1994 Nissan Pathfinder Problems
- Complaints
- 91filed with NHTSA
- Median mileage
- 127,500miles, 18 complaints with mileage
- Recalls
- 2campaigns on record
- Trend
- StableComplaints filed in the last 3 full calendar years are within 25% of the 3 years before.
- NHTSA crash rating
- —overall rating starts with 2011 models
- EPA fuel economy
- 15 mpgcombined, 3.0L 6-cyl RWD · 14 city / 17 hwy
Sources: NHTSA records for the 1994 Nissan Pathfinder (complaints, recalls, investigations), NHTSA crash tests, EPA fuel economy. Report an error
What owners report
Owners of this model year most often report rear frame rust severe enough to fail inspection, and broken exhaust manifold studs that produce noise and exhaust smells in the cabin. Both patterns appear across many complaints and are described as recurring on higher-mileage examples rather than sudden failures.
- Engine cooling
Exhaust manifold studs breaking
- 22 complaints (24%)
- median 99,420 mi at 9.3 yrs old (5 state mileage, few)
- filed 1998–2003
Owners describe a ticking or rattling exhaust noise that develops as manifold studs or bolts break, sometimes on both sides of the engine, with the manifold warping away from the head. Some report exhaust smell entering the cabin when the fresh-air vent is used. Complaints say the repair often involves extracting broken studs and retapping the holes, and that dealers declined coverage on older or higher-mileage vehicles. Reported from around 50,000 to 100,000 miles and beyond, often noticed as noise under acceleration.
What to check: Listen for exhaust ticking at cold start and under acceleration, and check for exhaust smell with the vent on fresh air. Ask whether manifold studs or gaskets have been replaced.
2 excerpts from owner complaints in NHTSA records
“This is the 13th manifold stud that would need to be replaced. When taken to the dealer they want to replace all 6 again at a cost of $636.00. I have already had the vehicle in the shop over the past 2 years twice for the same issue. This is also an emissions issue as the exhaust manifold separeates from the engine. I have aslo logged a complaint with the epa. This is a chronic problem on these vehicles as well as several other model years.”
NHTSA complaint #756519, filed 2002-01“Cracked exhaust manifold and broken manifold studs caused noise and occasional exhaust smell in passenger compartment (when on fresh air vent). Broken manifold studs are a known defect with a TSB in effect (over 10% of all complaints registered in the customer complaint database relate to this issue). Only because I had purchased a Nissan extended warranty four years ago was most of the repair cost covered, however, I was still required to pay the deductable. …”
NHTSA complaint #709293, filed 1999-07 - Body and structure
Rear frame rusted through
- 13 complaints (14%)
- median 136,583 mi at 14.9 yrs old (8 state mileage, few)
- filed 2002–2011
Complaints describe the frame, mainly above the rear axle and around the rear wheel wells, rusting through from the inside out, in some cases to the point that a finger can be pushed through the metal. Several owners found it during routine inspection or while repairing something else, and some report the vehicle failed inspection as a result. According to the complaints, dealers were often unwilling to repair it, and the manufacturer declined assistance. Reported mostly between roughly 100,000 and 185,000 miles, often first noticed during an inspection or unrelated repair.
What to check: Inspect the frame above the rear axle and around the rear wheel wells for flaking or perforated metal; undercoating can hide rust, so probe suspect areas. Ask whether the vehicle has passed a recent inspection.
