1993 Nissan Pathfinder
Safety record from NHTSA: recalls, owner complaints, investigations and service bulletins.
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Vehicles › Nissan › Pathfinder › 1993
These records cover every 1993 Nissan Pathfinder. To see whether one car still needs a recall repair, decode its VIN or check it with NHTSA.
Owner complaints
49 complaints2 involved a crash3 involved a fire5 injuries
What owners report most
Latest complaints
- Service brakes, hydraulic · Structure › Frame and members
This IS the second 1993 nissan pathfinder I have owned and both have had the exact same problem with the frame. The rear crossmember completely rusts out and falls off the problem IS vary dangerous not only to other drivers but it also severs the rear brake line. I was driving in my ally hit a pot…
This IS the second 1993 nissan pathfinder I have owned and both have had the exact same problem with the frame. The rear crossmember completely rusts out and falls off the problem IS vary dangerous not only to other drivers but it also severs the rear brake line. I was driving in my ally hit a pot hole doing maybe 10 tops went to stop and could not had to use the emergency brake to stop. I could have killed someone or myself. There needs to be a recall on all the old model frames cus it IS a continues problem. *tr
- Structure › Frame and members · Suspension › Rear
Rear suspension has separated from the frame due to extreme rusting of frame rails. excess movement of rear axle from separation damaged the brake line and caused loss of rear brakes. *tr
- Tires › Sidewall
*Note: the tires in question are size 235/75r15...this size option was not available in the drop down box./// blowout and near accident occurred. After further evaluation it was determined the sidewalls of the front right tire had collapsed upon entering a slow curve. The condition had…
*Note: the tires in question are size 235/75r15...this size option was not available in the drop down box./// blowout and near accident occurred. After further evaluation it was determined the sidewalls of the front right tire had collapsed upon entering a slow curve. The condition had existed earlier as the sidewalls were worn to the threads being exposed. after further evaluation ;all four tires seem to have a very flimsy and sub-standard sidewall construction. The vehicle will not be driven until all four tires can be replaced. *tr
- Tires
I'm a consumer who just had four new cooper discoverer ast II tires installed on a '93 nissan pathfinder. All failed within 709 miles, approximately one month of driving. after driving two weeks and 555 miles, the front left tire suddenly blew out in my driveway. It appeared to fail at the…
I'm a consumer who just had four new cooper discoverer ast II tires installed on a '93 nissan pathfinder. All failed within 709 miles, approximately one month of driving. after driving two weeks and 555 miles, the front left tire suddenly blew out in my driveway. It appeared to fail at the bead. My tire dealer turned the tire over to a cooper rep who examined the tire and said the shop installed it improperly, leading to the failure. The shop disagreed with the finding, but they replaced the tire free of charge. two weeks and 154 miles later, I noticed the three other coopers were failing. The rears had softball-sized bulges on the tire wall extending from the bead toward the tread. The right front had a baseball-sized bulge in the same location. All the bulges were on the inboard, whitewall side of the tire. my shop's owner personally pulled the tires, examined them, and found bare bead wire adjacent to the bulge. The bare wire was 1-2 inches long. He says the location of the bare wire/bulge falls on the bottom side of the tire during mounting--a spot not contacted by the mounting bar during installation. Furthermore, he said he found no scuffing inside the tire indicating contact with the mounting bar and no loose rubber inside the tire, further indicative of damage during mounting. He trusts his installer, a 10-year employee who installs 100 tires a week. He's convinced the tires were defectively manufactured. my dealer has followed up with cooper. The company insists the tires were damaged during installation, but it went ahead and credited the shop the cost of the tires. my dealer had a similar failure on a cooper lifeliner sle tire a month earlier, and cooper denied any problems on their part in that incident as well. the tires are cooper astii, p235-75-15 I pulled one dot#...3d1tcla2305 thanks --- bruce stoff, ithaca ny. *nm
