Last updated: 2026-03-04
2020 Nissan Pathfinder Reliability Score & Common Problems
The 2020 Nissan Pathfinder scores 78/100 ("Good"). With 0 recalls and 43 owner complaints, reliability is acceptable but not class-leading.
2020 is the last model year of the Fourth generation (R52; 2012).
Recalls
0
Complaints
43
Complaint Rate
8.9
per 10k sold
Below avgEst. Annual Cost
$542
Below avgMajor Repair Risk
15%
NHTSA Rating
5/5
Score Breakdown
Component-weighted complaints normalized by sales volume
Independent repair cost ratings
Recall count weighted by severity
Breadth of reported problem categories
Acceptable reliability — worth considering with a pre-purchase inspection.
Top Issues
Generation & Refresh (US)
2020 is the last model year of the Fourth generation (R52; 2012).
- Final-year models are typically the most refined version of a generation.
- 3 years after the last refresh (2017).
- 4th generation Pathfinder (US).
What this means for buyers
Final-year models are usually the most polished version of a generation, but resale value may dip as buyers anticipate the next redesign.
Fourth generation (R52; 2012)
Should You Buy the 2020 Nissan Pathfinder?
The 2020 Nissan Pathfinder scores 78/100 ("Good"), placing it in acceptable but not class-leading territory. 2020 is the last model year of the Fourth generation (R52; 2012).
With 43 owner complaints, some reported issues may need attention, but we don't yet see evidence of a single dominant failure mode.
A pre-purchase inspection is recommended for used examples, with particular attention to electrical system (9). An extended warranty may provide additional peace of mind.
Compared to the 2022 Nissan Pathfinder, which scored 12 points lower. See also the 2019 Nissan Pathfinder for an earlier comparison.
Pros
- Acceptable reliability score
- $31 cheaper to maintain than avg midsize SUVs
- Low major repair risk (15%)
- No recalls issued
Cons
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM issues reported (9 complaints)
- ENGINE: Recurring issues with the 2020 Nissan Pathfinder's engine, particularly... (8 complaints)
Compare 2020 Nissan Pathfinder With
2020 Ford Explorer
Score: 54/100
2020 Toyota Highlander
Score: 71/100
2020 Kia Telluride
Score: 55/100
2020 Honda Pilot
Score: 60/100
2020 Chevrolet Traverse
Score: 62/100
Common Problem Categories
Other
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (9)
- ENGINE (8)
- SERVICE BRAKES (7)
- POWER TRAIN (5)
- UNKNOWN OR OTHER (5)
- SUSPENSION (3)
- FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM (1)
- FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE (1)
- STRUCTURE (1)
- EXTERIOR LIGHTING (1)
- LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES (1)
- VISIBILITY/WIPER (1)
Recall Overview
0
recalls on record
The 2020 Nissan Pathfinder has no recalls on record, which is uncommon and a positive indicator of manufacturing quality.
NHTSA.gov →Complaint Breakdown
8.9
per 10k soldSegment avg: 18.2
Safety Incidents
Crashes
1
Fires
0
Injuries
0
Deaths
0
Data sourced from NHTSA complaint filings and manufacturer recall notices. Complaint narratives are owner-reported.
2020 Nissan Pathfinder NHTSA Safety Ratings
Overall Safety Rating
Crash Test Results by Configuration (expand)
Gas Powertrain
Rollover risk: 17.9%
Safety Technologies
Nissan Pathfinder Repair Costs & Maintenance
Maintenance Rating
3.5Maintenance rating: 3.5 out of 5Based on NHTSA complaint patterns, recall severity, and publicly available cost benchmarks.
Est. Annual Maintenance
$542
vs $573 avg for midsize SUVs
vs $652 avg for all vehicles
Repair Frequency
0.4
unscheduled repair visits per year
Severe Repair Probability
15%
chance of a major repair
Annual Cost Comparison
Category-level averages derived from publicly available industry reports (AAA, CarMD). Model-level estimates produced by Auto Reliability Index.
When Buying a Used 2020 Nissan Pathfinder
Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing, based on the most common reported issues.
- Test transmission for shuddering or slipping at various speeds
- Inspect brake system for leaks and unusual noises
- Check for engine misfiring or knocking noises
- Verify backup camera functionality during test drive
- Inspect door locks for proper operation with key fob
- Check for sunroof integrity and signs of previous damage
Check Any 2020 Nissan Pathfinder's History Before You Buy
Reliability scores tell you what to expect from the 2020 Pathfinder in general — but every car has its own story. Uncover past accidents, title issues, odometer rollbacks, and service records for a specific Nissan Pathfinder with a free VIN lookup.
