by Nissan for this issue. No warning lights appeared. The symptoms started gradually with hesitation when accelerating and have worsened over time to frequent slipping, jerking, and tire shaking while driving.
NHTSA complaint #11684868 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Vallejo, CA
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
The transmission appears to be failing. When accelerating, the RPM increases but the vehicle speed does not respond immediately, creating a slipping and jerking effect. The vehicle is available for inspection if requested. The vehicle hesitates and jerks when accelerating, especially when merging into traffic or driving at highway speeds, which creates a risk of collision due to the loss of proper acceleration. The front tires also shake unexpectedly, making it difficult to maintain control of the vehicle. The issue is known and widely reported for this model year. Similar symptoms have been documented as transmission failures in 2013 Nissan Pathfinders. The vehicle has not yet been inspected by Nissan for this issue. No warning lights appeared. The symptoms started gradually with hesitation when accelerating and have worsened over time to frequent slipping, jerking, and tire shaking while driving.
NHTSA complaint #11684868 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Downey, CA
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
Both of my rear passenger door lock actuators stop working. The doors will not unlock from the inside when a passenger tries to unlock the door to exit the car. My break lights stay on . The ABS light turned on then it stopped turning on. The light bulbs inside the car in the second row stopped turning on .
NHTSA complaint #11681220 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Downey, CA
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Both of my rear passenger door lock actuators stop working. The doors will not unlock from the inside when a passenger tries to unlock the door to exit the car. My break lights stay on . The ABS light turned on then it stopped turning on. The light bulbs inside the car in the second row stopped turning on .
NHTSA complaint #11681220 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 106,000 milesFairview Park, OH
POWER TRAIN
The contact owns a 2013 Nissan Pathfinder. The contact stated that while driving on several occasions at various speeds, the vehicle jerked abnormally. The vehicle was taken to an Auto Zone, where a handheld diagnostic machine retrieved DTC: P1750. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where the same code was retrieved. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 106,000.
NHTSA complaint #11679797 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.