On a 2025 Pathfinder, push the 2WD selector or rotate the Intelligent 4x4 selector until the desired mode appears; 4WD models add Sand and Mud/Rut terrain choices.
Check that your vehicle has it.
Verified for all 2025 U.S.-market Pathfinder trims. S, SV, SL and Platinum can be 2WD or Intelligent 4x4; Rock Creek is Intelligent 4x4 only. Available mode sets differ by drivetrain.
- Retail trim / version
- S, SV, Rock Creek, SL, Platinum
Does the documented scope match your car?
This check combines the verified year, any source-supported powertrain scope, source-named trim/package and required equipment. It does not read a VIN or factory build record.
Published availability and qualifications
Verified for all 2025 U.S.-market Pathfinder trims. S, SV, SL and Platinum can be 2WD or Intelligent 4x4; Rock Creek is Intelligent 4x4 only. Available mode sets differ by drivetrain.
Know what kind of control to look for.
This original category diagram is an orientation aid, not a picture of your exact trim. Use the written labels and your vehicle manual to identify the real control.
Step by step.
- 01
Identify the center-console selector: 2WD Pathfinders use an up/down selector, while Intelligent 4x4 models use a rotary selector.
- 02
At a safe speed, push or rotate the selector to the mode that matches the condition: TOW, Sport, Standard, Eco or Snow; 4WD also provides Auto, Sand and Mud/Rut.
- 03
Confirm the selected mode name and indicator in the vehicle information display.
- 04
Use TOW when pulling a trailer or carrying a heavy load, and return to Standard or Auto for ordinary paved driving.
- 05
After restarting, recheck the mode because the vehicle normally returns to Standard on 2WD or Auto on 4WD.
Important limits
- Sand and Mud/Rut are 4WD-only modes and should not be used on dry, hard pavement.
- TOW changes transmission behavior and disables the Idling Stop System; fuel economy may decrease.
- A drive mode cannot overcome tire, traction, load or towing limits; reduce speed for conditions.
Quick checks.
- ✓If a requested mode is not listed, verify whether the Pathfinder is 2WD or 4WD and use only the modes shown for that drivetrain.
- ✓If the mode changes back after an ignition cycle, select it again; Standard/Auto restart behavior is normal.
- ✓If a 4WD warning appears or mode selection is unavailable, stop in a safe place, follow the warning guidance and have the system inspected if it remains active.
What happened on your vehicle?
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2025 Nissan Pathfinder Owner's Manual — Drive and Terrain Mode Selector
Relevant section or page: Pages 354–356. We use the written official source to determine the steps and applicability shown above.
View 1 supporting reference
- Official brochure2025 Nissan Pathfinder Brochure — Drivetrain and Trim Availability ↗
Reviewed with a visible trail.
Scope and steps were checked by Car Cheat Codes Editorial Review. A guide is narrowed or corrected when the source does not support a broader claim.
- Published
- Last modified
- Source checked
Guide change history
- Initial verified publication.