Used 2005 Nissan Pathfinder Consumer Reviews
brand new
just bought this truck a few days ago..and i am so glad i did..it rides smooth,,the bigger engine is great,,and the interior is a great combination between luxury and sporty,, with a mix of the titanium finish and wood grain it will impress any person..not to many miles yet,,but so far no complaints..and don't let them fool u about the price..they will give u a deal even if it is a new body style..i got $3000 off the MSRP..
Best non-lux midsize suv
Throttle on the 4.0VQ is very responsive for an SUV. Handling is great for a vehicle this size. Braking is great as the vehicle stops well under control when the brakes are slammed at 40mph. Nissan creates a great blend of on road manners and performance with true off road capability. This Pathfinder defines sport-utility. Only the 4Runner and Grand Cherokee can compete, but the Pathfinder gives you more for less and is standard with third row seats for the growing family. The interior feels Infiniti and the Bose system sounds great. Suspension is much improved, but could be better. 4Runner is softer over bumps. Seats could be softened a little too for improved comfort.
- SE 4dr SUVMSRP: $3,99945 mi away
- SE 4dr SUVMSRP: $6,995140 mi away
- XE 4dr SUVMSRP: $4,900144 mi away
Smooth Ride
This is our third pathfinder. All have been virtually bulletproof in reliability. Just came off of a painful Odyssey tranny problem, this will hopefully be a breath of fresh air. First off the truck is tight driving. All components feel very solid and first rate inside and out. Bose 9 speaker system with sub is music to my semi-audiophile ears. I've had the oportunity to use it in some snow and can hardly get the tires to slip in 2wd with the anti slip system enabled! Haven't needed to put it into 4wd yet. The engine is something special. The torque is what impressed me initially, very nice off the line with a deep throaty growl. Most importantly: My wife and kids feel safe.
Problems with fuel sensor and bearings
I too had a fuel sensor problem. Did not have to replace the entire fuel pump only the sensor. Now it vibrates at high speeds and I am being told it is the bearings. More later.
i love this truck
I was ready to buy the SE with Premium package...but my wife told me to just get the LE and be done with it. Was she ever right! I have just over 1500kms on it and I have driven it in the snow and on dry roads. I am very impressed. -30C with icy and snowy roads and the truck doesn't even blink. The MP3 player plays CDRWs as well which is really cool if you are into that sort of thing...which I am. The auto 4x4 switcher works great in the snow...and the heated leather seats...well enough said. I am a big guy (6'4 230) and I have no problem getting in and out of this truck. I wish the fuel economy was better but it IS an SUV so I will just have to grin and bear it I guess. It looks great!
Strong engine
I like the rugget look of the pathfinder and the performance was better then all the other suv's we tested before deciding to purchase the pathfinder. The ride was a little harsh on bumpy roads. The interior quality could be a little better for a vehicle in the near $30,000 range. The back doors require a hard push to make them shut completely. But this suv can stand up against the other top suv's in its size range and the styling is a eye opener. I have 4 children and this vehicle was able to seat us all comfortly.
Pathfinder
This SUV is compact and seats 7 comfortably. The drive is smooth and comfortable. Handles well on curves. The instrumentation is very visible and within reach. Excellent driver visibility.
Pathfinder on the Mountain
This car is great! There are very few things I dislike about it. It is not the most economical car to drive up and down a mountain everyday, but it definately has the comfort and style I was looking for and it is extremely spacious... what you get for the price you pay is great! Buy a Pathfinder, you'll enjoy it just as much as I.
Good SUV to move up to from Xterra
Excellent SUV to replace Xterra if it's to small. We traded in our Xterra for a bigger family car. The Pathfinder goes everywhere the Xterra did, soft sandy beaches, muddy trails, rocky / snow covered mountain roads.
Great Midsize SUV
We bought the Pathfinder LE 4x4 with Navi on Saturday. What a great SUV, room for seven, lots of power, descent mileage, great looks. I have noticed that heads turn when your drive this SUV. The top of the line LE that we have purchased is loaded with everything you will ever need, leather heated seats, memory sits, 4 12v outlets, 3 zone AC/Heat, BOSE 9 speaker 6 cd chager, storage room, 17 inch wheels. Until now everything is working great and looks great.
