1996 Nissan Pathfinder
Safety record from NHTSA: recalls, owner complaints, investigations and service bulletins.
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Vehicles › Nissan › Pathfinder › 1996
These records cover every 1996 Nissan Pathfinder. To see whether one car still needs a recall repair, decode its VIN or check it with NHTSA.
Recalls
5 recalls name the 1996 Nissan Pathfinder. Newest first.
Nissan IS recalling certain model year 1996-2004 pathfinder and model year 1997-2003 infiniti QX4 vehicles originally sold, or currently registered in, connecticut, delaware, iowa, illinois, indiana, massachusetts, maine, maryland, michigan, minnesota, missouri, new hampshire, new jersey, new york, ohio, pennsylvania, rhode island, vermont, washington d.c.…
Risk and remedy
Risk
The strut housing may crack and pull away from the inner hood ledge assembly. this may lead to grinding noises, increased steering effort, and possibly the steering column to break, resulting in the loss of steering control, which could result in a crash.
Remedy
Nissan will inspect the strut housing and repair the vehicles as necessary, free of charge. an interim notification letter was sent out in may 2011. the second notice was mailed on july 25, 2011. owners may contact nissan at 1-800-647-7261.
Certain ck motorsports combination headlights, clear corner, bumper, and side marker lights sold as replacement lamps for use on the passenger vehicles listed above. some combination lamps that are not equipped with amber side reflectors fail to conform to federal motor vehicle safety standard no. 108, lamps, reflective devices, and associated equipment.
Risk and remedy
Risk
Without the amber reflectors, the vehicle will be poorly illuminated, possibly resulting in a vehicle crash without warning.
Remedy
Ck motorsport will notify owners and replace the noncompliant lamps free of charge. the recall began on july 1, 2006. owners may contact ck motorsport at 1-909-610-7211.
Certain pro-a motors corner lamps, turn signals, and headlights sold as replacement lamps for use on certain passenger vehicles listed above. some combination lamps that are not equipped with amber side reflectors fail to conform to federal motor vehicle safety standard no. 108, lamps, reflective devices, and associated equipment.
Risk and remedy
Risk
Without the amber reflectors, the vehicle will be poorly illuminated, possibly resulting in a vehicle crash without warning.
Remedy
Pro-a motors will notify owners and offer to repurchase the lamps. the recall began on april 3, 2006. owners may contact pro-a motors at 323-838-2988.
Due to the thickness of the carpet padding on the transmission tunnel, the space between the brake pedal and the transmission tunnel could catch a driver's right foot under the brake pedal.
Risk and remedy
Risk
This condition could inhibit a driver from applying the brakes, increasing the risk of a vehicle accident.
Remedy
Dealers will remove the carpet padding on the transmission tunnel adjacent to the accelerator pedal.
Due to the type of lubricant used in the steering transfer gear assembly, the effort required to turn the steering wheel at low ambient temperatures (less than -30 c) could increase to the point where some drivers would have difficulty in turning the wheel.
Risk and remedy
Risk
This condition could result in the inability to change the direction of the vehicle while attempting to turn the wheel, increasing the potential for a vehicle accident.
Remedy
Dealers are replacing the steering transfer gear assembly with a new assembly having different lubricant.
Owner complaints
159 complaints20 involved a crash32 injuries3 deaths
What owners report most
Latest complaints
- Steering · Suspension
TL* the contact owns a 1996 nissan pathfinder. While the vehicle was being inspected at the dmv, the mechanic informed the contact that the rear strut was rusting. In addition, the contact stated that the steering made an abnormal popping noise while driving. The vehicle was taken to an independent…
TL* the contact owns a 1996 nissan pathfinder. While the vehicle was being inspected at the dmv, the mechanic informed the contact that the rear strut was rusting. In addition, the contact stated that the steering made an abnormal popping noise while driving. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, but they were unsure how to repair the vehicle. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified and did not assist due to the age of the vehicle. The dealer was not contacted. The failure mileage was 293,000.
