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2015
New 2026
Used 2025 2024 2023 2022 2020 2019 2018 2017 2016 2015 2014 2013 2012 2011 2010 2009 2008 2007 2006 2005 2004 2003 2002 2001 2000

Nissan Pathfinder

EPA MPG: 21 mpg
RECALL ALERT:
There are 6 recalls on this vehicle. Learn More.
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Reliability

Overall Reliability

The 2015 Pathfinder is less reliable than other cars from the same model year.

The 2015 Nissan Pathfinder has been recalled 6 times by NHTSA. View Recalls
Most Common Trouble Spots
Common Trouble Spot
Common Trouble Spot
See all 2015 Potential Trouble Spots

Owner Reported Trouble Spots

The Reliability score is based on our latest subscriber survey of 2015 Nissan Pathfinder owners. The owner comments describe problems respondents experienced with this vehicle.

Climate System

AC compressor, blower (fan) motor, condenser, evaporator, heater system, automatic climate system, electrical failure, refrigerant leakage.

What Owners Say

A/C compressor

""The AC blew, but the air was not cold. I had a leak and they repaired the leak, but Sat I need a new compressor. For now its holding the charge.""

Anonymous, FL (2015 Nissan Pathfinder SV 3.5-L V6)

"My mechanic found a problem with the unit shortly after I purchased the vehicle. the unit was replaced."

Anonymous A., (2015 Nissan Pathfinder SV 3.5-L V6)
Blower (fan) motor

""AC works fine on short trips to grocery store and such. On long 3 hour drive to Birmingham, fan does not pump the air, though vents feel cool or cold. Turning off the AC for five to ten minutes seems to work, initially the fan comes on, blows "leftover" cold air for a while before it gets warm again, then turning on the AC and it works okay for a while, until we have to repeat the process.""

Anonymous, AL (2015 Nissan Pathfinder SL 3.5-L V6)

"The bearings on the electric blower motor went out and the motor had to be replaced. Problem was that the replacement motor was from a different manufacturer and required a brand new controller. VERY BIG EXPENSE!!!"

Anonymous, IL (2015 Nissan Pathfinder SL 3.5-L V6)
Heater system

""The heater would work for about 5 minutes at times, then would slow down coming through the vents. Have not yet looked into why this is happening. The A/C compressor was replaced shortly after purshasing the vehicle in January-2025.""

Anonymous A., (2015 Nissan Pathfinder SV 3.5-L V6)
Refrigerant leaks

"Vehicle had AC lines that needed replacing."

Anonymous, ON (2015 Nissan Pathfinder Platinum 3.5-L V6)
Load more

Transmission Minor

Gear selector and linkage, transmission computer, transmission sensor or solenoid, clutch adjustment, rough shifting, slipping transmission, leaks.

What Owners Say

Slipping transmission

"3 years ago it began slipping and they recommended a complete fluid flush/replacement. It happened again last year and we had it flushed/replaced again. Well ... it's slipping again."

Anonymous, IL (2015 Nissan Pathfinder SL 3.5-L V6)

"2018 I had a couple of situation where transmission went into standby mode and wouldn't move. Issue couldn't be repeated at Nissan Service so no repair was done. In 2022 Nissan had a recall for transsmission repair if 7 year/84K miles. I had exceeded the mileage range but based on my earlier service call within the mileage range. Nissan paid 60% of the recall cost."

Anonymous, TX (2015 Nissan Pathfinder SL 3.5-L V6)

""Got vehicle at 48k. Started with shuddering between 2nd and 3rd gear at about 75k. Transmission then became hesitant with acceleration. Researched and it turns out CVT transmissions need fluid change every 10k miles. Open transmissions are about every 60k. No education on this from dealer, have to read the manual. Almost had to get new transmission but changing the fluid every 10k has fixed the issue.""

Anonymous, CT (2015 Nissan Pathfinder SL 3.5-L V6)
Transmission sensor or solenoid

"This CVT transmission is less than a year old and already had the same issue as the original equipment. Within 2 weeks of being repaired it started to have the same issues again. Unfortunately the issue is currently random so it cannot be repaired until I can recreate the issue I am having."

