Top 5 2005 to 2012 Nissan Pathfinder Problems

The Nissan Pathfinder debuted for the first time in Japan in 1986. It was Nissan’s response to the Jeep Cherokee, Ford Bronco, Chevrolet Trailblazer, and other competing models from Isuzu, Toyota, and Honda. It was initially known as the Nissan Terrano before being marketed internationally as the Nissan Pathfinder. This article addresses 2005 to 2012 Nissan Pathfinder problems.

Diagnose and Fix 3rd Gen Pathfinder Problems

Its third-generation model was introduced in 2005. It came with the third row of seats for the first time and like most vehicles, it also came with problems that are unique to it. These problems are common among many owners and comprise simple maintenance issues. Here are the top five that we’ve encountered in the 3^rd-generation Nissan Pathfinder. 

1. Erratic Fuel Gauge is a Common 2005 to 2012 Nissan Pathfinder Problem

The fuel gauge in the Nissan Pathfinder is notorious for failing to indicate the amount of fuel that is inside the fuel tank. This happens mostly after having owned and used the car for a long time. If you ever come from the gas station and realize that the gauge does not reflect the amount of fuel you think you poured into the tank, you could have an erratic gauge. 

This is normally caused by a failing fuel sending unit or sender that is found in the fuel pump module. Common symptoms here include a fuel gauge that reads empty when the tank is full, a fuel gauge that is stuck on full or empty, or a fuel gauge that fluctuates erratically. You could also get a Check Engine Light that generates a P0460 or P0461 code. This translates to “Sending Unit Fuel Erratic.”

The best solution to this problem is to replace the fuel sending unit. You’ll need to take the gas tank out and remove the fuel pump to get to it. You could also replace the fuel pump while at it. The trick here is to check the mileage and age of the pump. If it looks too old and not very far from failure, replacing it could help save you money and time in the future. 

2. No Crank No Start

A no crank no start situation occurs when you turn the key in your Nissan Pathfinder and get nothing. You don’t hear a crank and neither does the vehicle start. If you check your battery, you’ll find that it’s adequately charged. This means that the problem lies elsewhere. 

You may find out that there’s no power at the starter while diagnosing the problem. This is mainly caused by failure of one of the components found in between what sends power from the ignition switch to the starter. 

You’ll need to first check your starter relay, which is also referred to as the ignition switch relay. Since the problem can also be caused by other failing parts, you’ll need to test all the other fuses and pull the codes for them. You could get a trouble code that requires you to check the transmission shift solenoid. All in all, a blown fuse will be a great place to start. 

It’s advisable to do some research on your Nissan Pathfinder before getting down to work. Though not unheard of, rare for a no-crank no-start condition to be caused by a failing starter. It’s always a combination of the starter relay and something else. Be sure to find out more before doing the repair. 

3. Timing Chains

Bad timing chains are characterized by a ticking and buzzing sound that comes from the engine when starting the car. Nissan has a Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) on the timing chains found in the third-generation Nissan Pathfinder. The noise is caused by excess slack and can even develop into a clanking sound in severe cases. 

The chattering or buzzing sound eventually goes away when the oil pressure builds up. However, it’s best to replace the chains together with their guides when the problem occurs. It’s a big job that requires you to have the proper tools. You’ll need to also check your oil and do an oil change if need be.

Generally, it contributes greatly to furthering the life of your engine. Avoid driving your car if you suspect you have bad timing chains. This is because continuous usage while the chains are stretched could get you stranded. 

4. Cracked Radiator

Nissans are sometimes known to develop cracks within the internal components of the radiator. The most notorious part is normally the cooler. It prevents the right amount of coolant from getting to the engine and also causes it to leak into other areas of the engine compartment. 

Some of the symptoms that you’ll notice include a crank with no start, transmission slippage on the highway, erratic shifts, overheating due to reduced coolant, and problems with the shifter solenoid. 

You can start by checking the coolant in the reservoir that connects to the radiator. You want to check for a pink fluid or goo. This would be an indication that the coolant is mixing with the transmission oil. It happens when coolant finds its way into the transmission. 

5. Misfire

The third-generation Nissan Pathfinder has another Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) on its ignition coils. If you ever notice that your vehicle has a little shake to it followed by a Check Engine Light, you may need to replace the ignition coils. The trouble code will typically be anything between P0300 to P0306. 

The codes tell you the exact cylinder where the misfire is taking place. You’ll need to change all the ignition coils at the same time. Nissan upgraded the coils that go on the 2005-2012 Pathfinder to include a set that has better resistance. You’ll need to go for those as they provide a more permanent solution. 

Replacing the ignition coils on the passenger side of the V6 Pathfinder is a bit challenging. You’ll need a 10mm socket that can allow you to access them without having to remove the intake. This will take some patience and time. It’s also a good idea to replace the spark plugs to avoid having to go through the same process again when they age or go bad. 

Quick Links to Parts: 2005 to 2012 Nissan Pathfinder Problems

• 2005 Nissan Pathfinder
• 2006 Nissan Pathfinder
• 2007 Nissan Pathfinder
• 2008 Nissan Pathfinder
• 2009 Nissan Pathfinder
• 2010 Nissan Pathfinder
• 2011 Nissan Pathfinder
• 2012 Nissan Pathfinder

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