Body Problems of Nissan Pathfinder - part 1

Nissan Pathfinder owners have reported 209 problems related to body (under the structure category). The most recently reported issues are listed below. Also please check out the statistics and reliability analysis of Nissan Pathfinder based on all problems reported for the Pathfinder.

1 Body problem of the 2016 Nissan Pathfinder

Failure Date: 07/21/2025

The rear subframe has completely rusted out from the inside, and is broke off on the right side and almost broken off on the left side. The car is now unsafe to drive. There were no warning lights, messages or problems before this. The car is only 9 years old and is always kept in a garage.

See all problems of the 2016 Nissan Pathfinder 🔎.

2 Body problem of the 2024 Nissan Pathfinder

Failure Date: 06/30/2025

This morning at approximately 0615 I walked out to my vehicle to go to work. There was no damage to my car. When I entered my vehicle and closed my driver door, my tailgate glass crumbled leaving a massive horizontal hole in my rear windshield as well as the outer sides. There is now glass all over my trunk and driveway. Once again, the car had been sitting in my driveway for three days, there were no large pieces of debris around that could have hit it, and when I was in my car there were no loud sounds indicating something struck my tailgate. It just spontaneously shattered.

See all problems of the 2024 Nissan Pathfinder 🔎.

3 Body problem of the 2007 Nissan Pathfinder

Failure Date: 06/24/2025

Body frame right and left has holes in the frame rusting out. Hole about 4 inches long and the wide entire frame at rear over the tires.

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4 Body problem of the 2025 Nissan Pathfinder

Failure Date: 06/10/2025

While the vehicle was parked and unattended, the rear window of my 2025 Nissan Pathfinder spontaneously shattered without any impact or external force. There was no evidence of vandalism, collision, or falling objects, and the vehicle was stationary at the time. The glass shattered entirely, leaving shards throughout the interior cargo area and rendering the vehicle unsafe to drive or leave unattended. When the glass initially broke, there was no glass that fell inward or outward — it appeared to be a slow cracking failure, where the entire pane began breaking down gradually. I approached the vehicle to investigate and opened the rear door to get a better look. As soon as I opened the door, the natural movement and vibration from the door caused the already-shattered glass to collapse inward, which is what you see in the attached photos. Unfortunately, this makes it appear as if there was an impact from the outside, when in fact the glass was already fractured prior to any physical contact or movement. Immediately after the incident, I took the vehicle to a certified Nissan dealership for inspection. The dealer reviewed the damage but was unable to identify any clear cause or impact point, nor did they confirm a manufacturer defect. Regardless, I documented the incident extensively with photographs and obtained a formal service report. To protect the vehicle from weather exposure and theft, I am proceeding with a rear glass replacement. I am submitting this report to NHTSA because I believe this to be a spontaneous failure of the rear window glass that may indicate a broader issue with the manufacturing or installation of this component. If other drivers experience this failure — especially while the vehicle is in motion — it could pose a serious safety risk to passengers. I respectfully request that this issue be formally investigated. I am also pursuing reimbursement through Nissan consumer affairs.

5 Body problem of the 2025 Nissan Pathfinder

Failure Date: 06/09/2025

Driving down the highway going 65 miles an hour and the sun roof just exploded out hardley no glass inside,sounded like a shotgun went off. Its brand new Pathfinder called dealer and they said they never heard of that. Have never opened the sun roof window.

6 Body problem of the 2013 Nissan Pathfinder

Failure Date: 06/01/2025

Rear subframe rusted through and unable to be repaired. Contacted Nissan and would not assist even though some VIN # of the same year were recalled and replaced. Having a hard time finding a replacement even with a family friend who is a service advisor looking. Vehicle has not been in an accident that would cause this type of fracture in the frame. Unable to drive the vehicle for obvious safety reasons.

See all problems of the 2013 Nissan Pathfinder 🔎.

7 Body problem of the 2022 Nissan Pathfinder

Failure Date: 05/10/2025

My vehicle has experienced recurring water intrusion due to a clogged sunroof drain, causing significant moisture buildup, mold growth, and persistent odors inside the cabin. I purchased the vehicle in February 2024 and brought it in for this issue three times during the warranty period a few months later, where fixes were proposed each time. The fourth visit, five months past the warranty period in may 2025, still revolves around the same poor sunroof drainage system, which the dealership claims works fine, and they will perform repairs but refuse to cover them under warranty, offering only to clear the drain lines without a more in-depth repair or remediation for the mold and odor.

