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ProblemsByVin File / 2020-NISSAN-PATHFINDER
2020 · nissan

nissan Pathfinder problems

0 safety recalls. 47 owner complaints. We mapped every trouble spot before you sign the papers.

0 5 10
Reliability score
8.2 / 10

Solid reliability overall. Common issues are concentrated in a few systems.

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Critical
0
Severe
0
Moderate

Top trouble spots 5 categories with 3+ complaints

electrical
9 reports · avg $850
moderate
engine
9 reports · avg $3,100
moderate
brakes
7 reports · avg $450
moderate
powertrain
6 reports · avg $2,500
moderate
suspension
3 reports · avg $900
moderate

What owners are saying recent NHTSA-filed complaints · verbatim

2020 Pathfinder · engine
WHEN DRIVING OR IDLING YOU GET A SMELL OF ANTIFREEZE INSIDE THE DRIVERS COMPARTMENT. DEALER SAID THE ONLY WAY TO FIX WAS TO GET THE HEATING AND COOLING SYSTEM ON RECIRCULATING AND NOT FRESH AIR. THIS IS CONSTANT PROBLEM NO MATTER THE TWHAT THE TEMP AT URGE ISOUTSIDE.
12/26/2020 · NHTSA ODI #11385020.0
2020 Pathfinder · visibility
Defroster does not work properly. Will allow my vehicle to warm up for 15 to 20 minutes to allow proper heating as this has been an on going issue. While driving in colder temperatures the front windshield will freeze over a on the inside of the vehicle only effecting the…
12/21/2022 · NHTSA ODI #11498479.0
2020 Pathfinder · engine
There's been a loss of power when accelerating, engine has made an odd noise during startup and occasionally a knocking noise when driven longer than a 10 mins. Dealership said there's metal in the oil pan. I saw an article today that said only nissan three and four cylinder…
12/16/2023 · NHTSA ODI #11560432.0
2020 Pathfinder · engine
My 202 pathfinder started misfiring with sever knocking, Nissan said there is metal saving in my oil which is caused because of the long block engine failure and timing chain loosening. I had my oil changes done every 4K, and I also had the fluids flushed twice in 5 years…
12/03/2025 · NHTSA ODI #11702786.0

Estimate your repair exposure

Drag to your current mileage. Numbers are derived from this vehicle's complaint history.

0 mi 200k mi
At 80,000 miles
Likely repair cost in next 24 months
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Common questions

Is the 2020 Nissan Pathfinder reliable?

Mostly yes. With a reliability score of 8.2 out of 10 based on 47 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the 2020 Nissan Pathfinder is generally a sound vehicle. The areas to watch are listed in the top problem section above — most are budget items, not deal-breakers.

What's the most common problem on the 2020 Nissan Pathfinder?

Based on NHTSA records, the most-reported issue is electrical, with 9 complaints filed. Average repair cost runs about $850 at an independent shop.

What's the most expensive thing that goes wrong?

The electrical is one of the costlier repair items. Average repair cost runs about $850 at an independent shop. Catching early warning signs can sometimes extend life by 20–30,000 miles.

How do I check if my Nissan Pathfinder has open recalls?

Paste your VIN into the decoder at the top of this page. We pull live from NHTSA, so you'll see exactly which campaigns apply to your vehicle and whether the dealer has logged the fix. Recall repairs are always free regardless of mileage or warranty status.

Is an extended warranty worth it on a 2020 Nissan Pathfinder?

Math is straightforward: a quality service contract runs $1,800–3,500 over 3 years. With 47 complaints on file and the costliest repair averaging $850, one major failure more than pays for it. The catch is reading the contract — many providers exclude wear items and require pre-authorization, so cheaper plans aren't always better value.

Related vehicles

Recall and complaint data sourced from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) public records database, last synced 3 days ago. Editorial commentary written by ProblemsByVin contributors and reviewed by ASE-certified mechanics. We are not affiliated with nissan. Some links on this page are affiliate links and we may earn a commission if you complete a quote or purchase.
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