2017 Nissan Pathfinder engine problems

ENGINE

SLUDGE IN ENGINE- UNDER 100,000 MILES We had been keeping up with all recommended services, and it is cosmetically perfect, but the car is now a total loss. A Check Engine light came on, and we began to notice a tremor/shake and took it to Southern Team Nissan. The Nissan dealer diagnosed sludge in the engine and said it would need a total engine replacement. The Nissan dealer advised that the cost of that would be more than the car was worth. After they pulled the pan to check if there was definitely sludge, the car then shook so badly that it felt unsafe to drive. Research shows that this is a known issue, with many cases of documented VQ35DD sludge problems. We see many listed cases on this website under complaints for 2017 Nissan Pathfinders.

NHTSA complaint #11756766 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

ENGINE

The contact owns a 2017 Nissan Pathfinder. The contact stated that while driving in a parking lot at unknown speeds, the vehicle began jerking and stalled. The battery had become inoperable. The TPMS message was displayed. The failure was linked to Technical Service Bulletin: NTB15-015h. The local dealer was called and informed the contact that the failure was related to the CVT transmission and confirmed there was no coverage for the repair of the vehicle. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was contacted, but no assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 100,000.

NHTSA complaint #11709306 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

ENGINE

Engine failure in my vehicle equipped with the VQ35DD engine, which I believe is the result of a widespread and well-documented design defect involving internal sludge buildup. I have owned this vehicle for over five years and have followed the recommended routine maintenance schedule, including on-time oil changes using high-quality oil. At no point during any inspection, service, or maintenance appointment was I informed of any sludge buildup or concerns with the engine. Only after a serious mechanical failure did the Nissan servicing dealership claim the engine was full of sludge, subsequently recommending an engine replacement. Despite my diligence in maintaining the vehicle, I am now facing an engine replacement that was entirely unexpected and has created a safety risk due to loss of motive power. This could have resulted in a serious accident, and I believe this issue merits urgent and transparent attention. Upon researching this issue, I found dozens of similar complaints from other owners with VQ35DD engines, many of whom reported premature engine failure, sludge accumulation, and PCV system defects—despite maintaining their vehicles properly. This issue is being widely discussed on forums, including: [XXX] [XXX] It is unacceptable that Nissan has not issued a technical service bulletin, recall, or extended warranty to address this problem, particularly when it may stem from a known defect in the PCV system or engine design (such as poor oil flow, crankcase ventilation failure, or GDI-related contamination). Given the facts outlined above and the potential safety hazard, a full investigation should be taken to help Nissan customers. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA complaint #11689452 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

ENGINE

Timing chain failure at 88,000 miles on well maintained vehicle. Could cause catastrophic engine failure. No leading indicator.

NHTSA complaint #11689046 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

ENGINE

As I was driving my 2017 Nissan Pathfinder, when the vehicle suddenly accelerated to a high rate of speed and the gas pedal became stuck. I tried to press on the brake as much as possible but the vehicle was not successfully able to be stopped which caused a terrible motor vehicle accident.

NHTSA complaint #11684133 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

ENGINE

PCV Valve hose clogging rendering system useless and resulting in sludge buildup in engine. The sludge buildup causes issues with timing chain lubrication and ultimately destroys the guides causing excessive engine rattling, aluminum flakes in the engine. Causes loss of power, numerous different engine codes, and ultimately catastrophic failure of engine. Hise collapses within itself and prevents proper crankcase ventilation. See attached pictures.

NHTSA complaint #11683007 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

ENGINE

The Check Engine light turned on and took it to dealership on 12/14/24 and they stated that Throttle chamber may have issues. Used scanner and code P0101- Mass Air Flow Sensor Circuit was read on scanner. Vehicle struggles to get air flow into engine causes speed to struggle when trying to accelerate.