2 excerpts from owner complaints in NHTSA records
“Took vehicle into repair shop getting it ready for inspection. Was told by shop that the entire rear frame of vehicle is rusted out and is non-repairable. It needless to say will not pass inspection. They informed me that this is a common problem on this make and model. I contacted the manufacturer and they are not going to do anything even though this is a major safety issue with loosing the rear wheels and control of vehicle. …”
NHTSA complaint #10257695, filed 2009-02, 135,166 miles“Took vehicle into repair shop getting it ready for inspection. Was told by shop that the entire rear frame of vehicle is rusted out and is non-repairable. It needless to say will not pass inspection. They informed me that this is a common problem on this make and model. I contacted the manufacturer and they are not going to do anything even though this is a major safety issue with loosing the rear wheels and control of vehicle. …”
NHTSA complaint #10402138, filed 2011-05 - Transmission and drivetrain
Transmission sticking or failing to shift
- 9 complaints (10%)
- median 115,500 mi at 9.2 yrs old (2 state mileage, few)
- filed 1995–2004
Complaints describe the automatic transmission sticking in a gear, sometimes refusing to shift out of first or second until the engine is shut off and restarted, and in some cases the unit failing altogether. Owners report the problem as intermittent, with no warning beforehand, and several say the transmission was replaced. Reported from roughly 60,000 miles upward, with the more severe failures noted around 125,000 miles.
What to check: Drive the vehicle long enough to reach normal operating temperature and check for delayed or missed shifts; ask for transmission service records.
2 excerpts from owner complaints in NHTSA records
“Transmission blew. These cars are sold as cars who have a very long engine life. I just love my car and am very disappointed that I only got 125k out of it. The body and all other parts are in great shape. I service this car religiously. I see on your site a fair amount of others who have the same complaint. I love the car so much, I almost wanted to pay for a new transmission and keep driving it until I read on your site that Nissan is aware of this problem and has not done anything about a recall. Will most likely purchase another vehicle. …”
NHTSA complaint #10004904, filed 2003-01, 125,000 miles“Exhaust manifold bolts have failed. Recall needed regardless of vehicle age/mileage. Tsd has been issued so company recognizes problem but is not taking full responsibility. Also, many similar complaints on this site. In addition, vehicle sometimes sticks in 1st gear (a/t). Fluid has been changed and problem is intermittant. Several other complaints on this site as well. Solution would be helpful.”
NHTSA complaint #10025501, filed 2003-07, 106,000 miles - Vehicle speed control
Sticking throttle or unintended acceleration
- 8 complaints (9%)
- typically at 4.2 yrs old
- 4 mention a crash, fire or injury
- filed 1995–2001
Owners describe the throttle sticking or the engine racing without warning, in some cases while slowing down or at idle, with braking described as unable to stop the vehicle. In one complaint the dealer cleaned carbon buildup in the throttle chamber and the symptom returned later. Reported across a range of mileages, from older low-mileage examples to higher-mileage vehicles.
What to check: Check that the throttle and accelerator pedal return freely and ask whether the throttle body has been cleaned or serviced.
2 excerpts from owner complaints in NHTSA records
“When in forward gear at idle the engine accelerated up to 5000 RPM. I tried to apply the brakes but could not stop the auto from crashing into the rear of my garage causing damage to several items in the garage. This same problem happened about ten times approximately two or three years ago. At that time the dealer (puyallup Nissan, puyallup, wa.) state this happens with pathfinders and they stated there is no known correction for it. In another circumstance someone could have been severely injured or killed.”
NHTSA complaint #754841, filed 2001-11“The vehicle's gas pedal stuck and when tapped to free it, surged forward at considerable speed over a curb, over the top of a fence wall (about 18 high at parking lot level) and through a cyclone fence, dropping about eight feet to the side of a railroad track. The distance covered to go over the wall was about five feet and occurred so rapidly the brakes could not be applied.”
NHTSA complaint #722402, filed 2000-05 - Electrical system
Power door locks cycling on their own
Mentioned in 4 of 60 sampled complaints
Complaints describe the power door locks locking and unlocking repeatedly while driving or parked, without any controls being touched, and in some cases the driver door lock jamming so the door cannot be unlocked from outside. Owners also mention interior plastic trim and latches breaking. Reported on vehicles at varied mileages, typically as an intermittent fault.
What to check: Test each door lock from the inside and outside with the engine running, and watch for unexplained cycling after the doors are shut.
