Parts for your 2015 Nissan Pathfinder-Ignition coils

2015 Nissan Pathfinder ignition coils — what they do and how to look after them

Ignition coils are definitely fitted to the 2015 Nissan Pathfinder. According to the Nissan Pathfinder (R52) Factory Service Manual for 2015 (EC/IG Ignition System sections), both the 3.5‑litre VQ35DE V6 and the Hybrid’s QR25DER 2.5‑litre engine use coil‑on‑plug ignition, with one coil per cylinder. Nissan’s FAST parts catalogue and major aftermarket catalogues (e.g., Hitachi, NGK/NTK) also list direct‑fit coil‑on‑plug units for this model year and engines. So, ignition coils are relevant for servicing a 2015 Pathfinder.

On the 2015 Pathfinder, each ignition coil sits directly atop its spark plug (coil‑on‑plug). The coil’s job is to step up the battery’s 12 volts to the high voltage needed to fire the spark plug and ignite the petrol/air mix. That clean, strong spark keeps the V6 (six coils) or Hybrid four‑cylinder (four coils) running smoothly, with decent fuel economy and low emissions.

There’s no fixed replacement interval for coils, they’re typically replaced when they show signs of misfire. During regular servicing, it’s smart to check for stored misfire codes, inspect the coil boots for cracking or carbon tracking, and make sure the spark plug tubes are dry and free of oil. Oil in the plug wells (often from rocker cover gasket leaks) can shorten coil life.

Common clues a coil is on the way out include a rough idle, hesitation under load, a flashing check engine light, increased fuel use, and fault codes like P0300–P0306 on the V6. If a misfire pops up, a quick swap test (moving a suspected coil to another cylinder) can confirm the culprit, or use a scan tool’s misfire counters.

On the VQ35DE V6, the rear bank coils sit under the upper intake plenum. If that plenum’s coming off to reach one rear coil, many techs recommend replacing the rear trio as a set to save future labour, though it’s not mandatory. Always fit quality coils (genuine or reputable brands), install new iridium plugs at the scheduled interval (about 160,000 km), use a dab of dielectric grease on the boot, and torque the coil hold‑down bolts to roughly 6–7 N·m. Disconnect the battery before starting, keep connectors clean and clipped, and you’re good as gold.

• Typical symptoms: rough idle, lack of power, poor economy, check engine light, sulphury exhaust smell.
• Service tips: scan for codes, inspect boots and plug wells, verify spark plug condition and gap, and avoid water ingress when washing under the bonnet.

FAQs

Does a 2015 Nissan Pathfinder use ignition coils?
Yes. The 2015 Pathfinder uses coil‑on‑plug ignition. The VQ35DE V6 has six coils (one per cylinder) and the Hybrid QR25DER has four. This is confirmed in Nissan’s 2015 R52 Factory Service Manual ignition system sections and matching parts listings.

They’re a normal wear component and part of routine diagnostics whenever a misfire code shows up.

When should the coils be replaced, and should they all be done at once?
They’re replaced when faulty rather than on a time/kilometre schedule. If the intake plenum is removed to access the rear bank on the V6, many owners choose to replace those three at the same time to avoid doing the job twice.

Otherwise, replace only the failed coil, and always pair coil checks with fresh iridium plugs at the scheduled plug service interval.

What are the signs of a bad ignition coil on a 2015 Pathfinder?
Expect a rough idle, stumbling on hills, a flashing MIL during hard acceleration, and codes like P030X for the affected cylinder. Fuel economy usually drops, and the exhaust can smell a bit off.

If it’s misfiring, avoid long drives, raw fuel can damage the catalytic converter. Get it scanned and sorted promptly.