Parts for your 2019 Nissan Pathfinder-Manifold gasket

2019 Nissan Pathfinder manifold-gasket: what it does and when to replace it

Based on technical sources including the Nissan Electronic Service Manual (ESM) for the 2019 Pathfinder R52 (Engine Mechanical – Intake/Exhaust sections) and Nissan’s parts catalogue for the VQ35DD 3.5‑litre V6, a manifold-gasket is absolutely fitted to this vehicle. It uses intake manifold gaskets (moulded rubber O‑ring style seals between the upper/lower intake pieces and throttle body) and exhaust manifold gaskets (multi‑layer steel type) to keep everything sealed and running right.

On the 2019 Nissan Pathfinder, the manifold-gasket’s job is to seal the mating surfaces so air, fuel, and exhaust gases stay exactly where they should. Intake manifold gaskets keep unmetered air out, so the engine doesn’t run lean or idle rough. Exhaust manifold gaskets stop hot gases and noise from leaking under the bonnet, protecting nearby components and keeping oxygen sensor readings steady so the tune stays crisp.

There’s no set replacement interval in the service schedule, but these gaskets are wear items. A smart approach is to renew the intake manifold gaskets any time the upper intake is removed—such as when doing spark plugs, PCV service, or injector work—so it all goes back together leak‑free. Exhaust manifold gaskets are normally replaced only when the manifold comes off for repair or if a leak is diagnosed.

• Common signs of an intake leak: rough or high idle, hissing noise, lean codes (P0171/P0174), poor fuel economy, or a whistle on light throttle.
• Common signs of an exhaust leak: ticking on cold start that softens warm, exhaust odour in the cabin, sooty marks near the manifold, or louder than usual note.

Service tips for a fuss‑free job on a Pathfinder manifold-gasket:

1. Use quality OEM‑spec gaskets, the VQ35DD’s intake uses formed rubber seals that should not need extra sealant.
2. Clean mating faces carefully and check for warpage, cracks, or pitting.
3. Follow the factory torque specs and tightening sequence—work from the centre out, in stages.
4. After reassembly, do a smoke test or careful brake‑clean check for vacuum leaks, then clear any codes and road‑test.
5. For exhaust work, expect tight or rusty studs, pre‑soak with penetrating oil and have new hardware and heat shields on hand.

Left to leak, a manifold-gasket can cause drivability dramas, higher fuel use, sensor or catalyst damage, and in the case of exhaust leaks, hot gas where you don’t want it. Replacing them at the right time keeps the 2019 Pathfinder smooth, quiet, and efficient for many more kilometres.

Popular questions

Does the 2019 Nissan Pathfinder have both intake and exhaust manifold gaskets?
Yes. The VQ35DD engine uses moulded rubber intake manifold gaskets between the plenum, runners and throttle body, plus multi‑layer steel exhaust manifold gaskets at each cylinder head. Both types are serviceable items referenced in Nissan’s ESM and parts catalogue.

How much does a manifold-gasket job cost on a 2019 Pathfinder?
Intake manifold-gasket replacement is typically 1.5–3.0 hours of labour, with parts often $80–$200 AUD/NZD depending on what’s renewed. Exhaust manifold-gasket work can run 4–8 hours due to access and stubborn hardware, with gaskets and new studs/nuts roughly $120–$300. Pricing varies by workshop, region, and condition of fasteners.

Is it safe to drive with a leaking manifold-gasket?
An intake leak can lead to lean running and misfires, an exhaust leak can introduce fumes to the cabin and overheat nearby components, and may skew oxygen sensor readings. Short trips to a workshop are usually fine, but it’s best to sort leaks promptly to avoid bigger bills.