2 excerpts from owner complaints in NHTSA records
“Power door locks lock and unlock while I am driving. Click click-click when I am driving alone and not touching any door controls. Driver door lock jams easily. Cannot unlock the door from the outside. Interior plastic parts. Gasoline door knob by driver's seat. Broken quickly. Hinge to the compartment between driver's and passenger seat.. Broken almost immediately. Interior plastic locks on doors fell off.”
NHTSA complaint #10201111, filed 2007-08“Power door locks lock and unlock while I am driving. Click click-click when I am driving alone and not touching any door controls. Driver door lock jams easily. Cannot unlock the door from the outside. Interior plastic parts. Gasoline door knob by driver's seat. Broken quickly. Hinge to the compartment between driver's and passenger seat.. Broken almost immediately. Interior plastic locks on doors fell off. Updated 11/1/07”
NHTSA complaint #10201112, filed 2007-08
Buying note. Frame condition is the deciding factor on this model year: have the rear frame and rear wheel-well areas inspected closely before buying, since rust there is the most frequently reported problem. Exhaust manifold work and transmission behavior are also worth checking on a test drive.
Summary written with AI from a sample of 60 NHTSA complaints for this model year (picked at random, with complaints that state a mileage and recent ones taken first), then checked automatically against the source records. Where a problem shows a complaint count, every complaint for this model year was matched with fixed keyword rules (written with AI and tested against the sample), and the mileage, age and repair figures are calculated from those complaints; owners' figures are as stated, not verified. Other counts refer to the sample. The excerpts come from NHTSA's public complaint records and are unverified; capitalisation is normalised, NHTSA staff notes are removed, and shortened text ends with “…”. Something wrong? Request a correction.
NHTSA recorded 91 consumer complaints for the 1994 Nissan Pathfinder. 18 of the complaints include a mileage, and 0% of those were filed for vehicles with under 50,000 miles; the median is 127,500 miles. Of all complaints, 8 involved a crash, 2 a fire, 1 an injury, according to the filers. NHTSA lists 2 recall campaigns and 22 technical service bulletins for this model year.
Not compared (before 2008). Model years 2008–2023 of the same vehicle that have at least 25 complaints are compared, and a model needs at least 3 of them.
Which parts are reported most
Complaints can name more than one part, so the counts add up to more than the total. Select a part to see its complaints, recalls and bulletins.
- Engine cooling35 38%
- Body and structure23 25%
- Vehicle speed control7 7.7%
- Brakes5 5.5%
- Tires5 5.5%
- Electrical system4 4.4%
- Equipment2 2.2%
- Fuel system2 2.2%
Also reported: Other or unknown (2), Suspension (2), Air bags (1), Latches, locks and linkages (1), Seats (1).
Example complaints
Engine cooling: “At any speed vehicle was very loud, and the exhaust sounded as if t marbles were rattling around. A recall was issued for vehicles of same make/model and certain years, but the consumer's vehicle was not included. The bolts to the exhaust manifold overheated and broke off into the manifold cover. Manufacturer and the dealer were aware of the problem.”
NHTSA complaint #10050251, filed 2003-12, 50,000 milesBody and structure: “Noticed sagging bumper and took 1994 Pathfinder in for repairs. Mechanic told me the rear frame was rusted beyond repair. Poked his finger through the frame with no effort. Car has been cared for and had undercoating applied. Mechanics say they see this exact problem quite often. Internet search will reveal hundreds of similar cases, including car falling apart while moving.”
NHTSA complaint #10344323, filed 2010-07, 184,000 milesTransmission and drivetrain: “Transmission would stick. Would fail to shift into another gear. Would have no prior warning when transmission sticks. Would stick in 2nd gear & only going 25mph. Also, door locks would go up and down when key is not in ignition. Would work fine if key in ignition. Have taken vehicle to dealer.”
NHTSA complaint #865447, filed 2000-07Vehicle speed control: “Intermittently while driving the vehicle will idle high and low. Then without any warning the car will cut off in the middle of traffic. Dealer and manufacturer have been notified.”