Powered by VINExposed.com — free vehicle history reports using public title and safety data.
2020 Nissan Pathfinder Common Problems by Component
43 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
9 complaintsOwners of the 2020 Nissan Pathfinder frequently report issues with the vehicle's electrical system, particularly concerning door locks and the backup camera. Complaints commonly mention that the driver and passenger side doors fail to lock or unlock using the key fob, requiring manual operation, and in some cases, the locks do not function at all. Backup camera failures are also noted, with reports of the camera intermittently going blank or not activating when needed. Additionally, issues with the vehicle's climate control system, such as the inability to defrost or heat, are described. These problems typically arise over an extended period, with some owners indicating issues have persisted for over a year. While no crashes or fires are reported, the described failures could pose safety risks, particularly in terms of visibility and vehicle security.
ENGINE
8 complaintsOwners report recurring issues with the 2020 Nissan Pathfinder's engine, particularly concerning engine misfiring and knocking noises. Complaints frequently mention metal shavings in the oil, which are linked to timing chain problems and potential long block engine failure. These issues often lead to a loss of power, engine stalling, and, in some cases, complete engine shutdown. Typical symptoms include the check engine light illuminating, abnormal engine oil consumption, and a smell of antifreeze inside the cabin. The problems are noted at various mileage points, with one report at approximately 19,700 miles. Safety implications are significant, as some owners describe scenarios where the vehicle could unexpectedly stall while driving, posing a potential risk of accidents. This information is crucial for used car buyers considering this model.
SERVICE BRAKES
7 complaintsOwners of the 2020 Nissan Pathfinder frequently report issues with the vehicle's braking systems, including problems with the ABS, traction control, and Forward Collision Avoidance warning lights illuminating. Symptoms often include hard-to-press brakes, unexpected self-application of brakes, and high-pitched noises associated with brake fluid leaks. Complaints typically emerge at varied mileages, with one report noting issues as early as under 3,000 miles, and others occurring around 55,000 to 87,000 miles. Safety implications are noted with instances of brakes engaging without driver input and the need for increased braking force, which could potentially affect vehicle control. These patterns suggest prospective buyers should be vigilant about the braking system's condition when considering this model.
POWER TRAIN (5 complaints)
POWER TRAIN
5 complaintsOwners of the 2020 Nissan Pathfinder frequently report issues with the power train, particularly related to the CVT transmission. Common symptoms include the vehicle shuddering, lurching, or failing to accelerate properly, with some instances of unintended acceleration at lower speeds. These issues often occur without triggering diagnostic codes, complicating dealership diagnosis and resolution. Complaints mention these problems occurring as early as 60,000 to 80,000 miles. While no crashes or fires are reported, the described acceleration issues could potentially affect vehicle control and safety.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER (5 complaints)
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
5 complaintsOwners report issues with the 2020 Nissan Pathfinder's rear view camera, which frequently ceases to function intermittently, sometimes displaying a black screen while reversing. Complaints also describe incidents where the sunroof explodes without warning while driving, scattering glass inside the vehicle. In terms of mechanical issues, multiple owners experience jerking, shuddering, and engine light warnings, with symptoms such as low oil pressure, clanking noises, and white exhaust emissions. These issues often develop after the warranty period and can lead to a loss of control, particularly concerning when traveling with passengers. Potential buyers should be aware of these recurring problems, especially if considering a vehicle with high mileage or one that has not been serviced recently.
SUSPENSION (3 complaints)
SUSPENSION
3 complaintsOwners of the 2020 Nissan Pathfinder report issues primarily related to the suspension, with symptoms including a major suspension defect affecting vehicle stability and safety. One owner notes the risk of loss of control due to these suspension issues, which were confirmed by the dealership upon inspection. Multiple complaints describe persistent brake-related problems such as squealing and grinding noises, with some owners replacing brakes and rotors multiple times without resolution, typically around or under 70,000 miles. These issues may pose safety implications, particularly concerning vehicle control and braking effectiveness. Buyers considering this model should be aware of these potential suspension and brake concerns, especially in vehicles with similar mileage.
