2024 Nissan Pathfinder: When to Book a Scheduled Service
The Nissan Pathfinder is a powerful and reliable SUV that can handle many different driving conditions. Adhering to a regular maintenance schedule is crucial for maintaining its performance, safety, and longevity. This guide outlines the recommended scheduled service for the Nissan Pathfinder, ensuring your vehicle remains in top condition throughout its lifespan. The Nissan Maintenance … Continued
The Nissan Pathfinder is a powerful and reliable SUV that can handle many different driving conditions. Adhering to a regular maintenance schedule is crucial for maintaining its performance, safety, and longevity. This guide outlines the recommended scheduled service for the Nissan Pathfinder, ensuring your vehicle remains in top condition throughout its lifespan.

The Nissan Maintenance Schedule
Nissan recommends two maintenance schedules: Schedule 1 (Standard) and Schedule 2 (Premium). The schedule you should follow depends on how you use your vehicle and the conditions in which you drive. Schedule 2 is generally recommended for more severe driving conditions.
Factors Determining Your Maintenance Schedule:
- Frequent short trips (less than 8 km)
- Stop-and-go traffic
- Extreme temperature conditions
- Towing or carrying heavy loads
- Driving on dusty, muddy, or de-iced roads
If your driving habits include any of these conditions, consider following Schedule 2 for more frequent maintenance.
Key Maintenance Intervals
Every 8,000 km or 6 months (whichever comes first):
- Engine oil and filter change
- Tire rotation
- Brake and clutch fluid level check
- Brake line and cable inspection
- Drive shaft boots inspection
- Exhaust system inspection
- Front suspension ball joint and wheel bearing axial play inspection
Every 16,000 km or 12 months:
In addition to the 8,000 km service, include:
- Brake pads, rotors, and other brake components inspection
- Steering gear and linkage inspection
- Propeller shaft inspection (4WD models)
Every 24,000 km or 24 months:
Include all items from previous intervals, plus:
- In-cabin microfilter replacement
- Intelligent Key battery replacement
Every 48,000 km or 36 months:
In addition to previous services, include:
- Engine air filter replacement
- Fuel lines inspection
- Automatic transmission fluid inspection (if applicable)
- Transfer case oil inspection (4WD models)
- Front and rear differential gear oil inspection
Every 96,000 km or 60 months:
This is a major service interval. Include all previous items, plus:
- Drive belts inspection
- Spark plug replacement
- Coolant replacement
- Brake fluid replacement
- CVT fluid replacement (if applicable)
Detailed Breakdown of Key Services
Engine Oil and Filter Change
Regular oil changes are crucial for maintaining engine health. The Nissan Pathfinder typically requires synthetic oil, which offers better protection and longer intervals between changes.
Capacity: Approximately 5.3 liters (with filter change)
Recommended Oil: 0W-20 Synthetic
Tire Rotation
Regular tire rotation ensures even wear, extending the life of your tires and maintaining optimal vehicle handling.
Rotation Pattern: Follow the pattern specified in your owner’s manual, typically front-to-rear for 4WD models.
Brake System Maintenance
Brake fluid absorbs moisture over time, which can reduce braking efficiency. Therefore, it is essential for safety that brake fluid is regularly inspected and replaced.
Brake Fluid Type: DOT 3 or DOT 4
Air Filter Replacement
The engine air filter prevents debris from entering the engine, while the in-cabin microfilter ensures clean air inside the vehicle.
Replacement Intervals:
- Engine Air Filter: Every 48,000 km
- In-cabin Microfilter: Every 24,000 km
Spark Plug Replacement
Spark plugs are crucial for efficient engine operation. The Pathfinder uses long-life spark plugs, typically requiring replacement at 96,000 km intervals.
Coolant Replacement
Engine coolant prevents corrosion and maintains optimal engine temperature. The first replacement is usually due at 96,000 km or 60 months, with subsequent replacements every 48,000 km or 24 months.
Coolant Type: Nissan Long Life Antifreeze/Coolant or equivalent
Additional Maintenance Considerations
Battery Maintenance
While not part of the regular service schedule, it’s wise to have your battery checked annually, especially before winter.
Wiper Blade Replacement
You should replace the wiper blades when they show signs of wear or every 12 months, whichever comes first.
Alignment Check
While not specified in the regular maintenance schedule, it’s recommended to have your alignment checked annually or if you notice uneven tire wear.
DIY vs. Professional Maintenance
While you can perform some maintenance tasks at home, others require specialized tools and expertise. Here’s a general guide:
DIY-Friendly Tasks:
- Oil and filter changes (if you have the proper tools and disposal methods)
- Air filter replacement
- Wiper blade replacement
- Battery check and replacement
Professional Service Recommended:
- Transmission fluid changes
- Brake system maintenance
- Coolant replacement
- Major inspections and adjustments
Always consult your owner’s manual before attempting any maintenance task, and don’t hesitate to seek professional help if you’re unsure.
The Importance of Following the Maintenance Schedule
Adhering to the recommended maintenance schedule offers several benefits:
- Improved Reliability: Regular maintenance helps prevent unexpected breakdowns and extends the life of your vehicle.
- Enhanced Safety: Well-maintained brakes, tires, and other critical components ensure your Pathfinder remains safe to drive.
- Better Fuel Efficiency: Properly maintained engines and correct tire pressure contribute to optimal fuel economy.
- Preserved Resale Value: A well-documented service history can significantly increase your vehicle’s resale value.
- Warranty Compliance: Following the recommended maintenance schedule is often required to keep your warranty valid.
The Nissan Maintenance Notification System
The Nissan Pathfinder has an advanced maintenance notification system alerts you when service is due. This system considers your driving habits and conditions to provide more accurate service intervals. However, keeping track of your mileage and time since the last service is always a good idea, especially for items not covered by the notification system.
Keep Your 2024 Nissan Pathfinder Running Smoothly
Regular maintenance is key to keeping your Nissan Pathfinder running smoothly, safely, and efficiently. Following this scheduled service guide ensures your vehicle receives the care it needs at the right intervals. Remember, while maintenance involves costs, it’s an investment in your vehicle’s longevity and performance. Regular servicing can help you avoid more expensive repairs down the road and maintain the value of your Pathfinder over time.
Always consult your owner’s manual for the most accurate and up-to-date information specific to your vehicle. Maintenance requirements can vary based on specific models and driving conditions. If you’re ever in doubt about a maintenance task or notice any unusual behaviour from your vehicle, don’t hesitate to consult a certified Nissan technician. They have the expertise and specialized tools to keep your Pathfinder in top condition, ensuring many years of reliable service on the road.