Everything you want in an SUV
This is everything you would want to have in an SUV. I went for the fully loaded LE with the DVD entertainment. This vehicle is very quiet and is really fun to drive. I put on the billet grill which makes the front end look awesome. Next the 20" Rims are going to be put on.
2005 Pathfiner LE
I have had the new pathfiner for over a month now. I had the 2001 for 4 years. I like the extra power and room from the 2005 and all the luxury features the LE offers. I have no complains so far except for the squeaky brakes when I'm in reverse. I will have to take it back to the dealer to inspection.
So far so good
Initially bought the vehicle because the wife wanted third row seats, and I currently own 2 Nissan trucks, a 1990 4x4 hard-body with 270,000 miles and only replaced the head gasket, and a 2001 s/c frontier 4x4 with 140,000 and have only had to replace the timing chain which is maintenance anyway, so I have been more than pleased with the reliability of Nissan trucks and was very comfortable in the purchase of the pathy, it currently has about 90; 000 mile on it and has run like a top, I have driven it all over the western United States on many occasions and never had a problem. Today the check engine light says that the tps sensor is malfunctioning, researching the web I found about the trans woes
Better than my BMW
I traded in my 2002 bmw 525 for this new pathfinder. I originally was looking at the murano but a brown one in the showroom caught my eye. there was 4 sets of people looking at it. I bought it an hour later. first of all it has a wonderful 270 hp engine which is very smooth . The nav and dvd entertaiment are very nice for long haul trips. cargo room is very spacious and third row fold flat into the floor.It has nice leather surfaces and my bmw didnt even have leather and i paid more. Ive only owned this car for an hour too! I used to have a 1994 maxima and i put 200,000 miles on it wothout a problem so I trust this car. I have also driven a 4runner and this is ten times better.
It's my third pathfinder and i love them
We've been a Nissan family since 1993 (that was our first Pathfinder) they are so reliable and fun to drive. We just traded in our 2002 for 2005 (we leased) and I'm loving it just like the last two! It has the third row of seats (which we'll probably never use) and they fold down so flat which is great and has more room then our 2002
THE PATH IS BACK!
Simply the most impressive Pathfinder yet. I never caught on to the previous model due to its somewat conservative and station-waggonish looks, (no offense to those who own one) especially when I had the privilege to own a '92 model (remember those?). I don't believe there should be a thin line between cars and SUV's, and the new Pathfinder takes care of that real well. The features I was most impressed with, besides the new design, were the third row of seats and the 4.0 V6 engine. I like most everything about the Pathfinder, although it feels a bit tighter than my Trooper. I guess Nissan sacrifced a few inches of space between the front and the middle row of seats to accommodate a third one
Great truck!
After 3 yrs and 40k, no issues or problems. Gas mileage is 15 mpg in winter and 17 mpg in summer. Still runs like a champ, great in bad weather, Nice on long trips. The Bose stereo is one of the best factory units I've had. Overall, a win!
05 SE pathfinder
This is my 3rd pathfinder lease. I was able to get my notes lower than my 1999.5 model and it has way more features. I really like the new layout and the center with brushed metal accents. The cup holders are just right for my large cup of Joe in the morning. The engine sounds like a v-8 at low speeds but disappears at highway speeds. The cabin is pretty quite and it has a great sound system. The rear doors seem to open wider than my 02. This helps getting my son out of his child seat. The back floor my be easy to wipe clean but your stuff slides all over the place. My kids love the 3rd row seats and dvd player.
Love It So Far
I have only had this vehicle for a week, but thus far I am quite pleased. I had driven 3 different vans over the last 10 years and was quite nervous about transferring to a smaller vehicle, but so far so good. I enjoy the get up and go this vehicle has. I know that if I need to get out of the way of something, I have the power to do so. I have always enjoyed driving pickup trucks and the Pathfinder has the same sort of feel. I live in a small community and there are not many Pathfinders around, but the response it has gotten regarding its look has been astounding. My previous vehicles have all been white and my Pathfinder is Storm Gray, which has proven to be a refreshing change.
