2020 Nissan Pathfinder Safety Report
2020 Nissan Pathfinder Safety Report
Safety Decision Cockpit for the 2020 Nissan Pathfinder
This page is the hub for deciding what to inspect next on the 2020 Nissan Pathfinder. It connects recall campaigns, owner complaint patterns, service bulletins, sibling model years, component issue hubs, and the model buying guide so a shopper or owner can move from a single report into the wider safety graph.
| Signal | Value | What to inspect next |
|---|---|---|
| Recall burden | Low (0) | Review campaign numbers, affected components, and dealer remedies below. |
| Owner complaints | Moderate (44) | Scan complaint narratives for recurring symptoms, mileage, crashes, fires, injuries, and dates. |
| Crash and fire reports | 1 | Treat any crash, fire, injury, or fatality-linked pattern as a priority pre-purchase inspection item. |
| Primary component hub | Engine | Compare engine issues across vehicles. |
| Cleaner nearby model year | 2024 | Compare against the 2024 Nissan Pathfinder with 46 complaints and 2 recalls. |
| Riskier nearby model year | 2017 | Check the 2017 Nissan Pathfinder before buying across this generation. |
Nissan Pathfinder Year-by-Year Comparison
The safest purchase decision usually comes from comparing neighboring model years, not reading a single page in isolation. The table below uses only validated Nissan Pathfinder years already present in the cleaned NHTSA dataset, so each comparison links to a real vehicle safety report rather than a generated combination.
| Model Year | Complaints | Recalls | Use case |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2019 Nissan Pathfinder | 71 | 2 | Inspect as a potentially higher-complaint year. |
| 2022 Nissan Pathfinder | 123 | 5 | Inspect as a potentially higher-complaint year. |
| 2018 Nissan Pathfinder | 75 | 3 | Inspect as a potentially higher-complaint year. |
| 2023 Nissan Pathfinder | 89 | 1 | Inspect as a potentially higher-complaint year. |
| 2017 Nissan Pathfinder | 183 | 2 | Inspect as a potentially higher-complaint year. |
| 2024 Nissan Pathfinder | 46 | 2 | Inspect as a potentially higher-complaint year. |
2020 Nissan Pathfinder Complaint Theme Map
Complaint counts become more useful when they are grouped into inspection themes. For the 2020 Nissan Pathfinder, these are the component areas with the clearest NHTSA complaint signals. Use each link to jump from this single vehicle into broader component hubs and make-specific issue pages.
Engine
7 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Engine issues Nissan onlyElectrical System
4 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Electrical System issues Nissan onlyUnknown Or Other
4 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Unknown Or Other issues Nissan onlyPower Train
4 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Power Train issues Nissan onlyService Brakes
3 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Service Brakes issues Nissan onlyEngine,Fuel/Propulsion System
2 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Engine,Fuel/Propulsion System issues Nissan onlyAI Safety Analysis for the 2020 Nissan Pathfinder
Reliability Score
The 2020 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.
NHTSA Safety Ratings for the 2020 Nissan Pathfinder
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) evaluates vehicles through controlled crash tests and assigns star ratings from 1 to 5, with 5 being the safest.
Known Issues for the 2020 Nissan Pathfinder
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2020 Nissan Pathfinder:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine Running Too Lean The engine has been reported to run too lean, leading to repeated emissions failures. |
Medium | Common | 30k-60k miles |
| Electrical System Issues Frequent electrical issues, including AC failure and power window malfunctions, have been reported. |
High | Common | 30k-60k miles |
| Rearview Camera Malfunction The rearview camera intermittently stops working, affecting visibility. |
Medium | Common | 30k-60k miles |
| Cvt Transmission Judder The CVT transmission experiences juddering, affecting smooth operation. |
Medium | Common | 30k-60k miles |
Common Problems Reported by Owners
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2020 Nissan Pathfinder:
Engine issues, particularly running too lean, are common.
Frequent electrical issues, including AC failure and power window malfunctions, are reported.
Intermittent rearview camera malfunctions have been reported.
CVT transmission juddering is a common issue.
NHTSA Complaint Summaries for the 2020 Nissan Pathfinder
Below are complaint narratives filed by owners of the 2020 Nissan Pathfinder with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. 1 complaint involved crashes.
