2020 Nissan Pathfinder Complaints

UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE — Filed 08/30/2026

Just bought this used car this summer and worked for about 2 months then had to repair a Failing Radiator/Condenser Cooling Fan Assembly. Seems like the same class action issue from the previous versions. Hoping this can be another recall. It seems like the same defective part that was used.

POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE — Filed 04/24/2026

The car stalled three times and died in active traffic. The breakdown was so hazardous that the police department had to intervene and push the car out of the road and had to tow the car more than 3 times and was at the Nissan Dealership for over one week. I paid Nissan dealership $5,000 to repair this specific, life-threatening defect, but the car returned to me unfixed.The vehicle is unsafe and has been sitting parked at my house for 3 months because I cannot safely drive it. It keeps stalling, dying in traffic and making a loud grind noise. I need help.

ENGINE — Filed 07/17/2026

After only 110,000 miles, my local Nissan service center (Advantage Nissan, 5101 Auto Center Blvd, Bremerton, WA 98312) states that the timing chain is loose. The repair estimate is in excess of $6000. The expense is because it requires removal of the engine to effect repairs. Research reveals that timing chain issues at 100000+ miles are common for this vehicle. It is the expectation that the timing chain system last the lifespan of the vehicle. The result is that owners pay more than half of the original price simply for maintenance because of Nissan's choice to use substandard parts in a critical system, a fact they learned with earlier models where timing chain issues and recalls occured. I'm retired and can't afford to maintain this vehicle by spending $6000 every 100000 miles.

POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER — Filed 09/03/2020

A few months after purchase, the power cut off on me. Then it happened again the following year. Then the screen for backing up started going on and off. Then I started feeling like the car was loosing power. In the last 2 years the power cutting off has occurred 3 more times and the rear screen camera has started glitching more where it goes out when switching in reverse.

ENGINE — Filed 05/18/2026

The vehicle has developed a persistent and progressively worsening rattling noise from the engine during cold starts, along with intermittent rough operation. The symptoms are consistent with a malfunction or defect in the engine timing chain system, including possible timing chain stretch, timing chain tensioner failure, or related internal engine components. This condition presents a serious safety concern because the timing chain controls engine valve timing. A failure or severe degradation of this system could result in sudden engine stalling or complete engine failure while driving, increasing the risk of a crash without warning, particularly in traffic or at highway speeds. The issue began as an intermittent startup rattle and has steadily progressed in frequency and severity. No consistent warning lights were present in the early stages, which may delay driver awareness of an impending failure condition. The vehicle has been inspected by a dealership service department, and the concern was acknowledged, but no repair or corrective action has been performed. The condition remains unresolved and continues to progress. Based on owner reports and service feedback for similar vehicles equipped with this engine, this issue appears to reflect a potential widespread defect pattern affecting the timing chain and/or tensioner system in this engine family, rather than an isolated incident. Multiple reports describe similar symptoms occurring around similar mileage ranges, suggesting a possible systemic reliability defect. The vehicle is currently still operable but is operating with a known and worsening engine defect that could result in catastrophic engine failure without warning.

BACK OVER PREVENTION — Filed 04/15/2026

The back-up camera and display settings image is no longer visible and the dashboard indicates that it is off. The camera is black and does not display anything nor does it provides information that you are backing up. The safety of drivers and others are at risk. As such, the vehicle fails to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 111, "Rear Visibility."

TIRES — Filed 03/14/2026

See attached document for complaint.

AIR BAGS — Filed 02/17/2026

Airbag needs replacing at 60,000 mile due to TSB# NTB19-07-1D

POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE — Filed 03/01/2026

While driving, the vehicle experienced sudden and complete loss of throttle response, resulting in little to no acceleration. This occurred in active traffic and created a dangerous situation where the vehicle could not maintain speed or safely move out of traffic. The vehicle has been serviced multiple times by Nissan of Kenosha, including a full transmission replacement under warranty. Despite these repairs, the same throttle failure has occurred repeatedly, including within hours of being returned as “repaired.” Most recently, the throttle failed again while driving on a public street, and I was only able to move the vehicle into a driveway with minimal acceleration. The vehicle is currently not drivable and remains unsafe to operate. The dealership has not resolved the issue and has released the vehicle multiple times in an unsafe condition. This is an ongoing safety defect involving loss of acceleration and vehicle control.

ENGINE — Filed 02/01/2026

I own a 2020 Nissan Pathfinder with approximately 55,000 miles. The vehicle repeatedly failed Indiana emissions testing because the oxygen sensor monitor would not set to “ready,” despite multiple complete drive cycles and no check‑engine light or stored fault codes. A local shop performed diagnostics and found no issues. They reported that another 2020 Pathfinder came in the following week with the exact same problem. My vehicle was ultimately sent to a Nissan dealership, where they determined the upstream oxygen sensor had failed in a way that prevented the ECM from running the emissions monitor, yet did not trigger any diagnostic trouble codes. The repair required full sensor replacement at a cost of $1,450, not covered under warranty. The failure mode is concerning because: • The vehicle gives no warning to the driver. • The ECM blocks emissions readiness indefinitely. • The issue appears to be occurring in multiple 2020 Pathfinders. • Owners cannot legally renew registration without passing emissions. This may indicate a defective oxygen sensor or ECM logic issue affecting 2020 Pathfinders. I am filing this complaint so NHTSA can track the pattern and determine whether a broader defect investigation is warranted. Vehicle Details: • Year/Make/Model: 2020 Nissan Pathfinder • Mileage at failure: ~55,000 • No warning lights, no stored codes • Emissions monitor would not complete • Dealer confirmed sensor failure and replaced part Safety Concern: A failed emissions component that does not trigger a fault code may indicate a defect in the emissions control system or ECM logic. The lack of diagnostic warnings prevents owners from knowing there is a problem until the vehicle fails emissions testing.

