NHTSA vehicle safety data

2013 Nissan Pathfinder Recalls, Ratings & Complaints

The 2013 Nissan Pathfinder has 11 NHTSA recall campaigns and 891 owner complaints on file as of November 3, 2026. Recall repairs are usually free at an authorized Nissan dealer.

NHTSA recall and complaint data for the 2013 Nissan Pathfinder, plus NCAP crash-test ratings. Recall data is refreshed daily from NHTSA.

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2013 Nissan Pathfinder owner complaints

Owners have filed 891 complaints with NHTSA about the 2013 Nissan Pathfinder, describing incidents dated February 5, 2012 to June 20, 2026.

Most-cited components

Power Train 371 complaints
Air Bags 177 complaints
Engine 110 complaints
Unknown or Other 110 complaints
Structure 83 complaints
Service Brakes 67 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).

Newest complaints

ODI #11773061 · Filed October 22, 2026
The contact owns a 2013 Nissan Pathfinder. The contact stated that the vehicle shuddered significantly while idling, and the failure persisted while accelerating from a complete stop and while driving. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where the catalytic converter was replaced…
ODI #11749493 · Filed July 10, 2026
The contact owns a 2013 Nissan Pathfinder. The contact received notification for NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V420000 (Latches/Locks/Linkages); however, the recall repair failed to prevent a failure from occurring. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the hood unlatched and…
ODI #11745784 · Filed June 22, 2026
Rear sub frame near radial rod on drivers side of vehicle has corroded through without warning. Vehicle is unstable during breaking menuvers and pitches towards on coming traffic. Sudden loss of control or collision could occur without notice during breaking.

Read all 891 complaints

Owner-reported

2013 Nissan Pathfinder mileage at failure

674 of the 891 complaints on file for the 2013 Nissan Pathfinder give the vehicle's mileage when the problem happened.

Mileage at failure by component, from owners' complaints to NHTSA
Component	Median	Middle half	Based on
Power Train	Median 8,000 miles	Middle half 2,000–70,000 miles	Based on 310 complaints
Air Bags	Median 10,000 miles	Middle half 2,000–30,000 miles	Based on 132 complaints
Engine	Median 11,000 miles	Middle half 2,000–55,000 miles	Based on 89 complaints
Service Brakes	Median 15,000 miles	Middle half 6,000–55,000 miles	Based on 52 complaints

A component's median is its 50th percentile, and its middle half runs from its 25th to its 75th percentile.

Owners give the mileage themselves, often as a round number, and NHTSA doesn't check it. A complaint that names several components counts under each one, and mileages that can't be right, such as 999,999, or 50 miles on a five-year-old car, are left out.

These figures describe the complaints owners filed. They don't predict when a particular vehicle will have a problem, and vehicles that never had one aren't counted.

Most complaints NHTSA received since May 17, 2021 give no mileage. So that they aren't undercounted, each one received since then that gives a mileage also stands in for those that gave none, which can put a component's median above most of the mileages it is based on.

Mileage from NHTSA's complaints file of October 31, 2026. How these figures are worked out

NHTSA defect investigations

NHTSA's investigations file lists the 2013 Nissan Pathfinder in 4 investigations. A listed model year means only that an investigation names it; it says nothing about any particular vehicle. An open investigation is not a finding that a safety defect exists, and NHTSA can close one without a recall.

Preliminary Evaluation PE21-022: Hood Latch/Bell Crank Assembly
Closed July 8, 2022
- Recall 22V-420
Engineering Analysis EA15-004: Occupant Classification System Failure
Closed May 2, 2017
Recall Query RQ15-001: Occupant Classification System Failure
Closed September 1, 2015
Preliminary Evaluation PE13-029: Transmission cooler hose separation
Closed March 31, 2014
- Recall 14V-142

Open and recently closed NHTSA defect investigations

Malfunctioning Hood Latch

NHTSA #22V420000 · Latches/Locks/Linkages — Hood — Latch · NHTSA notice

Reported June 13, 2022 · Nissan North America, Inc.

Potentially affected: 322,671 vehicles

Repair completion: 25.71% (latest rate the manufacturer reported to NHTSA; dataset updated November 3, 2026)

Nissan campaign R22A2 R22A3 R24B7 · Owners notified March 26, 2025 · Recall influenced by NHTSA's Office of Defects Investigation

Defect description

Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2013-2016 Pathfinder vehicles. On certain Pathfinder vehicles, the secondary hood latch may malfunction and remain in the unlatched, unsecured, position when the hood is closed.

