2022 Nissan Pathfinder Safety Report
2022 Nissan Pathfinder: Strong Crash Ratings Mask Significant Brake, Powertrain, and Seat-Related Recalls and Complaints
AI Safety Analysis for the 2022 Nissan Pathfinder
Reliability Score
The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder receives a reliability score of 60 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 2022 Nissan Pathfinder
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2022 Nissan Pathfinder:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Premature Rear Brake Wear Owners report rear brake pads and rotors wearing out extremely quickly, often requiring multiple replacements at low mileage, leading to grinding noises and potential braking inefficiency. |
High | Common | 7000-44000 miles |
| Transmission Shifting To Neutral/Park Vehicle unexpectedly shifts into neutral or park while driving, causing sudden loss of propulsion and creating a significant crash risk. |
High | Occasional | unknown miles |
| Sunroof Spontaneous Shattering/Leaks Panoramic sunroof spontaneously shatters without impact, creating a loud noise and scattering glass. Also, reports of sunroof drain clogs leading to water leaks and mold. |
Medium | Occasional | unknown miles |
| Engine Failure Catastrophic engine failure reported, including severe knocking and seizing, sometimes without prior warning lights. |
High | Rare | 70000 miles |
| Airbag System Malfunction Airbag warning light illuminates, indicating the system may not function properly in a crash. |
High | Rare | unknown miles |
| Seat Critical Fastener/Weld Issues Recalls indicate missing mounting bolts for second-row seats, insufficient welds in second-row seat back frames, and improper welds/misaligned components in third-row headrests, all increasing injury risk in a crash. |
High | Common | new miles |
Common Problems Reported by Owners
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2022 Nissan Pathfinder:
Premature and excessive wear of rear brake pads and rotors, leading to frequent replacements and grinding noises.
Multiple recalls and complaints related to seat integrity, including missing bolts, insufficient welds, and headrest issues, impacting occupant restraint in a crash.
Vehicle unexpectedly shifting into neutral or park while driving, causing loss of propulsion.
Includes issues like sunroof shattering, water leaks, and general manufacturing defects not categorized under specific components.
Reports of catastrophic engine failure, including seizing and knocking.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2022 Nissan Pathfinder
Is the 2022 Nissan Pathfinder safe?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2022 Nissan Pathfinder received excellent crash test ratings, including a 5-star overall rating. However, it has 123 owner complaints and 5 safety recalls, many related to critical safety components like seats, brakes, and the powertrain. While it performs well in controlled crash scenarios, real-world reliability and component durability are significant concerns.
What are common problems with the 2022 Nissan Pathfinder?
The most reported issues for the 2022 Nissan Pathfinder include premature wear of service brakes (17 complaints), particularly the rear brakes, and problems with seats (14 complaints) which have led to multiple recalls. Other significant concerns include the powertrain (7 complaints) with reports of the vehicle shifting into neutral while driving, and issues categorized as 'UNKNOWN OR OTHER' (13 complaints) which include sunroof shattering and leaks.
Are there any recalls for the 2022 Nissan Pathfinder?
Yes, the 2022 Nissan Pathfinder has 5 safety recalls. These include recalls for the rearview camera, missing second-row seat mounting bolts, insufficient welds in second-row seat back frames, improper third-row headrest welds, and insufficient welds for the secondary hood latch retainer bracket. Many of these directly impact occupant safety in a crash.
How does the 2022 Nissan Pathfinder perform in crash tests?
The 2022 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.
What should I look out for if considering a 2022 Nissan Pathfinder?
If considering a 2022 Nissan Pathfinder, be aware of the documented issues with premature brake wear, potential powertrain malfunctions (like unexpected shifting into neutral), and the numerous recalls related to seat integrity. Ensure all recall repairs have been completed and consider an extended warranty, especially for powertrain components.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: Despite strong crash test ratings, the 2022 Nissan Pathfinder has significant documented issues with premature brake wear, powertrain malfunctions, and multiple safety recalls; ensure all recalls are addressed and consider an extended warranty for critical components.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2022 Nissan Pathfinder
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2022 Nissan Pathfinder. The data includes 123 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 5 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 3 reported crashes, 1 fire incidents, 3 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.
The NHTSA has assigned the 2022 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.