The Nissan Frontier has a reputation as a no-frills truck with excellent reliability. It appeals to drivers who want a truck without the latest in technology and luxury. While most years are very reliable, there are a few years with significant problems.
What are the most common Nissan Frontier problems?
The two major problems are:
- Transmission failure due to radiator leak in 2005-2007 models
- Timing chain tensioner guide failure can cause engine damage most common 2005-2007
The Nissan Frontier has a few big problems, and certain year models should be avoided. We’ll look at an overview of the vehicle. We’ll also cover the specific problems and how you can avoid them.
Overview of the Nissan Frontier
The current model of the Nissan Frontier began in 2005. This is a long time without a complete redesign, and the 2020 model is likely the last year for this generation.
There have been changes over the years. The 2020 model has a V6 with 310 horsepower and a nine-speed automatic transmission. This is an admirable upgrade from the 2.5 liter 4-cylinder and manual transmission.
Older models had an optional 4.0 V-6 but sacrificed gas mileage for horsepower. Transmission options were a five or six-speed manual transmission or a five-speed automatic. This Frontier has better handling than its predecessor, but the ride is a little stiff.
Crash test ratings for the Frontier are concerning. They earned a four-star rating from the NHTSA, but IHS had a different take. They implemented two new crash tests, and found that the Frontier performed as marginal in both.
It also lacks driver assistance features that are becoming standard on many vehicles. Other than the concerning crash test results, the Frontier is a good choice for a truck if you want something utilitarian and reliable.
Nissan Frontier Problems
Transmission Failure From Radiator Leak
The 2005 Nissan Frontier is notorious for transmission failure. It’s actually caused by a faulty seal in the radiator. The radiator leaks, allowing the coolant to get into the transmission. It dilutes the transmission oil, resulting in a complete failure of the transmission.
After a class action lawsuit, Nissan provided a limited warranty. At less than eight years or 80,000 miles, they would cover the cost of transmission repairs. Between eight and ten years or 100,000 miles, Nissan would cover part of the cost of fixing the transmission.
After ten years or 100,000 miles, Nissan would provide no help.
The problem occurred most frequently on the 2005 Frontier, with the 2006 and 2007 models receiving lots of complaints as well. The problem continued on a smaller scale until the 2011 model. If you own a 205-2007 Nissan, it’s highly recommended you replace your radiator if it’s the original.
Timing Chain Tensioner Failure
This is caused by faulty manufacturing. The timing chain is stamped by a die press. The dies wear out over time, and this leaves sharp edges on the chain. When the upper chain has these sharp edges, it cuts through the plastic tensioner.
Once it wears through the tensioner, it is riding on the steel tensioner plunger. This is when many owners report hearing a whining noise. It’s the sound of the chain on the steel plunger.
This can cause multiple issues. It can jump time damaging the valves and valve train, or even wear a hole through the block. If it isn’t repaired, it’s only a matter of time until it causes catastrophic engine failure.
This issue was also most common on the 2005-2007 models, but is a known problem through 2010. It can occur at low mileage or high mileage, depending on the sharpness of the chain.
This issue isn’t a concern unless you begin to hear a whining noise. If you do, you should get it repaired immediately. If caught early, you should only need to replace the upper chain and tensioners. If you want to be proactive, you can change these items before they become a problem.
Considering a Nissan Frontier
Overall, the Nissan Frontier is a good truck if you want simplicity and reliability. Just avoid the problem-year models. To learn more about the Frontier, including owner and expert reviews, check out Vehicle History.
You can also perform a VIN search to learn the history of the vehicle you are interested in. This can save you from expensive problems down the road.
