2017 Nissan Pathfinder Problems
Owner-reported complaints filed with NHTSA, grouped by component
Data refreshed
What this page shows
Everything below is an owner-reported complaint submitted to NHTSA about the 2017 Nissan Pathfinder, grouped by the component NHTSA recorded on the report. These are not confirmed defects, and they are not recalls. NHTSA does not verify most reports before publishing them, and a category with more reports in it is not evidence that a part is defective.
Complaints are reports submitted by owners and drivers to NHTSA. They are not verified and do not establish that a defect exists.
Reports by component
Ranked by how many owner reports name each component category
- Engine8339.5%
- Powertrain (other)3315.7%
- Electrical2712.9%
- Driver assistance125.7%
- Brakes115.2%
- Steering83.8%
- Fuel system83.8%
- Airbags62.9%
- Exterior lighting62.9%
- Visibility62.9%
- Body & structure52.4%
- Interior & seats21.0%
- Suspension10.5%
- Tires & wheels10.5%
- Transmission10.5%
Percentages are of component mentions. A single complaint can name more than one component, so these do not sum to the total complaint count.
Each component in detail
What the reports in each category say, in the owners' own words
Engine
Reports naming the engine itself — including stalling, misfires, oil consumption, cooling and internal engine components.
From owner reports, verbatim
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.
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)
Powertrain (other)
Powertrain reports that are not specifically the engine or transmission — driveshafts, axles, transfer cases and differentials.
From owner reports, verbatim
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.
The transmission is failing. The car has about 117,000 miles on it. The transmission issue is a known problem with this vehicle and is causing safety concerns while driving it due to acceleration problems.
Electrical
Reports naming the electrical system — wiring, battery, charging, control modules, infotainment and electrical accessories.
From owner reports, verbatim
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.
Nissan Pathfinder vehicles to repair the CVT transmission fluid cooler hose (inter-cooler). The internal fluid cooler (ITOC) hose may detach from the cooler due to inadequate clamping force. Inter-coolers may overheat, fail operation causing leaks and possible fires. If this occurs, the CVT transmission fluid will begin to slowly leak and the malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) will illuminate on the instrument panel. If the MIL is ignored, the CVT transmission fluid will drain further, resulting in noise, vibration and possible fire. If this is ignored, eventually the CVT transmission will no longer operate properly and the The vehicle will stop accelerating, which could increase the risk of a crash and endangerment. Rear hatch on some 2017 Nissan Pathfinders. Specifically, some brackets used to attach the gas struts to the rear door (hatch) may be improperly made, potentially causing the struts to detach from the brackets when opening or closing the door. This could cause the hatch to fall rapidly, potentially striking someone. Identified as 18V-601, that includes the 2017 Nissan Pathfinder for a potential issue where the lift-gate (back hatch) may not lock properly, this will allow lift-gate to open while driving, not lock securely, potentially allowing someone to fall out of moving vehicle.
Driver assistance
Reports naming forward-collision avoidance, lane keeping, back-over prevention, cruise control and related electronic driver-assistance systems.
From owner reports, verbatim
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.
When traveling more than 10-15 miles, the FEB/ICC warning comes on without notice or reason, disables the cruise control and slows the car suddenly. There is no way to reset it without stopping the vehicle and restarting it. Took Service Bulletin NTB19-033a to the Action Nissan dealer in Nashville, TN. Despite it clearly indicating that my 2017 Nissan Pathfinder is covered, they claim it is not. This is a major safety issue that Nissan clearly has identified. It needs to be fixed.
Brakes
Reports naming service brakes, the antilock braking system, brake hoses, master cylinders or the parking brake.
From owner reports, verbatim
ABS pump "blew" lost compression and leaked all the brake fluid down the engine and all over the control arm. Brake pedal needed to go all the way to the floor to barely use the brakes. EBRAKE light stayed on even when not in use. Traction control light also came on and stayed on.
