Parts for your 2014 Nissan Pathfinder-Exhaust gasket

2014 Nissan Pathfinder exhaust gasket: what it does and when to replace it

Based on technical sources, an exhaust gasket is definitely used on the 2014 Nissan Pathfinder (R52). The Nissan Factory Service Manual (R52, EX — Exhaust System and EM — Engine Mechanical sections), the Nissan Global/FAST Electronic Parts Catalogue, and genuine Nissan parts diagrams for the VQ35DE V6 (and QR25DER Hybrid) all show multiple exhaust gaskets: multi‑layer steel exhaust manifold gaskets at the cylinder heads, and metal ring or “donut” gaskets at the front tube, catalyst and other flanged joints.

• Technical references: Nissan R52 Factory Service Manual (EX, EM), Nissan FAST/Global EPC, Genuine Nissan parts diagrams for 2014 Pathfinder R52.

On the 2014 Pathfinder, exhaust gaskets do the quiet achiever’s job — sealing the joins from the cylinder head through to the tailpipe so there’s no noisy tick, no exhaust smell in the cabin, and no dramas with oxygen sensor readings. At the engine end, the manifold gaskets are multi‑layer steel that handle heat cycles without crushing flat. Further down, the front pipe and other flanges typically use metal ring or donut‑style gaskets that compress to keep things gas‑tight under load.

As part of regular servicing, it’s worth checking for soot marks around flanges, a sharp ticking on cold start, or a whiff of exhaust under the bonnet or near the floor — all classic leak clues. Coastal Aussie and Kiwi conditions, towing, and stop‑start city runs can accelerate corrosion and heat stress, so annual inspections (or every 20,000 km) are a smart move.

Any time the exhaust is separated — manifolds off, front pipe dropped, or a muffler swap — new gaskets should go in. Reusing old ones is false economy, they rarely reseal properly once crushed and heat‑cycled. Follow the Nissan torque specs and tighten in an even, criss‑cross pattern so the gasket beds down flat. Penetrating oil on studs the night before helps, and if a spring bolt or stud looks tired or rusty, replace it while you’re there. Avoid smearing sealant near oxygen sensors or catalytic converters unless the manual specifically calls for a particular high‑temp compound, most joints on the R52 are designed to seal on the gasket alone.

If a gasket’s leaking, sort it sooner rather than later. Besides the racket and fumes, a leak ahead of the O2 sensors can skew fuel trims, hurt economy, and trigger a check‑engine light — not ideal come WOF or roadworthy time.

Does the 2014 Nissan Pathfinder have exhaust gaskets, and where are they?

Yes. The R52 Pathfinder uses multi‑layer steel exhaust manifold gaskets at the cylinder heads and metal ring/donut gaskets at the front tube, catalyst and other flanged joins along the system. They sit between the mating flanges and compress to stop leaks.

What are the signs of a leaking exhaust gasket on an R52 Pathfinder?

Listen for a sharp ticking on cold start that softens as it warms, sniff for exhaust odour near the bonnet or floor, and look for black soot at flanges. A leak ahead of the O2 sensors can also trigger a check‑engine light and rougher running.

Should exhaust gaskets be reused or replaced when the exhaust is removed?

Replace them. Once crushed and heat‑cycled, old gaskets rarely reseal. Fit new genuine‑equivalent gaskets, torque fasteners to spec in sequence, and renew any tired studs or spring bolts. Skip generic sealants near O2 sensors unless Nissan specifies otherwise.