- Electrical system · Exterior lighting · Steering
Car has many after market parts which are old and rusted which causes the entire vehicle to break down even after replacing many parts also when searching gor parts its hard to find I have to get parts for a 1997 nissan pathfinder when my vehicle IS a 1996 nissan pathfinder
- Air bags
I tried to make contact with the nissan dealer and after finding my vehicle return a positive airbag recall on airbagrecall.com. the local deal said it IS not listed in their system and did not offer to look into it any further. I told them they could look it up on an internet based system to see what I was seeing but they declined. wilson motor company wilson nissan 328 north main street, logan (435) 752-7355
- Suspension
On a long road trip from indiana to north carolina, the rear-end of my vehicle began swaying or rocking from side-to-side as I was going 60 mph or more and whenever I changed lanes. It felt very unstable, as though it may rollover. Upon my return home, I took it in for repairs and was informed it…
On a long road trip from indiana to north carolina, the rear-end of my vehicle began swaying or rocking from side-to-side as I was going 60 mph or more and whenever I changed lanes. It felt very unstable, as though it may rollover. Upon my return home, I took it in for repairs and was informed it was the sway bar, the shocks and maybe the tires. I replaced &/or repaired everything. It seemed ok until my recent road trip from indiana to missouri when the exact same thing occurred with the rear-end swaying more this time but usually only upon deceleration. I now notice it during city driving which I wasn't sure about before due to all the potholes and bumps in the streets. I researched the problem online and found several other owners of this make and model reporting the exact same problem. There IS even a 1998 service bulletin posted by a nissan dealer on how to fix this "front/rear suspension excessive play" problem. This problem IS dangerous. This IS not normal. This must be a manufacturer's defect and these vehicles should be recalled to fix the problem.
- Electronic stability control (esc) · Service brakes · Steering
Whenever I reach an excess speed of 40+ and take my foot off the gas the car rocks back and forth uncontrollable. I am a mother of four and the IS a very terrifying experience for both me and my children.
- Steering · Structure › Body · Visibility/wiper
I bought this car a couple years ago and couldn't drive it right away because I bought it a little before I got my license. So eventually when I got it on the road I ended up getting a rejection sticker because the e break and a few other reasons. One thing I've noticed about my S.U.V IS the wind…
I bought this car a couple years ago and couldn't drive it right away because I bought it a little before I got my license. So eventually when I got it on the road I ended up getting a rejection sticker because the e break and a few other reasons. One thing I've noticed about my S.U.V IS the wind shield wipers work when they want to. The whole underneath IS rotted out, (that's what the guy told me who inspected my car) an ever since I've had it, I've had a problem with my steering, I've tried the power steering fluid didn't work. I'm not positive that there was a recall, but I was refered to this so I'm trying to see what I can do if I can do anything.
- Suspension
All of these complaints are the same complaint, yet nothing IS done for the consumer of what was a very expensive vehicle when new even though it IS dangerous and many consumers spend a lot of money trying to fix the problem (or give up and park the vehicle), often spending the money on the wrong…
All of these complaints are the same complaint, yet nothing IS done for the consumer of what was a very expensive vehicle when new even though it IS dangerous and many consumers spend a lot of money trying to fix the problem (or give up and park the vehicle), often spending the money on the wrong fix because this information has not been given to them and there IS, almost unbelievably, no recall. dangerous and violent side to side shaking at less than highway speeds which could lead to crash, serious injury and death. Repair IS costly and IS a known defect with dealerships and nissan but not necessarily known by other auto mechanics........................................................all of these complaints are the same complaint: nhtsa ID number: 10695520 nhtsa ID number: 10583582 nhtsa ID number: 10575024 nhtsa ID number: 10523182 nhtsa ID number: 10478531 nhtsa ID number: 10448749 nhtsa ID number: 10429267 nhtsa ID number: 10417692 nhtsa ID number: 10400070 nhtsa ID number: 10380091 nhtsa ID number: 10379998 nhtsa ID number: 10374836 nhtsa ID number: 10347481 nhtsa ID number: 10345594 nhtsa ID number: 10341396 nhtsa ID number: 10319474 nhtsa ID number: 10292498 nhtsa ID number: 10280742 nhtsa ID number: 10278532 nhtsa ID number: 10272428 nhtsa ID number: 10262357 nhtsa ID number: 10261360 nhtsa ID number: 10222448 nhtsa ID number: 10220528 nhtsa ID number: 10218798 nhtsa ID number: 10218166 nhtsa ID number: 10217609 nhtsa ID number: 10214503 nhtsa ID number: 10212982 nhtsa ID number: 10212954 nhtsa ID number: 10202233 nhtsa ID number: 10198385 nhtsa ID number: 10192615 nhtsa ID number: 10192045 nhtsa ID number: 10177396 nhtsa ID number: 10176855 nhtsa ID number: 10175863 nhtsa ID number: 10174818 nhtsa ID number: 10172078 nhtsa ID number: 10171995 nhtsa ID number: 10096233 nhtsa ID number: 10073991. *tr
- Steering · Suspension
