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2016 Nissan Pathfinder Report

Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Updated Jun 15, 2026·Daniel Wilson·1 Critical Recall
2016 Nissan Pathfinder Report

Overall Score

7.6/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • Average reliability rating necessitates careful inspection of the passenger airbag system and hood latch.
  • Verify that all open recalls, especially for the Occupant Classification System (OCS) and hood latch, have been properly addressed.
  • The 3.5L V6 engine paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) delivers adequate power and a combined 21 MPG, but be aware of potential CVT longevity concerns common in this era.
  • Its 4-wheel-drive system enhances capability in varied conditions, but inspect the drivetrain components for wear.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2016 Nissan Pathfinder

The 2016 Nissan Pathfinder presents a practical option for used SUV shoppers, balancing family-hauling capability with respectable fuel economy for its class. While its NHTSA safety scores are strong, with an overall 5-star rating, the vehicle is subject to two significant recalls: one affecting the passenger airbag system and another related to the hood latch. A high count of Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) also suggests potential for various minor issues, particularly with electronics and software. Buyers should approach this model with a clear understanding of its documented concerns and prioritize pre-purchase inspections.

Critical Failure Risk

The secondary hood latch mechanism may fail to secure the hood properly. This recall-related issue can lead to the hood opening unexpectedly while driving, posing a significant safety risk.

Early detection can help you avoid a $300-$800 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls2
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

0

No primary complaint themes found.

Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency
Combined
21
MPG
City
19
MPG
Highway
26
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

9.2/ 10

Practicality

5.0/ 10

The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Families seeking a spacious and relatively fuel-efficient SUV for daily commuting and occasional road trips.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Buyers seeking a vehicle with a proven track record of exceptional long-term reliability.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2016 Nissan Pathfinder Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2016 Nissan Pathfinder.

  • Recall TimelineOfficial safety notices
  • Owner ComplaintsReal driver reports
  • Failure AnalysisKnown part defects
Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Regular
Transmission
Automatic (variable gear ratios)
Drivetrain
4-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Crossover
EPA Combined MPG
21

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Most Common Issues

1. Hood Latch Failure

Most reported

Usage data observed

2. Occupant Classification System (OCS) Malfunction

Usage data observed

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Inspect Brakes

Est. shop cost: $100 - $200

5,000 mi

Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist
Complete maintenance schedule (5 service intervals)
Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context
Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it
Full specs and trim-level context
2 recall campaign details & remedy notes
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2016 Nissan Pathfinder reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2016 Nissan Pathfinder is 9.2/10. Reliability score is 9.2/10. NHTSA recalls: 2. Owner complaints: 0.

How practical is the 2016 Nissan Pathfinder for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 5.0/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 21 MPG.

What is the overall score for the 2016 Nissan Pathfinder?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2016 Nissan Pathfinder is 7.6/10. Overall score is 7.6/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.4/10. Practicality 5.0/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2016 Nissan Pathfinder?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Inspect Brakes at 5,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $400 - $700. Repair prediction highlight: Hood Latch Assembly (typical at 60,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $200 • Max: $400).

What engine is in the 2016 Nissan Pathfinder?▾

Engine specs list 6 • 3.5.

What transmission does the 2016 Nissan Pathfinder use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 Nissan Pathfinder, transmission is Automatic (variable gear ratios). The paired drivetrain is 4-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2016 Nissan Pathfinder?▾

EPA combined estimate is 21 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2016 Nissan Pathfinder?▾

1 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Tire Pressure Monitoring System.

What body style is the 2016 Nissan Pathfinder?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 Nissan Pathfinder, body style is crossover.

What drivetrain does the 2016 Nissan Pathfinder use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 Nissan Pathfinder, drivetrain is 4-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (variable gear ratios).

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2016 Nissan Pathfinder?▾

NHTSA ratings: Overall 5/5 • Frontal 4/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 4/5.

Are there open safety recalls on the 2016 Nissan Pathfinder?▾

This model year has 2 official safety campaigns listed.

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2016 Nissan Pathfinder?▾

Alternatives listed in this guide: 2016 Toyota Highlander and 2016 Honda Pilot.

Start Here

Maintenance guide

Costs + intervals

Recall report

Campaigns + remedy notes

Owner complaints

Issue volume + categories

In this guide

  1. 01Overview
  2. 02Who This Car Is For
  3. 03Reliability & Problems
  4. 04Vehicle Specs
  5. 05Unlock Full Report
  6. 06FAQ

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