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Last updated: 2026-04-20

2024 Nissan Pathfinder Reliability Report
The 2024 Nissan Pathfinder scores 74/100 ("Good"). With 2 recalls and 38 owner complaints, reliability is acceptable but not class-leading.
Recalls
2
Complaints
38
Complaint Rate
5.1per 10,000 sold
Est. Repair Cost
$542
Annual Fuel Cost
$2,600–$3,300
Detailed Score Breakdown
Component-weighted complaints normalized by sales volume
Independent repair cost ratings
Recall count weighted by severity
Breadth of reported problem categories
The Verdict
Acceptable reliability — worth considering with a pre-purchase inspection.
Top Issues to Watch
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (8)
- POWER TRAIN (6)
- ENGINE (4)
Should You Buy the 2024 Nissan Pathfinder?
At 74/100, the 2024 Nissan Pathfinder lands in "Good" territory — acceptable, but not class-leading.
Owners log 38 complaints on this model year — enough to suggest attention is needed, but no single failure mode dominates yet.
Get a pre-purchase inspection on any used example, with extra attention to electrical system (8). An extended warranty is worth pricing out.
Compared to the 2025 Nissan Pathfinder, which scored 4 points higher. See also the 2023 Nissan Pathfinder for an earlier comparison.
Pros
- +Acceptable reliability score
- +$31 cheaper to maintain than avg midsize SUVs
- +Low major repair risk (15%)
- +Low recall count
Cons
- −ELECTRICAL SYSTEM issues reported (8 complaints)
- −POWER TRAIN issues reported (6 complaints)
Compare 2024 Nissan Pathfinder With