NHTSA complaint #829072, filed 1998-10Mileage when problems were reported
0% of the 18 complaints with a mileage were filed for vehicles with under 50,000 miles; the middle half falls between 100,000 and 139,368 miles.
Complaints by year filed
Trend: stable. Complaints filed in the last 3 full calendar years are within 25% of the 3 years before.
Crash test ratings
NHTSA's 5-Star Safety Ratings for the 1994 Nissan Pathfinder. Frontal results are shown driver / passenger; rollover shows the star rating and NHTSA's estimated risk of rolling over in a single-vehicle crash.
| Version | Overall | Frontal | Side | Side pole | Rollover |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pathfinder · sedan | not rated | 1 / 3 | — | — | — |
Ratings before the 2011 model year come from an older, less demanding test and are not comparable with ratings for 2011 and later.
Source: NHTSA New Car Assessment Program (5-Star Safety Ratings), nhtsa.gov/ratings.
Fuel economy and running cost
EPA ratings for each 1994 Nissan Pathfinder version. Annual fuel cost is the EPA's estimate at its current fuel prices for 15,000 miles a year (55% city driving).
| Version | Engine | Transmission | City | Hwy | Comb. | Fuel / yr |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pathfinder 2WD | 3.0L 6-cyl | 4-speed automatic | 14 | 17 | 15 | $4,450 |
| Pathfinder 2WD | 3.0L 6-cyl | 5-speed manual | 14 | 17 | 15 | $4,450 |
| Pathfinder 4WD | 3.0L 6-cyl | 4-speed automatic | 14 | 17 | 15 | $4,450 |
| Pathfinder 4WD | 3.0L 6-cyl | 5-speed manual | 14 | 17 | 15 | $4,450 |
Source: U.S. EPA and Department of Energy, fueleconomy.gov. Ratings are for comparing vehicles; real-world mileage varies with driving and conditions.
Recalls and investigations
- 02V125000May 2, 2002Seat belts › Front › Buckle assemblyCovers: Nissan Pathfinder 1994, D21 1994
On certain light duty pickup trucks, the latch plate used in the seat belt buckle was not manufactured according to design dimensions. If the seat belt tongue is inserted slowly at an angle into the buckle, there is a possibility of partial engagement.
- 96V170001Sep 10, 1996Seat belts › Front › Buckle assemblyCovers: Nissan Pathfinder 1994, D21 1994
The latch plate used in the seat belt buckle was not manufactured according to design dimensions. If the seat belt tongue is inserted slowly at an angle into the buckle, there is a possibility of partial engagement.
Recall details for the 1994 Nissan Pathfinder → · Check a VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls
Technical service bulletins
TSBs are manufacturer notes to dealers about known repair procedures. They are not recalls and do not by themselves mean a vehicle has a fault. 22 on record; the latest 10 are shown.
- 10243708Sep 21, 2023Steering. DIAGNOSIS OF VEHICLE PULL (DRIFT) AND/OR STEERING WHEEL OFF-CENTER This bulletin has been amended. See AMENDMENT HISTORY on the last page. Please discard previous versions of this bulletin.
- 10239062Jun 16, 2023Electrical system. SILICONE-BASED LUBRICANT OR GREASE CAN DAMAGE ELECTRICAL COMPONENTS SERVICE INFORMATION Do not apply Silicone-based lubricants or grease to, or around, any interior electrical components. To avoid…
- 10239060Jun 16, 2023Electrical system. 12 VOLT BATTERY TESTING FOR IN-SERVICE VEHICLES SERVICE INFORMATION The following Service Information lists NNA procedural recommendations for establishing good connections while performing 12V…
- 10235707Apr 27, 2023Electrical system. VEHICLE KEY NOT DETECTED / AUTHENTICATED, ENGINE WILL NOT START This bulletin has been amended. See AMENDMENT HISTORY on the last page. Please discard previous versions of this bulletin.
