Crankcase (pcv) problems of the 2017 Nissan Pathfinder

Engine failure in my vehicle equipped with the vq35dd engine, which I believe is the result of a widespread and well-documented design defect involving internal sludge buildup. I have owned this vehicle for over five years and have followed the recommended routine maintenance schedule, including on-time oil changes using high-quality oil. At no point during any inspection, service, or maintenance appointment was I informed of any sludge buildup or concerns with the engine. Only after a serious mechanical failure did the Nissan servicing dealership claim the engine was full of sludge, subsequently recommending an engine replacement. Despite my diligence in maintaining the vehicle, I am now facing an engine replacement that was entirely unexpected and has created a safety risk due to loss of motive power. This could have resulted in a serious accident, and I believe this issue merits urgent and transparent attention. Upon researching this issue, I found dozens of similar complaints from other owners with vq35dd engines, many of whom reported premature engine failure, sludge accumulation, and pcv system defects—despite maintaining their vehicles properly. . Read more...

Pcv valve hose clogging rendering system useless and resulting in sludge buildup in engine. The sludge buildup causes issues with timing chain lubrication and ultimately destroys the guides causing excessive engine rattling, aluminum flakes in the engine. Causes loss of power, numerous different engine codes, and ultimately catastrophic failure of engine. Hise collapses within itself and prevents proper crankcase ventilation. See attached pictures.

The contact owns a 2017 Nissan Pathfinder. The contact stated that upon starting the vehicle, the vehicle made abnormal loud sounds. Additionally, the check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where the cooling fan was replaced and the warning light was reset; however, the failure persisted. Additionally, the vehicle would only start after attempts. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed that the pcv hose collapsed and was applying significant pressure on the crankcase case, causing engine misfiring. The dealer replaced the pcv hose; however the check engine warning light remained illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where the fractured exhaust clamps were replaced; however, the failure persisted. The dealer diagnosed that the cylinder 1 ignition coil may have failed. The dealer replaced the transmission fluid, coolant exchange kit and brake fluid. The engine control module (ecm) reprogramming was completed. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and referred the contact to the dealer. The vehicle was taken a second dealer, zeigler Nissan of gurnee (3175 grand Ave, lindenhurst, IL 60046), where it was diagnosed that the long block , exhaust manifold gasket, intake manifold, throttle body, the bank one (1) catalytic converter, and other unknown parts needed to be replaced. The manufacturer informed the contact that she would need to pay for the engine assembly replacement prior to them assisting with catalytic converter replacement. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 36,539.