Is the 1993 Nissan Pathfinder reliable?

Based on NHTSA complaint volume compared to this model's typical year, the 1993 Nissan Pathfinder is rated "better than typical".

What are the most common problems with the 1993 Nissan Pathfinder?

The most-reported component is engine and engine cooling, accounting for 55% of complaints on file.

How many recalls does the 1993 Nissan Pathfinder have?

No recalls are on file for this model year.

1993 Nissan Pathfinder

▲ Better than typical

1993 Nissan Pathfinder
RENDERED 2026-11-01T17:09:36.539Z

This year had at least 30% fewer complaints than this model's typical year.

This verdict reflects complaint volume compared to this model's typical year. Recalls and safety issues below apply regardless of the verdict — always check them.

How is this computed?

Complaints: 49
Recalls: 0
Investigations: 0
Top problem: Engine and engine cooling

Complaints per year

1993: 49 complaints

View as data table

Year	Complaints
1986	1
1987	19
1988	17
1989	15
1990	40
1991	40
1992	30
1993	49
1994	101
1995	170
1996	159
1997	217
1998	149
1999	104
2000	112
2001	230
2002	156
2003	110
2004	67
2005	1,050
2006	837
2007	561
2008	328
2009	37
2010	40
2011	45
2012	23
2013	890
2014	576
2015	321
2016	105
2017	186
2018	78
2019	76
2020	53
2022	136
2023	107
2024	89
2025	57
2026	15

Known problem areas

Percentages can add to more than 100% — a complaint can name more than one system.

Engine and engine cooling

55% · 27 reports

Most commonly citing manifold/header/muffler/tail pipe and exhaust system.

FIRE

Show complaint excerpts

The exhaust pipe underneath the passenger's seat burned a hole at the bottom of the vehicle, which caused a fire. Cause unknown. Please provide details.

NHTSA ODI report, 1999-02-17

Exhaust manifold studs are broken on both sides. Dealership wants $1400.00 to repair. This is a common problem that Nissan has been aware of and does nothing to compensate their customers for. Causes exhast leaks into the car.

NHTSA ODI report, 2003-02-09

Structure

22% · 11 reports

Most commonly citing frame and members and bumpers.

Show complaint excerpts

The frame of the vehicle had rusted on 2 occasions.

NHTSA ODI report, 2003-02-19

Electrical system

10% · 5 reports

Most commonly citing alternator/generator/regulator and fuses and circuit breakers.

FIRE

Tires

8% · 4 reports

Most commonly citing sidewall.

Service brakes

8% · 4 reports

Most commonly citing hydraulic.

Safety timeline

No recalls on file for this model year.

0 recalls · 0 investigations · oldest first

To check one car, enter its VIN on the NHTSA recall page. Check a VIN →

Buy-smart checklist

1993 Nissan Pathfinder — pre-purchase inspection

Inspect

Engine and engine cooling: 27 reports on file for this year.
Structure: 11 reports on file for this year.
Electrical system: 5 reports on file for this year.

Other years of this model

See all years ranked →

Best years3 years

Worst years3 years

FAQ

Is the 1993 Nissan Pathfinder reliable?: Based on NHTSA complaint volume compared to this model's typical year, the 1993 Nissan Pathfinder is rated "better than typical".
What are the most common problems with the 1993 Nissan Pathfinder?: The most-reported component is engine and engine cooling, accounting for 55% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 1993 Nissan Pathfinder have?: No recalls are on file for this model year.

Data updated 2026-10-31 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.