NHTSA complaint #11630859 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

ENGINE

On Sunday [XXX] while driving to Savannah Georgia to attend a funeral my 2017 Nissan Pathfinder broke down. I was able to coast off the road out of traffic in the pouring rain. I had the vehicle towed to Statesboro tire and brake in Statesboro Georgia who was in network with my extended warranty company. On May 20th 2024 I was told the engine failed due to metal in the oil. They opened a claim and diagnosed the issue. The warranty company requested the oil pan be dropped and pictures to be submitted to them to continue with the claim. Upon further inspection there was sludge and noticeable metal in the oil pan. My extended warranty company denied the claim. I asked if i could submit my maintenance records to prove the vehicle had been maintained. I was told no by the warranty company and statesboro tire and brake didn't even submit them for me. So I had to pay for the work test had been done and have the vehicle towed back to Grovetown Ga. which is where I live. I contacted Nissan consumer relations at this point not knowing what else to do. They opened a claim and I then had the vehicle towed to the Nissan dealership near me. Which they did another diagnosis and the claim through them was also denied. I purchased this vehicle used from CarMax in Augusta Georgia with 41502 miles on it. Upon purchasing the vehicle I maintained the vehicle keeping up with all of the manufacturers recommendations for maintenance and service. I contacted CarMax to see if they could do anything because they are who I purchased the vehicle from. The service manager at CarMax was able to submit my records to the extended warranty company and the claim was approved. The engine is being replaced after almost 6 months of persistence. It is a used engine but at least it's a new engine to me. On [XXX] the vehicle had 100573 miles. There were no warning lights. The vehicle had no issues until it just died on that date. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA complaint #11622859 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

ENGINE

The contact owns a 2017 Nissan Pathfinder. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle lost motive power. No warning lights were illuminated. The contact pulled over to the shoulder of the road and attempted to jumpstart the vehicle; however, the vehicle failed to restart. The vehicle was towed to the property and was later towed to a local dealer where it was diagnosed but no cause for the failure was identified. The contact stated that several weeks afterwards, the display screen went black before the vehicle lost motive power. The contact pulled over to the shoulder of the road and attempted to jump start the vehicle. The contact stated that the vehicle shut off as soon as the contact arrived at the local dealer. The vehicle was taken back to the same local dealer where it was diagnosed but no cause for the failure was identified. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 120,000.

NHTSA complaint #11616631 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

ENGINE

Complete engine failure while driving on highway putting the safety of my family(including 2 young kids) at risk. We were able maneuver to the side of the road. We were stranded on side of highway in a very rural area at night with no power(no hazard lights, or heat) for a while. Car towed to Nissan dealership, who stated a new engine is needed. Paper work is available. For history, a new timing belt was installed in Fall 2023, but no issues since (no warnings, messages or problems).

NHTSA complaint #11582099 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

ENGINE

The dealership is recommended a brand new engine despite it only having 130,000 on it.

NHTSA complaint #11579195 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

ENGINE

I have had so many problems with my vehicle. I have spend so much on auto repair. Latest one I took in to a local mechanic and he diagnosed it with transmission issue with a timer. It’s hard to go from 30 to 40mph. He also looked it up and said there’s a recall. I called my local Nissan dealer and was told my vehicle is not under the recall. Every dealers being asking me if I have transmission issues and I finally said yes trying to trade my vehicle. They mentioned Nissan has transmission issues.

NHTSA complaint #11546952 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

ENGINE

According to the dealership the engine has sludge and unrepairable

NHTSA complaint #11532455 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

ENGINE

While driving at a speed of 60mph on the highway my pathfinder lost all power and became had to control as my car came to a complete stop causing me to be stuck in between to merging highways with traffic on each side . I was given no warning this was about to happen and it could have cost me my life . My car had to be picked up and towed I would assume it’s my transmission or my engine it is the 3rd. I could not accelerate or shift at all despite having NO warning lights on until I turned it off to save my battery and make my self able to keep my lights and flashers on without causing anymore damage to my car which has already had a complete engine ,diffrential, and transfcase, radiator, and tan blades replaced multiple times at just 2 years old but was out of mileage so Nissan wouldn’t honor them . Well I assumed with Nissans suite winces they know it’s their transmissions they would cover everyone’s since this is on going however they didn’t and only covered to mileage to my surprise .

NHTSA complaint #11525236 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

ENGINE

The contact owns a 2017 Nissan Pathfinder. The contact stated that upon starting the vehicle, the vehicle made abnormally loud sounds. Additionally, the check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where the cooling fan was replaced and the warning light was reset; however, the failure persisted. Additionally, the vehicle would only start after several attempts. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed that the PCV hose collapsed and was applying significant pressure on the crankcase, causing an engine misfire. The dealer replaced the PCV hose; however, the check engine warning light remained illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where the fractured exhaust clamps were replaced; however, the failure persisted. The dealer diagnosed that the cylinder #1 ignition coil might have failed. The dealer replaced the transmission fluid, coolant exchange kit, and brake fluid. The engine control module (ECM) reprogramming was completed. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and referred the contact to the dealer. The vehicle was taken to a second dealer; Zeigler Nissan of Gurnee (3175 Grand Ave, Lindenhurst, IL 60046), where it was diagnosed that the long block, exhaust manifold gasket, intake manifold, throttle body, the bank one #1 catalytic converter, and other unknown parts needed to be replaced. The manufacturer informed the contact that she was responsible for the cost of the engine assembly replacement prior to them assisting with the catalytic converter replacement. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 36,539.

