Forum Discussion

MR_MAC's avatar
MR_MAC
Explorer
Sep 19, 2016

Nissan Pathfinder - Tow cap?

My daughter is looking at two pathfinders, #1 is a new 2016 without a tow package, sales man says they will install a hitch. The other is a 2014 with tow package on it (Its a Platinum and she really likes) Sales man says hey will both have a 6000 lb tow cap. I feel the factory pkg. will be better But I ? any difference in motor, fram, and tranny cooling, or is there any improvements since 2014 & 2016.

She is only pulling a 3050 lb (inc full gas cylinders) Jayco 17 ft. single axel TT with two pull outs.

Main question is he dealer hitch install any good. I ask ere and I am going to look and ask myself. Then again I think both should walk away with her TT. But maybe I'm wrong. Thanks for any Info. you may have
Tow Vehicles
  • Thunder_Mountai's avatar
    Thunder_Mountai
    Explorer II
    Sep 20, 2016
    Remember, towing capacity is only one facet. The gross carrying capacity is just as important. Look at the hitch load, people, dogs, camping equipment, etc. You may be only towing a 5K trailer but be over gross with all the stuff inside Pathfinder.
  • Skelshy's avatar
    Skelshy
    Explorer
    Sep 20, 2016
    I recently researched the 2017. The tow hitch and wiring is dealer installed. This means as long as you are getting the original or OE equivalent parts, it won't be any different new vs. retrofit

    The '14 and '16 have a 5000 lbs tow limit when properly equipped. The tow limit has been increased to 6000 lbs for the 2017 model year thanks to a higher performing engine and better cooling.
  • wowens79's avatar
    wowens79
    Explorer III
    Sep 20, 2016
    Yes it is a cvt. We test drove one, and loved it. Interior was super nice, drove great, and we actually liked the cvt. We would have bought one, but we keep cars 10-15 years, and after reading the problems we held off. The DW is still driving her 2003 pilot (225k miles).

    Not sure what we will do, but my daughter turns 16 this spring, and the plan is to pass the pilot to her, and get the wife a new ride.
  • Nascar24's avatar
    Nascar24
    Explorer
    Sep 20, 2016
    Nissan makes 7 pin trailer plug kits for the Pathfinder OEM plug and play, relay will also be needed. I have a 2008 and just installed the kit. far better than the aftermarket kits . I also purchased a Reese brake controller with the Nissan harness, also plug and play ( plug located under knee panel below steering column .

    The newer Pathfinders have for ratings of 5000 lbs properly equipped, so don't listen to the salesman.

    The older ones like my 08 V8 has 7000 lb tow capacity and 700 lb Tongue weight. The Older V6 models had 6000 lb and 600 lb tongue weight capacity. I also installed a set of air lift air bags and would suggest the same
  • kw_00's avatar
    kw_00
    Explorer
    Sep 20, 2016
    Does that crossover use a CVT transmission? I thought that those were not good for towing? I could be wrong, just asking since it relates to the topic.
  • wowens79's avatar
    wowens79
    Explorer III
    Sep 20, 2016
    Before she buys a '14 PF read about the transmission problems. Looks like they may have fixed it with the '16s. We almost bout one until I read about that problem. Gets a shudder under light acceleration. Not all of them did it, but lots of complaints about it.
  • BenK's avatar
    BenK
    Explorer
    Sep 20, 2016
    There is more to a tow package/option than just the receiver...especially if
    it has an automatic transmission

    Many have and/or should have:
    • Aux ATF (automatic tranny fluid) cooler
    • Larger main radiator
    • Engine Oil cooler (usually part of the main radiator)


    And more...like some OEMs have a larger fan, different software and a
    Tow/Haul function, etc
  • Grit_dog's avatar
    Grit_dog
    Navigator
    Sep 19, 2016
    Dealer installed hitch could be anything from c rappy to fantastic. Need lights too and brakes. Prolly pre wired on the tow pkg one.
    Other changes are likely addl or bigger trans cooler and possibly lower rear gears.
    I'd suggest you look up the specs on the 2 vehicles in question. That will tell you.
  • darsben1's avatar
    darsben1
    Explorer
    Sep 19, 2016
    What are the tow capacities on the placard in the vehicle. Not what the salesman states.
    Need the CVWR, GCVR and the curb weight (empty weight) of the vehicles then a comparison can be made.

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