See all problems of the 2022 Nissan Pathfinder 🔎.

8 Body problem of the 2013 Nissan Pathfinder

Failure Date: 04/17/2025

Rear subframe on the passenger side cracked because of excessive rust making it dangerous to drive so it's now stuck at the repair shop. Repair shop said this is not expected for a vehicle with this mileage and the other sides of the subframe are far from being in the same condition as this one.

9 Body problem of the 2020 Nissan Pathfinder

Failure Date: 02/14/2025

Hood latch failed. Once opened, it would not re-secure. Vehicle had ~ 67,000 miles at occurrence. Problem was confirmed by dealer service. There were no warning features. Latch needed replacement due to 'damage' even though the was no accident or other reason for it to be 'damaged'. Cost was over $450 for replacement & repair. There are recalls for the same issue on other model years!.

See all problems of the 2020 Nissan Pathfinder 🔎.

10 Body problem of the 2024 Nissan Pathfinder

Failure Date: 01/01/2025

Driver side view mirror shakes while driving making it unsafe to use the mirror to make s lane change. Nissan corporate refusing to fix the issue, they say it's normal.

11 Body problem of the 2022 Nissan Pathfinder

Failure Date: 12/20/2024

Sunroof leak- causing issues throughout the car. Mold which is very serious and dangerous. This has to be addressed.

12 Body problem of the 2022 Nissan Pathfinder

Failure Date: 11/25/2024

Heated seats appear to be on, but do not heat up. The door lock sensors on the exterior door handles do not work consistently.

13 Body problem of the 2013 Nissan Pathfinder

Failure Date: 11/15/2024

When getting a new set of tires found out that drivers side rear subframe assembly rusted away where the control arm attaches after looking at a Nissan fourn there are many with the same problem worried that due to this might be a issue for me and my children traveling to he roads.

14 Body problem of the 2013 Nissan Pathfinder

Failure Date: 09/13/2024

Took my 2013 Pathfinder to steve shannon tires and auto center to fix (what I thought was the issue) a wheel bearing. They called me later in the day informing me they could not replace the wheel bearing because my rear sub frame is rotted.

15 Body problem of the 2013 Nissan Pathfinder

Failure Date: 08/04/2024

Rust only on brackets that hold the arm on the rear sway arm stabilizer.

16 Body problem of the 2013 Nissan Pathfinder

Failure Date: 07/01/2024

Rear subframe rotted out. Car is garage kept.

17 Body problem of the 2000 Nissan Pathfinder

Failure Date: 06/05/2024

This is in regards to a recall repair for the driver side strut tower. It has rusted out do to an improper recall repair.

See all problems of the 2000 Nissan Pathfinder 🔎.

18 Body problem of the 2016 Nissan Pathfinder

Failure Date: 02/10/2024

After taking my Nissan Pathfinder to Nissan 112 for a safety recall on February 10, 2024, they improperly completed the recall, leaving the hood stuck closed. Despite multiple appointments and 23 calls with consumer affairs, the issue remains unresolved. The recall I brought my vehicle in for was r22a3, a safety recall having to do with the hood opening during vehicle operation. The procedures state to inspect the lock assembly and secondary latch. If all is well, then clean and lubricate it and your done. If it fails inspection, then replace the hood lock assembly, the secondary latch, and the hood lock release cable. Even in the parts section it states “all three listed parts should be replaced together. ” the key here is that it states to replace all three, neither the repair overview or service procedure give you leeway to replace the parts individually. But, that’s what was done. As verified on my receipt from February 10, 2024, and when talking to the service manager on April 4, 2024, they only replaced the hood lock assembly. According to the service manager, this is how they always do it and what he’s always done. Even when reading the recall beside me, he fails to recognize that he has improperly followed the procedures to complete a safety recall. This complaint is less about a new safety issue, and is more related to Nissan 112's improper completion of an existing safety recall. Based on the information I have, this seems like normal business to them, so who knows how often they sign-off recalls without properly executing them.

19 Body problem of the 2013 Nissan Pathfinder

Failure Date: 02/05/2024

Front subframe rusted through. This is a similar issue across a wide range of Nissan Pathfinders. This is a major safety issue.

20 Body problem of the 2015 Nissan Pathfinder

Failure Date: 02/04/2024

Hood latch won’t close fully. Took to my dealer and supposedly they “cleaned” it and it keeps not fully latching and dealer won’t do anything about it because they “cleaned” it previously. Randomly comes loose. I can’t list a. Specific date because it always happens if I take it for an oil change they can’t get the hood to fully latch either. Once you open the hood it will not fully latch.