Multiple times since ownership as of 11/09/2019 during hard braking the ABS system failed to engage and wheels locked for a portion of stopping; the ABS would hesitantly engage after a few sec on separate occasions. Simultaneously, the transmission disengaged into neutral causing power to the FWD to not respond for at least 10-60 seconds after the car had completely stopped to the ABS system notification. On 11/31/2022, I hard braked to avoid a collision with a white ford pickup and coasted to the side of the road. Shutting down and restarting the car had no effect. After approx. 3 mins the transmission engaged and I was able to move. A line of traffic was waiting.
Steering
Reports naming the steering system — racks, columns, power-steering assist and steering linkage.
From owner reports, verbatim
Constant whine from under the vehicle while in park or idle. Even after having the rack replaced
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 .
Fuel system
Reports naming fuel storage or delivery — tanks, pumps, lines, injectors and fuel leaks.
From owner reports, verbatim
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.
Faulty fluid pump system Fault CVT system I noticed the car was slow to accelerate like it was slipping. Then a few days later, there was a jerking/ shuddering you could feel the entire car shaking. I took to the repair shop and they are saying it pulled the code for CVT and fuel pump circuit. Car in the shop awaiting repair This seems to be common problem with the Nissan pathfinder finder 2017. Is there anything can be done about this. It can easily become a safety hazard and potential loss of life. Shouldn’t there be a recall or resolution to this problem and Coustomer get reimbursement for money spent with this defective product.q
Airbags
Reports naming the air-bag system — deployment behaviour, inflators, sensors and warning lights.
From owner reports, verbatim
The contact owns a 2017 Nissan Pathfinder. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer for routine maintenance, and the vehicle was diagnosed, and the contact was informed that the air bag and sensor needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact refused the repairs. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 100,000.
Airbag light blinks all the time. DTC B00A0-00 (OCCUPANT DETECTION SENSOR UNIT). I can't reset it even I tried everything using "diagnostic mode" with ignition on/off process or OBD II tool. Nissan has Service Bulletin NTB19-071 which includes my vehicle year(2017) in it, but I couldn't find it from the recall case. Only 2013~2016 Pathfinder has recall history with NTB16-054a. I think 2017 also have same issue. There's no issue to drive so far with airbag light blinking, but I'm not sure if the airbag will be deployed when it needs to do.
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Exterior lighting
Reports naming headlights, tail lights, turn signals and other exterior lighting.
From owner reports, verbatim
Low beam headlamps becoming to dim to safely see at night resulting in having to replace entire headlamp Replacing bulb made no difference
While driving and going down the highway my vehicles HUD and all electronics inside the vehicle will just randomly kick out momentarily for not no more the 30seconds, but the head lights stay one and the car still runs. It kicks the cruise control off and this just started happening.
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Visibility
Reports naming windshields, glass, wipers, defrosters and mirrors.
From owner reports, verbatim
AC Auto Amp failed and no cold or hot air is coming out of the vents. Nissan has identified the problem in May 2024 and as of September 2024 they still have not sourced a part that can be used to repair the issue. Safety was put at risk in two ways. First the windshield defroster and defogger do not work. When fog begins to appear on the windshield it affects visibility and has to be wiped off manually while driving. In summer months the temperature of the cabin is excessively hot which can be unsafe over long drives. Nissan has provided no ETA for being able to fix this and the cold NorthEast winter months are coming where it will get dangerously cold. This can be unsafe over long drives in sub freezing temps.
THERE WAS A CLACKING NOISE COMING FROM UNDER MY HOOD. AFTER RESEARCHING WHAT THIS COULD BE, IT APPEARED TO BE THE FAN COOLING SYSTEM. THE LOCAL DEALER TOLD MY HUSBAND THAT THIS SEEMED TO BE A PROBLEM WITH MANY OF THE NISSAN PATHFINDERS STATING THAT IT SEEMED SEVERAL OF THE FANS WOULD "GO OUT". ALSO, MY WINDSHIELD WASHER FLUID DOES NOT WORK. I'M NOT SURE HOW/WHY THIS WOULD GO OUT; AS ALL OF THE ELECTRICAL COMPONENTS INSIDE OF THE VEHICLE STILL WORK.