SUSPENSION,POWER TRAIN,ENGINE — Filed 04/07/2025

On April 7, 2025, the dealership attempted to sell me a vehicle that was experiencing an engine condition running too lean. I declined that vehicle due to safety concerns. On April 8, 2025, the salesperson contacted me again and stated that a different vehicle had been located that would meet my needs. At that time, I was nine months pregnant and urgently needed a vehicle with third-row seating for my children. The dealership was aware of my condition and urgency. I took delivery of the vehicle that day. Unexpectedly, I went into labor the following day and gave birth shortly after. Because of childbirth and medical recovery, I did not immediately operate the vehicle extensively or discover the safety issues. After being discharged from the hospital, around April 11, 2025, I began using the vehicle and discovered serious mechanical problems that made the vehicle unsafe to operate. The vehicle exhibited engine-related issues and a major suspension defect that affected vehicle stability and safe operation. The vehicle was returned to the dealership, where repairs were performed and parts were ordered, confirming that the defects existed prior to or at the time of delivery. Despite the vehicle being driven a significant distance immediately before sale, the dealership did not perform a basic oil change or standard post-delivery inspection. Operating a vehicle under these conditions raises concerns for engine reliability, overheating, and failure. The suspension defect created risk of loss of control, and the engine condition created risk of drivability issues. These conditions posed a safety risk to the driver and passengers, including a newborn child. The vehicle remains available for inspection if requested.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,STRUCTURE — Filed 01/09/2026

Passenger door unlock/lock does not work at all unless done manually by hand and the driver door is beginning to do the same as well. This has begun a year ago. The lift gate button broke off over a year ago as well and is only connected by cables and today (January 9, 2026) while trying to open the trunk the entire silver trim piece flew off towards me. The manual trunk (ours is not automatic) is a poor design and is not made safely to push the trunk button and pull up easily.

ENGINE — Filed 12/03/2025

My 202 pathfinder started misfiring with sever knocking, Nissan said there is metal saving in my oil which is caused because of the long block engine failure and timing chain loosening. I had my oil changes done every 4K, and I also had the fluids flushed twice in 5 years because of excessive build up. How does this happen.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE — Filed 07/07/2025

Electrical issues with my car including AC. Timing belt chain went and gasket covers. Continuous issue with this vehicle.

FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE — Filed 07/04/2025

Unknown

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM — Filed 04/17/2025

Driver side door lock / unlock does not work with keyFOB. All other doors lock / unlock but driver side door has to be locked / unlocked with physical key.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM — Filed 06/02/2025

remote power locks door driver and passenger side will not open or close with remote fob leaving door open for anyone to open door when i am not around, or when at a stop. someone can open door and get in.

STRUCTURE — Filed 02/14/2025

Hood 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!

UNKNOWN OR OTHER — Filed 10/05/2022

The rear view camera ceases to work. It may work for a few days, then not work for a few days. This has been occurring since prior to the end of the warranty period. Dealer would not inspect as it was working when the vehicle was taken to the dealer.

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,TRACTION CONTROL SYSTEM,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE — Filed 01/27/2025

The contact owns a 2020 Nissan Pathfinder. The contact stated that while the vehicle was stationary, the ABS, traction control, and the Forward Collision Avoidance warning lights illuminated. The contact turned off the vehicle and waited for several minutes before restarting the vehicle, and the warning lights were off. The vehicle was not taken to be diagnosed. The dealer was not made aware of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 87,000.

POWER TRAIN — Filed 11/20/2024

CVT Transmission Judder

SERVICE BRAKES,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE — Filed 01/02/2024

My 2020 Nissan Pathfinder SL has once again developed problems with the Emergency forward Brake System. The ABS AEB was replaced in January 2024 at Southwest Nissan in Weatherford Tx . Today, [XXX] the AEB light came back on. This is also the second time I have had to replace the Brake light located under the brake pedal. This is the second time I am reporting this problem to NHTSA. Research on several car repair sites shows this is a common problem with the 2020 Nissan Pathfinder, but NHTSA has failed to issue a recall. The original cost for repair at the dealership was over $4000. Please review and confirm problems with this model and year. This is an ongoing safety issue. Southwest Nissan Weatherford, Tx was where my car was repaired in January 2024. They will be able to provide all documentation. The mechanic also stated in writing that this was a common occurrence with the Pathfinder. Thank you, [XXX] [XXX] [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

SUSPENSION,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,SERVICE BRAKES — Filed 09/01/2022

I have a 2020 Nissan Pathfinder SL with under 70k miles. I had an awful squeal start, upon stopping. I had a private shop say I needed brakes, pads and rotors. And this began the issue. This was in 22-23. It is currently Oct 24, and I have had 3 sets of brakes pads and rotors. When this began the dealership told me my brakes were wearing and near needing replacement. So I had been alerted by them initially. There are zero warning lamps. Vehicle is available for inspection anytime.

SUSPENSION — Filed 09/01/2024

I've replaced both CV axles, all brakes, and had service completed with the wheel hubs. Still get a grinding noise located at the front wheels.

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM — Filed 12/07/2023

Car 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.