CARFOCALvehicle research
Research CarsCompareRankingsArticles
  1. Home›
  2. Manufacturers›
  3. Nissan›
  4. Pathfinder›
  5. 2023

2023 Nissan Pathfinder Report

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

Updated Jun 15, 2026·Daniel Wilson
2023 Nissan Pathfinder Report

Overall Score

7.4/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • The 2023 Pathfinder earned an excellent 5-star overall safety rating from NHTSA.
  • Expect a combined EPA fuel economy of 21 MPG from its 3.5L V6 engine.
  • A critical recall for driver's seat fasteners requires verification of completion.
  • Numerous TSBs indicate potential for minor issues requiring dealer attention.
See the 5 checks before you buyFree • Takes 20s • Saves Thousands $
OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2023 Nissan Pathfinder

The 2023 Nissan Pathfinder presents itself as a capable three-row SUV, balancing family utility with a respectable V6 powertrain. Its NHTSA safety scores are strong, with an overall 5-star rating. Fuel economy is competitive for its class, achieving a combined 21 MPG. However, potential buyers should be aware of a significant recall affecting the driver's seat fasteners, indicating a potential manufacturing flaw. Additionally, a notable number of Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) suggest a propensity for early-life issues that, while not always safety-critical, can impact the ownership experience. Despite zero consumer complaints logged, these factors temper its reliability assessment.

Critical Failure Risk

A recall addresses potential issues with the driver's powered seat assembly where the seat frame may not be adequately secured to the seat bracket. This can be due to weld detachment.

Early detection can reduce the odds of major repair bills.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls4
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

0

No primary complaint themes found.

Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency
Combined
21
MPG
City
20
MPG
Highway
23
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

8.9/ 10

Practicality

4.4/ 10

The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Families needing three rows of seating and versatile cargo space.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Those prioritizing absolute long-term mechanical perfection with zero potential for early issues.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2023 Nissan Pathfinder Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2023 Nissan Pathfinder.

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

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Premium
Seating Capacity
8
Transmission
Automatic
Drivetrain
4-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Suv
EPA Combined MPG
21

CarFocal account required

See the full 2023 Nissan Pathfinder buyer report before you decide

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

Most Common Issues

1. Driver's Seat Fastener Integrity

Most reported

Usage data observed

2. Early-Life Issues (TSBs)

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
4 recall campaign details & remedy notes
Create free account

Free • Takes 20 seconds • Saves Thousands $

Already have an account? Log in

FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2023 Nissan Pathfinder reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2023 Nissan Pathfinder is 8.9/10. Reliability score is 8.9/10. NHTSA recalls: 4. Owner complaints: 0.

How practical is the 2023 Nissan Pathfinder for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 4.4/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 21 MPG. Seating capacity is 8.

What is the overall score for the 2023 Nissan Pathfinder?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2023 Nissan Pathfinder is 7.4/10. Overall score is 7.4/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.2/10. Practicality 4.4/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2023 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: $100 - $200. Repair prediction highlight: Driver's Seat Fasteners (estimated cost Min: Covered by Recall).

What engine is in the 2023 Nissan Pathfinder?▾

Engine specs list V-Shaped • 6 • 3.5.

What transmission does the 2023 Nissan Pathfinder use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2023 Nissan Pathfinder, transmission is Automatic. The paired drivetrain is 4-Wheel Drive.

Does the 2023 Pathfinder require Premium gas?▾

Manufacturer fuel recommendation: Premium.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2023 Nissan Pathfinder?▾

EPA combined estimate is 21 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2023 Nissan Pathfinder?▾

16 standard and 1 optional driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.

How many people fit in a 2023 Nissan Pathfinder?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2023 Nissan Pathfinder, seating capacity is 8.

What body style is the 2023 Nissan Pathfinder?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2023 Nissan Pathfinder, body style is suv.

What drivetrain does the 2023 Nissan Pathfinder use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2023 Nissan Pathfinder, drivetrain is 4-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic.

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2023 Nissan Pathfinder?▾

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

Are there open safety recalls on the 2023 Nissan Pathfinder?▾

This model year has 4 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.