Best In Class
Couldn't find a better deal on a mid- size Suv. Wanted the base model with few options as it had everything I wanted. Negotiated my price on the internet,even my trade in, and the dealer stuck with it,great buying experience.Very happy with my choice after driving it for 3 weeks now.Smooth powerful engine,ride is not comprised for nimble handling,construction seems tight and has good quality materials. Gas mileage is a little better than expected at about 20mpg in around town driving. The exterior styling which I thought was too radical is even begining to grow on me!
Pathfinder 05
Overall the truck is great. The interior presents itself like a top tier model but the rear seat is a bit tight, especially for child seats. Performance is fantastic and the braking is comparable to a high end sports car. Gas milage around town is poor, as low as 12.5 mpg. On the highway, I can get as high as 21mpg. Overall the truck is comfortable to drive.
Nice SUV
This performs more like a 350z than an SUV. The engine is VERY powerful, almost too fast for an SUV. The gas mileage is HORRIBLE, however. I've averaged 13 MPG since I've had it. Maybe b/c I drive too fast, but either way, it's bad. Interior is great, no problems at all.
Pathfinder 05
Overall the truck is great. The interior presents itself like a top tier model but the rear seat is a bit tight, especially for child seats. Performance is fantastic and the braking is comparable to a high end sports car. Gas milage around town is poor, as low as 12.5 mpg. On the highway, I can get as high as 21mpg. Overall the truck is comfortable to drive.
Great All Around Truck
I have had my Pathfinder for 2 months, and put 2k miles on it. So far it has been great. Amazing power for a vehicle of this size. Comfort levels that rival the crossover SUVs. It is the perfect size for my family (3+2 large dogs). Very versatile interior- had seven people in it for a short trip w/no complaints. Mine has a slight vibration related rattle from the drivers window (noticeable only on relatively smooth roads). Other than that, build quality is very good. I am getting 16 mpg in the city, and 20 mpg on the highway.
Styling, & performance to match
Considered buying Explorer & Grand Cherokee. Pathfinder wins hands down in terms of value for your your money. Best compromise of engine power and gas mileage (for an SUV). Love the unique styling, which hints at the power under the hood. Have 3,700 miles on the truck, no issues so far (except for an exterior molding piece falling off roof rack). Solid construction, excellent power & handling, great suspension feel. I couldn't be happier with the truck. I'm tempted to keep the secret to myself, but if you're considering a mid-size SUV, this is a great truck.
Can go anywhere
Within one week of owning the pathfinder we had a snow storm and it did exceptionally well in 10 inches of snow. Also, did great going up mud hills. It basically exceeded my every expectation of a nissan product. For fans of nissan, how could you not get one of these.
Love It!
First time SUV owner... love the space. Like sitting high above the crowd. Extremely comfortable. Great ventilation. Lots of pep. Easy to handle. "They" say: Once you've stepped "UP", you'll never come down!
Excellent Value & Quality
This truck is awesome. I love it, great value and quality is excellent. The ride is very soild, great room on the interior, and the Bose radio is best in class.
Super SUV of all times Pathfinder
This new pathfinder is what i was looking for in an suv, power, good handling, and better design, its super!
Moved from Explorers
I have owned several Ford Explorer and Expeditions, and have a small fleet of F15/350 trucks, but I bought the Nissan Pathfinder expecting it to have fewer problems than the 2002 Explorer I traded, and have better resale/trade value (Explorers depreciate way too fast) Nissan reputation in these areas strongly influenced my decision.
Fuel Sending Unit
Just paid $560 for the fuel sending unit and Nissan must do a recall as they know it is a problem part. If I don't get reimbursed in the next 6 months I will trade it and never buy another Nissan again. Also have problems with the service engine light going off when no problem exists and that cost me $50 on 3 different occasions.
