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 31 through 40 of 165.00
  • Not Everyone Needs Third-Row Seating!!! - 2003 Nissan Pathfinder
    By -

    I was shopping for a 4Runner, but couldnt justify $6,000 more for the same features. This SUV rides like a Maxima and the 240 hp. V6 runs very smooth. I have already put 4,500 miles on it in 4 weeks and so far I am very pleased. I also dont understand the complaints about the rear seats. I put mine up and down on a daily basis..Very EasY!! If you are like me and want a true midsize SUV, than the Pathfinder is a great deal. Remember, not everyone needs a third- row of seats!!

  • if your 59" or taller, dont buy it - 2003 Nissan Pathfinder
    By -

    this suv is way to small, im 5 8 and its to small for me, forget about the back seats, your lucky if you get 2 small adults back there, and cargo space,,,,what cargo space????

  • All around vehicle Pathfinder SE 4X4 - 2003 Nissan Pathfinder
    By -

    Ive used this vehicle on and off road, summer and winter and been pleased with almost everything about it except the Bridgestone tires that came stock on the vehicle (but this isnt a tire review). Fuel economy is good for a vehicle of this weight at 18 to 20 mpg. I mounted a class 3 hitch and have towed up ~3,000 lbs. over 700 miles with no problem, getting 15 mpg through the mountains of NC, VA, and West VA. I did have a leaking seal on the transfer case fixed under warranty at 10,000 miles, but no other incidents.

  • Major problem right from factory! - 2003 Nissan Pathfinder
    By -

    The day I picked up the Pathfinder I experienced a stalling/idling problem. The problem continued to get worse and the first time I used it on the highway, the vehicle would not upshift forcing the engine to redline at 65 mph. The dealer made $1500 worth of torque converter warranty repairs. The parts took a month to come in and the vehicle was completely unreliable to drive. This appears to be fixed now but the windshield stress cracked at 6 mos due to improper installation. I enjoy driving this Pathfinder I am very concerned about its long term reliability. I have another 30 months on my lease and that scares me.

  • Pathfinder = Reliable - 2003 Nissan Pathfinder
    By -

    I bought my pathfinder with 28,000 miles on it and I have never ever had a problem with it. I love the interior, exterior and the way it handles. Small enough to fit into tight spots but big enough to get a true SUV feel. Gas is decent, I have a short so I dont get hit as much.

  • Comfort Zone - 2003 Nissan Pathfinder
    By -

    The truck is great. The only thing I really would complain about is the gas mileage, but its an SUV, I knew what I was getting into as far as fuel consumption when I looked into them. Its a quality machine and I enjoy driving it.

  • Glad I Bought It - 2003 Nissan Pathfinder
    By -

    I grew up with Jeeps, and still love them, but I have been extremely impressed with my new Pathfinder. I bought it almost on a whim (I had been looking at sedans), but I test drove one on a Saturday, and bought it on Tuesday. It has been great in the 30+ inches of snow weve had in D.C. since I bought it, and the heated seats have been great.

  • Great Vehicle - 2003 Nissan Pathfinder
    By -

    This is a great vehicle that is hampered by some annoying flaws. Its powerful engine and rugged off road capability make it fun to drive. Highway driving is decent and the gas mileage is about as good as one would expect. The exterior styling of this model is perfect and its a shame that the newer models changed this. The interior is spacious and relatively comfortable. My two main complaints are the stock tires and the in-dash stereo. The tires offer terrible traction particularly in poor weather conditions and need to be replaced. The CD player is useless and was obviously made with a cheap laser which constantly skips.

  • Homerun - 2003 Nissan Pathfinder
    By -

    Ive always loved the pathfinders since seeing the first one back in the late 80s. my wife and i needed an suv but without the nightmares we had when we owned a jeep. We purchased a 2003 SE with 54K on it. As of today 5/25/11, it has 124,000 miles on it. Gas mileage SUCKS. id be lucky to get 17mpg mixed overall, but the vehicle weights over 5000 lbs. Aside form routine maintenance, and a few ware/tare part replacements, the vehicle has been a sound performer. Its not big, but its comfortable to drive. Its been through hell and back the past 4 years, but it keeps on ticking.

  • I JUST LOVE MY PATHFINDER! - 2003 Nissan Pathfinder
    By -

    I love everything about this SUV. EVERYTHING! It is the right size, very quiet, looks great (Merlot), VERY smooth drive, stereo sounds great, leather seats are wonderful and comfy, interior looks great (black leather). I cant imagine what Jameys issues are with Nissan or the Pathfinder. Maybe the dealer was really bad, because this is one great SUV. I just love it. I cant wait to get in it and go for a ride! Just drove it over 1,000 miles on vacation and it was such a pleasure! I swear we got just under 20 MPG. Not bad for an SUV today.

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