I own a 2020 Nissan Pathfinder with approximately 55,000 miles. The vehicle repeatedly failed Indiana emissions testing because the oxygen sensor monitor would not set to “ready,” despite multiple complete drive cycles and no check‑engine light or stored fault codes. A local shop performed diagnostics and found no issues. They reported that another 2020 Pathfinder came in the following week with t...
On April 7, 2025, the dealership attempted to sell me a vehicle that was experiencing an engine condition running too lean. I declined that vehicle due to safety concerns. On April 8, 2025, the salesperson contacted me again and stated that a different vehicle had been located that would meet my needs. At that time, I was nine months pregnant and urgently needed a vehicle with third-row seating f...
Passenger door unlock/lock does not work at all unless done manually by hand and the driver door is beginning to do the same as well. This has begun a year ago. The lift gate button broke off over a year ago as well and is only connected by cables and today (January 9, 2026) while trying to open the trunk the entire silver trim piece flew off towards me. The manual trunk (ours is not automatic) ...
My 202 pathfinder started misfiring with sever knocking, Nissan said there is metal saving in my oil which is caused because of the long block engine failure and timing chain loosening. I had my oil changes done every 4K, and I also had the fluids flushed twice in 5 years because of excessive build up. How does this happen.
Electrical issues with my car including AC. Timing belt chain went and gasket covers. Continuous issue with this vehicle.
Unknown
Driver side door lock / unlock does not work with keyFOB. All other doors lock / unlock but driver side door has to be locked / unlocked with physical key.
remote power locks door driver and passenger side will not open or close with remote fob leaving door open for anyone to open door when i am not around, or when at a stop. someone can open door and get in.
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!
The rear view camera ceases to work. It may work for a few days, then not work for a few days. This has been occurring since prior to the end of the warranty period. Dealer would not inspect as it was working when the vehicle was taken to the dealer.
The contact owns a 2020 Nissan Pathfinder. The contact stated that while the vehicle was stationary, the ABS, traction control, and the Forward Collision Avoidance warning lights illuminated. The contact turned off the vehicle and waited for several minutes before restarting the vehicle, and the warning lights were off. The vehicle was not taken to be diagnosed. The dealer was not made aware of th...
CVT Transmission Judder
My 2020 Nissan Pathfinder SL has once again developed problems with the Emergency forward Brake System. The ABS AEB was replaced in January 2024 at Southwest Nissan in Weatherford Tx . Today, [XXX] the AEB light came back on. This is also the second time I have had to replace the Brake light located under the brake pedal. This is the second time I am reporting this problem to NHTSA. Research on ...
I have a 2020 Nissan Pathfinder SL with under 70k miles. I had an awful squeal start, upon stopping. I had a private shop say I needed brakes, pads and rotors. And this began the issue. This was in 22-23. It is currently Oct 24, and I have had 3 sets of brakes pads and rotors. When this began the dealership told me my brakes were wearing and near needing replacement. So I had been alerted by the...
I've replaced both CV axles, all brakes, and had service completed with the wheel hubs. Still get a grinding noise located at the front wheels.
Car does not display the correct amount of fuel remaining once it hits half a tank left. Can read quarter of a tank remaining, and the distance to empty meter shows 40 miles. Or it will show 97 miles to empty and car will be on empty on fuel gauge. Then once I arrive at my destination, they flip. Driving 3 miles reports driving over 10-15 miles from distance to empty, the gauge starts moving. ...
This has been an on going issue with this vehicle where it will cut out start to shutter or is lurching as driving on the road has happened when coming off a stop sign and coming up to 25 mph, has happened when driving on the interstate at 75 to 80 mph, will normally come back to normal operations, has been into the dealership a number of times for this issue, only to be told that it's not coding ...
The contact owns a 2020 Nissan Pathfinder. The contact stated that while stopped at a stop sign, she observed a beeping sound, and the ABS warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a dealer where it was diagnosed that the brake switch, ABS control module, and the AEB sensor needed to be replaced after two months. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure....
1. The vehicle going less then 25 mph accelerates with out foot on the gas paddle. This problem has occurred multiple times on and off. 2. The Transfer case and axle seal started leaking at 74000 miles. Purchased the vehicle as a CPO dealer asking for $4000 to make repairs I only had the vehicle for 8 months. Are there recall to fix this issues?
