Are there any problems with my Pathfinder truck?

This should be helpful for people browsing the Internet for minor problems/work on their Pathfinder. Updated 1/8/07, added rust details, tension rod problem and edited several inaccuracies. Problems with your fuel and temp gauges are common with the 95 and older trucks.

What causes gauge fluctuations on a Nissan Pathfinder?

Another common cause for gauge fluctuations is a failing alternator. A simple fix for this problem is to find an 8VDC three-pin TO220 type voltage regulator and solder new wires onto it, then use that instead of the original Nissan part. Here is a link that shows exactly what you need and where you can buy one for less than at the dealership.

What to do about wind noise in Nissan Pathfinder?

It is also beneficial to occasionally grease the center window channels inside the doors and inspect everything for problems just in case. If you have the factory sun roof and roof rack, Nissan advises to move the front bar of the rack rearward to reduce wind noise inside the car.

Why are the exhaust manifold studs on my Pathfinder breaking?

WD21 Pathfinders with the VG30i and VG30E engines were built with weak exhaust manifold studs that are prone to breaking because the exhaust manifolds tend to expand unevenly when warming up and cooling down.

Why does my Nissan Pathfinder run so rough?

If an oxygen sensor goes bad, it can make your Pathfinder run too lean (or rich). A super lean running engine will often idle rough. The fuel injection systems job is to atomize the fuel into fine mist.

Can a bad crankshaft sensor cause engine to run rough?

You will feel, and maybe hear, this as a brief stutter in the engine. You might feel that the engine runs rough or vibrates at idle, say, when you’re sitting at a red light. This is similar to the above in that it stems from poor spark timing. As seen with rough idling, sometimes crankshaft position sensor problems are worse at low engine speeds.

What causes a car to run at a rough idle?

A PCV valve leak can cause the air-fuel mixture to run too lean, and this will cause a rough idle. Proper periodic servicing of the PCV valve will prevent this situation from occurring.

Can a lack of spark timing cause an engine to run rough?

Lack of proper spark timing can cause a different problem: one or more of the cylinders may misfire. That is to say combustion may be disrupted. You will feel, and maybe hear, this as a brief stutter in the engine. You might feel that the engine runs rough or vibrates at idle, say, when you’re sitting at a red light.

Why are my steering stops falling off my Pathfinder?

Steering stops keep the front wheels from being turned past a certain point. The steering stops are built with plastic caps, which can fall off or wear out. When they do disappear you have metal-to-metal contact between moving parts.

What’s the problem with the tension rod on Pathfinder?

If the tension rod bushings wear out and allow excessive movement of the rod, the frame-side mounting hole may become elongated or rust away to a significant degree. This is fairly easily fixed by welding on two new bushing cups or just plain flat washers over the top of the old ones.

What causes the ticking noise on a pathfinder?

This causes the infamous “ticking” noise often heard from the front of Pathfinders which quiets down after the manifolds have heated up sufficiently. This applies to all Pathfinders from 1987 through 1995.

What’s the problem with the crossmember on Pathfinder?

Over time, the bolts can loosen, allowing the crossmember to shift slightly every now and then, causing noise from the front end…sometimes alarmingly nasty sounding. The fix is to re-torque the crossmember bolts.

How much does a pathfinder diagnostic hour cost?

All prices are estimates based on $65 per flat rate hour and do not include diagnostic time. (from MSN Autos reviews) Another common cause for gauge fluctuations is a failing alternator.

What do you need to know about inorder to pass inspection?

Inorder to pass inspection your car needs to complete a full drive cycle so that all (8) internal monitors have a status of “Ready”. If any of the (8) monitors have a status of “Incomplete” that means you have not yet completed a full drive cycle and you need to drive your car around more.

What happens if your car fails a DMV inspection?

If the only reason your vehicle failed the inspection was due to readiness monitors not being in a “ready” state, and your current inspection has already expired, the inspection software will issue a 10-day extension that will allow you to legally operate your vehicle on the highways.

Why did I get a 4WD error code on my Nissan Pathfinder?

With less then 3k on my 2014 Pathfinder I received a 4wd error code and the ABS and VDC (I think that’s what it was) come on and I could not get it into 4×4. The code cleared after sitting over night and both times the dealer said they could not duplicate the error but could see that the error code had registered in the computer.

When did my father sell his 1997 Pathfinder?

My father bought a 1997 Pathfinder LE loaded off the showroom in 1997. He was a traveling sales rep and he sold me the car in 2004 with 265k. I drove it until it had 310k and gave it to my little brother in law for his 16th birthday present. He drove it for another year and a half and traded it in on a new Scion.

What kind of car is a 1997 Nissan Pathfinder?

I have owned 3 pathfinders along the way. First was a 1996 se, then went to a 2001 with the 3.5l and now I am back in a 1997. They all have been absolutely great vehicles! Never left me stranded anywhere, go through snow up to the bumpers, repairs are rare and they hold their value.