As vehicle approached 50mph it would shake violently from side to side forcing me to let off of the accelerator. the shaking made it very difficult to control the vehicle and was very frightening not only to me, but also to my family (we were on vacation). since this was obviously a dangerous…
As vehicle approached 50mph it would shake violently from side to side forcing me to let off of the accelerator. the shaking made it very difficult to control the vehicle and was very frightening not only to me, but also to my family (we were on vacation). since this was obviously a dangerous situation I looked for a recall. there was none. I did, however, find many similar stories on the internet. the local nissan dealership replaced rear suspension bars. "verified rear suspension links were bad, bushings tore-replaced all 4 bars" mileage on the vehicle at the time was 60,687. the vehicle was not used off-road. the repair cost me $740.20 mostly it IS just shocking that such a dangerous condition IS not a recall. there was no control of the vehicle once it's speed exceeded 50mph. I am pretty sure that the vehicle would have flipped over had I attempted to go faster rather than let off of the accelerator. I still own the vehicle and keep it well maintained ... Mileage IS now 103,957. *tr
- Suspension
The nissan pathfinder I drive sways violently from side to side at varying speeds. This seems to stem from the rear of the vehicle and seems as if the entire vehicle will flip over at any moment if uncontrolled. The only solution IS to let off the accelerator or speed up a bit. Unfortunately, when…
The nissan pathfinder I drive sways violently from side to side at varying speeds. This seems to stem from the rear of the vehicle and seems as if the entire vehicle will flip over at any moment if uncontrolled. The only solution IS to let off the accelerator or speed up a bit. Unfortunately, when I purchased this vehicle not a mention was made of the violent roll. I bought this for my 16 year old to drive to school, but now will not let him until repairs are done. after completing an internet search, it appears that this problem IS widespread. I have not taken the nissan to my mechanic but will shortly and see what can be done. I hope the repairs that are suggested by several people work although none have indicated one way or the other. *tr
- Steering · Suspension · Wheels
The problem started about a month after we bought the vehicle back in 2009, at first it would only start to wobble at 60 mph so we took it in for inspection they told us it needed alignment so we had it done. It worked for a while but then it started all over again and now at just 30 mph so we took…
The problem started about a month after we bought the vehicle back in 2009, at first it would only start to wobble at 60 mph so we took it in for inspection they told us it needed alignment so we had it done. It worked for a while but then it started all over again and now at just 30 mph so we took in again, this time they did tires and balancing but it IS just getting worse.i feel like the steering wheel IS loose when it starts to wobble and like my tires are going to fall off. I try not to drive that car so much any more specially when I have my granddaughters with me. I would really appreciate any feedback you may have concerning the problem I'm having with my 1996 nissan pathfinder 4X4 thank you *tr
- Steering · Structure › Frame and members › Underbody shields
Brought my pathfinder to star nissan for the corrosion recall, I was told my car was too far gone to repair and they said that a rental car would be provided to me, "at no cost" while compensation for vehicle was being processed. I agreed to this, at the rental car location I was informed that…
Brought my pathfinder to star nissan for the corrosion recall, I was told my car was too far gone to repair and they said that a rental car would be provided to me, "at no cost" while compensation for vehicle was being processed. I agreed to this, at the rental car location I was informed that nissan will cover rental but not insurance, I have state required liability but not theft and collision as the car IS a 1996 with 210000 miles on it and the premium out weight the value of the car. so I had to agree to the collision and fir, theft insurance of $9 a day. Now nissan says they will not pay the $9 a day "supplemental" insurance. I claim this insurance IS not ""supplement" but mandated as the rental was a new car and if stolen i, not nissan would be held liable I would like, no demand payment for the insurance I have paid to cover, "there " not my rental. if I had rented this car my credit card would have covered all insurance but since, nissan was the renter my credit card does not cover the theft and collision. *tr
- Steering · Suspension
TL* the contact owns a 1996 nissan pathfinder. The contact stated while the vehicle was being serviced, it was found that the front suspension housing and struts were severely corroded. The contact also stated the steering wheel shook while driving at 50 mph. The vehicle was not taken to the dealer…
TL* the contact owns a 1996 nissan pathfinder. The contact stated while the vehicle was being serviced, it was found that the front suspension housing and struts were severely corroded. The contact also stated the steering wheel shook while driving at 50 mph. The vehicle was not taken to the dealer for inspection. The manufacturer informed the contact that nhtsa campaign number 11v244000 (steering, suspension) was previously performed. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure and current mileage was 138,000.