- Structure
Frame verry rusty and broke in rear of vehicle
- Engine and engine cooling › Exhaust system › Manifold/header/muffler/tail pipe
There IS a recurring problem with the exhaust manifold and the manifold studs breaking, resulting in an exhaust leak inside the engine compartment which causes exhaust fumes to enter the passenger compartment. *Ak
- Engine and engine cooling › Exhaust system › Manifold/header/muffler/tail pipe
Exhaust manifold leaks due to poor quality exhaust manifold and/or bolts. *la
- Engine and engine cooling › Exhaust system › Manifold/header/muffler/tail pipe
Exhuast manifold studs keep breaking causing leakage, fumes, and noise. Has happened 3 times in 45K miles at $500 to $1200 per incident. Have filed complaint with nissan consumer affairs (incident 4259794). Nissan declined to assist because they said vechicle was beyond useful service life. Even if…
Exhuast manifold studs keep breaking causing leakage, fumes, and noise. Has happened 3 times in 45K miles at $500 to $1200 per incident. Have filed complaint with nissan consumer affairs (incident 4259794). Nissan declined to assist because they said vechicle was beyond useful service life. Even if that were true, the repairs I'm paying them for over and over should have a useful service life. I've been told by several dealers that this will continue to happen. Common nissan, fix this problem once and for all. I just want to have it fixed once and for all without having to keep on paying for this. Check out this forum http://forums.vmag.com/suvpathfinder0200 where there are literally 100'S of complaints.*ak
- Structure › Frame and members
Consumer was informed the rear end frame of the vehicle was full of body rot, and if impacted in an accident, it would disintegrate.*jb
- Structure › Frame and members
The frame of the vehicle had rusted on 2 occasions.*jb
- Unknown or other
Odometer fraud.
- Engine and engine cooling › Exhaust system › Manifold/header/muffler/tail pipe
Exhaust manifold studs are broken on both sides. dealership wants $1400.00 to repair. this IS a common problem that nissan has been aware of and does nothing to compensate their customers for. causes exhast leaks into the car.
- Engine and engine cooling › Exhaust system › Manifold/header/muffler/tail pipe
Burned through floor, pan over exhaust pipe. Flammable padding under carpet caught fire.*ak
- Engine and engine cooling › Exhaust system › Manifold/header/muffler/tail pipe
Exhaust manifold was cracked,and bolts were broken, causing exhaust fumes to leak inside vehicle when outdoor vent was open.contacted dealer.this was a common problem.*ak
- Engine and engine cooling › Engine › Gasoline
Every time vehicle comes to a complete stop engine dies out. Takes numerous tries to get vehicle to restart. Contacted dealer, they were not helpful.*ak
- Engine and engine cooling › Exhaust system › Manifold/header/muffler/tail pipe
Broken engine exhaust studs; also, occurred in 1994,1995 models. *Ak
- Electrical system › Alternator/generator/regulator
No summary listed for above vehicle. *Ak
- Structure · Structure › Body · Structure › Body › Bumpers
Bottom of vehicle/ running board, and rear bumper became rusted. please give any further details.*ak
- Engine and engine cooling › Engine · Engine and engine cooling › Exhaust system › Manifold/header/muffler/tail pipe · Service brakes, hydraulic › Foundation components · Structure › Body › Door
The timing belt of the vehicle broke causing loss of power. The dealer replaced.the pistons stuck in a closed position and it bent the valves in the engine. The consumer was seeking partila refund for bent valve and piston that were replaced. *Yh
- Electrical system › 12v/24v/48v battery · Electrical system › Alternator/generator/regulator · Electrical system › Wiring › Front underhood · Electrical system › Wiring › Fuses and circuit breakers · Equipment › Electrical › Radio/tape deck/cd etc. · Power train › Automatic transmission › Park/neutral start interlock switch · Visibility › Power window devices and controls
I had a fire in the engine compartment which destroyed the following components: radio, transmission, alternator, rear defroster, rear wipers, rear window lock, power window motor, turn signals, relays, transmission sending units. at approximately 82000 miles the battery exploded eating the paint…
