CARFOCALvehicle research
Research CarsCompareRankingsArticles
  1. Home›
  2. Manufacturers›
  3. Nissan›
  4. Pathfinder›
  5. 2017

2017 Nissan Pathfinder Report

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

Updated Jun 15, 2026·Ryan Davis·2 Critical Recalls
2017 Nissan Pathfinder Report

Overall Score

7.5/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • The primary ownership concern is potential ABS actuator failure due to brake fluid leaks, a critical safety defect that requires confirmation of recall completion.
  • While consumer complaints are absent, a high TSB count indicates numerous other potential issues that may require attention.
  • The Pathfinder achieves a respectable 21 MPG combined, but buyers should budget for fuel costs.
  • Its 4-wheel drive system offers versatility for various weather and road conditions.
See the 5 checks before you buyFree • Takes 20s • Saves Thousands $
OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2017 Nissan Pathfinder

The 2017 Nissan Pathfinder offers a blend of family-friendly space and capable all-wheel drive, but its average reliability rating warrants careful consideration for used car shoppers. While it boasts excellent safety scores, a significant recall concerning the ABS actuator pump highlights a critical area for inspection. The vehicle's 3.5-liter V6 engine and continuously variable transmission (CVT) deliver respectable fuel economy for its class, but a high TSB count suggests other potential issues may arise.

Critical Failure Risk

The ABS actuator pump can leak brake fluid onto the internal circuit board, leading to ABS, traction control, and electronic limited slip differential system failures. This is a critical safety defect.

Early detection can help you avoid a $1,000-$2,500 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

8.9/ 10

Practicality

5.5/ 10

The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Families seeking a spacious and safe SUV with available all-wheel drive.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Buyers prioritizing bulletproof reliability with minimal risk of unexpected repairs.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2017 Nissan Pathfinder Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2017 Nissan Pathfinder.

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

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Regular
Seating Capacity
7
Transmission
Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)
Drivetrain
4-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Suv
EPA Combined MPG
21

CarFocal account required

See the full 2017 Nissan Pathfinder buyer report before you decide

Unlock the complete checklist, maintenance outlook, and buyer verdict in one place.

Most Common Issues

1. ABS Actuator Failure

Most reported

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 and Inspection - Brake System Inspection

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 (4 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
Create free account

Free • Takes 20 seconds • Saves Thousands $

Already have an account? Log in

FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2017 Nissan Pathfinder reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2017 Nissan Pathfinder is 8.9/10. Reliability score is 8.9/10. NHTSA recalls: 2. Owner complaints: 0.

How practical is the 2017 Nissan Pathfinder for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 5.5/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 21 MPG. Seating capacity is 7. 4 passenger doors are listed. Boot capacity is 453 litres.

What is the overall score for the 2017 Nissan Pathfinder?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2017 Nissan Pathfinder is 7.5/10. Overall score is 7.5/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 7.9/10. Practicality 5.5/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2017 Nissan Pathfinder?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake System Inspection at 5,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $500 - $1,000. Repair prediction highlight: ABS Actuator Module (typical at 75,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $1,000 • Max: $2,500).

What engine is in the 2017 Nissan Pathfinder?▾

Engine specs list 6 • 3.5.

What transmission does the 2017 Nissan Pathfinder use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2017 Nissan Pathfinder, transmission is Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). The paired drivetrain is 4-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2017 Nissan Pathfinder?▾

EPA combined estimate is 21 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2017 Nissan Pathfinder?▾

8 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.

How many people fit in a 2017 Nissan Pathfinder?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2017 Nissan Pathfinder, seating capacity is 7.

What body style is the 2017 Nissan Pathfinder?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2017 Nissan Pathfinder, body style is suv.

What drivetrain does the 2017 Nissan Pathfinder use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2017 Nissan Pathfinder, drivetrain is 4-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT).

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2017 Nissan Pathfinder?▾

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

Are there open safety recalls on the 2017 Nissan Pathfinder?▾

This model year has 2 official safety campaigns listed.

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

We may earn a commission if you buy parts through our links. Learn more.