- 10235710Apr 17, 2023Electrical system. INTELLIGENT KEY REPLACEMENT OR SWAPPING BETWEEN VEHICLES This bulletin has been amended. See AMENDMENT HISTORY on the last page. Discard all previous versions of this bulletin.
- 10232658Feb 27, 2023Body and structure, Visibility (wipers, defrost, mirrors). REMOVING FOREIGN MATERIAL FROM THE WINDOW GLASS This bulletin has been amended. See AMENDMENT HISTORY on the last page. Please discard previous versions of this bulletin.
- 10232656Feb 27, 2023Body and structure, Visibility (wipers, defrost, mirrors). WINDSHIELD CRACKING This bulletin has been amended. See AMENDMENT HISTORY on the last page. Please discard previous versions of this bulletin.
- 10232657Feb 22, 2023Wheels. WHEEL BEARING COLLISION DAMAGE This bulletin has been amended. See AMENDMENT HISTORY on the last page. Please discard previous versions of this bulletin.
- 10232652Feb 22, 2023Steering. DIAGNOSIS OF VEHICLE PULL (DRIFT) AND/OR STEERING WHEEL OFF-CENTER This bulletin has been amended. See AMENDMENT HISTORY on the last page. Please discard previous versions of this bulletin.
- 10206391Dec 7, 2021Suspension. STRUT AND SHOCK ABSORBER REPLACEMENT GUIDELINES This bulletin has been amended. See AMENDMENT HISTORY on the last page. Please discard previous versions of this bulletin.
Other model years of the Nissan Pathfinder
| Year | Complaints | Median mi | Recalls | Crash ★ | MPG | Score (50 = typical) | Trend |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | 15 | 76,900 | 0 | 5 | 23 | — | Too new |
| 2025 | 57 | 9,000 | 1 | 5 | 23 | Too new to compare | Too new |
| 2024 | 86 | 13,500 | 2 | 5 | 23 | Too new to compare | Too new |
| 2023 | 107 | 15,800 | 1 | 5 | 23 | 68 · More | Too new |
| 2022 | 136 | 11,500 | 5 | 5 | 23 | 100 · More | Rising |
| 2020 | 53 | 19,700 | 0 | 5 | 23 | 7 · Fewer | Rising |
| 2019 | 76 | 40,000 | 2 | 5 | 23 | 26 · Fewer | Stable |
| 2018 | 78 | 16,000 | 3 | 5 | 23 | 50 · Typical | Rising |
| 2017 | 188 | 42,710 | 2 | 5 | 23 | 63 · Typical | Falling |
| 2016 | 105 | 48,900 | 2 | 5 | 23 | 37 · Typical | Falling |
| 2015 | 321 | 44,254 | 5 | 5 | 23 | 96 · More | Falling |
| 2014 | 576 | 47,500 | 11 | 5 | 22 | 100 · More | Falling |
| 2013 | 891 | 15,000 | 11 | 4 | 22 | 100 · More | Stable |
| 2012 | 23 | 87,000 | 2 | — | 17 | — | Stable |
| 2011 | 45 | 46,000 | 2 | — | 17 | 0 · Fewer | Stable |
| 2010 | 40 | 111,386 | 4 | — | 18 | 0 · Fewer | Falling |
| 2009 | 37 | 91,000 | 3 | — | 17 | 0 · Fewer | Falling |
| 2008 | 328 | 106,534 | 4 | — | 17 | 50 · Typical | Falling |
| 2007 | 561 | 99,123 | 1 | — | 17 | Not compared (before 2008) | Falling |
| 2006 | 837 | 93,000 | 3 | — | 17 | Not compared (before 2008) | Falling |
| 2005 | 1,050 | 90,024 | 2 | — | 17 | Not compared (before 2008) | Falling |
| 2004 | 67 | 76,684 | 3 | — | 16 | Not compared (before 2008) | Falling |
| 2003 | 110 | 100,750 | 3 | — | 16 | Not compared (before 2008) | Falling |
| 2002 | 156 | 100,000 | 5 | — | 16 | Not compared (before 2008) | Stable |
| 2001 | 230 | 99,782 | 3 | — | 16 | Not compared (before 2008) | Falling |
| 2000 | 112 | 124,697 | 2 | — | 16 | Not compared (before 2008) | Rising |
| 1999 | 104 | 130,000 | 2 | — | 16 | Not compared (before 2008) | Falling |
