1987 Nissan Pathfinder Reliability ReportKeepScore 72/100 · top failure points · buy or avoid
Quick Facts · 1987 Nissan Pathfinder
- Scores 6 points below the strongest nearby year — the 1988 Nissan Pathfinder earns a 78.
- The system most likely to surface first: rust and body corrosion (critical severity).
- Has 2 NHTSA recalls on record — the most notable involves the equipment:other:labels.
1987 Nissan Pathfinder: Buy or Avoid?
The 1987 Nissan Pathfinder is a highly capable and rugged SUV for its era, offering surprising durability if it has been diligently maintained throughout its life. However, its significant age means that potential buyers must proceed with caution, as neglected examples can quickly become money pits, primarily due to advanced rust and aging electrical systems.
Biggest Strengths
- Robust body-on-frame construction
- Generally durable VG30i V6 engine (if maintained)
- Simple, mechanical 4WD system
1987 Nissan Pathfinder — Known Trouble Spots
The systems that break first on the 1987 Nissan Pathfinder. Mileage windows, repair costs, and fix-before-you-buy notes are in the full report.
Safety Recalls on the 1987 Nissan Pathfinder
2 recalls on record from NHTSA. Check your VIN atnhtsa.gov to see if the repair was performed.
EQUIPMENT:OTHER:LABELS
INCORRECT TIRE INFLATION PRESSURES WERE PRINTED ON CERTIFICATION LABELS.
SEAT BELTS:FRONT:BUCKLE ASSEMBLY
MISMATCH OF MALE AND FEMALE REAR SEAT BELT ASSEMBLIES.
What breaks on the 1987 Nissan Pathfinder?
Full reliability breakdown — engine, transmission, rust, electrical. With repair costs and mileage danger zones.
OwnerKeep Passport · $499 · one-time
Just bought a 1987 Nissan Pathfinder? Keep it that way.
Snap a receipt — AI logs it. Build an OwnerScore. Sell with a buyer-ready Passport dossier.
Nissan Pathfinder — Year-by-Year Comparison
Compare KeepScores across nearby years of the Nissan Pathfinder. Click any year for its full report.
Competing 1987s Worth a Look
Similar class, similar year range — ranked by KeepScore.
Relevant Products for Your 1987 Nissan Pathfinder
Parts and accessories matched to your 1987 Nissan Pathfinder
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Frequently Asked Questions
Related Comparisons
Just bought a 1987 Nissan Pathfinder? Keep it that way.
OwnerKeep Passport turns your Nissan Pathfinder's care history into a luxury digital vault — AI-logged receipts, an OwnerScore that pays at resale, and a buyer-ready dossier in one tap.
- AI receipt OCR — snap and log
- Fuel & mileage tracker
- Tri-Score OwnerScore
- One-tap resale dossier PDF
Recommended Reading for the Nissan Pathfinder
How Long Does a Nissan Altima Last? (Real Owner Data)
Wondering how many miles a Nissan Altima truly lasts? Our article reveals its real lifespan with compelling data directly from genuine owners.
Nissan Altima Common Problems and Repair Costs
Before you head to the mechanic, understand all common Nissan Altima problems, like transmission issues, and what their real repair costs are.
Nissan Altima Years to Avoid (Worst to Best Ranked)
Uncover the definitive ranking of Nissan Altima model years, revealing which to avoid and the best options for reliability, performance, and value.