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM (1 complaints)
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
1 complaintCar does not display the correct amount of fuel remaining once it hits half a tank left. Can read quarter of a tank remaining, and the distance to empty meter shows 40 miles. Or it will show 97 miles to empty and car will be on empty on fuel gauge. Then once I arrive at my destination, they flip. Driving 3 miles reports driving over 10-15 miles from distance to empty, the gauge starts moving. Never an accurate reading.
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE (1 complaints)
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
1 complaintSafety-relatedUnknown
STRUCTURE (1 complaints)
STRUCTURE
1 complaintHood Latch failed. Once opened, it would not re-secure. Vehicle had ~ 67,000 miles at occurrence. Problem was confirmed by dealer service. There were no warning features. Latch needed replacement due to 'damage' even though the was no accident or other reason for it to be 'damaged'. Cost was over $450 for replacement & repair. There are recalls for the same issue on other model years!
EXTERIOR LIGHTING (1 complaints)
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
1 complaintThe contact owns a 2020 Nissan Pathfinder. The contact stated while driving 35 MPH, the passenger’s side headlight began to fog up. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, where it was diagnosed that there was condensation in the headlight housing and that the headlight housing needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was approximately 38,000.
When Do 2020 Nissan Pathfinder Problems Start?
Based on owner complaint patterns, here's when common issues tend to appear.
Best & Worst Nissan Pathfinder Years
Best Nissan Pathfinder Years to Buy
The best Nissan Pathfinder year is 2025 with a reliability score of 78/100, rated good. Other strong picks include 2020 (78/100) and 2024 (74/100).
2025
1 recall · 25 complaints
2020(this page)
0 recalls · 43 complaints
2024
2 recalls · 38 complaints
Nissan Pathfinder Years to Avoid
The worst Nissan Pathfinder year is 2022 with a score of 66/100, primarily due to service brakes (18) issues.
See full Nissan Pathfinder years-to-avoid analysis →Nissan Pathfinder Reliability Score Trend
Nissan Pathfinder reliability has remained consistent across model years, averaging 73/100.
Scores 0–100. Higher is better. Current year highlighted.
| Year | Score | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| 2018 | 68/100 | Good |
| 2019 | 71/100 | Good |
| 2020 | 78/100 | Good |
| 2022 | 66/100 | Good |
| 2023 | 74/100 | Good |
| 2024 | 74/100 | Good |
| 2025 | 78/100 | Good |
Nissan Pathfinder Reliability Compared to Other Years
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 2020 Nissan Pathfinder reliable?
What are the most common problems with the 2020 Nissan Pathfinder?
How many recalls does the 2020 Nissan Pathfinder have?
Is the 2020 Nissan Pathfinder expensive to maintain?
How We Calculate Reliability Scores
Auto Reliability Index scores are calculated on a 0–100 scale using a weighted formula that combines multiple public data sources. Each factor is weighted based on its predictive value for real-world ownership experience.
Key Ranking Factors
Complaint Severity
NHTSA owner complaints weighted by component category (e.g., powertrain, safety systems, electronics, cosmetic) — safety-critical issues carry more weight than cosmetic ones. Adjusted for sales volume so high-volume models aren't unfairly penalized.
Repair Costs
Independent reliability ratings based on repair frequency, average repair costs, and severity of typical repairs for each model.
Recall Impact
Number of NHTSA recalls weighted by severity. “Stop driving” and fire-risk recalls are penalized more heavily than minor software or labeling recalls.
Issue Diversity
Measures how many major vehicle systems (engine, transmission, electrical, braking, etc.) have recorded complaints. A vehicle with issues spread across many systems may indicate systemic quality issues.
Scores are grouped into four tiers:
- 80–100: Excellent — Top-tier reliability, minimal issues
- 60–79: Good — Reliable with some minor concerns
- 40–59: Mixed — Notable issues, research before buying
- 0–39: Risky — Significant problems, proceed with caution
Data is sourced from NHTSA recall records, owner complaint filings, and independent repair databases. Scores are recalculated as new data becomes available. While the weighting model is proprietary, all underlying data sources are public and traceable.
Browse More Nissan Models
Browse More 2020 Vehicles
2020 Mazda CX-5
Score: 86/100
2020 Lexus RX
Score: 86/100
2020 Lexus UX
Score: 84/100
2020 Lexus IS
Score: 83/100
2020 Toyota 4RUNNER
Score: 82/100
2020 Lexus NX
Score: 82/100
2020 Lexus GX
Score: 81/100
2020 Chevrolet Trax
Score: 81/100
See incorrect data? Report an issue