When did my car lose power then died?

While driving car lost power then died and now won’t star… I was driving and all of a sudden when I hit the gas there was nothing there I got it where I was going and then it died while I was still driving we have not been able to get it to start since it does crank but does not start. My car has 185000 miles.

What to do if your Nissan Pathfinder won’t start?

Also, the vehicle failed to start after idling and/or when the push to start button was engaged. The vehicle was taken to browns auto world (2634 hope mills rd, fayetteville, nc 28306, (910) 307-7361) where it was diagnosed that the battery needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired, but the failure recurred.

Why are the torsion bars on my Pathfinder wrong?

The torsion bars have a slow memory. If the vehicle has been on a hoist prior to an alignment, the front end alignment will be incorrect because the front end will be sitting higher than normal. One place went so far as to explain that it could not be aligned because the rear axle was crooked.

How to relocate the knock sensor in a Nissan Pathfinder?

Step by step process for relocating the knock sensor in a 1999 Nissan Pathfinder to avoid the tedious task of taking the air plenum off. Filming was done with my micro 4/3rd Panasonic GF-1 camera w/ 14-45mm lens. Loading…

Why does my Nissan Pathfinder lose power when hot?

This Nissan Pathfinder has been stalling and losing power when hot, lighting up the dash like a Christmas tree. Luckily it stored a trouble code P0340, so we have great direction to start the troubleshooting. Join me as I narrow down the problem and show the 100% verified repair. Enjoy! Loading…

What’s the problem with my Nissan Pathfinder engine?

Chart based on 345 repair trips. The repair cost chart excludes repairs made under warranty, do-it-yourself repairs, and repair trips that include maintenance. Coolant smell when engine hot & metallic rattling under load. They said the cap was loose on the reservoir, and it was over filled. Check engine light on.

Is there an extended warranty on a Nissan Pathfinder?

An extended warranty can provide peace of mind. Chart based on 345 repair trips. The repair cost chart excludes repairs made under warranty, do-it-yourself repairs, and repair trips that include maintenance. Coolant smell when engine hot & metallic rattling under load.

Why is my Nissan alternator not working properly?

Shops report that Nissan Alternator Problems can sometimes be traced to an intermittent in the plug that goes into the voltage regulator in the alternator. The factory harness is short (less than 1 foot) and can fray the wires in the terminals.

All prices are estimates based on $65 per flat rate hour and do not include diagnostic time. (from MSN Autos reviews) Another common cause for gauge fluctuations is a failing alternator.

What was the problem with my 2007 Nissan Pathfinder?

Another Radiator/Transmission blown! No Nissan! I discovered a small pool of purple liquid under front right tire of my 2007 Nissan Pathfinder in the garage yesterday. I discovered it was most likely a radiator leak and could have leaked into the transmission as well. I took the vehicle in today for inspection, and my concerns were confirmed.

Are there any used Nissan pathfinders for sale?

None for sale nearby. Instead: I purchased this vehicle brand new to replace a 2003 SE with high-mileage. The quality of the interior appeared to be subpar as most of the items are made of cheap plastic. At about 55k mi, i had a problem with the fuel sending unit, which was covered under warranty since this was common malfunction of the vehicle.

What kind of suspension does Nissan Pathfinder have?

Built with body-on-frame construction, the Pathfinder has a fully independent double-wishbone suspension. The four-wheel-drive SE Off-Road model features Hill Descent Control and Hill Start Assist. Changes are minor for 2007. For front passengers, auto up/down power windows come standard, as does an auxiliary audio input jack.

Where are the handles on a Nissan Pathfinder?

The rear door handles are located vertically on the C-pillars, and the SUV has an integrated front bumper. The Pathfinder’s grille design is similar to Nissan’s larger Armada, and its platform is derived from that SUV, too. The tailgate’s glass window flips up. Running boards, heated mirrors and a sunroof are optional.

What should I do if my headlight is not working?

Unplug the light, pull the switch, and see if the fuse blows. If not, the problem is not in the wiring. Make sure you have purchased the correct wattage of bulb. Ensure that you do not have a faulty or damaged bulb. Check and see if your high beam bulb is the issue. If so, replace it. Check all wired connections and look for any exposed wiring.

It is definitely worth it to use an OBDII scanner to check and see if the engine has thrown any trouble codes. It is highly likely that if your Pathfinder won’t start that there will be codes. These codes will tell you what the computer is saying is wrong with your engine.

What happens if you have an incorrect ignition code?

The chip in the key transmits a specific code, of which there are millions. If this code matches the ones programmed into the vehicle, engine starting is enabled. An incorrect key code, such as from an unprogrammed key or damaged key, would prevent engine starting. Code “confusion,” such as having multiple keys can also occur, preventing ignition.

What happens if you have an ignition switch problem?

However, if your car has ignition switch problems, you may not be able to start the car at all. Ignition switch problems can also cause issues on the road, such as unexpected shutdowns or electrical problems. To be sure, ignition switch problems are no fun, especially if they’re stopping you from getting to work or school or play.

