Last updated: 2026-04-20

2025 Nissan Pathfinder
RELIABILITY SCORE: 78/100 (GOOD)

2025 Nissan Pathfinder Reliability Report

The 2025 Nissan Pathfinder scores 78/100 ("Good"). With 1 recall and 25 owner complaints, reliability is acceptable but not class-leading.

Recalls

1

Complaints

25

Complaint Rate

2.6per 10,000 sold

Est. Repair Cost

$542

Annual Fuel Cost

$2,600–$3,300

Detailed Score Breakdown

Complaint Severity77/100

Component-weighted complaints normalized by sales volume

Repair Costs70/100

Independent repair cost ratings

Recall Impact88/100

Recall count weighted by severity

Issue Diversity81/100

Breadth of reported problem categories

The Verdict

Consider

Acceptable reliability — worth considering with a pre-purchase inspection.

Top Issues to Watch

  • ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (4)
  • POWER TRAIN (4)
  • ENGINE (2)

Should You Buy the 2025 Nissan Pathfinder?

At 78/100, the 2025 Nissan Pathfinder lands in "Good" territory — acceptable, but not class-leading.

Owners log 25 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 (4). An extended warranty is worth pricing out.

Compared to the 2026 Nissan Pathfinder. See also the 2024 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: Several issues with the 2025 Nissan Pathfinder's electrical system (4 complaints)
  • POWER TRAIN issues reported (4 complaints)

Compare 2025 Nissan Pathfinder With

Common Problem Categories

Safety

LOW RISK
  • 1 manufacturer recall issued

Other

HIGH RISK
  • ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (4)
  • POWER TRAIN (4)

See detailed breakdown by component ↓

Recall Overview

1

recall on record

The 2025 Nissan Pathfinder carries 1 recall — a low count. Authorized dealers repair any open recall free of charge, regardless of warranty status.

NHTSA.gov →

Complaint Breakdown

2.6

per 10,000 sold

Segment avg: 4.1

LowAvgHigh
Low

Safety Incidents

2

Crashes

0

Fires

2

Injuries

0

Deaths

NHTSA 5/5 Stars

Data sourced from NHTSA complaint filings and manufacturer recall notices. Complaint narratives are owner-reported.

2025 Nissan Pathfinder Recall Details

1 recall has been issued for the 2025 Nissan Pathfinder. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.

25V1730002025-03-19

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2025 Murano, Pathfinder, and INFINITI QX60 vehicles. One or both front brake caliper assemblies may have reduced strength and could break. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 135, "Light Vehicle Brake Systems."

Consequence

A broken front brake caliper can cause a loss of front brake function, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy

Dealers will inspect and replace the front brake caliper assemblies as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed May 9, 2025. Owners may contact Nissan's customer service at 800-647-7261 or INFINITI's customer service at 1-800-662-6200. Nissan's numbers for this recall are PD137 and PD138.

VIN History Report

Buying a used 2025 Nissan Pathfinder? Check its history first

Every 2025 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.

Affiliate link — we may earn a commission at no cost to you. No VIN? Just hit “Check VIN” to look one up.

  • Accidents
  • Open Recalls
  • Title History
  • Odometer Rollback

2025 Nissan Pathfinder NHTSA Safety Ratings

Overall Safety Rating

Overall safety rating: 5 out of 5
Crash Test Results by Configuration (expand)

Gas Powertrain

Driver: 4/5Passenger: 4/5

Rollover risk: 16.9%

Safety Technologies

Dynamic Head Restraints (Not Available)Head Restraint (Driver, Front Passenger, 2nd row, 3rd row)Advanced Belt Feature (Not Available)Seat Belt Pretensioners (Driver, Front Passenger, 2nd row)Seat Belt Load Limiters (Driver, Front Passenger, 2nd row)Adjustable Upper Belt Anchorage (Driver, Front Passenger)Seat Belt Reminder System (Driver, Front Passenger, 2nd row, 3rd row)Frontal Air Bag (Driver, Front Passenger)Head Protection (Driver, Front Passenger, 2nd row, 3rd row)Torso and/or Pelvis Protection (Driver, Front Passenger, 2nd row)Knee (Driver, Front Passenger)Additional Air Bags (Front Center Airbag)Meets Side Air Bag Out-of-Position Requirements (Yes)Unattended Child Reminder Direct Sensing System (No)LATCH Locations (2nd row, 3rd row)Safety Power Windows (Anti-Pinch) (Standard)Safety Power Windows (Anti-Pinch) locations (Driver, Front Passenger, 2nd row, Roof)
View full safety data on NHTSA.gov →