NHTSA complaint #11512069 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

The contact owns a 2017 Nissan Pathfinder. The contact stated that upon starting the vehicle, the vehicle made abnormally loud sounds. Additionally, the check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where the cooling fan was replaced and the warning light was reset; however, the failure persisted. Additionally, the vehicle would only start after several attempts. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed that the PCV hose collapsed and was applying significant pressure on the crankcase, causing an engine misfire. The dealer replaced the PCV hose; however, the check engine warning light remained illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where the fractured exhaust clamps were replaced; however, the failure persisted. The dealer diagnosed that the cylinder #1 ignition coil might have failed. The dealer replaced the transmission fluid, coolant exchange kit, and brake fluid. The engine control module (ECM) reprogramming was completed. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and referred the contact to the dealer. The vehicle was taken to a second dealer; Zeigler Nissan of Gurnee (3175 Grand Ave, Lindenhurst, IL 60046), where it was diagnosed that the long block, exhaust manifold gasket, intake manifold, throttle body, the bank one #1 catalytic converter, and other unknown parts needed to be replaced. The manufacturer informed the contact that she was responsible for the cost of the engine assembly replacement prior to them assisting with the catalytic converter replacement. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 36,539.

NHTSA complaint #11512069 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

ENGINE

Nissan 2017 pathfinder 67000 miles.engine making noise went to dealership.I call Nissan consumer affairs but no assistance.dealership told engine failure.

NHTSA complaint #11482578 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

ENGINE

The contact owns a 2017 Nissan Pathfinder. The contact stated that while the vehicle was at the dealer to be repaired under NHTSA Campaign Number: 19V807000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic), the dealer diagnosed that there was a mechanical defect in the engine and that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was then taken to Nissan of Yorktown Heights (3495 Old Crompond Rd, Yorktown Heights, NY 10598) where the dealer performed the recall repair and replaced the engine. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure but provided no assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 90,000.

NHTSA complaint #11471140 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

ENGINE

The radiator fan is failing at 62k miles. Researching online it was found that this is a common occurrence for 2017 Nissan Pathfinders between 20k and 80k miles. Fan failure could lead to overheating and eventually fire. Vehicle was taken into the dealership for a knocking/rattling noise coming from under the hood. There were no check engine lights or warning lamps to indicate an issue. The dealership has to order a complete new assembly and motor, which is an extensive repair as well.

NHTSA complaint #11458076 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

The contact owns a 2017 Nissan Pathfinder. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, there was a rattling sound coming from the front end of the vehicle while the air conditioner was activated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer and diagnosed with bearing wear, causing the fan assembly failure. The contact was informed that the fan assembly needed to be replaced and that the fan blades could detach, causing the radiator to leak and the engine to fail. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 40,000.

NHTSA complaint #11453791 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

ENGINE

Began hearing a rapid patterned running at first, which quickly developed into a shaking that could be felt in the steering wheel. Determined that it only happened while the heating and ventilation system was active. Opened the hood, no signs of obstructions, does look like the fan blades of the radiator are loose and hitting the shroud. Given the need for heat to defrost windows as well as safetly operate in the winter with children in the car, it is unsafe to use the vehicle until this mater can be resolved, as without the radiator fans the engine could overheat as well. Will be looking to have the part replaced asap, as the vehicle is needed for livelihood, and with as many people have reported this issue, surprised there has yet to be a recall to address this, as it seems to be the same issue, with others having bearings going out causing a similar issue.

NHTSA complaint #11442204 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

ENGINE

My 2017 pathfinder has 41,000. The fan AC/heating sound loose and makes loud noise.

NHTSA complaint #11438600 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

ENGINE

Cooling fan is failing, bearings wearing and fan hits shroud. It is available to inspect. Problem inspected and confirmed by independent mechanic and subsequently by the Nissan dealer. No warning lamps, only an increasing noise from the cooling fan audible inside and outside the vehicle.