What to do if your ignition cylinder is worn out?

How To Fix It: Fortunately, this is an easy fix. Just turn the wheel back and forth until the ignition cylinder is freed. It’s a fact of life that mechanical things tend to wear out, and the same goes for mechanical keys and key cylinders used in your car’s ignition system.

Can a unworn key turn an ignition cylinder?

Or, an unworn key may not turn a worn ignition cylinder, as they haven’t “worn together.” How To Fix It: The best way to do this is to get a new lockset, with new keys and a new cylinder. You might consider getting a matched lockset that includes the door and trunk cylinders.

Why does my check engine light not light up?

If your Check engine light is ON, the easiest way to diagnose this problem is to always check your trouble code memory with an OBD2 scanner. The check engine light will not light up if there is a scheduled service as the service engine soon light.

When to use service engine soon instead of check engine light?

Some manufacturers use the service engine soon light instead of the check engine light when there is just a minor problem with your car and not a severe problem. It could also mean that it is time for a scheduled service, such as oil or spark plug replacement.

What to do if your engine maintenance light goes out?

Check your engine control unit for any stored trouble codes. If you receive any codes, save them and try to get information about what they mean. If there are codes for emission problems that are not dangerous for your engine, you can try deleting the code to see if the engine maintenance light goes out.

Why is the inside of my Nissan Pathfinder so hot?

No matter the car and no matter the issue, drivers shouldn’t take ‘they all do that’ as an acceptable answer. Trim pieces on the inside of a car are often subjected to wild temperature swings, from sub-zero temperatures in the winter to lava-hot conditions in the summer heat.

Why does my Nissan Pathfinder have a stutter?

Chiefly, customers have complained of a ‘shudder’ or ‘stutter’ emanating from the gearbox under acceleration. This could be due to a number of issues, including wonky computer programming. Nissan dealers should be aware of this problem, as the company has issued a technical service bulletin addressing this problem.

Why are the headlights on my Pathfinder not working?

Headlights on my 1995 Nissan Pathfinder won’t work. I’ve putin a new battery, checked the alternator/belt, checked fuses. Parking light do work. Headlights don’t work. Right now I’m on a dusk curfew!!! Yuk!!!!! Any suggestions short of having my husband sit on the hood with a latern?

Can a brake harness burn on a pathfinder?

We have a 2006 Pathfinder,please be aware the wiring harness can burn. We had a brake sensing unit put in a year ago right after we bought the vehicle.

Is there a motion detector on a Pathy?

If you had an intermittant rear hatch switch as just posted about, that would do it. You can also check the door switches for water corrosion. They’re easy to remove and inspect. There is no motion detector in the stock alarm system, so noise or vibration will not set it off. I have a 1995 XE Pathy with 145K on it.

What are the best features of a 2002 Nissan Pathfinder?

Stadium seating in back. 2002 Pathfinder LE overview. Over all the vehicle is great. The electric seats have saving button so when you take it in for service & they change seat position you do not have to worry about putting your seat back to comfortable setting again. The Bose sound system is excellent.

Where does the Nissan Pathfinder rank in reliability?

Pathfinder owners have made 2057 complaints over 31 model years. It ranks 25th in reliability out of 26 eligible Nissan models. Our reliability rank is based on our PainRank ™ system.

What to do if your Pathfinder rotors are corroded?

Separate the rotor from the wheel assembly. If your Pathfinder’s rotors are corroded, be sure to remove all debris from the area with a damp cloth before you put the new rotor on. Install the new rotor and tighten the holding screws. Replace the caliper and brake line to its original position and then discard the mechanic’s wire.

Do you need to remove transmission on Nissan Pathfinder?

The process to remove the transmission assembly is very similar for both the two- and four-wheel-drive Nissan Pathfinder models. You remove the transmission and transfer case as a single assembly on your 4WD. This makes it necessary to use a suitable transmission jack on this model.

How do you remove drive shaft from Nissan Pathfinder?

Before detaching the drive shaft from the transmission, match-mark the drive shaft rear yoke and the differential flange where the rear yoke attaches. This will help you reinstall the shaft in the same exact position to keep it in balance.

How do you tighten a belt on a pathfinder?

Install the old bolt into the new tensioner assembly and finger tighten it until you have it aligned properly. Once you have it aligned, use the belt tensioner tool with the 14mm socket or a 14mm wrench to tighten the bolt. Be sure to not over-tighten the bolt, but make sure it’s still snugged well. Now you need to reinstall the serpentine belt.

How do you remove exhaust pipe from Nissan Pathfinder?

Make sure the engine and exhaust system are cool enough to the touch. Then remove the front and rear exhaust pipes. This will give you access to the cooler pipe hooked to the transmission. Disconnect the pipe and the dipstick tube at the transmission, and plug the pipe and ports on the transmission to prevent contamination.

Navigation