Ford Explorer vs Nissan Pathfinder
For 2005–2022 models, the Ford Explorer has 47.9 owner complaints per 10,000 sold, against 48.8 for the Nissan Pathfinder. Below: what each one’s owners report most, when it shows up, and what it costs to fix.
Both rates cover the same model years (2005–2022), counting each complaint once and dividing by US sales, so the more popular vehicle isn’t penalized for being popular. Years too new to judge are left out. How this is calculated.
Ford Explorer
47.9 complaints per 10,000 sold
about the same as the Nissan Pathfinder
- Complaints
- 15,961
- Sold
- 3,332,262
- Recall campaigns
- 72
- Open NHTSA investigations
- 3
Most complaints: 2011, 2013–2014 and 2016. Fewest: 2005, 2007, 2009 and 2022. Every year →
Most-reported problems
-
Doors, windows, latches, seats and trim
Typically around 82,000 mi
-
Electric power steering motor and module
Typically around 78,000 mi · repair $750–$2,230
-
Power steering pump, rack and lines
Typically around 77,000 mi · repair $750–$2,230
-
Harsh, delayed or erratic shifting
Typically around 88,300 mi
-
Water leaks and seals
Typically around 60,000 mi
Nissan Pathfinder
48.8 complaints per 10,000 sold
about the same as the Ford Explorer
- Complaints
- 5,130
- Sold
- 1,050,631
- Recall campaigns
- 30
- Open NHTSA investigations
- 2
Most complaints: 2005–2006, 2008 and 2013. Fewest: 2012, 2018 and 2020–2021. Every year →
Most-reported problems
-
Harsh, delayed or erratic shifting
Typically around 80,000 mi
-
Cooling system: radiator, water pump, thermostat, fan
Typically around 96,849 mi · repair $260–$1,910
-
Transmission cooler and fluid overheating
Typically around 102,000 mi · repair $200–$600
-
Airbags, seatbelts and restraints
Typically around 27,000 mi
-
Fuel pump and sending unit
Typically around 71,908 mi · repair $630–$1,700
Common questions
Which has fewer problems, the Ford Explorer or the Nissan Pathfinder?
For 2005–2022 models, the Ford Explorer has 47.9 owner complaints per 10,000 sold and the Nissan Pathfinder has 48.8, counting the same model years for both.
What is the most common problem on the Ford Explorer?
The most-reported problem on the Ford Explorer is doors, windows, latches, seats and trim, typically around 82,000 miles.
What is the most common problem on the Nissan Pathfinder?
The most-reported problem on the Nissan Pathfinder is harsh, delayed or erratic shifting, typically around 80,000 miles.
Which Ford Explorer and Nissan Pathfinder years have the most complaints?
Relative to each vehicle's typical year: Ford Explorer: 2011, 2013–2014 and 2016; Nissan Pathfinder: 2005–2006, 2008 and 2013.
Source: NHTSA owner complaints, recalls and investigations; US sales from public industry figures; repair costs from book labor hours and parts pricing at national rates. Complaints are self-reported and not independently verified. Problem lists cover each vehicle’s full history. This is not a recommendation to buy or avoid either vehicle.