2024 Ford Explorer
Reliability: 73/100

2024 Toyota Highlander
Reliability: 67/100

2024 Honda Pilot
Reliability: 72/100

2024 Chevrolet Traverse
Reliability: 73/100

2024 KIA Telluride
Reliability: 69/100
Common Problem Categories
Safety
LOW RISK- 2 manufacturer recalls issued
Other
HIGH RISK- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (8)
- POWER TRAIN (6)
Recall Overview
2
recalls on record
The 2024 Nissan Pathfinder carries 2 recalls — a low count. Authorized dealers repair any open recall free of charge, regardless of warranty status.
NHTSA.gov →Complaint Breakdown
5.1
per 10,000 soldSegment avg: 7.7
Safety Incidents
1
Crashes
0
Fires
3
Injuries
0
Deaths
NHTSA 5/5 Stars
Data sourced from NHTSA complaint filings and manufacturer recall notices. Complaint narratives are owner-reported.
2024 Nissan Pathfinder Recall Details
2 recalls have been issued for the 2024 Nissan Pathfinder. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.
SEAT BELTS
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2024 Pathfinder and Infiniti QX60 vehicles. The lap belt pretensioner in the left-side front seat belt assembly may be improperly secured, due to a missing rivet. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard numbers 208 "Occupant Crash Protection," 209 "Seat Belt Assemblies," and 210 "Seat Belt Assembly Anchorages."
Consequence
An unsecured lap belt pretensioner will not properly restrain an occupant during a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
Remedy
Dealers will inspect and replace the left-side front lap seat belt pretensioner assemblies as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 18, 2024. Owners may contact Nissan customer service at 1-800-867-7669. Owners may contact Infiniti customer service at 1-800-662-6200. Nissan's numbers for this recall are PD106 and PD107.
AIR BAGS
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2024 Titan, Frontier, Infiniti QX60, Pathfinder, 2023-2024 Sentra, Versa, Kicks, Infiniti QX50, and 2023 Rogue vehicles. Due to a manufacturing issue, the driver's air bag inflator may absorb moisture, and cause the air bag to deploy improperly.
Consequence
An air bag that deploys improperly may not protect the driver as intended during a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the front driver's air bag assembly, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 10, 2024. Owners may contact Nissan customer service at 1-800-867-7669. Nissan's numbers for this recall are PD103, PD104, and PMA34.
Buying a used 2024 Nissan Pathfinder? Check its history first
Every 2024 Nissan Pathfinder has a different past. A VIN check reveals hidden accidents, title problems, odometer rollbacks, and open recalls that reliability scores can't show you.
- Accidents
- Open Recalls
- Title History
- Odometer Rollback
2024 Nissan Pathfinder NHTSA Safety Ratings
Overall Safety Rating
Crash Test Results by Configuration (expand)
Gas Powertrain
Rollover risk: 16.9%
Safety Technologies
Nissan PathfinderRepair 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.
Nissan Pathfinder Resale Value
The Nissan Pathfinder is estimated to retain about 52.3% of its original value after 5 years, based on observed used-car listings.
This benchmark covers the Nissan Pathfinder model overall and is not specific to the 2024 model year.
- Value Retained
- 52.3%
- Depreciation
- 47.7%
- Listings Analyzed
- 127
after 5 years
over the same period
U.S. used-car listings
Listings observed in . This is a historical market benchmark, not a current price quote.
Explore Nissan Pathfinder depreciation and resale value on CarResaleValue.comMPG & Annual Running Costs
Gas
21–23 MPG
Running cost: $3,150–$3,850/yr
Fuel + repair
20–21 city / 23–27 hwy MPG
Running cost includes EPA fuel-cost estimate and independent repair-cost data (repair cost estimated at model level). Excludes routine maintenance, depreciation, and insurance. Data as of 2024 EPA label cycle.
Gas trims
| Trim | Drive | Trans. | City | Hwy | Comb | Fuel Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pathfinder 2WD 3.5L 6-cyl | Front-Wheel Drive | Automatic (S9) | 20 | 27 | 23 | $2,600 |
| Pathfinder 4WD 3.5L 6-cyl | 4-Wheel Drive | Automatic (S9) | 21 | 27 | 23 | $2,600 |
| Pathfinder 4WD Platinum 3.5L 6-cyl | 4-Wheel Drive | Automatic (S9) | 20 | 25 | 22 | $2,700 |
| Pathfinder 4WD Rock Creek 3.5L 6-cyl | 4-Wheel Drive | Automatic (S9) | 20 | 23 | 21 | $3,300 |
Used Buying Checklist
Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing a 2024 Nissan Pathfinder.
Test auto start/stop function for consistent restart
Inspect rear brake pads for uneven or premature wear
Check for water leaks inside the vehicle, especially after rain
Test transmission for smooth shifting and no unexpected neutral shifts
Verify side view mirrors for stability while driving
Inspect engine bay for signs of coolant leakage
2024 Nissan Pathfinder Common Problems by Component
38 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
8 complaintsOwners report several issues with the 2024 Nissan Pathfinder's electrical system, most notably involving the auto start/stop function, which sometimes fails to restart the engine, causing the vehicle to stall unexpectedly at intersections. Complaints frequently mention problems with battery performance and rodent damage due to soy-coated wires, leading to repeated battery failures and the need for wire replacements. Additionally, multiple owners describe issues with power outlets and AC functionality, with the vehicle failing to accelerate and dashboard service lights activating intermittently. These issues appear at low mileages, with some vehicles experiencing problems as early as 16 miles. Safety implications are evident in the reports of vehicles stalling in traffic and exposed electrical conductors potentially leading to electrical hazards.
POWER TRAIN
6 complaintsOwners of the 2024 Nissan Pathfinder frequently report issues related to the power train, specifically involving transmission malfunctions and shifting problems. Common symptoms include vehicles stalling, failing to accelerate, or unexpectedly shifting into neutral, particularly during critical driving situations like highway speeds or on hills. Complaints often mention the vehicle making abnormal sounds, jerking motions, and experiencing loss of power, with mileage as low as approximately 3,500 miles. Safety concerns are evident, as several owners describe scenarios where these issues occur in traffic or on highways, posing potential risks. Prospective buyers should be aware of these patterns and the potential for unresolved transmission problems.
ENGINE
4 complaintsOwners report several recurring issues with the 2024 Nissan Pathfinder's engine, including coolant infiltration leading to catastrophic engine failure and the need for a full engine replacement, typically occurring around 35,855 miles. Complaints frequently mention unexpected engine shutdowns while driving, often at speeds of 40-55 mph, requiring towing for repairs. Another common issue involves the vehicle's transmission failing and shifting into reverse unexpectedly, even at low mileage, such as 1,198 miles. Safety implications include sudden loss of power and control, posing risks to occupants and other road users. Buyers should be aware of these potential issues, especially in vehicles with similar mileage ranges.
STRUCTURE (3 complaints)
STRUCTURE