Anonymous, TN (2015 Nissan Pathfinder SV 3.5-L V6)
Load more

In-car Electronics

Infotainment system (audio, GPS, phone), rear entertainment system, backup or other camera/sensors, head-up display.

What Owners Say

Display screen freezes up

"Periodically (less than 2 times a month) system freezes and doesnt alow control of phone audio until car is restarted."

Anonymous, TX (2015 Nissan Pathfinder SL 3.5-L V6)
Phone pairing (e.g., Bluetooth)

""Stock radio only connects for phone calls, not for playing music or other medias despite vehicle having video capabilities. Had to get after market work done to connect completely.""

Anonymous, CT (2015 Nissan Pathfinder SL 3.5-L V6)

Engine Electrical

Alternator, starter, hybrid battery replacement, hybrid battery related systems, regular battery, battery cables, engine harness, coil, ignition switch, electronic ignition, spark plugs and wires failure, auto stop/start.

What Owners Say

Heated or cooled seats

"The cooling/heating system of the driver stopped working 7 years ago"

Anonymous, TX (2015 Nissan Pathfinder Platinum 3.5-L V6)

Body Hardware

Windows, locks and latches, doors or sliding doors, tailgate, trunk or hatch, mirrors, seat controls (power or manual), seat belts, sunroof, convertible top, glass defect.

What Owners Say

Locks and latches

""The hood did not close correctly. We received a recall notice. 3 mos. later, we received a letter, scheduled an appt & Nissan resolved the issue.""

Anonymous, NJ (2015 Nissan Pathfinder SL 3.5-L V6)

Drive System

Driveshaft or axle, CV joint, differential, transfer case, four-wheel-drive/all-wheel-drive components, driveline vibration, electrical failure, traction control, electronic stability control.

What Owners Say

Driveline vibration

""On occasion, the car tremors slightly. A mechanic said a wheel is not perfectly round.""

Anonymous, NJ (2015 Nissan Pathfinder SL 3.5-L V6)

Transmission Major

Transmission rebuild or replacement, torque converter, premature clutch replacement.

What Owners Say

Transmission rebuild or replacement

"Had the transmission replaced with a new OEM transmission. In less than a year I started having the same issues that I had with my original one. I spent Thousands of dollars just to have the same issues."

Anonymous, TN (2015 Nissan Pathfinder SV 3.5-L V6)

Exhaust

Muffler, pipes, catalytic converter, exhaust manifold, heat shields, leaks.

What Owners Say

Catalytic converter

"Mechanic says both cats are out and need replacing. Seems to be working fine besides the dash check-engine light, so I just let it go."

Anonymous, OH (2015 Nissan Pathfinder SL 3.5-L V6)

Electrical Accessories

Cruise control, clock, warning lights, body control module, keyless entry, wiper motor or washer, tire pressure monitor, interior or exterior lights, horn, gauges, 12V power plug, USB ports, alarm or security system, remote engine start, heated or cooled seats, heated steering wheel, headlights, automatic headlights, automatic wipers, wireless charging pad.

What Owners Say

Other electrical system problem

"The driver window rolled down but would not roll back up. It was going up and down in short intervals until it went down and stayed down."

Anonymous A., NC (2015 Nissan Pathfinder SL 3.5-L V6)

Engine Major

Engine rebuild or replacement, cylinder head, head gasket, turbocharger or supercharger, timing chain or belt.

Paint/Trim

Paint (fading, chalking, peeling, or cracking), loose interior or exterior trim or moldings, rust.

Suspension/Steering

Shocks or struts, ball joints, tie rods, wheel bearings, alignment, steering linkage (includes rack and pinion), power steering (pumps and hoses, leaks), wheel balance, springs or torsion bars, bushings, electronic or air suspension.

Engine Cooling

Radiator, cooling fan, water pump, thermostat, antifreeze leaks, overheating.