- Structure › Body
TL* the contact owns a 1996 nissan pathfinder. The contact stated that the vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where it discovered that the frame was rusted. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The approximate failure mileage was 157,000 and the approximate current mileage was 164,000.
- Electronic stability control (esc) · Power train
I just purchased this vehicle less than 2 weeks ago,on july 2ND while driving down the road I came upon a few slight rough spots in the road,this suddenly caused the vehicle to sway back and forth violently,as if someone way rocking a boat of jerking the steering wheel back and forth,after applying…
I just purchased this vehicle less than 2 weeks ago,on july 2ND while driving down the road I came upon a few slight rough spots in the road,this suddenly caused the vehicle to sway back and forth violently,as if someone way rocking a boat of jerking the steering wheel back and forth,after applying the brakes it stopped for a bit until more rough spots in the road or if speeding up or slowing down caused the same problem,i had my grand kids in the back seat at the time,it scared us all to pieces,because I just bought this vehicle I need it,has nissan called a recall on this problem? I'm seeing many,many more people online with the same problem with the same year and make as mine? This IS dangerous and needs to be addressed by a professional nissan mechanic,i need instruction's on how to go about rectifying the problem. *tr
- Power train · Suspension
I was driving my 96 nissan pathfinder straight on a 30mph road when I let off the accelrator and the rear end of the vehicle started to sway, shake and to rock back and forth as if the rear axle was twisting seperate from the vehicle. This motion of rocking a swaying then started every time I would…
I was driving my 96 nissan pathfinder straight on a 30mph road when I let off the accelrator and the rear end of the vehicle started to sway, shake and to rock back and forth as if the rear axle was twisting seperate from the vehicle. This motion of rocking a swaying then started every time I would step on or let off of the gas and when the vehicle would shift up or down a gear. I then started to hear a poping noise from the back of the vehicle as well when I would turn a corner. I have had this pathfinder into the mechanic multipe times already with issues due to nissans suspension problems. I would not recomend a nissan product to anyone. I have already complained to nissan and they will do nothing to protect their customers from their manufacturer defects. Where are the recalls for this issue? do not buy a nissan!! *tr
- Steering · Suspension
While driving at highway speeds of 65 mph vehicle went into violent body rolling and shimmy causing driver to almost loose control. body was rolling severely, as if steering wheel was being rocked back and forth, however steering wheel was steady. unable to stop body roll until brakes applied.…
While driving at highway speeds of 65 mph vehicle went into violent body rolling and shimmy causing driver to almost loose control. body was rolling severely, as if steering wheel was being rocked back and forth, however steering wheel was steady. unable to stop body roll until brakes applied. unable to identify any damage at time if event, but happened several more times during trip. upon detailed inspection, rear tires showed severe scuffing on outside of tires and it IS suspected that there IS an issue with rear axle links based on some internet research. *tr
- Suspension
Our 1996 nissan pathfinder started to wobble violently -- the so-called "death wobble" that '96-'97 pathfinders are now known for -- around 140,000 miles. The wobble was more severe at higher speeds (>50 mph) but also occurred at lower speeds, particularly when cornering, encountering minor road…
Our 1996 nissan pathfinder started to wobble violently -- the so-called "death wobble" that '96-'97 pathfinders are now known for -- around 140,000 miles. The wobble was more severe at higher speeds (>50 mph) but also occurred at lower speeds, particularly when cornering, encountering minor road defects or when in 4-wheel drive. The wobble was particularly severe if there were passengers in the back seat and/or when there was additional weight in the far back. The only way to stop the violent wobbling or its severity was to reduce speed immediately. Replacing the tires and struts, and installing heavy duty shocks did little to mitigate the problem. The violent rocking was reminiscent of a blow out and made it very difficult to control the vehicle. It appears that nissan has been aware of the problem but has failed to conduct a recall or provide adequate redress. Since the vehicle IS unsafe to drive, we will be taking it to our local nissan dealer for repairs at our expense.
