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

2016 Nissan Pathfinder Reliability ReportCommon Problems, Repair Costs & Expert Verdict

65/ 100
HIGH RISK

Grade: D+

A comfortable SUV that's unfortunately plagued by a high-risk transmission, making it a financial gamble.

Full system breakdown + what I would do

Should You Buy the 2016 Nissan Pathfinder?

The 2016 Nissan Pathfinder is a comfortable and spacious family hauler, but its widespread and catastrophic CVT transmission issues make it a risky long-term proposition. While the V6 engine is robust, the high probability of a major transmission failure means prospective buyers must proceed with extreme caution and factor in potential five-figure repair costs.

Biggest Strengths

  • Smooth VQ35DE V6 engine performance
  • Spacious and family-friendly interior
  • Comfortable ride quality for daily driving

Top Risk Areas

The systems that break first on the 2016 Nissan Pathfinder. Mileage windows, repair costs, and fix-before-you-buy notes are in the full report.

1
CVT Transmission (Xtronic)critical
2
Electrical Systemmoderate
3
Front Wheel Bearingsmoderate
Typical mileage, cost ranges, and the exact what-to-check list are in the full report.

NHTSA Recalls

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

AIR BAGS:SENSOR:OCCUPANT CLASSIFICATION

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.

LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:HOOD:LATCH

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.

What breaks on the 2016 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 reliability scores across nearby years of the Nissan Pathfinder. Click any year for its full report.

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Relevant Products for Your 2016 Nissan Pathfinder

Parts and accessories matched to your 2016 Nissan Pathfinder

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Frequently Asked Questions

Final Step

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