2011 Nissan Pathfinder: Radiator leaks into transmission
Common wear/failure (not a recall)
Symptoms
Owners of the 2011 Pathfinder report: radiator leaks into transmission. CarComplaints.com lists 3 owner complaints, average mileage 76,350 miles.
NHTSA has 7 owner complaints for the 2011 Pathfinder in this area. Examples:
- NHTSA complaint ODI #11437971 (filed 10/24/2021): “The vehicle will frequently and without warning lose all power while in the roadway. last evening i was exiting the highway when i lost engine power and power steering. the dashboard lights came on and i had to coast to the nearest driveway. this has happened …”
- NHTSA complaint ODI #10892705 (filed 08/03/2016): “My vehicle is to the point i am afraid to drive it. something in steering mechanism, idk but when driving any differential in the road the vehicle is all over the road.. i am a single person with grandchildren and this is not safe. it is so bad it walks into…”
Likely causes
Sources do not establish a single root cause; diagnosis is needed. Owner-reported fixes are listed below.
Fix, in plain English
Most common owner-reported solutions on CarComplaints.com: replace radiator, transmission (2 reports). Check for open recalls and extended warranty coverage with a dealer before paying out of pocket.
DIY difficulty: Pro
Diagnosis needs a scan tool; repair or replacement needs a lift, transmission jack and the manufacturer's fluid fill/relearn procedure. (Our assessment.)
Cost
No sourced cost range: get a written quote after diagnosis.
Typical parts (search links, no affiliate codes)
AutoZone · O'Reilly · Advance · RockAuto
Sources
- CarComplaints.com: Radiator leaks into transmission (2011 Pathfinder)
- NHTSA complaints API, 2011 Pathfinder
Page last updated .