I had a fire in the engine compartment which destroyed the following components: radio, transmission, alternator, rear defroster, rear wipers, rear window lock, power window motor, turn signals, relays, transmission sending units. at approximately 82000 miles the battery exploded eating the paint off the right front fender. within a month, I was driving at approximately 45 mph when I saw smoke in the interior accompanied by electrical shorting sounds. the windows went up and down, horn went off, power locks popped, and the solenoids in the transmission burned out along with a number of other components. only three fuses were blown so the fuse block was ineffective in preventing fire. I had no problems with this vehicle except intermittant sound coming from the front radio speakers until this happened.*ak
- Engine and engine cooling › Exhaust system › Manifold/header/muffler/tail pipe
Ref. Service bulletin #: fc0009202 / nhtsa item #: sb035797 -- exhaust noise and exhaust smell inside vehicle due to broken manifold studs. as the original owner of this vehicle, the right manifold studs broke at 36,705 miles and was repaired under warranty by nissan. at 48,654 miles, the left…
Ref. Service bulletin #: fc0009202 / nhtsa item #: sb035797 -- exhaust noise and exhaust smell inside vehicle due to broken manifold studs. as the original owner of this vehicle, the right manifold studs broke at 36,705 miles and was repaired under warranty by nissan. at 48,654 miles, the left manifold studs broke and was repaired at my cost (approx $350). now, at 113,500 miles, the left manifold studs appear to be broken and require repair. nissan refuses to take responsibility, even though they acknowledge that this IS a design flaw in their 1993 engines. for 1995 & 1996 models, they've extended their warranty to 100,000 miles. then, in 1997, they introduced a new design which changed the bolt size from 8MM to 10MM bolts (rectifying the known problem). even with such an acknowledgement, nissan refuses to warrantee the repairs! I strongly recommend that a recall be issued requiring nissan to upgrade the engine/exhaust systems in the pre-1997 nissan pathfinders (in that, this broken manifold studs problem will continue to reoccur every 50,000 miles or so). thank you. sincerely, michael j. *Akgall. *ak
- Engine and engine cooling › Exhaust system
Both my manifold have fallen down because of a broken bolt on the motor, they tell me this IS a fault on thes cars. *ak
- Tires
On june 14, 2000 my spouse and I were returning from vacation driving approx. 70 mph on I-35 east of greenville, tx and had just passed an 18 wheeler when the right rear tire blew out. we were in the left hand lane and were very fortunate in moving in front of the 18 wheeler and over to the right…
On june 14, 2000 my spouse and I were returning from vacation driving approx. 70 mph on I-35 east of greenville, tx and had just passed an 18 wheeler when the right rear tire blew out. we were in the left hand lane and were very fortunate in moving in front of the 18 wheeler and over to the right shoulder without rolling the vehicle. it was very scary. the tread came off and tore up part of the fender area and wrapped up over the rear bumper and broke the right rear taillight assembly. we have gone through all the process to be reimbursed by firestone for our replacement tires. the regional firestone customer service rep. In fort worth suggestet that in additional to the $400.00 amount requested for new tires that we also request reimbursement for the $80.00 expense to have the tail light assembly replaced. we submitted all appropriate paperwork on august 16, 0000. as of october 4, 0000 (seven weeks) we have not heard from firestone. we are very upset with their lack of response. please advise. by the way, we had nine tires on two vehicles which had to be replaced. five of the tires (goodyear) were replaced very quickly after we raised cane and no reimbursement IS required on these five tires. thanks! (Tiresize: 23575r15)( dot number: tire size: 23575r15 )
- Structure › Body › Bumpers
The rear bumper IS severely rusting at the crash protection spots-- chrome IS peeling and rust IS predominant, limited to the 2 areas where fastened to the frame-- each rust area approx 5 inches square; also, both side step rails that run the length of the vehicle have severe rust holes forming. *ak
- Tires
Drivers side rear tire blowout on freeway, damaged rear of car( dot number: tire size: P235 75r15 )
Service bulletins
Technical service bulletins and other communications the manufacturer sent dealers about this vehicle. Ask a dealer for the full document by its number.