Safety consequence

An unsecured hood could unexpectedly open while driving, obstructing the driver's view, and increasing the risk of a crash.

Manufacturer remedy

Dealers will replace the bell crank assembly, free of charge. Owner letters were mailed March 26, 2025. Owners may contact Nissan's customer service at 1-800-867-7669. Nissan's number for this recall are R22A2 R22A3 and R24B7.

Notes

Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.nhtsa.gov.

Brake Light Switch Relay may Stick

NHTSA #21V020000 · Exterior Lighting — Brake Lights — Switch · NHTSA notice

Reported January 20, 2021 · Nissan North America, Inc.

Potentially affected: 264,431 vehicles

Repair completion: 66.36% (latest rate the manufacturer reported to NHTSA; dataset updated November 3, 2026)

Nissan campaign PC786 · Owners notified March 1, 2021

Defect description

Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2013-2015 Nissan Pathfinder vehicles. The location of the brake light switch may cause the brake light switch relay to repeatedly open and close. Overtime, this can cause the relay to stick in the "ON" position, with the brake lights remaining illuminated even when the brakes are not applied. Additionally, this may interfere with the brake-shift interlock, allowing the driver to shift the vehicle out of the "Park" position, without depressing the brake pedal.

Safety consequence

Continual illumination of the brake lights can prevent other drivers from realizing the vehicle is actually slowing down, increasing the risk of a crash. With the brake override activated, the driver will not be able to accelerate normally, increasing the risk of a crash. The driver can shift the vehicle out of the "PARK" position without depressing the brake, allowing the vehicle to rollaway, increasing the risk of injury.

Manufacturer remedy

Nissan will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and, as necessary, either re-install the brake light switch or swap positions with the Automatic Speed Control Device (ASCD) switch; depending on the model year vehicle. In addition, the brake light relay will be replaced with a new one. All repairs will be performed free of charge. The recall began March 1, 2021. Owners may contact Nissan customer service at 1-800-867-7669. Nissan's number for this recall PC786. Note: this recall supersedes 16V-380.

Notes

Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.

Brake Light Switch Malfunction

NHTSA #16V380000 · Exterior Lighting — Brake Lights — Switch · NHTSA notice

Reported May 31, 2016 · Nissan North America, Inc.

Potentially affected: 79,853 vehicles

Repair completion: 78.61% (latest rate the manufacturer reported to NHTSA; dataset updated November 3, 2026)

Owners notified July 25, 2016 · Vehicles built June 20, 2012 – June 13, 2013 (per NHTSA)

Defect description

Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain model year 2013-2014 Pathfinder vehicles manufactured June 20, 2012, to June 13, 2013. The brake light switch may have been installed incorrectly causing the relay to make intermittent contact and repeatedly cycle. This may result in the relay remaining in the "ON" position, causing the brake lights to remain illuminated even when the brakes are not applied. Additionally, the brake light switch may interfere with the brake-shift interlock, allowing the driver to shift the vehicle out of the "Park" position, without depressing the brake pedal.

Safety consequence

If the brake override is activated, the driver will not be accelerate normally, increasing the risk of a crash. If the brake lights remain illuminated, other drivers may fail to stop when the vehicle actually brakes, increasing the risk of a crash. If the driver inadvertently shift the vehicle out of the "PARK" position without depressing the brake, the vehicle may rollaway, increasing the risk of injury.

Manufacturer remedy

Nissan will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the brake light switch and, as necessary, replace the relay, free of charge. The recall began on July 25, 2016. Owners may contact Nissan customer service at 1-800-647-7261.

Notes

Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.

Passenger Air Bag may not Deploy due to OCS Error

NHTSA #16V244000 · Air Bags — Sensor — Occupant Classification · NHTSA notice

Reported April 26, 2016 · Nissan North America, Inc.

Potentially affected: 3,296,947 vehicles

Repair completion: 77.11% (latest rate the manufacturer reported to NHTSA; dataset updated November 3, 2026)

Owners notified June 10, 2016 · Vehicles built June 20, 2012 – April 1, 2016 (per NHTSA) · Recall influenced by NHTSA's Office of Defects Investigation

Defect description

Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain model year 2016-2017 Nissan Maxima, 2013-2016 Nissan Altima, NV200, LEAF, Sentra, and Pathfinder, 2014-2016 Nissan NV200 Taxi, Infiniti QX60, QX60 Hybrid, and Q50 Hybrid, 2014-2017 Nissan Rogue and Infiniti Q50, 2015-2016 Nissan Murano, Murano Hybrid, and Chevrolet City Express, 2014-2015 Nissan Pathfinder Hybrid, and 2013 Infiniti JX35 vehicles. In these vehicles, the front seat passenger Occupant Classification System (OCS) may incorrectly classify an adult passenger as a child or classify the seat as empty despite it being occupied. As a result, the passenger frontal air bag may be turned off and not deploy in the event of a crash.