- Steering
On september 4TH 2011, I was driving my 96' nissan pathfinder at approx. 30Mph. I made a left hand turn and was coming out of the turn when my steering wheel repeatedly jerked from side to side causing me to loose control. The vehicle subsequently flipped rolling into a car dealership and causing…
On september 4TH 2011, I was driving my 96' nissan pathfinder at approx. 30Mph. I made a left hand turn and was coming out of the turn when my steering wheel repeatedly jerked from side to side causing me to loose control. The vehicle subsequently flipped rolling into a car dealership and causing damage to 2 used vehicles on the lot before landing on its top and spinning around. Luckily, I only suffered minor injuries such as cuts bruises and muscle strain resulting from broken glass, seat belt pressure, loose objects flying through the vehicle and the jostling as the vehicle made its journey. I was charged with reasonable control and the accident was brushed off due to my age (19) and being an 'inexperienced driver' even though I explained to everyone that the steering seemed to have 'a mind if its own'. I am now responsible for several thousand dollars worth of damage caused to the 2 vehicles on the car lot. After having my vehicle towed, the owner of the towing company urged me to decide what to do with the SUV. I sent it to the recyclers as I had no other ideas on what to do with it at this point. I am now reading stories of other issues with similar vehicles as well as seeing notice of a recall in the strut tower housing. I do live in a state that was part of the recall but was not notified of the potential problem prior to my accident. I had also just purchased this vehicle (my 1ST) in july 2011. I am preparing to investigate the where abouts of the pathfinder, hoping it IS still at the junk yard and hopefully have my accident investigated further seeking compensation. I hope that others will read this and share their stories as well. I also feel that it took entirely too long to issue a recall, if it had been sooner, it would have saved me several thousand dollars. I am just lucky it didn't cost me my life! *tr
- Suspension
TL* the contact owns a 1996 nissan pathfinder. the contact stated that after having repairs under nhtsa campaign ID number: 11v244000 (suspension:front), the strut housing started to detach from the vehicle. The contact stated that the vehicle was exhibiting a knocking sound from the front driver…
TL* the contact owns a 1996 nissan pathfinder. the contact stated that after having repairs under nhtsa campaign ID number: 11v244000 (suspension:front), the strut housing started to detach from the vehicle. The contact stated that the vehicle was exhibiting a knocking sound from the front driver side suspension. The contact took the vehicle back to the dealer where the dealer offered to repair the defective strut housing. the dealer also advised that the front passenger side strut housing needed to be repaired as well due to rust. The dealer offered to repair both strut housings and/or buy back the vehicle but the manufacturer was not confirmed of the failure. The failure mileage was 160,000.