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21 Body problem of the 2013 Nissan Pathfinder

Failure Date: 01/18/2024

The vehicle was pulling to the right when driving or breaking. Brought to the mechanic and he discovered that the rear passenger side subframe is totally rotted. Appears to be a common problem with Nissan from my understanding now. He suggested I just trade it in. I don't have that luxury so will attempt to have it repaired. I have looked for a recall and so not see one but I do see numerous complaints regarding this issue on various Nissan boards. Some have said they registered a complaint as well. Since this appears to be a common Nissan problem, their corporation should be responsible for the repair. I'm told not to drive unless necessary.

22 Body problem of the 2014 Nissan Pathfinder

Failure Date: 01/11/2024

2014 Nissan Pathfinder - rear subframe rusted out causing vehicle to be unsafe to drive with suspension system failure. Structure is nearly completely rotted out. Issue found during visit to dealership for other recalls and deemed unsafe to drive. No warning indications to the operator, a creaking sound during normal operation. Location dubuque, iowa.

See all problems of the 2014 Nissan Pathfinder 🔎.

23 Body problem of the 2014 Nissan Pathfinder

Failure Date: 01/02/2024

While driving I noticed the front alignment was all of a sudden off. When parked I checked around the vehicle and found the driver side rear wheel to be kicked out at an angle. I checked the rear under carriage and found the nearly the whole rear subframe and crossmember to be rusted out. The bushing that held the control arm to the subframe came off in my hand. For a vehicle with only 80k and always garaged I was surprised at the extent of the rust. Had the full subframe failed at highway speed it could have been a lot worse. The rear wheel assembly was only connected to the car by the spring and control arm. After some online research I have found many other examples of similar failures with the rear subframe on this generation of Nissan Pathfinders. No recall exists for this failure. $4700 repair bill.

24 Body problem of the 2002 Nissan Pathfinder

Failure Date: 10/10/2023

This relates to campaign number 11v244000 we are the original and only owners of the vehicle I originally brought the vehicle in for the recall and they simply sprayed some undercoating in the wheel wells. Less than a month later both strut towers separated from the body of the vehicle while my wife was driving home, she lost steering and could have had a serious or fatal accident. I towed to the dealer and they installed braces in both strut towers. I have always taken exceptional care of my vehicles, which includes multiple washes during winter months and extensive undercarriage washing every spring. This past oct when I took the vehicle in for mandatory state inspection I was informed that the vehicle would not pass inspection next year. They told me this once before in relation to extensive rust to the passenger side rear frame next to the muffler. I was able to cut out the rust and weld a thicker plate of steel in there to repair the frame. I just changed my oil and looked for what the mechanic was referring too. This time the rust is between the braces they installed for the struts and the front of the wheel well. The mechanic saw the rust coming through the paint and poked at it with a screw driver, the screw driver went right though the body leaving significant holes in the structure that supports the struts. When the weather breaks I will further inspect to determine if there is enough good metal left for me to attempt a repair. I am doubtful a repair will be possible as the metal used to construct this vehicle is very poor quality. Despite my constant care, washing, rust conversion treatments, painting with rust blocking paint and using undercoating, every inch on the underside of the vehicle is rusted. Both rear quarters rotted behind the wheel flares and down into where the rear doors close and contact the rear quarters. Now due to Nissan's decision to use substandard metal I am forced to buy a new vehicle which is currently financially impossible.

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25 Body problem of the 2013 Nissan Pathfinder

Failure Date: 09/15/2023

After being notified of NHTSA recall campaign 22v-420 by Nissan north America, inc. We had the required service repairs performed by a qualified Nissan dealership near us, however Nissan has been unable to clear the open recall notice from their Nissan tracking system, so we continue to receive periodic open recall notices from Nissan for this same issue. The NHTSA website recall system correctly shows no open recalls for our vehicle. Several phone calls placed to the Nissan north America consumer affairs department requesting they fix their recall system notification information has only resulted in being transferred between representatives, and then having Nissan drop the calls during those transfers.