Safety consequence

If the passenger frontal air bag does not deploy as intended in the event of a crash, the passenger is at an increased risk of injury.

Manufacturer remedy

Nissan will notify their owners. Chevrolet City Express owners will be notified by General Motors. Dealers will reprogram the Air Bag Control Unit (ACU) and OCS Electronic Control Unit (ECU) in Altima, Maxima, Murano, Rogue, and Sentra vehicles, and replace the OCS ECU in LEAF, NV200, NV200 Taxi, Pathfinder, Infiniti Q50, JX35, and QX60 and Chevrolet City Express vehicles, free of charge. Interim notices were sent to owners on May 31, 2016. Owners will receive a second notice when remedy parts become available. Owners may contact Nissan customer service at 1-800-867-7669, Infiniti customer service at 1-888-833-3216 or Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020.

Notes

Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.

Air Bag may not Detect Passenger in Seat

NHTSA #15V681000 · Air Bags — Frontal · NHTSA notice

Reported October 20, 2015 · Nissan North America, Inc.

Potentially affected: 919 vehicles

Repair completion: 68.44% (latest rate the manufacturer reported to NHTSA; dataset updated November 3, 2026)

Owners notified November 30, 2015 · Vehicles built July 17, 2012 – October 8, 2014 (per NHTSA) · Recall influenced by NHTSA's Office of Defects Investigation

Defect description

Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain model year 2013-2015 Altima and Pathfinder vehicles, 2013-2014 Nissan Sentra vehicles, 2013 Infiniti JX35 vehicles, 2014-2015 Infiniti QX60 vehicles and 2014 Infiniti QX60 Hybrid vehicles. The affected vehicles received an incorrect occupant classification system (OCS) control unit during a repair. These OCS control units may incorrectly classify the front passenger seat as empty, when it is occupied by an adult.

Safety consequence

If the OCS does not detect an adult occupant in the passenger seat, the passenger air bag would be deactivated. Failure of the passenger airbag to deploy during a crash (where deployment is warranted) could increase the risk of injury to the passenger.

Manufacturer remedy

Nissan will notify owners, and dealers will update the OCS software, free of charge. The recall began on November 30, 2015. Owners may contact Nissan at 1-800-647-7261.

Notes

Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.

Hood Release Cable Assembly

NHTSA #15V033000 · Structure — Body — Hood — Hinge and Attachments · NHTSA notice

Reported January 26, 2015 · Nissan North America, Inc.

Potentially affected: 170,665 vehicles

Repair completion: 87.33% (latest rate the manufacturer reported to NHTSA; dataset updated November 3, 2026)

Owners notified March 9, 2015 · Vehicles built June 20, 2012 – November 18, 2013 (per NHTSA)

Defect description

Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain model year 2013-2014 Nissan Pathfinder vehicles manufactured June 20, 2012, to November 18, 2013, 2014 Nissan Pathfinder Hybrid vehicles manufactured July 18, 2013, to November 18, 2013, 2013 Infiniti JX35 vehicles manufactured November 29, 2011, to June 14, 2013, and 2014 QX60 vehicles manufactured May 16, 2013, to November 18, 2013, and 2014 Infiniti QX60 Hybrid vehicles manufactured July 18, 2013, to November 18, 2013. In the affected vehicles the hood release cable assembly may have been installed incorrectly preventing the latching claw from fully engaging. The secondary latch may remain in the open position when the hood is closed.

Safety consequence

If the primary hood latch is released and the secondary latch fails during operation of the vehicle, it could cause the hood to open during vehicle operation impairing the driver's vision, increasing the risk of a vehicle crash.

Manufacturer remedy

Nissan will notify owners, and dealers will modify the angle of the hood release mechanism to provide additional length to the release cable, free of charge. The recall began on March 9, 2015. Owners may contact Nissan customer service at 1-800-647-7261.

Notes

Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.

CVT Oil Cooler Hose may Detach and Leak

NHTSA #14V142000 · Power Train — Automatic Transmission — Cooling Unit and Lines · NHTSA notice

Reported March 26, 2014 · Nissan North America, Inc.