| 1998 | 149 | 112,000 | 2 | — | 16 | Not compared (before 2008) | Stable |
| 1997 | 217 | 113,400 | 2 | — | 16 | Not compared (before 2008) | Falling |
| 1996 | 159 | 121,000 | 3 | — | 16 | Not compared (before 2008) | Stable |
| 1995 | 170 | 127,000 | 0 | — | 15 | Not compared (before 2008) | Falling |
| 1994 | 91 | 127,500 | 2 | — | 15 | Not compared (before 2008) | Stable |
| 1993 | 49 | 141,500 | 0 | — | 16 | Not compared (before 2008) | Stable |
| 1992 | 30 | 123,698 | 0 | — | 15 | Not compared (before 2008) | Stable |
| 1991 | 39 | 157,016 | 1 | — | 17 | Not compared (before 2008) | Stable |
| 1990 | 38 | 192,412 | 2 | — | 16 | Not compared (before 2008) | Stable |
| 1989 | 15 | — | 2 | — | 15 | — | Stable |
| 1988 | 17 | 148,000 | 2 | — | 14 | — | Stable |
| 1987 | 19 | — | 2 | — | 14 | — | Stable |
All Nissan Pathfinder model years · Best and worst years by complaints
Frequently asked questions
What are the most common problems with the 1994 Nissan Pathfinder?
Owners of this model year most often report rear frame rust severe enough to fail inspection, and broken exhaust manifold studs that produce noise and exhaust smells in the cabin. The issues reported most often: Exhaust manifold studs breaking; Rear frame rusted through; Transmission sticking or failing to shift.
How many NHTSA complaints does the 1994 Nissan Pathfinder have?
NHTSA recorded 91 consumer complaints for the 1994 Nissan Pathfinder as of Oct 29, 2026. Complaints are unverified consumer reports and may be duplicated or inaccurate.
What part of the 1994 Nissan Pathfinder is reported most often?
Engine cooling is named most often, in 35 complaints (38% of the total), followed by body and structure with 23.
Has the 1994 Nissan Pathfinder been recalled?
NHTSA lists 2 recall campaigns for this model year. To check a specific vehicle, enter its VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
What gas mileage does the 1994 Nissan Pathfinder get?
The EPA rates the 1994 Nissan Pathfinder (Pathfinder 2WD, 3.0L 6-cyl) at 15 mpg combined, 14 city and 17 highway, with an estimated annual fuel cost of $4,450 at 15,000 miles a year. Other engine and drive versions are rated differently.
At what mileage are problems with the 1994 Nissan Pathfinder reported?
Among the 18 complaints that include a mileage, the median is 127,500 miles and the middle half falls between 100,000 and 139,368 miles; 0% were filed for vehicles with under 50,000 miles.
About this data. Data from NHTSA (ODI) complaints, recalls, TSBs and investigations, updated Oct 29, 2026. Complaints are unverified consumer reports and may be duplicated or inaccurate. Crash ratings are from NHTSA’s New Car Assessment Program. Fuel economy is from the EPA and DOE (fueleconomy.gov).
Complaint counts come from NHTSA’s public complaint database; we count each complaint once. The source records for this vehicle are on nhtsa.gov. Scores and trends are our own summaries of that data, described in the methodology. This page is not legal, safety or repair advice: for a specific vehicle, check its VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls and ask a qualified mechanic. See an error? Tell us.