IsItAGoodCar

Common Problems with the
2005–2010 Nissan Pathfinder (R51)

We've identified 3 known issues that can affect the 2005–2010 Nissan Pathfinder (R51). 3 of these are serious faults that could be expensive to repair.

3
Known Issues
3
Serious
0
Moderate
0
Minor

The 2005–2010 period has 1 more issue than the Nissan Pathfinder (R51) average across all year periods.

All Known Issues

Internal Oil Cooler Failure (SMOD)

SeriousGearbox & Transmission

The internal transmission cooler inside the radiator can fail, mixing coolant and ATF (Strawberry Milkshake of Death). This usually destroys the automatic gearbox.

Most affected: Automatic models

Estimated cost: £2,500–£4,500Affects: 2005–2010Often appears around: 60,000–120,000 miles

Typical symptoms

  • •Transmission shuddering
  • •Slipping gears
  • •Pink/milky fluid on dipstick

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Check transmission fluid color
  • ✓Verify if the radiator has been replaced or bypassed

Chassis Corrosion and Structural Rust

SeriousBodywork & Rust

Sharing its chassis with the Navara, the Pathfinder is prone to severe internal rust that can compromise its structural integrity.

Estimated cost: £1,000–£3,000+Affects: 2005–2014Often appears around: Age-related

Typical symptoms

  • •Scaly rust on chassis rails
  • •Holes in the frame metal
  • •Rear of car appears misaligned

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Inspect the chassis with a torch and hammer
  • ✓Check for structural MOT history notes

Timing Chain Stretch

SeriousEngine

The 2.5 dCi engine uses a single-row timing chain that is prone to stretching, potentially leading to catastrophic engine failure.

Most affected: 2.5 dCi

Estimated cost: £800–£1,400Affects: 2005–2014Often appears around: 70,000–110,000 miles

Typical symptoms

  • •Clattering noise on cold start
  • •Engine management light
  • •Poor idling or loss of power

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Listen to the engine from cold
  • ✓Check for receipts of a Duplex chain conversion

Buying Tips for the 2005 Nissan Pathfinder (R51)

  • ✓On automatic models, check the transmission fluid for any pink or milky appearance (SMOD).
  • ✓Thoroughly inspect the chassis rails for internal corrosion and structural rot.
  • ✓Listen for timing chain rattle on the 2.5 dCi engine, especially on pre-2010 models.
2011–2014 Nissan Pathfinder (R51)

Browse 2005–2010 Nissan Pathfinder (R51) in our Directory

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Other Nissan Pathfinder (R51) Year Periods

2005–20102011–2014

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