Case file · NISSAN-PATHFINDER-2013-2016 · Field document

Nissan Pathfinder 2013–2016 · Pre-purchase checklist

Bring this to the inspection. Every check below is specific to this generation's documented failure modes, not generic used-car advice.

1. Check 01

   Test drive at city speed and accelerate from 15 to 30 mph repeatedly. Feel for shudder, judder, hesitation, or a rubber-band lag. Any of those points at a failing CVT.

2. Check 02

   Have a dealer or shop check CVT fluid level and condition: it should be clean, not burnt-smelling or dark. Burnt fluid means heat damage inside. Nissan's manual gives no owner check for CVT fluid.

3. Check 03

   Ask for CVT fluid-change records. A serviced CVT lasts much longer than a neglected one.

4. Check 04

   Have a Nissan dealer check the VIN for open recalls, any extended CVT coverage, and whether the transmission was ever replaced.

5. Check 05

   On a 2013, confirm recall 14V-142 is done: certain 2013 cars built 04-18-2012 to 10-03-2012, CVT cooler hose. Check by VIN.

6. Check 06

   Check the VIN for recall 22V-420 (secondary hood latch, 2013-2016) and, on a 2014-2015 Hybrid, recall 21V-774 (hybrid control software can shut down the hybrid system and engine, a loss of drive power).

7. Check 07

   On AWD cars, make slow tight turns on dry pavement and listen/feel for binding or judder from the rear coupling.

8. Check 08

   Check the sun visors. A known interior nuisance is visors that won't stay up.