- 10243708DIAGNOSIS OF VEHICLE PULL (DRIFT) AND/OR STEERING WHEEL OFF-CENTER This bulletin has been amended. See AMENDMENT HISTORY on the last page. Please discard previous versions of this bulletin.
- 10239062SILICONE-BASED LUBRICANT OR GREASE CAN DAMAGE ELECTRICAL COMPONENTS SERVICE INFORMATION Do not apply Silicone-based lubricants or grease to, or around, any interior electrical components. To avoid the risk of death or severe personal injury, do not directly spray Silicone-based lubricant or grease, or inadvertently overspray Silicone-based lubricant or grease onto any interior electrical components. These types of lubricants can be detrimental to the proper operation of electrical components.
- 1023906012 VOLT BATTERY TESTING FOR IN-SERVICE VEHICLES SERVICE INFORMATION The following Service Information lists NNA procedural recommendations for establishing good connections while performing 12V battery testing. These recommendations are expected to promote uniformity during the connection process, therefore reducing the number of incorrect Test with DCA and Replace results. HINT: If 12 volt batteries are allowed to discharge for a prolonged period of time, battery life may be drastically reduced. This condition may lead to premature battery replacement and customer dissatisfaction. IMPORTANT: CPX-900 is now an accepted testing tool to use along with or in place of the DSS-5000 CPX-900 operating instructions are found at: https://nissancpx900.midtronics.com/ DSS-5000 operating instructions are found at: https://nissandss5000.midtronics.com/ DCA-8000 is now a required testing tool to be used for all warranty replacement decisions. The DCA-8000 is also a more efficient charger than previously available, and will charge any available 12 volt lead acid battery safely and accurately as long as all precautions and inputs are made correctly. The DCA-8000 operating instructions are found at: https://nissandca8000.midtronics.com/
- 10235710INTELLIGENT KEY REPLACEMENT OR SWAPPING BETWEEN VEHICLES This bulletin has been amended. See AMENDMENT HISTORY on the last page. Discard all previous versions of this bulletin.
- 10235707VEHICLE KEY NOT DETECTED / AUTHENTICATED, ENGINE WILL NOT START This bulletin has been amended. See AMENDMENT HISTORY on the last page. Please discard previous versions of this bulletin.
- 10232658REMOVING FOREIGN MATERIAL FROM THE WINDOW GLASS This bulletin has been amended. See AMENDMENT HISTORY on the last page. Please discard previous versions of this bulletin.
- 10232657WHEEL BEARING COLLISION DAMAGE This bulletin has been amended. See AMENDMENT HISTORY on the last page. Please discard previous versions of this bulletin.
- 10232656WINDSHIELD CRACKING This bulletin has been amended. See AMENDMENT HISTORY on the last page. Please discard previous versions of this bulletin.
- 10232652DIAGNOSIS OF VEHICLE PULL (DRIFT) AND/OR STEERING WHEEL OFF-CENTER This bulletin has been amended. See AMENDMENT HISTORY on the last page. Please discard previous versions of this bulletin.
- 10206391STRUT AND SHOCK ABSORBER REPLACEMENT GUIDELINES This bulletin has been amended. See AMENDMENT HISTORY on the last page. Please discard previous versions of this bulletin.
- 10192305SERVICE INFORMATION Information necessary to service the Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) safely is included in the "RESTRAINTS" section of the Electronic Service Manual (ESM) for each vehicle. IMPORTANT: Turn the ignition switch OFF, disconnect both battery terminals, and wait at least 3 minutes before performing any service on the SRS. See this bulletin for further detail.