Nissan PathfinderRepair Costs & Maintenance

Maintenance Rating

3.5Maintenance rating: 3.5 out of 5

Based 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

Pathfinder
$542
Category Avg
$573
All Vehicles
$652

Category-level averages derived from publicly available industry reports (AAA, CarMD). Model-level estimates produced by Auto Reliability Index.

MPG & 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 2025 EPA label cycle.

Gas trims
TrimDriveTrans.CityHwyCombFuel Cost
Pathfinder 2WD 3.5L 6-cylFront-Wheel DriveAutomatic (S9)202723$2,600
Pathfinder 4WD 3.5L 6-cyl4-Wheel DriveAutomatic (S9)212723$2,600
Pathfinder 4WD Platinum 3.5L 6-cyl4-Wheel DriveAutomatic (S9)202522$2,700
Pathfinder 4WD Rock Creek 3.5L 6-cyl4-Wheel DriveAutomatic (S9)202321$3,300

Used Buying Checklist

Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing a 2025 Nissan Pathfinder.

  • Test brakes for responsiveness and unintended acceleration

  • Inspect sunroof and rear window for signs of stress or potential shattering

  • Check backup camera for lag when shifting to reverse

  • Verify airbag system functionality, especially after any repairs

  • Ensure all warning lights are off during a test drive

  • Test drive at highway speeds to check for steering stability and mirror vibrations

2025 Nissan Pathfinder Common Problems by Component

25 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.

4
4
3
6
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (4)POWER TRAIN (4)UNKNOWN OR OTHER (3)ENGINE (2)AIR BAGS (2)STRUCTURE (2)VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL (1)VISIBILITY/WIPER (1)Other (6)

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

4 complaints

Owners report several issues with the 2025 Nissan Pathfinder's electrical system. Commonly mentioned problems include a lagging backup camera that displays a still image for 2-3 seconds before updating to a live feed, which has led to near-miss incidents while parking. Additionally, some owners experience malfunctions with the "idle stop" feature, which dealers have attributed to an unresolved electrical issue related to power supply conditions. Other complaints describe dashboard warning lights for systems such as cruise control and automatic emergency braking (AEB), with one owner reporting a dangerous incident where the vehicle stopped accelerating while crossing railroad tracks. These issues occur soon after purchase, indicating potential early reliability concerns.

4 complaints total

POWER TRAIN

4 complaints

Owners of the 2025 Nissan Pathfinder frequently report issues related to the power train, particularly problems with the vehicle unexpectedly shifting into low gear and failing to disengage, often requiring the engine to be restarted to resolve. These incidents are described as occurring intermittently over a period of months, with one owner experiencing this issue six times in 2.5 months. Some complaints also highlight unintended acceleration and braking failures, with one owner noting acceleration past 73 mph when attempting to brake. Safety implications include near-collisions and one instance of a vehicle stalling on railroad tracks, posing a significant risk of accidents. These issues are reported at low mileage, with one vehicle having less than 2,800 miles at the time of the incident.

4 complaints total

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

3 complaints

Owners report issues with the glass components of the 2025 Nissan Pathfinder, with multiple complaints describing spontaneous glass breakage. Specifically, one complaint details the rear glass shattering while the vehicle was stationary, and another describes the panoramic sunroof glass exploding while driving, causing glass shards to fall into the passenger compartment. Additionally, a separate issue involves the windshield causing double vision, particularly noticeable at night. These problems are reported on new vehicles, indicating they may occur soon after purchase. Safety implications include potential harm from falling glass and visibility issues due to windshield distortion, although no injuries have been reported.