- Suspension
The axle has heavy twist rock sway at highway speeds shakes violently side to side very constant I feel like we could crash at any moment this IS happening have tried to obtain part online and in part store I can't afford it at the dealership it IS 700 to 1400 dollars I feel it should be covered…
The axle has heavy twist rock sway at highway speeds shakes violently side to side very constant I feel like we could crash at any moment this IS happening have tried to obtain part online and in part store I can't afford it at the dealership it IS 700 to 1400 dollars I feel it should be covered by the dealer aka recall maybe my family will be the one to parish due to this faulty part then it will be a recall. Hope not. I can't just go get a new car this IS my vehicle a 1997 nissan pathfinder we as a nissan family have a 1996 pathfinder also with the same issue please change this before somebody gets killed if I have 2 pathfinders with the same problem I see on average 20 to 30 of the same models daily. *kb
- Power train › Axle assembly
My axle fell off my car and if I drive up to 45mph I car wobbles an rocks side to side really bad. *kb
- Suspension
TL* the contact owns a 1996 nissan pathfinder. The contact noticed the strut tower was corroded. The vehicle was taken to a private mechanic but not repaired. the manufacturer was not contacted. The failure and current mileages were 166,000.
- Suspension › Rear
TL* the contact owns a 1996 nissan pathfinder. The contact stated that she was unable to drive at speeds above 40 mph or the vehicle would become difficult to control due to excessive shaking. The dealer inspected the vehicle and informed the contact that the rear axle, bushings, and struts needed…
TL* the contact owns a 1996 nissan pathfinder. The contact stated that she was unable to drive at speeds above 40 mph or the vehicle would become difficult to control due to excessive shaking. The dealer inspected the vehicle and informed the contact that the rear axle, bushings, and struts needed to be replaced. The manufacturer had not been notified. No repairs were performed. The approximate failure mileage was 110,000 and the current mileage was 127,000.
- Suspension
Recently purchased a used 96 nissan pathfinder, and immediately noticed an uncontrollable sway or wobble at highway speeds, very nearly causing an accident. internet research has shown that this problem IS widespread. apparently it's source IS the failure of the rear link bushings. this IS not…
Recently purchased a used 96 nissan pathfinder, and immediately noticed an uncontrollable sway or wobble at highway speeds, very nearly causing an accident. internet research has shown that this problem IS widespread. apparently it's source IS the failure of the rear link bushings. this IS not an isolated problem, every vehicle with this suspension will experience this problem given enough length of service. also, there IS not an inexpensive fix, with bushings costing several hundred dollars to replace, and requiring a hydraulic press to install the new bushings (something I don't have in my garage). recall searches have identified recalls for issues such as potential corrosion possibly affecting steering, replacement lights not having enough amber color, and thickness of the carpet padding. if these issues are serious enough to warrant a recall, why IS suspension failure not? I feel safe in saying that this issue has undoubtedly caused accidents, injuries, and perhaps death, whether or not anyone cares to admit it. I also know that mine IS not the first complaint to the nhtsa regarding this issue. something needs to be done, these vehicles are not safe!!!
- Structure › Frame and members
I started to experienced severe shaking,from side to side while driving on highway, on several occasions, effecting my steering and handling of the vehicle,when either changing lanes or when I hit a slight bump in the road. I honestly started to believe my car was about to roll over, thus causing…
I started to experienced severe shaking,from side to side while driving on highway, on several occasions, effecting my steering and handling of the vehicle,when either changing lanes or when I hit a slight bump in the road. I honestly started to believe my car was about to roll over, thus causing injury to myself and possibly others while driving on the highway. I then decided to make an appointment with my local nizzan dealaship to find the problem. I was told,that the left apron assembly & left closingplate was severely rotted out and split apart due to corrosion, which lead to the failure of my driver's side front strut tower, which in turn affects the vehicle's aliignment. To correct this problem, I took my car to a local autobody shop and had to replace both parts that I described aboved,along with bolted on parts, an undercoating spray to prevent any future corrosion and the labor cost charged involved. *tr
Defect investigations
NHTSA’s Office of Defects Investigation opened these reviews into vehicles including this one.