- 10192233Nissan Original Equipment or Genuine Accessory Alloy wheels, along with their finish coating (clear, chrome, titanium, etc.), are specifically developed to achieve Nissan design and performance standards. These Original Equipment or Genuine Accessory wheels are subjected to testing to ensure they meet Nissan's standards. Nissan Original Equipment Alloy or Genuine Accessory wheels subjected to aftermarket chroming may no longer continue to meet these standards and may be seriously damaged. Therefore, Nissan most strongly discourages, and recommends that these wheels NEVER be subjected to, aftermarket chroming. See this bulletinfor further detail.
- 10192217If YOU CONFIRM: A vehicle needs to have the brake rotors resurfaced (front or rear). ACTION: Use the ProCut PFM Series on-car brake lathe to perform brake rotor resurfacing and follow the tips listed in this bulletin. - The ProCut PFM Series brake lathe has been chosen as the approved tool for rotor resurfacing. - The ProCut PFM Series brake lathe can be ordered from TECH-MATE at 1-800-662-2001. - ProCut technical support or service can be obtained by calling 1-800-543-6618. NOTE: Brake rotors may need to be resurfaced during routine brake repair or for brake "judder" incidents. - Brake judder: A brake pedal pulsation and/or steering wheel shimmy when braking that occurs when there is too much thickness variation of the brake rotors (see NTB00-033). See this bulletin for further detail.
- 10192216SERVICE INFORMATION - This bulletin is to assist you in responding to customer questions about brake operation, and provides diagnostic and repair information for each item listed, if any should occur. - Most brake incidents fall into the following categories: a. Brake Noise: A squeak, squeal, clunk, or groan that occurs when the brakes are applied or released. b. Brake Judder: A vibration that can be felt in the vehicle, steering wheel or brake pedal when the brakes are applied. c. Pedal Feel: The effort needed to operate the brakes is too high or too low. SERVICE PROCEDURE 1. Verify the condition by road testing the vehicle with the customer. 2. Determine the specific brake incident based on the description in the Service Information above. 3. Follow the appropriate repair procedure(s), listed on the following pages, for your specific incident. See this bulletin for further details.
- 10192145SERVICE INFORMATION This bulletin provides information to identify: - A leaking strut or a shock absorber that qualifies for replacement under warranty. - A strut or shock absorber that has slight oil seepage, a condition which is considered normal, does not affect strut/shock absorber operation or performance, and does not require replacement. - A strut or shock absorber that should be replaced due to rod resistance/noise issues. See this bulletin for further detail.
- 10188377STRUT AND SHOCK ABSORBER REPLACEMENT GUIDELINES This bulletin has been amended. See AMENDMENT HISTORY on the last page. Please discard previous versions of this bulletin.
- 10051767Nissan: lock/unlock request button on outside handle does not respond.
- 10032506Nissan: vent control valve replacement. When replacing the evap canister vent control valve for reason: use the one listed on page 2; for vent control valve replacement procedure, refer to the appropriate section of the electronic service manuals (esm; when installing the new valve, do not add any lube to its o ring; for frontier (D40 series) only, install the protector listed in parts information. Includes 2005-09 frontier. Updated 12/8/10.
- 10031305Nissan: tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) warning light on/flashing. No models or model years listed. Updated on 08-11-2011.
- 10030165Nissan: the 12 volt battery IS an important part of the vehicle electrical system and IS required to stay connected when the engine IS running. To prevent damage to vehicle electronic components follow the instructions/cautions. No model years listed.
- 10017473Front seat belt latch plate retaining button missing.
- 10003515Front seat belt latch plate retaining button missing.
- 629210Seat belt latch plate retaining button missing.
- 623114Subject regarding essential tool - rear axle bearing removal kit. *Ttthe kit IS an essential tool and and will be automatically sent to all nissan dealers.
- 607626Concerns with the front seat belt latch plate stopper button missing.
- 601725Exhibiting a whine noise while driving in all forward gears except 4TH.
- 52168Fs5r30a transmission whine.
- 52164Transmissions detent holes eliminated from adapter plate.
- 45793Truck/pathfinder blower noise.
- 45007Hard/no star at high elevation and low temperature.
- 43079Unknown
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