2011 Nissan Pathfinder Problems: 2 Issues Every Owner Should Know
2011 model year · 0+ owner reports · Updated April 2026
According to Au7o's analysis of 0+ owner reports, the 2011 Nissan Pathfinder has 2 documented known issues. No issues are rated critical, indicating generally reliable ownership. Across all issues, repair costs range from $200 to $3,000. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.
All 2 Known Issues
On the 2001-2012 Nissan Pathfinder, the cast iron exhaust manifolds on VQ35DE and VQ40DE equipped Pathfinders are prone to cracking due to thermal cycling. The passenger side manifold is most commonly affected. Cracks cause an exhaust leak that produces a ticking noise on cold starts that may diminish as the engine warms up. Over time the crack worsens and the leak becomes constant.
Common Symptoms
- Ticking or tapping noise on cold start
- Exhaust smell in cabin
- Rough idle
- Decreased fuel economy
- Check engine light (O2 sensor codes)
How to Fix
Replace the cracked exhaust manifold. OEM manifolds tend to crack again; many owners opt for aftermarket headers or upgraded manifolds. Replacing exhaust manifold gaskets at the same time is recommended. Cost: $400-900 at an independent shop.
What Owners Are Using
Parts and tips from 0+ owners who fixed this issue
- Tip
- UpgradeDorman exhaust manifold — solves cracking issues on many models (Dorman Exhaust Manifold)
- UpgradeDorman exhaust manifold bolt and stud kit (Dorman Exhaust Manifold Hardware Kit)
On the 2005-2012 Nissan Pathfinder, the R51 Pathfinder is prone to rust developing around the rear liftgate, particularly along the bottom edge and around the license plate area. Water gets trapped behind trim pieces and the spare tire well can also rust through. This is especially common in northern/salt belt states but occurs nationwide. The issue is caused by inadequate drainage and corrosion protection in the rear body panels.
Common Symptoms
- Bubbling paint on rear hatch
- Visible rust around license plate area
- Rust holes in liftgate bottom edge
- Water intrusion in cargo area
- Spare tire well corrosion
How to Fix
Early stage: Sand affected areas, apply rust converter, prime and repaint ($200-500 DIY or $500-1,200 at body shop). Advanced rust: Panel replacement may be required ($1,500-3,000). Preventive measures include keeping drain holes clear, applying rust inhibitor spray annually, and checking behind rear trim panels for trapped moisture.
What Owners Are Using
Parts and tips from 0+ owners who fixed this issue
- Tip
- UpgradePOR-15 rust preventive coating stops rust permanently (POR-15 Rust Preventive Coating)
- UpgradeRust-Oleum rust converter spray for treating corroded panels (Rust-Oleum Rust Converter Spray)
- UpgradeStrongArm liftgate struts — easy bolt-on replacement (StrongArm Liftgate Support Struts)
- UpgradeSachs OE-quality liftgate gas struts (Sachs Liftgate Gas Struts)