2016 Nissan Pathfinder Safety Report
2016 Nissan Pathfinder: Strong crash ratings, but persistent CVT and airbag sensor issues raise real-world safety concerns.
AI Safety Analysis for the 2016 Nissan Pathfinder
Reliability Score
The 2016 Nissan Pathfinder receives a reliability score of 55 out of 100 based on analysis of NHTSA complaint data, recall history, crash reports, and safety ratings. This indicates average reliability — some notable concerns exist that prospective buyers should be aware of.
Known Issues for the 2016 Nissan Pathfinder
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2016 Nissan Pathfinder:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cvt Transmission Failure Multiple reports of sudden CVT transmission failure, leading to loss of power while driving, often without warning lights. This can occur at various speeds and mileages, with some failures reported around 160,000 miles. |
High | Common | 60000-160000 miles |
| Passenger Airbag Occupant Classification System (Ocs) Sensor Malfunction The passenger airbag light often indicates the airbag is off even when an adult occupies the seat, or the airbag light blinks. This is linked to a recall (NHTSA Campaign Number: 16V244000) but complaints suggest the issue persists for some owners or vehicles not included in the recall. |
High | Common | 0-any miles |
| Secondary Hood Latch Malfunction The secondary hood latch may malfunction, remaining unlatched or failing to secure the hood properly. This can lead to the hood unexpectedly opening while driving, obstructing the driver's view and increasing crash risk. This is subject to recall (NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V420000), but some owners report ineffective repairs. |
High | Occasional | 0-any miles |
| Brake Fade/Failure Reports of brake fade and the brake pedal going to the floor, leading to extended stopping distances or failure to stop. This occurs despite replacement of pads, rotors, and master cylinder for some owners. |
High | Occasional | any miles |
| Rear Subframe Rust/Failure One complaint details the rear subframe completely rusting out and breaking, rendering the vehicle unsafe to drive, despite the vehicle being relatively new and garaged. |
High | Rare | 90000-100000 miles |
Common Problems Reported by Owners
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2016 Nissan Pathfinder:
Primarily related to powertrain issues, including hesitation, sputtering, and sudden engine shut-off while driving, often linked to CVT transmission problems.
Frequent complaints about the passenger airbag occupant classification system (OCS) sensor failing, causing the airbag to remain off even with an adult passenger, despite a recall.
A broad category including issues like sunroof explosion, cooling fan failure, and general vehicle stopping unexpectedly.
Reports of brake fade, pedal going to the floor, and general braking system malfunctions.
Concerns about the hood latch not securing properly, leading to the hood opening while driving, and issues with seatbelt latches.
Specific complaints directly mentioning transmission failure, differential issues, and loss of motive power.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2016 Nissan Pathfinder
Is the 2016 Nissan Pathfinder safe?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2016 Nissan Pathfinder received excellent crash test ratings, including a 5-star overall safety rating. However, it has 104 complaints, 10 crashes, and 5 injuries reported, with recurring issues like CVT transmission failures and passenger airbag sensor malfunctions that could compromise real-world safety.
What are common problems with the 2016 Nissan Pathfinder?
The most reported issues for the 2016 Nissan Pathfinder are related to the ENGINE (18 complaints), often indicating CVT transmission failure, AIR BAGS (16 complaints) due to faulty occupant classification sensors, and UNKNOWN OR OTHER (16 complaints) which includes various critical failures. Service brakes and hood latch issues are also notable.
Are there any recalls for the 2016 Nissan Pathfinder?
Yes, the 2016 Nissan Pathfinder has two recalls. One (NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V420000) addresses a secondary hood latch malfunction that could cause the hood to open while driving. The other (NHTSA Campaign Number: 16V244000) concerns the occupant classification system sensor for the passenger airbag, which may prevent proper airbag deployment.
How does the 2016 Nissan Pathfinder perform in crash tests?
The 2016 Nissan Pathfinder performed very well in NHTSA crash tests, earning a 5-star overall safety rating. It received 4 stars for frontal crash, 5 stars for side crash, and 4 stars for rollover resistance.
Is the CVT transmission a concern for the 2016 Nissan Pathfinder?
Yes, the CVT transmission is a significant concern. Multiple complaints describe sudden and complete transmission failure, leading to a loss of power while driving. This is a common pattern within the 'ENGINE' and 'POWER TRAIN' complaint categories and poses a high safety risk.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: While the 2016 Nissan Pathfinder boasts strong crash test ratings, potential buyers should be aware of the documented CVT transmission failures and persistent airbag sensor issues; a thorough pre-purchase inspection focusing on these components is highly recommended.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2016 Nissan Pathfinder
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2016 Nissan Pathfinder. The data includes 104 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 2 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 10 reported crashes, 5 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.
The NHTSA has assigned the 2016 Nissan Pathfinder an overall safety rating of 5 out of 5 stars, with a frontal crash rating of 4 stars, a side crash rating of 5 stars, and a rollover rating of 4 stars. These ratings are determined through controlled crash testing conducted by the NHTSA.
All data presented in this report is sourced from public NHTSA databases. Our AI analysis identifies patterns across complaint narratives, correlates them with recall history, and produces the safety assessment above. This analysis is updated as new complaints and recalls are filed with the NHTSA.
Consumers are encouraged to report vehicle safety problems to the NHTSA at nhtsa.gov. If your vehicle is subject to a recall, contact your dealer to schedule the free repair.