- Frame/Body Structure Corrosion
In their Defect Information Report (DIR) of April 20, 2011, Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) notified NHTSA that it would conduct a safety recall of certain 1996-2004 Nissan Pathfinder and 1997-2003 Infinity QX4 vehicles to repair corrosion damage to the driver's side front strut tower.The vehicles included in the…
In their Defect Information Report (DIR) of April 20, 2011, Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) notified NHTSA that it would conduct a safety recall of certain 1996-2004 Nissan Pathfinder and 1997-2003 Infinity QX4 vehicles to repair corrosion damage to the driver's side front strut tower.The vehicles included in the recall are those that were originally sold, or are currently registered in salt belt states including Connecticut, Delaware, Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Massachusetts, Maine, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and the District of Columbia.The DIR states in part, ...the strut housing may crack and pull away from the inner hood ledge assembly.This could lead to the strut housing panel separating and contacting the steering column lower shaft.Contact with the steering column lower shaft can cause steering difficulties and may require an increase in steering effort by the driver.If the steering column lower shaft completely fractured it would result in a total loss of steering control.In some cases, the strut housing panel can contact or affect adjacent brake system components.Complainants reported experiencing either steering or brake system issues, and in some cases, both.Nissan dealer's will inspect the strut housing and, based on the level of corrosion found, make an assessment as to how to remedy the vehicle (see defect information report for additional details). Brake system components adjacent to, and in the area of, the strut tower (i.e., brake master cylinder, left front brake line, ABS wire harness, etc.) will also be inspected.
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.
- 10192289Nissan is conducting a voluntary safety recall campaign on certain model year 1996 - 2004 Pathfinder vehicles that are currently registered in Salt States to inspect for corrosion, and if necessary repair the front strut housing panels. In additionto the recall campaign, in the interest of customer satisfaction, owners of similar vehicles that are not subject to the recall because they were originally sold in and are registered in States where corrosion is unlikely to occur will receive a courtesy notification and will be offered an opportunity to have their vehicles inspected at no charge. If necessary, the vehicles will also be remedied free of charge. See this bulletin for further detail. Campaign ID: R1108 NHTSA #: 11V-244
- 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.
- 10192192As part of an enhanced emissions test for Inspection & Maintenance (I/M), some States may require the System Readiness Test (SRT) status be checked. - The SRT is used to indicate whether the engine control module (ECM) has completed self diagnosis of major emissions systems and components. - In these instances the State may require completion of the SRT before permitting the emissions inspection to proceed. Refer to 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.
- 10040905Nissan service campaign: see document search button for owner letter. 1996-2004 pathfinder. In states where heavy concentrations of road salt are used, in the winter, the front driver's side strut housing can develop corrosion that may cause damage. This may allow the housing to contact the steering column. This would create noise and a difference in steering effort. It may lead to steering system damage, and possibly brake line damage. Updated 9/27/11. Updated 11/02/11. Updated 2/06/12. Updated 6/12/12. Updated 8/22/12. Updated 12/18/13. Updated 12/26/13.
- 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.
- 10025522Nissan: srs precautions during service;improper maintenance, including incorrect removal and installation of the srs, can lead to a serious injury or death caused by unintentional activation of the srs on all nissan models with the srs systems. Updated 2/21/14.
- 10017473Front seat belt latch plate retaining button missing.
- 10004603Nissan integrated homelink transmitter system used to activate most electronic garage doors and securty gates. Various models including the 2004 pathfinder armada.
- 10003515Front seat belt latch plate retaining button missing.
- 635795Subject regarding manual transfer case diagnosis.
- 633637Subject regarding bearing noise from transfer case companion flange.
- 632164Subject regarding revised throttle position sensor (tps) adjustment procedure.
- 632155Subject regarding roof console temperature display reads inaccurately.
- 631976Subject regarding automatic transmission configuration, classification number te02-005. *Slc
- 631971Information on nissan revised tps adjustment procdure. *Slc
- 631766Information regarding essential tool: throttle position sensor test connector. *Slc
- 631760Subject regarding revised maintenance procedures. *Slc
- 631339Subject regarding manual transfer case noises.
- 630810Concerns with manual transfer case noises.
- 629210Seat belt latch plate retaining button missing.
- 629186Some vehicles may exhibit a clunk noise from the rear end of the vehicle when stopping.
- 625172Subject regarding wind up clunk (old procedure),( amendment).
Every Nissan Pathfinder model year
Bars are owner complaints, dots mark years with recalls. Select a year to open its report.