NHTSA complaint #11424970 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

ENGINE

THE CONTACT OWNS A 2017 NISSAN PATHFINDER. THE CONTACT STATED SHE WAS UNABLE TO SHIFT THE VEHICLE OUT OF PARK. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE AIR BAG WARNING LIGHT WAS ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DRIVABLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE DEALER TO BE DIAGNOSED. THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE TRANSMISSION FLUID WAS LOW. THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE TRANSMISSION FLUID WAS FLUSHED AND REPLACED. THE CONTACT STATED THE FAILURE PERSISTED WITH AN ABNORMAL SOUND COMING FROM THE VEHICLE. ADDITIONALLY, THERE WAS SMOKE EXITING THE REAR OF THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN BACK TO THE LOCAL DEALER WITHIN A MONTH. THE VEHICLE WAS ALSO TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC AND THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE ENGINE NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS DIAGNOSED A THIRD TIME BUT WAS NOT YET REPAIRED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT YET REPAIRED. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE HAD NOT RECEIVED ANY MAINTENANCE DUE TO THE PANDEMIC. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT INFORMED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 51,971.

NHTSA complaint #11417725 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

ENGINE

MASS AIR FLOW SENSOR BROKE WHILE IN USE AND CUT THE ENGINE WITHOUT ANY WARNING.

NHTSA complaint #11416291 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

ENGINE

RUIDO EXTREMO CUANDO ENCIENDES EL ACONDICIONADOR DE AIRE , TERMINO SIENDO EL BEARING DEL ABANICO DEL RADIADOR.

NHTSA complaint #11413741 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

ENGINE

ENGINE COOLANT AND A/C FAN RATTLING THE FAN ON THE A/C SIDE FAN BLADE IS LOOSE

NHTSA complaint #11398429 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

ENGINE

RADIATOR COOLING FAN DIED AT ONLY 47,141 MILES. COST IS 978.00. ABSOLUTELY HORRIBLE THIS IS NOT COVERED UNDER WARRANTY, ESPECIALLY CONSIDERING IT IS A VERY COMMON PROBLEM. FIRST AND LAST NISSAN I WILL EVER BUY.

NHTSA complaint #11396770 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

ENGINE

READING FORUMS AND DOING RESEARCH HAS BROUGHT ME TO THE CONCLUSION THAT NISAN IS BUYING AND HAS BEEN BUYING FAULTY RADIATOR FANS FOR YEARS. MY WIFE DOES NOTHING BUT DRIVE TO AND FROM WORK, AVERAGING AROUND 10K MILES A YEAR ON HER PATHFINDER UNDER NORMAL DRIVING CONDITIONS AND WE ARE BEING ASKED TO REPLACE A FAN THAT HAS MYSTERIOUSLY JUST STARTED MAKING ALL KINDS OF NOISE. NOT ONLY IS THIS A PROBLEM BUT IT'S CAUSING CONSUMERS TO SPEND UPWARDS OF $1000 TO REPLACE THIS. I HAVE RECENTLY FOUND A PATHFINDER FORUM WITH WELL OVER 450 RESULTS RELATED TO THIS PARTICULAR ITEM ONLY. OBVIOUSLY, THIS IS NOT COVERED UNDER NORMAL DRIVE TRAIN WARRANTY SO THIS IS COMING OUT OF CONSUMER POCKETS. THIS ISN'T FAIR TO ME OR ANYONE ELSE THAT I HAVE SPOKEN TO. WHY WOULD THIS FAN JUST GO OUT FOR NO REASON OTHER THAN IT'S A FAULTY FAN WITH POOR WORKMANSHIP ASSOCIATED WITH THE PRODUCT. NISSAN DEALERSHIPS ARE MAKING A KILLING, $400 TO $600 JUST IN LABOR WITH ALL OF THESE PROBLEMS. IF YOU ALL GO TO PATHFINDERTALK.COM AND SEARCH RADIATOR FAN, YOU WILL FIND ALL OF THE PROBLEMS ASSOCIATED WITH THE FANS. IT'S FAULTY, IT'S DANGEROUS AND SHOULD BE NISSAN SHOULD HAVE TO FLIP THE BILL FOR THIS IN THE FUTURE AND MAYBE THEY WILL THINK ABOUT THIS BEFORE THEY DECIDE TO BUY CHEAP MATERIALS AGAIN.

NHTSA complaint #11394633 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.