3 complaints total
ENGINE (2 complaints)

ENGINE

2 complaints

Owners of the 2025 Nissan Pathfinder report issues with sudden loss of motive power, particularly when driving uphill or in cold conditions. Symptoms frequently include the vehicle entering a reduced speed mode and difficulties with restarting, along with illuminated warning lights. These problems often occur at low mileages, around 250 miles, as noted in one report. Safety implications are significant, as the loss of power can create hazardous situations in traffic, requiring external assistance. The issues appear unresolved in some cases, with dealers unable to provide a definitive solution, which may be a concern for potential buyers.

2 complaints total
AIR BAGS (2 complaints)

AIR BAGS

2 complaintsSafety-related

Owners of the 2025 Nissan Pathfinder report issues with airbag non-deployment during crashes, with two incidents resulting in injuries. Complaints frequently mention airbags failing to deploy despite significant impacts, including head-on collisions and multi-car accidents. One owner reports this issue occurring at approximately 5,000 miles. Safety implications are significant, as both complaints involve crashes and injuries, including a traumatic brain injury. These reports suggest potential airbag system failures that prospective buyers should be aware of, particularly in the context of crash safety.

2 complaints total2 crashes2 injuries
STRUCTURE (2 complaints)

STRUCTURE

2 complaints

Owners report issues with the glass components of the 2025 Nissan Pathfinder, specifically involving the sunroof and rear window. Complaints frequently mention spontaneous shattering of these glass parts, with one owner experiencing the sunroof exploding while driving at highway speeds and another describing the rear window shattering while the vehicle was parked and unattended. These incidents occur in new vehicles, with no prior signs of impact or external force, and result in significant glass debris either inside or outside the vehicle. The potential safety implications include the risk of injury from flying glass or compromised vehicle security if the shattering occurs unexpectedly. Buyers should be aware of these glass-related issues when considering this model.

2 complaints total
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL (1 complaints)

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

1 complaint
2026-01-25

Vehicle stalled on highway during extremely low outside temperatures and snow covered roadway. Engine malfuction, reduced power error code briefly appeared followed by a complete engine stall. Vechicle had no power and immediately needed to be steered to safety. Near whiteout conditions lead to an extremely dangerous situation, nearly causing a nearly collision. Prior to this incident, the vehicle had been at the dealership for a similar issue without complete engine stall. Dealer could not diagnose issue as no OBD codes remain after engine failure. This is an extremely dangerous vehicle. Immediate action is required.

VISIBILITY/WIPER (1 complaints)

VISIBILITY/WIPER

1 complaint
2025-11-22

I bought a 2025 Nissan Pathfinder Platinum and the driver mirror shakes really bad going over 30 MPH. I have reached out to Nissan of North America and they said this is normal. I have talked to a master mechanic with Nissan and this is a well known issue. My wife and I test drove all the Platinum models at our local dealership and they all do this some worse than others. This is a massive safety issue especially when driving down the highway it gets ever worse and if you hit any kind of bump you cant see clearly out the mirror.

SERVICE BRAKES (1 complaints)

SERVICE BRAKES

1 complaint
2025-12-21

VIN [XXX] Date of Incident: December 21, 2025 Location: I-295 South, merging onto I-95 South, Jacksonville, FL Vehicle: 2025 Nissan Pathfinder, VIN [XXX] Owner: [XXX] Witness: [XXX] Phone Number: [XXX] Email Address: [XXX] Incident Description: While driving on I-295 South, merging onto I-95 South at approximately 65 mph, the vehicle experienced unintended acceleration. The gas pedal became completely stuck to the floor, and I had to keep my foot on the brakes to try to slow the vehicle. Every time I lifted my foot off the brakes, the car would accelerate again. I had to gently pat the brakes repeatedly to slow the vehicle. Once I was finally able to slow the vehicle and bring it to a stop while keeping my foot on the brakes, I tried to shift the car into Park, but it would not go into Park and the gas pedal remained stuck to the floor. I had to turn off the engine completely before the gas pedal released and the car could be shifted into Park. My husband, Alan Moore, was in the car and witnessed all of these events. This incident created a life-threatening situation. The vehicle had previously been taken to the dealership for fuel consumption issues, but no problem was found at that time. Additional Information: The vehicle is unsafe to drive, and I am requesting immediate escalation to Nissan North America for buyback or replacement, as well as a loaner vehicle while this matter is under review. VIN: [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE (1 complaints)

FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE

1 complaint
2025-10-13

The contact owns a 2025 Nissan Pathfinder. The contact stated that while driving approximately 70 MPH, there were audible beeps, and a message flashed on the instrument cluster that the “Forward Collision Avoidance” system had failed. The contact stated that the vehicle immediately started to slow down, and the cruise control disengaged. The contact had taken the vehicle to a local dealer, where it was diagnosed, and it was determined that the front radar needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired; however, the contact stated that the failure reoccurred. The contact took the vehicle back to the same dealer to be diagnosed. The vehicle was diagnosed, and it was determined that the front lane departure camera needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. The contact was informed that the Forward Collision Avoidance warning light could become activated while driving into direct sunlight. The manufacturer was informed of the failure and informed the contact that the system was operating as designed. The failure mileage was approximately 9,000.

When Do 2025 Nissan Pathfinder Problems Start?

Based on owner complaint patterns, here's when common issues tend to appear.

250–1,000 milesEngine power loss
Less than 2,800 milesPower train issues
5,000 milesAirbag non-deployment

Best & Worst Nissan Pathfinder Years

Comprehensive reliability analysis based on NHTSA data, owner complaints, and historical performance.

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).

Top Pick
78
Good

2025

(Current Model)

1Recalls
25Complaints
78
Good

2020

0Recalls
43Complaints
74
Good

2024

2Recalls
38Complaints

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.

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.

Nissan Pathfinder reliability scores by year
YearScoreRating
201868/100Good
201971/100Good
202078/100Good
202266/100Good
202374/100Good
202474/100Good
202578/100Good

Nissan Pathfinder Reliability Compared to Other Years

Reliability scores compared across model years
YearScorevs Prior YearRatingRecallsComplaints
202675/100 (predicted)Predicted01
2025(selected)78/100+4Good125
202474/1000Good238
202374/100+8Good186
202266/100-12Good5119
202078/100+7Good043
201971/100+3Good271
201868/100Good374

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the 2025 Nissan Pathfinder reliable?
The 2025 Nissan Pathfinder has a "Good" reliability rating with a score of 78/100. It is reasonably reliable with 1 recall and 25 owner complaints, though some issues have been reported.
What are the most common problems with the 2025 Nissan Pathfinder?
The most commonly reported problems with the 2025 Nissan Pathfinder include: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (4 complaints), POWER TRAIN (4 complaints), UNKNOWN OR OTHER (3 complaints), ENGINE (2 complaints), AIR BAGS (2 complaints). These issues were identified from owner complaints analyzed by Auto Reliability Index.
How many recalls does the 2025 Nissan Pathfinder have?
The 2025 Nissan Pathfinder has 1 recall on record. Recalls are safety or compliance fixes issued by the manufacturer and repaired at no cost at authorized dealerships.
Is the 2025 Nissan Pathfinder expensive to maintain?
The 2025 Nissan Pathfinder has estimated annual repair costs of $542/year, which is $31 less than the midsize SUVs average of $573. With a reliability score of 78/100, some repairs may be needed, but overall ownership costs are manageable.

Don’t buy a 2025 Nissan Pathfinder without checking its VIN first — hidden accidents, title issues, and open recalls could cost you thousands.

Affiliate link — we may earn a commission at no cost to you.

Look Up a VIN →

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

1

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.

2

Repair Costs

Independent reliability ratings based on repair frequency, average repair costs, and severity of typical repairs for each model.

3

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.

4

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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