2024 Nissan Pathfinder Safety Report

2024 Nissan Pathfinder: Strong Crash Ratings, but Significant Real-World Brake, Powertrain, and Safety System Complaints

46Complaints
2Recalls
★★★★★Safety Rating
65/100Reliability Score
1Crash Reports
3Injuries
Most reported components: Service Brakes (7)Forward Collision Avoidance (2)Engine (2)Power Train (2)Power Train,Vehicle Speed Control,Unknown Or Other (2)Electrical System,Engine (2)Electrical System (2)Electrical System,Wheels,Engine (1)Unknown Or Other (1)Service Brakes,Forward Collision Avoidance (1)

AI Safety Analysis for the 2024 Nissan Pathfinder

The 2024 Nissan Pathfinder presents a mixed safety picture. While it achieved strong crash test ratings from NHTSA, including a 5-star overall rating, 5-star side impact, and 4-star frontal and rollover ratings, its complaint data reveals several concerning patterns. With 46 total complaints, 1 crash, and 3 injuries reported, there are notable issues. The most frequent complaints revolve around the 'SERVICE BRAKES' (7 complaints), with multiple reports of premature rear brake pad and rotor wear, sometimes as early as 12,000-26,000 miles. This suggests a potential design flaw impacting braking performance and longevity. Furthermore, 'FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE' systems have garnered 2 complaints, including instances where the system randomly deactivates, disabling critical safety features like Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) and Forward Collision Warning. The 'ENGINE' and 'POWER TRAIN' components also show 2 complaints each, with reports of engine stalling, reduced power, and even complete transmission failure at low mileage (e.g., 1,198 miles). Two recalls have been issued: one for improperly secured lap belt pretensioners, increasing injury risk in a crash, and another for potentially improperly deploying driver-side frontal airbags, also increasing injury risk. These recalls address fundamental safety systems, highlighting manufacturing or design oversights. The combination of high crash test scores with significant, recurring complaints about critical safety systems like brakes, collision avoidance, and powertrain components indicates that while the vehicle performs well in controlled tests, real-world reliability and safety system functionality are areas of concern.

Reliability Score

The 2024 Nissan Pathfinder receives a reliability score of 65 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 2024 Nissan Pathfinder

The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2024 Nissan Pathfinder:

IssueSeverityFrequencyTypical Mileage
Premature Rear Brake Wear
Multiple reports of rear brake pads and rotors wearing out completely at unusually low mileages, sometimes requiring replacement multiple times.		 High Common 12000-26000 miles
Forward Collision Avoidance System Malfunction
The forward distance sensor randomly turns off, disabling Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB), Forward Collision Warning, and Intelligent Cruise Control.		 High Occasional unknown miles
Transmission Failure/Stalling
Vehicle stalling on highways, loss of acceleration, and complete transmission failure reported at very low mileage, sometimes shifting into reverse unexpectedly.		 High Occasional 1000-27000 miles
Auto Stop/Start System Malfunction
The auto stop/start system intermittently fails to restart the engine, causing the vehicle to die in intersections or at lights.		 Medium Occasional unknown miles
Electrical System Issues
Reports of entire electrical system shutdown, battery problems (possibly rodent-related wiring), and various malfunction lights (ABS, Traction Control, Check Engine).		 Medium Occasional unknown miles
Seat Belt Pretensioner Recall
Recall for improperly secured lap belt pretensioner in the left-side front seat belt assembly, increasing injury risk in a crash.		 High Common new miles
Airbag Inflator Module Recall
Recall for driver-side frontal airbag inflator module that may deploy improperly, increasing injury risk.		 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 2024 Nissan Pathfinder:

Service Brakes 15% of complaints

Premature and excessive wear of rear brake pads and rotors, often requiring replacement at low mileage (e.g., 12k-26k miles).

Forward Collision Avoidance 4% of complaints

System deactivation while driving, disabling critical safety features like AEB and Forward Collision Warning.

Engine 4% of complaints

Reports of engine stalling, reduced power, and coolant infiltration leading to catastrophic engine damage.

Power Train 4% of complaints

Transmission failure, vehicle stopping unexpectedly, and issues with shifting or loss of acceleration.

Electrical System 4% of complaints

Complete electrical system shutdowns, battery issues, and various malfunction lights.

Frequently Asked Questions About the 2024 Nissan Pathfinder

Is the 2024 Nissan Pathfinder safe?

Based on NHTSA data, the 2024 Nissan Pathfinder received a 5-star overall safety rating, with 5 stars for side impact and 4 stars for frontal and rollover. However, there are 46 complaints, 1 crash, and 3 injuries reported, with significant concerns regarding premature brake wear, forward collision avoidance system malfunctions, and powertrain issues. Two recalls also address critical safety components: seat belt pretensioners and airbag inflator modules.

What are common problems with the 2024 Nissan Pathfinder?

The most reported issues for the 2024 Nissan Pathfinder include premature rear brake wear (7 complaints), malfunctions with the forward collision avoidance system (2 complaints), engine problems like stalling or coolant infiltration (2 complaints), and powertrain issues including transmission failure (2 complaints). Electrical system problems are also noted.

Are there any recalls for the 2024 Nissan Pathfinder?

Yes, there are two recalls for the 2024 Nissan Pathfinder. One recall (NHTSA ID: 24V-089) is for improperly secured lap belt pretensioners, which can increase the risk of injury in a crash. The second recall (NHTSA ID: 24V-088) is for a driver-side frontal airbag inflator module that may deploy improperly, also increasing injury risk.

How does the 2024 Nissan Pathfinder perform in crash tests?

The 2024 Nissan Pathfinder performed well in NHTSA crash tests, earning a 5-star overall safety rating. It received 4 stars for frontal crash protection, 5 stars for side crash protection, and 4 stars for rollover resistance.

What should I look out for when buying a used 2024 Nissan Pathfinder?

When considering a used 2024 Nissan Pathfinder, pay close attention to the brake system, specifically checking for recent rear brake pad/rotor replacements or signs of premature wear. Inquire about any history of forward collision avoidance system warnings or malfunctions, and check for any powertrain or transmission issues, including stalling or unusual shifting. Ensure both active recalls have been addressed.

Buyer Advice

Our recommendation: Despite strong crash test ratings, potential buyers should be aware of recurring issues with premature brake wear, forward collision avoidance system malfunctions, and powertrain reliability, and verify that all recalls have been completed.

NHTSA Data Summary for 2024 Nissan Pathfinder

This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2024 Nissan Pathfinder. The data includes 46 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 2 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 1 reported crashes, 3 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.

The NHTSA has assigned the 2024 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.