The contact owns a 2020 Nissan Pathfinder. The contact stated while driving 35 MPH, the passenger’s side headlight began to fog up. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, where it was diagnosed that there was condensation in the headlight housing and that the headlight housing needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was no...
Showing 20 of 44 complaints. Additional complaints are available via the NHTSA database.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2020 Nissan Pathfinder
Has the 2020 NISSAN PATHFINDER been recalled?
No, the 2020 NISSAN PATHFINDER has no recalls on record with NHTSA as of our latest data update.
How many complaints does the 2020 NISSAN PATHFINDER have?
The 2020 NISSAN PATHFINDER has 44 complaints filed with NHTSA. Of these, 1 involved crashes. No injuries or deaths have been reported.
What is the safety rating for the 2020 NISSAN PATHFINDER?
The 2020 NISSAN PATHFINDER received an overall NHTSA safety rating of excellent (5/5). Frontal crash: 4/5. Side crash: 5/5. Rollover: 4/5.
What are the most common problems with the 2020 NISSAN PATHFINDER?
The most commonly reported problems with the 2020 NISSAN PATHFINDER involve engine (7 complaints), electrical system (4 complaints), unknown or other (4 complaints). Other affected components include power train, service brakes, engine,fuel/propulsion system.
How many crash reports does the 2020 NISSAN PATHFINDER have?
There are 1 crash reports associated with the 2020 NISSAN PATHFINDER out of 44 total complaints (2.3% of complaints involved crashes).
How many fire reports does the 2020 NISSAN PATHFINDER have?
There are no fire reports for the 2020 NISSAN PATHFINDER in the NHTSA database.
Are there any deaths reported for the 2020 NISSAN PATHFINDER?
No deaths have been reported in NHTSA complaints for the 2020 NISSAN PATHFINDER.
How many injuries are reported for the 2020 NISSAN PATHFINDER?
No injuries have been reported in NHTSA complaints for the 2020 NISSAN PATHFINDER.
Should I buy a 2020 NISSAN PATHFINDER?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2020 NISSAN PATHFINDER is generally recommended. It has 44 complaints, 0 recalls, and a excellent (5/5) safety rating. Always have a pre-purchase inspection done by a qualified mechanic.
What components fail most on the 2020 NISSAN PATHFINDER?
The components with the most failures on the 2020 NISSAN PATHFINDER are: 1. ENGINE (7 complaints), 2. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (4 complaints), 3. UNKNOWN OR OTHER (4 complaints), 4. POWER TRAIN (4 complaints), 5. SERVICE BRAKES (3 complaints). ENGINE is the single most-reported problem area with 7 complaints.
What should I know before buying a 2020 NISSAN PATHFINDER?
Be aware of potential engine and electrical system issues, as well as rearview camera and CVT transmission problems. The 2020 NISSAN PATHFINDER has 44 NHTSA complaints and 0 recalls on record. NHTSA rates it excellent (5/5).
How reliable is the 2020 NISSAN PATHFINDER?
The 2020 NISSAN PATHFINDER receives a reliability score of 55/100, indicating average reliability. This is based on 44 owner complaints, 0 recalls, and 1 crash/fire reports in the NHTSA database. Key known issues include Engine Running Too Lean and Electrical System Issues.
What are the known issues with the 2020 NISSAN PATHFINDER?
Known issues with the 2020 NISSAN PATHFINDER include: Engine Running Too Lean, Electrical System Issues, Rearview Camera Malfunction, CVT Transmission Judder. These are based on patterns found across 44 NHTSA complaints.
What are the most common issues with the 2020 Nissan Pathfinder?
Engine running too lean, electrical system failures, rearview camera malfunctions, and CVT transmission juddering are the most common issues.
Are there any known problems with the Pathfinder's rearview camera?
Yes, the rearview camera intermittently stops working, affecting visibility.
What should I do if I experience engine running too lean?
Have the oxygen sensor checked and replaced if necessary, as this is a common cause of the issue.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: Be aware of potential engine and electrical system issues, as well as rearview camera and CVT transmission problems.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2020 Nissan Pathfinder
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2020 Nissan Pathfinder. The data includes 44 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 0 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 1 reported crashes, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.
The NHTSA has assigned the 2020 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.
Disclaimer: This analysis is AI-generated from NHTSA public data and does not constitute professional automotive or safety advice. Always verify recall status at NHTSA.gov and consult a qualified mechanic.
Analysis last updated: 2026-05-16