3 complaintsOwners report several structural issues with the 2024 Nissan Pathfinder. One common complaint involves rainwater entering the vehicle, particularly on the left and right sides and the middle console, leading to a moldy odor and potential interior damage. This issue is noted at approximately 2,000 miles. Another issue involves the spontaneous shattering of the tailgate glass without any apparent impact or external cause, resulting in glass debris inside the trunk and driveway. Additionally, some owners describe the driver side view mirror shaking while driving, which they feel makes lane changes unsafe. These issues could have implications for vehicle safety and usability, particularly concerning visibility and water damage.
SERVICE BRAKES (3 complaints)
SERVICE BRAKES
3 complaintsOwners of the 2024 Nissan Pathfinder frequently report issues with the rear brakes, specifically noting premature wear. Multiple complaints describe the rear brake pads wearing down significantly faster than the front pads, with some owners experiencing complete wear at approximately 12,000 to 26,000 miles. Symptoms include unprompted, aggressive application of the rear brakes due to a possible defect in the Electronic Brake Force Distribution system, leading to uneven wear and potential safety risks from sudden deceleration. These issues highlight a pattern of rear brake problems that may pose a safety concern for potential buyers.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER (2 complaints)
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
2 complaintsOwners of the 2024 Nissan Pathfinder report issues with the driver's side view mirror, specifically that it constantly shakes while driving. Complaints frequently mention that this shaking makes it difficult or impossible to use the mirror effectively, impacting the ability to make safe lane changes and potentially leading to near-accidents. The shaking is described as severe enough to cause discomfort or nausea when looking at the mirror. These issues suggest potential safety implications, as the inability to rely on the side view mirror could contribute to unsafe driving conditions. No specific mileage range is noted, indicating the problem may occur at various points in vehicle use.
STEERING (2 complaints)
STEERING
2 complaintsOwners of the 2024 Nissan Pathfinder report issues related to steering, primarily involving groove wander with the Original Equipment Bridgestone Alenza Sport A/S tires. This condition causes the vehicle to involuntarily follow road grooves, particularly on highways, impacting driver control and safety. Additionally, a separate issue involves the vehicle unexpectedly shifting into first gear while showing it is in drive, leading to stalling and requiring the driver to restart the vehicle. These incidents occur shortly after purchase, and owners express concern over potential safety risks, such as loss of control and engine damage.
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE (2 complaints)
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
2 complaintsOwners of the 2024 Nissan Pathfinder report issues with the forward collision avoidance system, primarily involving malfunctioning sensors and unexpected deactivation of cruise control. One complaint details a right wheel sensor inaccurately reading high speeds, leading to multiple warning lights and potential braking risks, particularly after an engine replacement. Another owner describes the collision warning system disengaging cruise control unexpectedly at highway speeds without any forward traffic, causing abrupt slowing and close proximity of trailing vehicles. These issues typically occur shortly after dealership visits or repairs and present potential safety risks such as sudden braking and loss of speed control.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL (2 complaints)
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
2 complaintsOwners of the 2024 Nissan Pathfinder report issues related to vehicle speed control, specifically involving the gas pedal. One complaint describes the gas pedal snapping off during acceleration while merging onto a parkway, resulting in the inability to accelerate and requiring the driver to pull over to the shoulder. The pedal is described as a plastic component that broke without warning. Another complaint highlights repeated engine failures on highways over a weekend, with concerns that the issue may be more serious than initially diagnosed. These reports suggest potential safety implications, as they involve loss of control and unexpected vehicle behavior. No specific mileage or timeline patterns are identified in the complaints.
TIRES (1 complaints)
TIRES
1 complaintThe Original Equipment (OE) Bridgestone Alenza Sport A/S 255/50R20 105H M+S tires on my brand new 2024 Nissan Pathfinder suffer from groove wander on roads in which grooves are cut into them to mitigate hydroplaning in rainy conditions. The geometric design, tread design incompatibility, or structural irregularities of these tires cause severe groove wander and impair safe handling. Groove wander causes the vehicle to follow road grooves involuntarily, which is a handling defect that compromise driver control. Groove wander causes the vehicle to rapidly swerve from side to side, and in the case of my vehicle, feel as if the rear end is "fishtailing" and raising off the pavement. This condition is a safety hazard, especially at highway and interstate speeds or in inclement weather. Groove wander does not allow the vehicle to operate safely, causing the driver to constantly correct the involuntary path of the vehicle on such roads. The driver's and others' safety are at risk if the driver is unable to quickly correct the path of the vehicle and keep the vehicle in the lane of traffic to avoid lane departure into another vehicle or object. The problem has not been reproduced or confirmed by both the Nissan dealer from I bought the vehicle and a local Bridgestone/Firestone service center because both are unwilling to do so. Both have refused to accompany me on a test drive on Interstate 90 where this occurs because this road is approximately 12 miles one way from their locations (their claim it is too far away; if it was only 5 miles, they would be willing to do this). The tires have been visually inspected by both companies, and naturally both have found nothing wrong with the tires (normal wear at this time). Visually inspecting he tires will not diagnose the issue, and a test ride needs to be completed to document this issue - again both Nissan and Bridgestone refuse to do this. Other brand tires on other vehicles I own do not suffer groove wander.
When Do 2024 Nissan Pathfinder Problems Start?
Based on owner complaint patterns, here's when common issues tend to appear.
Best & Worst Nissan Pathfinder Years
Comprehensive reliability analysis based on NHTSA data, owner complaints, and historical performance.
Best Nissan Pathfinder Years to Buy
Based on reliability index scoreThe best Nissan Pathfinder year is 2026 with a reliability score of 82/100, rated excellent. Other strong picks include 2025 (78/100) and 2020 (78/100).
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. Also avoid 2018 (68/100).
Nissan Pathfinder Reliability Score Trend
Nissan Pathfinder reliability has improved in recent years, with newer models scoring an average of 77/100 compared to 71/100 for older years.
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 |
| 2026 | 82/100 | Excellent |
Nissan Pathfinder Reliability Compared to Other Years
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 2024 Nissan Pathfinder reliable?
What are the most common problems with the 2024 Nissan Pathfinder?
How many recalls does the 2024 Nissan Pathfinder have?
Is the 2024 Nissan Pathfinder expensive to maintain?
Don’t buy a 2024 Nissan Pathfinder without checking its VIN first — hidden accidents, title issues, and open recalls could cost you thousands.
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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.
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