Fuel System/Emissions

Sensors (O₂, or oxygen, sensor), emission-control devices (includes EGR), fuel-injection system, fuel gauge/sender, fuel pump, problems filling up the tank.

Brakes

Premature pad/rotor wear, pulsation or vibration, antilock system, parking brake, master cylinder, calipers, squeaking, brake failure, regenerative braking.

Engine Minor

Accessory belts and pulleys, engine computer, engine mounts, engine knock or ping, fuel leaks, oil leaks.

Noises/Leaks

Squeaks, rattles, wind noises, seals and/or weather stripping, air and water leaks.

2015 SUVs Reliability

This Car
vs. Similar Cars

Nissan vs. Other New Car Brands Reliability

See How Other Brands Stack up
Reliability History
* Redesign year
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06
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14
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Overall Reliability Verdict
POTENTIAL TROUBLE SPOTS
Powertrain
Engine Major
Engine Minor
Engine Cooling
Engine Electrical
Transmission Major
Transmission Minor
Drive System
Fuel System/Emissions
Exhaust
Suspension/Steering
Brakes
Climate System
Build Quality
Electrical Accessories
Body Hardware
Paint/Trim
Noises/Leaks
In-car Electronics
Reliability indicates how models have performed in the past, providing the basis for predicting how the vehicles will hold up in the year ahead. These charts provide the most comprehensive reliability information available to consumers. Based on information received from our latest subscriber survey for about 380,000 vehicles, our reliability history charts give you a rundown on how 2000 through 2025 vehicles are holding up in 20 potential trouble spots, ranging from the engine, transmission, electric motor, EV charging, and brakes, to power equipment and the electrical accessories.

Learn more about car Reliability.

