Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2013 Nissan Pathfinder
The 2013 Nissan Pathfinder has a significant number of recalls and complaints, notably involving power train, air bags, and brakes. It's crucial to be aware of issues related to transmission and safety systems. Evidence suggests several recurring problems, though comprehensive inspection is necessary due to the volume of reported issues.
NHTSA data on file today
The 2013 Nissan Pathfinder has 11 NHTSA recall campaigns and 891 owner complaints on file as of . Recall data is refreshed daily from NHTSA.
NCAP overall rating: 4.0 out of 5 stars, averaged across 2 NHTSA-tested trims.
Recall campaigns on file
- NHTSA #22V420000 Malfunctioning Hood Latch NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #21V020000 Brake Light Switch Relay may Stick NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #16V380000 Brake Light Switch Malfunction NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #16V244000 Passenger Air Bag may not Deploy due to OCS Error NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #15V681000 Air Bag may not Detect Passenger in Seat NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #15V033000 Hood Release Cable Assembly NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #14V142000 CVT Oil Cooler Hose may Detach and Leak NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #14V138000 Air Bag may not Detect Passenger in Seat NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #13V445000 Increased Stopping Distance when using ABS NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #13V139000 Front Brake Torque Member may Fail NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #13V069000 Occupant Detection System May Disable Pass Air Bag NHTSA notice
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Power Train 371 complaints
- Air Bags 177 complaints
- Unknown or Other 110 complaints
- Engine 105 complaints
- Structure 83 complaints
- Service Brakes 62 complaints
Of the 891 complaints on file, 16 report a crash and 1 a fire; across all 891 complaints, owners report 16 injuries (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).
Known issues to inspect
Transmission fluid leaks
How to check: Inspect for fluid leaks under the vehicle.
Airbag deployment issues
How to check: Check recall fixes for airbag sensor issues.
Brake light sticking on
How to check: Verify brake lights turn off correctly.
Engine performance problems
How to check: Listen for unusual noises and check for smooth idling.
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Listen for unusual engine noises.
Red flag: Loud knocking or ticking sounds
- 02
First minute idling
What to check: Check for dashboard warning lights.
Red flag: Persistent warning lights
- 03
City driving
What to check: Monitor acceleration and shifting smoothness.
Red flag: Jerky or hesitant shifting
- 04
Highway acceleration
What to check: Assess power and response consistency.
Red flag: Delayed or uneven power delivery
- 05
Braking test
What to check: Ensure brakes engage smoothly.
Red flag: Grinding or delayed response
- 06
Parking maneuver
What to check: Check steering and handling ease.
Red flag: Resistance or noise in steering
- 07
HVAC check
What to check: Test heating and cooling effectiveness.
Red flag: Weak airflow or strange odors
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Has the transmission issue been addressed?
- Were all recall repairs completed?
- Any recent airbag deployments?
- Has the vehicle experienced braking issues?
- What engine repairs have been done?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Maintenance records
- Recall repair proof
- Previous accident reports
- Title and registration
- Warranty documents
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2013 Nissan Pathfinder at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
Looking at a specific 2013 Nissan Pathfinder? Check the actual car
This checklist covers the model. From your free try.vin dashboard you can go further — paste the seller's listing for a deal score, or drop their photos for an AI condition report.