2002 Nissan Pathfinder (R50)

This is the sixth year of production for the R50 Pathfinder. But there were some big upgrades in 2001, including a new engine that's also used in the Maxima.

Jan. 1, 2020

2 min read

This is the sixth year of production for the R50 Pathfinder. But there were some big upgrades in 2001, including a new engine that's also used in the Maxima.

Earlier engines use shims for valve adjustment, but this one has variable-thickness lifters, so valve adjustment requires removing the camshafts. The timing chain drives the water pump, but the pump can be removed without removing the chain. There are limited slip differentials at both ends, so be sure you're filling them with limited slip differential oil, not just standard gear oil.

Although the Pathfinder is not a full-framed truck, it's still fairly capable off-road. While it's on the lift, check carefully for damage underneath.

There are several technical service bulletins (TSBs) for the transfer case, one for a faulty oil pump, two for oil leaks, and one for being stuck in four-wheel-drive (4WD) Low. This last problem is caused by improper shifting; tell the customer the shifting instructions are on the sun visor. The TSB explains how to fix it just by manipulating the controls.

A malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) illumination with O2 sensor codes requires reprogramming the powertrain control module (PCM), and evaporative emissions (EVAP) codes are caused by a faulty vacuum cut valve.