Potentially affected: 3,065 vehicles

Repair completion: 78.56% (latest rate the manufacturer reported to NHTSA; dataset updated November 3, 2026)

Owners notified May 12, 2014 · Vehicles built April 18, 2012 – October 3, 2012 (per NHTSA) · Recall influenced by NHTSA's Office of Defects Investigation

Defect description

Nissan North America (Nissan) is recalling certain model year 2013 Pathfinder vehicles manufactured April 18, 2012, through October 3, 2012, and equipped with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). In the affected vehicles, the internal oil cooler (ITOC) hose may detach from the cooler due to inadequate clamping force, allowing transmission fluid to leak.

Safety consequence

The loss of transmission fluid could cause the transmission to function improperly and the vehicle to stop accelerating, increasing the risk of a crash.

Manufacturer remedy

Nissan will notify owners, and dealers will install an oil hose repair kit, free of charge. The recall began on May 12, 2014. Owners may contact Nissan at 1-800-647-7261.

Notes

Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.

Air Bag may not Detect Passenger in Seat

NHTSA #14V138000 · Electrical System — Software · NHTSA notice

Reported March 25, 2014 · Nissan North America, Inc.

Potentially affected: 989,701 vehicles

Repair completion: 86.77% (latest rate the manufacturer reported to NHTSA; dataset updated November 3, 2026)

Owners notified April 14, 2014 · Vehicles built June 20, 2012 – February 6, 2014 (per NHTSA)

Defect description

Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain model year 2013-2014 Altima, LEAF, Pathfinder, and Sentra, model year 2013 NV200 (aka Taxi) and Infiniti JX35 and model year 2014 Infiniti Q50 and QX60 vehicles. In the affected vehicles, the occupant classification system (OCS) software may incorrectly classify the passenger seat as empty, when it is occupied by an adult.

Safety consequence

If the OCS does not detect an adult occupant in the passenger seat, the passenger airbag would be deactivated. Failure of the passenger airbag to deploy during a crash (where deployment is warranted) could increase the risk of injury to the passenger.

Manufacturer remedy

Nissan will notify owners, and dealers will update the OCS software, free of charge. The recall began on April 14, 2014. Owners may contact Nissan at 1-800-647-7261.

Notes

Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.

Increased Stopping Distance when using ABS

NHTSA #13V445000 · Service Brakes, Hydraulic — Antilock/Traction Control/Electronic Limited Slip · NHTSA notice

Reported October 17, 2013 · Nissan North America, Inc.

Potentially affected: 151,695 vehicles

Repair completion: 93.18% (latest rate the manufacturer reported to NHTSA; dataset updated November 3, 2026)

Owners notified November 18, 2013 · Vehicles built April 18, 2012 – September 20, 2013 (per NHTSA)

Defect description

Nissan is recalling certain model year 2013-2014 Nissan Pathfinder vehicles manufactured April 18, 2012, through September 20, 2013; model year 2013 Infiniti JX35 vehicles manufactured September 15, 2011, through January 16, 2013; and model year 2014 Infiniti QX60 vehicles manufactured January 17, 2013, through September 20, 2013. In the affected vehicles, during light braking on rough roads, the antilock brake system (ABS) brake pressure output software may lead to an increase in stopping distance.

Safety consequence

The increased stopping distance may increase the risk of a crash.

Manufacturer remedy

Nissan will notify owners, and dealers will reprogram the ABS, free of charge. The recall began on November 18, 2013. Owners may contact Nissan at 1-800-647-7261.

Notes

Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.

Front Brake Torque Member may Fail

NHTSA #13V139000 · Service Brakes · NHTSA notice

Reported April 12, 2013 · Nissan North America, Inc.

Potentially affected: 19,258 vehicles

Owners notified May 20, 2013 · Vehicles built December 3, 2012 – January 29, 2013 (per NHTSA)

Defect description

Nissan is recalling certain model year 2013 Pathfinder and Infiniti JX vehicles manufactured December 3, 2012, through January 29, 2013. The front brake torque member was improperly cast resulting in structural weakness. This can lead to premature failure and cracking.

Safety consequence

If the brake torque member fails, the brake caliper may move and contact the inside of the road wheel, resulting in reduced braking, increasing the risk of a crash.

Manufacturer remedy

Nissan will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the manufacturing date of the torque members and replace them, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began on May 20, 2013. Owners may contact Nissan Customer Service at 1-800-647-7261.