26 Body problem of the 2013 Nissan Pathfinder

Failure Date: 08/25/2023

Rear subframe/under body completely rusted out at cracked. My daughter and I drive a lot for her health condition to appointments. The Nissan dealership said this could have been catastrophic driving down the freeway had it broke apart while driving. It completely fell apart in the mechanics hand after they removed it and were showing me what actually happened and what I was driving around on. Nissan dealership quoted me $11,000. 00 for the part and labor. I had it fixed through an authorized mechanic for $5,000. 00 because it was wearing and I didn't notice because there were no signs or messages, it rubbed my tires almost bald to where the wires were showing. I had to replace those as well. I wash my car regularly and get 2 detail cleans a year, my car has been well maintained since I bought it. I asked the mechanic how this could have happened and the the Nissan mechanic stated that "this happened due to the fact that Nissan didn't powdercoat certain years of the Pathfinder and that's why it rusted out. He said that had it been powder coated this wouldn't have happened. ".

27 Body problem of the 2013 Nissan Pathfinder

Failure Date: 08/23/2023

The subframe has rusted out and it’s causing my arm to move. It appears this is a common issue with Nissan vehicles in general. My mechanic stated that it should not have rusted out like that.

28 Body problem of the 2013 Nissan Pathfinder

Failure Date: 08/14/2023

Subframe completely rusted through and has broken in the back portion of the car.

29 Body problem of the 2013 Nissan Pathfinder

Failure Date: 08/09/2023

The 2013 Nissan Pathfinder that we own just had the subframe rust and collapse. The car only has 120,000 miles. This is not even close to the expectancy of how long a subframe should last.

30 Body problem of the 2013 Nissan Pathfinder

Failure Date: 07/26/2023

Subframe completely rusted through and has broken in the back portion of the car. This risks catastrophic failure at highway speeds where the loose subframe can cause rear wheels to move outside of safe bounds. No warnings are given on the car and it is so hidden underneath that a normal inspection can miss it. Now car has dramatic clanging noise every bump and risks failure every time we drive.

31 Body problem of the 2013 Nissan Pathfinder

Failure Date: 02/26/2023

Major subframe damage in similar places on both sides of car causing car to be unsafe.

32 Body problem of the 2019 Nissan Pathfinder

Failure Date: 01/30/2023

Monday, January 30, at 7:25pm, I was driving my 2019 Nissan Pathfinder at 55mph and the sunroof exploded. The weather was clear, 60 degrees, no precipitation. There was a loud explosion then the sound of glass rained over the roof of the car. The interior shield was closed; therefore, glass did not enter the vehicle. We pulled over immediately to inspect the vehicle. The sunroof was identified as shattered with the glass shards in an upward position. We did not have cars around us. We were on an open road, no where near an overpass. There was nothing that could have fallen or hit the sunroof. Because the glass rained over the car and the glass was positioned upward, it is clear the sunroof exploded.

See all problems of the 2019 Nissan Pathfinder 🔎.

33 Body problem of the 2022 Nissan Pathfinder

Failure Date: 12/15/2022

Issue I have is when its raining - any water in the doors is to to drain out the 4 drain holes at the bottom of the doors. On my 2022 Pathfinder it is coming out the 4 drain holes but also coming out from behind the inside door panels and all 4 doors causing the inside liner/insulation to get wet. If you see water drops on the black plastic piece in the kick plates /doorways then you have an issue. Is this normal and will this cause issues with mold and smell? it seems the issue is the weather stripe that runs under the inside door panels to the top of the door is not making proper contact with the door frame in front of the splash guard which there is an opening from the splash guard which is also a bad design which hold lots of water and when traveling at highway speeds 60+ and the splash guard get fully it start to splash and go thru the opening and the weather-strip is is a complete seal and with the wind water is penetrating thru and wetting the inside door panels. In addition the front passenger also starts with a gurgling sound and it seems water and air are getting trapped due to the splash guard design and weather-strip not providing a good enough seal causing it to make a gurgling sound.

34 Body problem of the 2013 Nissan Pathfinder

Failure Date: 12/14/2022

The contact owns a 2013 Nissan Pathfinder. The contact stated that the rear sub frame was completely rusted through. The vehicle was taken to a certified mechanic and the subframe was replaced. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 100,850.

35 Body problem of the 2016 Nissan Pathfinder

Failure Date: 12/10/2022

Hood latch was marked as repaired (cleaned and lubricated) in recall report but secondary latch still sticks and I have to manually push the lever out of position to get my hood to latch down properly. All the dealership did was look at it, grease it, and call it good. It is still caked with gunk and sticks.


Other Common Structure related problems of Nissan Pathfinder


Pathfinder Service Bulletins
Pathfinder Safety Recalls
Pathfinder Defect Investigations