Lacks Performance
I previously owned a 2001 Pathfinder which was flawless, just too small. I upgraded to the new 2005 Pathfinder and I am very dissatisfied with the performance. Every time I accelerate past 20 miles per hour I hear rattling noises from the transmission. Once on the highway it runs well but cruising moderately through traffic is a nightmare. I like the spaciousness of the vehicle but in all honesty I am dissatisfied with performance.
Creating a path for others to follow
I've owned this vehicle for about a week or so and I absolutely love it. I traded my beloved 02 Altima for the Pathfinder and I can honestly say I don't have any regrets. I bought the LE 2WD drive model. My vehicle has all of the amenities to include: leather/dual power seats, sunroof, navigation system and on and on and on. Unquestionably, for the money there's not a vehicle that comes close to this one. I test drove the Acura MDX, Toyota 4 Runner, and Lexus GX 470 and chose the Nissan Pathfinder. This vehicle is a fine representation of Nissans commitment to excellence. Lastly, MSRP for this particular vehicle was $35,650 and I paid around $33,000. So, dont be afraid to haggle.
more power
i have a 99 pathfinder and the new pathfinder is so much more enjoyable especially with the addtional power. The all wheel drive was excellant on the ice and snow, seems even better than the 4wd
New Pathfinder too Noisy
I bought a new Pathfinder in November 2004. I had a 2001 Pathfinder which was too small so I was happy to upgrade to the new Pathfinder. I loved the spaciousness and exterior and the test drive was good. However now it makes more noise than my old station wagon. Whenever I accelerate past 20 miles I hear a rattling noise from the transmission. I spoke to my neighbor down the street who also has a Pathfinder and she is experiencing the same problem - noise during acceleration. I am extremely dissatisfied. I will never buy a Pathfinder again.
Impressive first month!
I traded in a '97 Pathfinder (dubbed "old reliable") and I have been pleasantly surprised at the Pathfinder's style and performance. The engine is powerful (I'm saying this even though I've still never taken it above 3500 rpm) and shifting is silky smooth. The interior styling is impressive and comfortable (SE Trim with comfort package). Entry into the vehicle is easier than typical SUV's - I've got three kids who use the running boards to help (be aware - if you're not cognizant, you can easily soil your pant leg - as they collect dirt). Only negative is gas mileage - though the 21 gal. tank keeps refueling relatively infrequent. Storage cap. is flexible and I love the third row seats.
xmas2004
This is my third Pathfinder. I leased two and purchase this new one! Love the reliability of this product. I like the larger size...more powerful engine.
Transmission Issues...
I to have a 2005 Pathfinder and like the other reviews on this site, I have had the same problems. The transmission is slipping and I just had to have a major repair with the coolant and fliud mixing together. There were no signs of this and suddenly while driving on the highway my car overheated. I also have the vibration of the car at certain speeds. It's awful that Nissan will not admit to the issue and resolve it. I have been telling Nissan (Meadowlands) about the vibrations since I purchased the vehicle and they just think its me. My mechanic indicated that he has never seen this happen. He couldn't believe that there were no warning signs either.
Fast in its class
I purchased my 2005 Nissan Pathfinder 1/2005 just last week I noticed a rust at the back door panel which i called the dealership and scheduled for an appointment. They should make the cabin more quiter, everytime you step on the gas pedal you can hear the roar of the engine but overall i like it got lots of power .
I think Nissan will sell a lot of these
I have had my 2005 Nissan Pathfinder for about a month now. It came with the Comfort, Premium, and DVD packages. Initially, I wasn't totally sold on the Comfort and Premium packages, but now am glad I went with them. They add very nice features. So far I love the way this truck drives. The kids love the third row, the DVD player, and the ability to see out the windows.
First month
Our family bought a 2005 Nissan Pathfinder for the new 7 seating arrangement. We compared it to the Toyota 4Runner and the Honda Pilot. The 4Runner's rear seat hang in suspension can hamper the full use of the cargo area. The Pilot had no room at all in the cargo area if the rear seats are in use. For the money, about $7,000 less, the Pathfinder was a great value. The crossbars can only be used in preselected slots which I didn't like, but it's a small detail. Also it doesn't have daytime running lights. My overall review is great.