Notes

Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.

Occupant Detection System May Disable Pass Air Bag

NHTSA #13V069000 · Air Bags · NHTSA notice

Reported March 1, 2013 · Nissan North America, Inc.

Potentially affected: 82,038 vehicles

Nissan campaign PC216 · Owners notified May 6, 2013 · Vehicles built September 26, 2012 – January 30, 2013 (per NHTSA)

Defect description

Nissan is recalling certain model year 2013 Altima, LEAF, Pathfinder, Sentra, and Infiniti JX35 vehicles. Sensors within the passenger Occupant Detection System (ODS) may have been manufactured out of specification. This may cause the system to malfunction and permanently suppress the passenger airbag.

Safety consequence

If the vehicle is involved in a crash necessitating airbag deployment and the passenger airbag is suppressed, there may be an increased risk of personal injury.

Manufacturer remedy

Nissan will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the ODS sensors and replace them as neccessary, free of charge. The recall began on May 6, 2013. Owners may contact Nissan Customer Service at 1-800-647-7261.

Notes

Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.

2013 Nissan Pathfinder SUV FWD

out of 5

Overall Safety Rating

Frontal Crash

Driver: 5, Passenger: 3

Side Crash

Driver: 5, Passenger: 5

Side Pole

Rollover

19% rollover risk

Safety Technology

Electronic Stability Control

4 investigations

2013 Nissan Pathfinder SUV AWD

out of 5

Overall Safety Rating

Frontal Crash

Driver: 5, Passenger: 3

Side Crash

Driver: 5, Passenger: 5

Side Pole

Rollover

17% rollover risk

Safety Technology

Electronic Stability Control

4 investigations

891 owner complaints have been filed with NHTSA for the 2013 Nissan Pathfinder.

Service Brakes, Hydraulic; Power Train; Exterior Lighting

ODI #11773061

Incident: October 22, 2025 · Filed: October 22, 2026

The contact owns a 2013 Nissan Pathfinder. The contact stated that the vehicle shuddered significantly while idling, and the failure persisted while accelerating from a complete stop and while driving. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where the catalytic converter was replaced; however, the failure persisted. The vehicle was taken back to the independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed that the Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) failed. The check engine warning light illuminated. In addition, the contact stated that the stopping distance was extended while depressing the brake pedal, and the brake lights were intermittently inoperable. The contact associated the failure with a recall; however, the VIN was not included in a recall associated with the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 100,000.

Latches/Locks/Linkages

ODI #11749493

Incident: June 11, 2026 · Filed: July 10, 2026

The contact owns a 2013 Nissan Pathfinder. The contact received notification for NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V420000 (Latches/Locks/Linkages); however, the recall repair failed to prevent a failure from occurring. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the hood unlatched and opened independently. No warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer, where the contact was advised to return the vehicle to the initial dealer for diagnostic testing. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 168,000.

Steering; Suspension; Service Brakes

ODI #11745784

Incident: June 20, 2026 · Filed: June 22, 2026

Rear sub frame near radial rod on drivers side of vehicle has corroded through without warning. Vehicle is unstable during breaking menuvers and pitches towards on coming traffic. Sudden loss of control or collision could occur without notice during breaking.

Power Train

ODI #11736776

Incident: April 30, 2026 · Filed: May 9, 2026

The vehicle is a 2013 Nissan Pathfinder experiencing a major transmission/CVT failure that creates serious safety concerns. Only 69 days after purchase, the transmission began failing and the vehicle became unsafe and unreliable to operate. The vehicle experiences severe transmission-related drivability problems, including hesitation, loss of proper acceleration, delayed response when attempting to move, jerking/shifting issues, and concern that the vehicle may suddenly lose the ability to move or maintain speed while driving. These issues create a dangerous situation, especially while driving in traffic, entering highways, crossing intersections, or transporting passengers. The transmission failure affects the vehicle’s ability to safely accelerate and maintain normal operation. A sudden loss of power or inability to properly accelerate could increase the risk of a crash, rear-end collision, or becoming stranded in traffic. The condition became severe enough that the vehicle is no longer dependable transportation. After the failure, the vehicle was evaluated by Nissan and I was informed the transmission showed signs of serious pre-existing issues. I was also advised there were possible indications that diagnostic trouble codes may have been cleared or hidden before the vehicle was sold, preventing the full condition of the vehicle from being discovered before purchase. The estimated repair cost is approximately $15,000. Due to the severity of the transmission defect, I do not believe the vehicle is safe for normal operation without major repair or replacement of the transmission/CVT system. This defect has created significant safety concerns for myself, my family, and others on the road because of the risk of sudden transmission failure, inability to safely accelerate, or loss of vehicle movement during operation.

