2003 Nissan Pathfinder Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.54/5 Average
165 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

All 2003 Pathfinders will offer optional satellite radio, with a choice of XM or Sirius services. The LE model receives a standard leather-appointed interior, while SE models feature restyled wheels. Both models also feature a new four-spoke steering wheel and electronic rear-hatch window release. For safety, there is a new Vehicle Dynamic Control Package that bundles Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC), traction control and a tire-pressure monitoring system. Two items no longer offered are the manual transmission and the optional navigation system. Guess you have to buy a map.

Pros:
  • Powerful V6 engine, carlike interior, solid reliability record, rear entertainment system option, available All-Mode 4WD system on LE models.
Cons:
  • Tight rear accommodations, high price tag, hard-to-fold rear seats.

User Reviews:

Showing 121 through 130 of 165.00
  • 2nd Pathfinder - 2003 Nissan Pathfinder
    By -

    This is my second pathfinder. We have owned it for about three weeks, so my review will not reflect long term reliability. However, I know that these things will last. I have several friends that have well over 200k on their older Pathfinders. I sold my 93 with 200k on the odo and would not have hesitated to drive it across the US. I hooked a trailer on my old one and drove it across the US with 155k on the odo. But this is a review about a 2003, so what do I think- Great build quality, equal or better than the Lexus RX300 we traded in. Great power (the 93 could barley get out of its own way). Noisy when cold- belts, and valve clatter, better when warm. Great off road capability.

  • Need Better fuel and more Rear Room - 2003 Nissan Pathfinder
    By -

    Great Ride, except that it needs better fuel economy and more rear room. But for the amount of power youre getting the fuel is i guess OK. But definitely more room in the back.

  • Great Mid-Size SUV - 2003 Nissan Pathfinder
    By -

    The 2003 Pathfinder LE has the BEST styling of any PF ever built.( Now Nissan is going to change it!) It is also a safe vehicle since you are surrounded by air bags and side curtains. Good visibility. Drivetrain (2wd)offers power and reasonable mpg. The PF feels car-like in a parking-lot. An enjoyable vehicle to drive!

  • way better than zoom zoom - 2003 Nissan Pathfinder
    By -

    This SUV is very solid, has good torque and is comfortable over the long haul. I have been very pleased from the get go.

  • 2003 Pathfinder - 2003 Nissan Pathfinder
    By -

    Other than a minor negative experience with the dealership (who hasnt had one of those?), I absolutely adore my Pathfinder. I bought it brand new, even though my logical side was telling me not to take the big financial hit when I drove it off the lot simply because I loved it so much, I couldnt stomach the idea of having one that was pre-owned. Its been a wonderful addition to our family so far.

  • 95% Manufactured in Japan... - 2003 Nissan Pathfinder
    By -

    My first SUV.Had Legends b4 this, but I need the space since I tow offroad. It was Pathy OR 4runner, Toyota didnt move on price SO got Pathy for $7000 off MSRP. Overall a good SUV, SUV body roll what you would expect. 240HP engine is powerful, its geared and tuned low for towing..fine with me. 3500mi so far..Major reason I was looking at Pathy/4runner: they are still manufactured IN JAPAN. So no problems...like my Legends! The Bridgestone Duellers are Terrible! These are the worst tires I have EVER ridden...Marginally good in the dry and bald-like in rain and snow. Get the tires traded in b4 you leave dealer so you dont slide out of the showroom.

  • My two cents. - 2003 Nissan Pathfinder
    By -

    Owned a previous model 98 same problems as with new. At 75,000 replace exhaust. At 78k front wheel bearings and belts. Good in the snow, cramped seats in the back. Overall never left me strangled anywhere but keep in mind check engine light will come on once you hit 75k Evap system leak just like my old one. Nissan just cant get that system right. Gr8 for carrying stuff from home depot (sheet rock, plywood etc...) not the best for long trips as seats are not comfortable especially in the back. I dont know how those people are claiming to average 24 mpg hwy and 20 city the best I manage is 12 mpg city and 17 mpg hwy. Transmission is going at 84k and front suspension needs work again.

  • More room in a car - 2003 Nissan Pathfinder
    By -

    We bought our Pathfinder only 9 months ago and traded it in for a regular car!! There isnt that much room in the Pathfinder for two adults and two kids with car seats. Never had a problem with it. When the kids get bigger - might consider buying another. They would have to do something about the gas mileage though!!

  • Great vehicle! - 2003 Nissan Pathfinder
    By -

    I have previously owned a Nissan Maxima and I am experiencing the same level of quality and fun with the Pathfinder. I think I will continue to purchase Nissans and I would highly recommend this SUV to others. It has been great.

  • Love it!!! - 2003 Nissan Pathfinder
    By -

    This is my first SUV. After months of research and test driving, I decided to purchase the Pathfinder. I am very pleased with it and so are my girls. It is fun to drive and I feel very safe in it. (It has the side impact air bags).

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