Recalls
PROVIDED BY
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
Jun 13, 2022
An unsecured hood could unexpectedly open while driving, obstructing the driver's view, and increasing the risk of a crash.
Read Recall Details
Summary:
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2013-2016 Pathfinder vehicles. On certain Pathfinder vehicles, the secondary hood latch may malfunction and remain in the unlatched, unsecured, position when the hood is closed.
What should you do:
Dealers will replace the bell crank assembly, free of charge. Owner letters were mailed March 26, 2025. Owners may contact Nissan's customer service at 1-800-867-7669. Nissan's number for this recall are R22A2 R22A3 and R24B7.
For more information:
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.nhtsa.gov.
NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 22V420000
Potential Number of Units Affected: 322671
Hide Recall Details
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING, HYBRID PROPULSION SYSTEM
Oct 04, 2021
A loss of drive power increases the risk of a crash.
Read Recall Details
Summary:
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2014-2015 Nissan Pathfinder Hybrid, 2015-2016 Murano Hybrid, and 2014-2017 INFINITI QX60 Hybrid vehicles. The Hybrid Powertrain Control Module (HPCM) software may shut down the hybrid system and the engine under certain conditions, causing a loss of drive power.
What should you do:
Dealers will reprogram the HPCM software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 31, 2022. Owners may contact Nissan customer service at 1-800-867-7669 or INFINITI customer service at 1-800-662-6200. Nissan's numbers for this recall are R21B4 and R21B5.
For more information:
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.nhtsa.gov.
NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 21V774000
Potential Number of Units Affected: 7634
Hide Recall Details
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
Jan 20, 2021
Continual illumination of the brake lights can prevent other drivers from realizing the vehicle is actually slowing down, increasing the risk of a crash. With the brake override activated, the driver will not be able to accelerate normally, increasing the risk of a crash. The driver can shift the vehicle out of the "PARK" position without depressing the brake, allowing the vehicle to rollaway, increasing the risk of injury.
Read Recall Details
Summary:
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2013-2015 Nissan Pathfinder vehicles. The location of the brake light switch may cause the brake light switch relay to repeatedly open and close. Overtime, this can cause the relay to stick in the "ON" position, with the brake lights remaining illuminated even when the brakes are not applied. Additionally, this may interfere with the brake-shift interlock, allowing the driver to shift the vehicle out of the "Park" position, without depressing the brake pedal.
What should you do:
Nissan will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and, as necessary, either re-install the brake light switch or swap positions with the Automatic Speed Control Device (ASCD) switch; depending on the model year vehicle. In addition, the brake light relay will be replaced with a new one. All repairs will be performed free of charge. The recall began March 1, 2021. Owners may contact Nissan customer service at 1-800-867-7669. Nissan's number for this recall PC786. Note: this recall supersedes 16V-380.
For more information:
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 21V020000
Potential Number of Units Affected: 264431
Hide Recall Details
AIR BAGS
Apr 26, 2016
If the passenger frontal air bag does not deploy as intended in the event of a crash, the passenger is at an increased risk of injury.
Read Recall Details
Summary:
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain model year 2016-2017 Nissan Maxima, 2013-2016 Nissan Altima, NV200, LEAF, Sentra, and Pathfinder, 2014-2016 Nissan NV200 Taxi, Infiniti QX60, QX60 Hybrid, and Q50 Hybrid, 2014-2017 Nissan Rogue and Infiniti Q50, 2015-2016 Nissan Murano, Murano Hybrid, and Chevrolet City Express, 2014-2015 Nissan Pathfinder Hybrid, and 2013 Infiniti JX35 vehicles. In these vehicles, the front seat passenger Occupant Classification System (OCS) may incorrectly classify an adult passenger as a child or classify the seat as empty despite it being occupied. As a result, the passenger frontal air bag may be turned off and not deploy in the event of a crash.
What should you do:
Nissan will notify their owners. Chevrolet City Express owners will be notified by General Motors. Dealers will reprogram the Air Bag Control Unit (ACU) and OCS Electronic Control Unit (ECU) in Altima, Maxima, Murano, Rogue, and Sentra vehicles, and replace the OCS ECU in LEAF, NV200, NV200 Taxi, Pathfinder, Infiniti Q50, JX35, and QX60 and Chevrolet City Express vehicles, free of charge. Interim notices were sent to owners on May 31, 2016. Owners will receive a second notice when remedy parts become available. Owners may contact Nissan customer service at 1-800-867-7669, Infiniti customer service at 1-888-833-3216 or Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020.
For more information:
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 16V244000
Potential Number of Units Affected: 3296947
Hide Recall Details
AIR BAGS
Oct 20, 2015
If the OCS does not detect an adult occupant in the passenger seat, the passenger air bag would be deactivated. Failure of the passenger airbag to deploy during a crash (where deployment is warranted) could increase the risk of injury to the passenger.
Read Recall Details
Summary:
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain model year 2013-2015 Altima and Pathfinder vehicles, 2013-2014 Nissan Sentra vehicles, 2013 Infiniti JX35 vehicles, 2014-2015 Infiniti QX60 vehicles and 2014 Infiniti QX60 Hybrid vehicles. The affected vehicles received an incorrect occupant classification system (OCS) control unit during a repair. These OCS control units may incorrectly classify the front passenger seat as empty, when it is occupied by an adult.
What should you do:
Nissan will notify owners, and dealers will update the OCS software, free of charge. The recall began on November 30, 2015. Owners may contact Nissan at 1-800-647-7261.
For more information:
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 15V681000
Potential Number of Units Affected: 919
Hide Recall Details
SERVICE BRAKES
Jan 14, 2015
The under-torqued fasteners may result in a brake caliper separating from the wheel assembly causing a reduction in braking performance or reduced steering control. These conditions increase the risk of a crash.
Read Recall Details
Summary:
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain model year 2014-2015 Nissan Pathfinder and Infiniti QX60 vehicles manufactured August 14, 2014, to November 5, 2014, and 2014-2015 Nissan Rogue vehicles manufactured August 12, 2014, to November 15, 2014. During the assembly process, the front wheel hub assembly fasteners may not have been properly torqued.
What should you do:
Nissan will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the vehicles and tighten any loose bolts to the proper specification, free of charge. The recall began February 2, 2015. Owners may contact Nissan customer service at 1-800-647-7261.
For more information:
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 15V012000
Potential Number of Units Affected: 893
Hide Recall Details
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