BestMidSuv
9 weeks and 3,000 miles after my purchase I am still of the opinion that this is the best mid-size SUV on the market. I was a lifetime Toyota man, but Nissan has out-designed and out- engineered Toyota on this one. Outstanding performance and build quality. I commute 54 miles RT daily and I actually look forward to my drive time. The vehicle has a smooth drive on the highway with excellent power (watch your speed). I have 4 kids (age 11 and under)and they fit comfortably in the second and third-row seats - they love this vehicle (the DVD location is very convenient). I average 17 mpg on my commute, but get 21 mpg driving to our cabin.
Watch out Toyota 4 Runner
Well we test drove the Toyota 4Runner berore the Nissan Pathfinder and it seems like Toyota is stuck in a time warp compared to the new Pathfinder. The Pathfiner is all over the new styles for the interior and exteriior. The off road package is the way to go with leather. Also, to get a great deal, go through COSTCO auto services. I was able to take a couple grand off the sticker.
'05 Nissan Pathfinder LE
The tire pressure monitor light has come on a couple of times in my 2005 Nissan Pathfinder, but Nissan asures me that it is becuse of the change in the weather and not to worry. The vehicle handles well and is a pleasure to take on short drives or long trips. We drove the Ford Freestyle and the Honda Pilot and the Pathfinder just kicked their butts.
Love at first sight and now I'm in love!
A family w/ 1 teenager and 2 elementary graders who love road trips as a family tradition. Ever since we bought her new 3 years ago, we haven't had any problem at all. She took us coast to coast yearly and most of the time, driving for 8-18 hrs straight except gas, snacks or nap were a great plus. We chose her because of safety feature for our 2 kids in 3rd row seat. In addition, it has 2 pairs of A/C or heater exhaust vent (standard) each row on top of the headboard with dual automatic climate control-great for summer or winter time. Of all the SUVs we drove, she is the only SUV that picks up speed and power from 0-60mph. We know this and we had really fun!
Happy so far
We bought our Pathfinder after researching numerous other SUV's when the transmission in our '02 Explorer went. I loved the appearance of the PF and after a couple test drives and reading a number of reviews here, felt it best fit our needs. I get about 17.5 MPG on a mix of road and highway and just took a 300 mile road trip to upstate Vermont on 3/4 of a tank using mid-grade. Lots of power and you definitely feel it when you hit the gas. My wife likes to drive it so much more than the Explorer and she says that she feels our 1 year old is that much safer in it. Third row seating is really tough to get in and out of, but we use it so rarely, it's not an issue for us.
My Six Machine
I bought my pathfinder used, and instantly loved it! It drove me all over the west coast mountain ranges to every family members house. It was comfortable to be in for long drives. It also did awesome on daily drives up and down a super windy curvy 20 mile highway to and from work. Never felt like a corner was too much for it. (Never felt top heavy). Could pack it full of stuff for camping and shopping at Costco. I never had any mechanical issues. It ran great! Just routine services. Great family car or single's car. Ended having to sell it because of tight finances, and am still kicking myself for it. Awesome car for me!
Best Mid-size SUV
My new Nissan Pathfinder is everything I have wanted in a car. Great safety ratings, enough room for three car seats, and plenty of power. It is very comfortable and extremely well-equipped for the price. I would reccomend this car to anyone looking for a practical alternative to a mini-van, or any other SUV for that matter.
Great SUV!!
I fell in love with my 2005 Nissan Pathfinder after a test drive. It has great handling and performance. The only negatives are: it does not have running day lights, auto locks, and the third row is kind of tight for an adult. The Bose stereo system is awesome. The premium and comfort packages include the DVD system. Among all other SUV's after a long search and drive tests, without doubt this is the best!!
2005 Nissan Pathfinder
This is my 4th Nissan Pathfinder. The design and overall quailty are good. I espically like the new size. It is ideal for most any application. This is a great vehicle for weekend adventures and weekly commuting .