Electrical System

ODI #11731621

Incident: May 20, 2023 · Filed: April 16, 2026

Odometer Fraud. The contact purchased a 2013 Nissan Pathfinder. It was discovered that there was a mileage discrepancy. The vehicle was a private sale. At the time of the purchase, the mileage was 93,653. It was later discovered that the mileage was approximately 209,000. The contact reported the fraud to the Secretary of State and had since found other vehicles to have been included in an odometer fraud ring.

Power Train

ODI #11731140

Incident: April 7, 2026 · Filed: April 14, 2026

The contact owns a 2013 Nissan Pathfinder. The contact stated that while accelerating from a stop, there was a slight jerking or hesitation before the vehicle accelerated. The failure was intermittent. While driving approximately 45 MPH after stopping at a stoplight, the vehicle shuddered and pulled to the left. The contact stated that excessive force was needed to turn the steering wheel to the right to avoid a crash. The vehicle was pulled over and parked. The vehicle was turned off until a friend arrived at the scene to assist. The friend started the vehicle; however, the vehicle failed to respond in drive or in reverse. The vehicle was towed to the residence. Several days later, when the vehicle was started, the check engine warning light was illuminated, and the vehicle failed to operate. The vehicle was inspected by two persons with automotive knowledge, and the contact was informed that the Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) had failed. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 118,000.

Unknown or Other

ODI #11723210

Incident: September 26, 2025 · Filed: March 10, 2026

The Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) assembly failed completely, rendering the vehicle inoperable. The transmission is currently available for inspection at the independent service center where repairs are being performed. The vehicle was purchased in September 2025 with approximately [UNKNOWN/LOW] mileage. Within the first week of ownership, the driver experienced violent shuddering and juddering when attempting to accelerate. This symptom worsened over a few days, eventually progressing to complete transmission failure — the vehicle could no longer accelerate or move under its own power. An independent transmission specialist identified a faulty casting in the CVT torque converter that caused internal belt/chain slippage. Once slippage began, the entire CVT assembly was damaged beyond repair. The specialist confirmed this is a known manufacturing defect in 2013 Nissan Pathfinders, not a result of owner misuse or maintenance neglect. A full CVT replacement was required.The sudden loss of transmission function while the vehicle was in operation created an immediate safety hazard. The vehicle could not accelerate when needed and could not be safely operated on roadways. This defect creates an unreasonably dangerous situation and increases the risk of crash or collision, particularly in traffic situations where acceleration is needed to avoid hazards. YES — The failure was confirmed and diagnosed by an independent transmission service center. The specialist identified the faulty torque converter casting as the root cause and confirmed this is a known defect pattern in 2013 Pathfinder CVT transmissions. The transmission is available for inspection. The vehicle was NOT inspected by a Nissan dealership prior to repair. The owner contacted Nissan Consumer Affairs multiple times (via phone and written correspondence) before taking the vehicle to the independent service center, but did not receive assistance or an inspection appointment.

Power Train

ODI #11711739

Incident: November 25, 2025 · Filed: January 18, 2026

transmission started jerking & went out leaving me stranded.

Power Train

ODI #11710236

Incident: January 10, 2026 · Filed: January 11, 2026

My car has been having issues with what seems to be the transmission. This Nissan Pathfinder has CVT, which is continuous variable transmission. Three months ago I had a radiator blowout and had to change that and the thermostat. I believe that it was due to the transmission issues. currently I have an oil leak and I believe it’s due to your issues with the transmission.

Power Train

ODI #11706461

Incident: December 21, 2025 · Filed: December 22, 2025

I have a 2013 Pathfinder that is experiencing a High pitch whine coming from the transmission. when shifting in lower gears, there is a soft kick. i have only experienced a shutter once and only at lower speeds and rpm. once I'm at a higher speed it seems to get less. I have had the vehicle for 8 months. just started in the the last week. It has 157k miles.

Other Nissan Pathfinder model years

Check your 2013 Nissan Pathfinder VIN

Not every recall applies to every VIN in a given year. Enter the 17-character VIN from your Nissan Pathfinder at nhtsa.gov/recalls to see whether your specific vehicle has an unrepaired recall.

Check a Nissan VIN