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Body & structure
Reports naming the vehicle structure, frame, body panels, doors, hood and trim.
From owner reports, verbatim
The contact owns a 2017 Nissan Pathfinder. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds the vehicle failed to properly accelerate and the transmission overheated. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer who diagnosed that the transmission cooler had leaked transmission fluid and needed to be replaced. The transmission cooler was replaced but the failure persisted. Additionally, while driving at an undisclosed speed, the rear hatch door opened unintendedly. The contact stated that while attempting to retrieve items from the rear hatch area, the electronic hatch door closed unexpectedly. The cause of the failure was not yet determined. The manufacturer and local dealer were notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 48,000.
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2017 NISSAN PATHFINDER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE LIFTGATE FAILED TO OPERATE AS DESIGNED INTERMITTENTLY. THE CONTACT ALSO STATED THAT WHEN THE LIFTGATE STARTED TO OPEN, IT WOULD THEN IMMEDIATELY CLOSE INDEPENDENTLY WITHOUT WARNING. THE CONTACT TOOK THE VEHICLE TO WELCH NISSAN (2505 S OLIVE ST, PINE BLUFF, AR 71601) WHERE THE MECHANIC WAS UNABLE TO DIAGNOSE THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED HOWEVER, THE FAILURE RECURRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE AND REFERRED THE CONTACT TO NHTSA FOR ASSISTANCE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS UNKNOWN.
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Interior & seats
Reports naming seats, latches, locks, linkages and interior fittings.
From owner reports, verbatim
The contact owns a 2017 Nissan Pathfinder. The contact stated while driving approximately 50 MPH, the hood was raising up but did not open all the way. The contact stated that she was able to see the hood moving up and down. The vehicle was not taken to the dealer or independent mechanic to be diagnosed or repaired. The contact stated that she had informed the dealer of the issue and was informed that the issue was normal. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The contact was relating the failure to an unknown recall for 2013-2016 Nissan Pathfinders. The VIN was not available. The approximate failure mileage was 35,000.
WHEN DRIVER SEAT IS MOVED TO HIGHEST POINT, THE SIDE VIEW MIRROR BLOCKS YOUR VIEW FROM FROM SEEING ANYTHING ON THE ENTIRE FRONT SIDE OF THE CAR. I'M 5FT SO I NEED THE SEAT ALL THE WAY UP. ALMOST HAD SEVERAL COLLISIONS BECAUSE YOU CAN'T SEE PAST OR AROUND SIDE VIEW MIRROR.
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Suspension
Reports naming suspension components — springs, struts, shocks, control arms and related hardware.
From owner reports, verbatim
Wire connector harness on alternator wires malfunctioned causing incorrect readings to computer, causing alternator to fail and battery replaced four times till mechanic replaced wire connector harness an wires.. control arm, and CV Axle failed
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Tires & wheels
Reports naming tires, wheels, hubs, or the tire-pressure monitoring system.
From owner reports, verbatim
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.
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Transmission
Reports naming the automatic or manual transmission, including shifting behaviour, shudder, slipping and transmission control modules.
From owner reports, verbatim
The contact owns a 2017 Nissan Pathfinder. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds the vehicle failed to properly accelerate and the transmission overheated. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer who diagnosed that the transmission cooler had leaked transmission fluid and needed to be replaced. The transmission cooler was replaced but the failure persisted. Additionally, while driving at an undisclosed speed, the rear hatch door opened unintendedly. The contact stated that while attempting to retrieve items from the rear hatch area, the electronic hatch door closed unexpectedly. The cause of the failure was not yet determined. The manufacturer and local dealer were notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 48,000.
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Higher-selling and older vehicles accumulate more reports. Counts are not failure rates and are not directly comparable between vehicles that sold in very different numbers.
Elsewhere on this vehicle
Data sources
- NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation — owner-reported complaints and the components recorded on them
Data on this page last refreshed .