Reliability AnalysisBased on known issue patterns, repair cost data, and ownership trends · How we score

2004 Nissan Pathfinder Reliability ReportCommon Problems, Repair Costs & Expert Verdict

78/ 100

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MODERATE RISK

Grade: B

A durable, capable SUV, but the automatic transmission is its Achilles' heel and demands careful scrutiny.

Full system breakdown + what I would do

Quick Facts · 2004 Nissan Pathfinder

  • Has 7 NHTSA recalls on record — the most notable involves the air bags:frontal:passenger side:inflator module.
  • Scores 4 points below the strongest nearby year — the 2002 Nissan Pathfinder earns a 82.
  • The system most likely to surface first: automatic transmission (major severity).

Should You Buy the 2004 Nissan Pathfinder?

A rugged, body-on-frame SUV, the 2004 Nissan Pathfinder offers impressive durability and off-road capability, making it a potentially strong used vehicle choice. However, prospective buyers absolutely must prioritize a thorough inspection of the automatic transmission to avoid significant repair costs. With proper care and attention to its few known weaknesses, this SUV can be a long-lasting workhorse.

Biggest Strengths

  • Robust VQ35DE V6 engine
  • Durable body-on-frame construction
  • Capable 4x4 system

Top Risk Areas

The systems that break first on the 2004 Nissan Pathfinder. Mileage windows, repair costs, and fix-before-you-buy notes are in the full report.

1
Automatic Transmissionmajor
2
Exhaust Manifoldsmoderate
3
Power Window Regulatorsmoderate
Typical mileage, cost ranges, and the exact what-to-check list are in the full report.

NHTSA Recalls

7 recalls on record from NHTSA. Check your VIN atnhtsa.gov to see if the repair was performed.

AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE

Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2001-2003 Maxima, 2002-2006 Sentra, 2002-2004 Pathfinder, 2007-2011 Versa Sedan and Versa Hatchback, 2001-2004 Infiniti I30 and I35, 2002-2003 Inifiniti QX4, 2003-2008 Infiniti FX35 and FX45 and 2006-2010 M35 and M45 vehicles. The vehicles are equipped with non-desiccated, frontal passenger air bag inflators containing phase stabilized ammonium nitrate (PSAN) propellant that were used as interim remedy parts for previous Takata recalls. These inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, high temperatures, and high temperature cycling.

AIR BAGS

Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain model year 2001-2003 Nissan Maxima, 2002-2004 Pathfinder, 2002-2006 Sentra, 2002-2003 Infiniti QX4 and I35, 2003 FX35 and FX45, and 2001 I30 vehicles. Upon deployment of the passenger side frontal air bag, excessive internal pressure may cause the inflator to rupture.

What breaks on the 2004 Nissan Pathfinder?

Full reliability breakdown — engine, transmission, rust, electrical. With repair costs and mileage danger zones.

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Nissan Pathfinder by Year

Compare KeepScores across nearby years of the Nissan Pathfinder. Click any year for its full report.

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Relevant Products for Your 2004 Nissan Pathfinder

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Frequently Asked Questions

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