Nissan Frontier problems

Nissan Frontier years list
Overview of popular issues
Analysis of common problems
Сomplaints list
Recalls list

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Nissan Frontier model years

Common Nissan Frontier problems

Based on complaints from owners of Nissan Frontier cars, several common problems have been reported:

Timing Chain Problems: Some Nissan Frontier models may develop problems with the timing chains, resulting in a loud noise coming from the timing chain area. This noise is caused by excess slack in the secondary timing chains and is commonly observed around the 150,000-mile mark. If owners notice a whining or buzzing noise, it is advisable to have the pickup checked out.

Rusty Distributor Shaft Bearing: Certain models of the Nissan Frontier are prone to rusty distributor shaft bearings. When this bearing rusts, it can seize, causing the engine to stall or fail to start. The typical fix for this issue involves replacing the distributor, with diagnostic costs averaging around $100. This problem can be critical as it affects the starting and running of the engine.

Transmission Problems: The Nissan Frontier has been associated with transmission issues, particularly in the 2005 model year. The most common problem reported is the radiator causing transmission failure. This issue has an average cost to fix of $3,700 and occurs around 103,000 miles. Other related problems include radiator cracks leaking fluid into the transmission and coolant leaking into and damaging the transmission in subsequent model years.

These problems highlight some of the key issues faced by Nissan Frontier owners, ranging from sensor malfunctions to critical engine and transmission issues. Addressing these concerns promptly and through proper maintenance can help mitigate potential risks and ensure the longevity of the vehicle.

What problems does the Nissan Frontier have?

The Frontier can easily reach 100,000 to 200,000 on its odometer. The Nissan Frontier suffers from a few common problems, which include engine issues,defective airbags, and paint chipping.

Is the Nissan Frontier a reliable truck?

The auto repair database RepairPal gives the Nissan Frontier an overall 4 out of 5 for reliability, placing it at the top of the rankings for midsize pickups. However, there are several exceptions. Nissan Frontiers with automatic transmissions manufactured between 2005 and 2008 have a defective radiator design.

How many miles will a Nissan Frontier last?

200,000 miles

With proper care and routine maintenance, the latest generation of the Nissan Frontier has been built and designed to last over two decades, with many models able to last 200,000 miles and longer.

What are the cons of a Nissan Frontier?

Fuel economy of 18 mpg overall is not a standout among midsized pickup trucks. Handling is relatively responsive and secure, but the steering is too heavy at low speeds. Plus, the steering wheel lacks a telescope adjustment. The ride is stiff and choppy, though it's an improvement over the previous-generation Frontier.

Percentage distribution of complaints by Nissan Frontier years

We have researched Nissan problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Nissan Frontier cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Nissan Frontier model years:

Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Nissan Frontier model years.

Distribution of the number of complaints by Nissan Frontier years

We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:

Nissan Frontier car problems categorized by type of issue

After analysing all complaints related to Nissan Frontier , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:

Air bags problems
Power train problems
Electrical system problems
Service brakes problems
Fuel system problems

The graph below shows statistics for all Nissan Frontier vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Frontier model years

A total of 121 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.

Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Frontier model years

There were a total of 28 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.

Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Frontier model years

There were a total of 100 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.

Distribution of the number of complaints with deaths by Frontier model years

There were a total of 4 complaints that resulted in a death. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.

The NHTSA has received 1318 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Nissan Frontier . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Nissan Frontier vehicles.

Latest 25 complaints

Nissan Frontier 2018

Date Of Incident: 2024-08-26
Date Complaint: 2024-10-16
VIN: 1N6AD0CW1JN
Components: STRUCTURE,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Summary: Paint peeling on front left finder and where both front finders connect to the cab. N/A The dealer was informed and photos sent. Just the photos sent N/A

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Nissan Frontier 2021

Date Of Incident: 2024-10-14
Date Complaint: 2024-10-16
VIN: 1N6ED0EB1MN
Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Summary: Recall R22A1 has not been repaired by the dealership. Riverside Nissan in Rome, GA held the truck for twelve (12) weeks and was unable to repair the truck. They claim the part is not available. Another repair was subsequently requested at Town Center Nissan in Kennesaw, GA. They initially reported they could get the part within two weeks but now state the part is backordered and unavailable. Vehicle is undrivable without repair.

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Nissan Frontier 2022

Date Of Incident: 2024-08-14
Date Complaint: 2024-10-14
VIN: 1N6ED1CL9NN
Components: SEATS
Summary: Sometimes when I'm driving down the road the seat reclines all the way back when I spoke to Nissan executive headquarters Maria there said they spoke with Grubbs Nissan and said yes this could happen the seat reclines all the way back and it obstructs The View while I'm driving down the road I need this to stop it's unsafe

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Nissan Frontier 2022

Date Of Incident: 2024-07-24
Date Complaint: 2024-09-24
VIN: 1N6ED1CL9NN
Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SEATS
Summary: The contact owns a 2022 Nissan Frontier. The contact stated while driving at various speeds, the driver’s seat independently moved backward and slightly tilted. The vehicle had been taken to the dealer where the contact was informed that there was a failure of the feature to adjust the seat to assist while an occupant was exiting the vehicle had operated erroneously. The dealer informed the contact that there was no way to turn off the feature and to disconnect the electrical wiring harness attached to the seat to prevent the failure. The vehicle had not been repaired. The manufacturer had been made aware of the failure via email; however, the contact had not received a response. The failure mileage was 34,000.

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Nissan Frontier 2022

Date Of Incident: 2024-09-13
Date Complaint: 2024-09-20
VIN: 1N6ED1EK8NN
Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,SERVICE BRAKES
Summary: We have had multiple occasions when the dashboard read as "System Fault"with multiple warning/indicator lights. 12/12/23, while backing out of a parking space at low speed. 9/12/2024 while at a Red Light, and lightly letting off the brake. 9/13/24 while driving 65 mph . An appt was requested at the dealership of purchase for 9/17/24. An email notification was also received from the truck stating that the ABS System may be malfunctioning. When the alert warning/indicator lights appear, the alert states on the dashboard "Warning" "System Fault" "See Owners Manual" . The system generated email states "Your vehicle's antilock braking system may require service". We only received one notification from the vehicle related to the 9/12/24 alert.On 9/19/24 the dealership could not replicate or find a code related to the ABS System Fault and we were encouraged to bring the vehicle back if it happened again so they could run the code.The dealership would take the vehicle for a longer drive on 9/20/24 to try to replicate the issue. At this point, we filed a complaint with the manufacturer, and have not heard directly from the dealership if they have been able to replicate the warning. The concern for safety is that since the vehicle alerting that the ABS system may be require attention, there may be other electrical issues with the vehicle, along with braking issue concern. There was one occasion on 1/21/2024 with a system error message stating "warning when Parked apply parking brake" the vehicle had just been turned on and put in reverse. There is a large safety concern as this vehicle has had other safety issues including a half latch (where the doors would not open from inside or outside, requiring exiting through alternate door, a parking pawl recall, and transmission issues that we've brought forward in our formal complaint to the manufacturer. Including "Tow" alarm notifications to strengthen the safety concern of electrical issues with this vehicle.

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Nissan Frontier 2015

Date Of Incident: 2024-09-17
Date Complaint: 2024-09-17
VIN: 1N6AD0ER5FN
Components: POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
Summary: Engine light came on, and vehicle accelerated, then lost acceleration while revolutions increased. Diagnosis indicates Bad TCM. I went to 3 shops, and all said that the TCM are going bad, especially Infinity. Nissan wants to charge $500 just to try to reset it. The Dealership is the only ones that can perform this task.

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Nissan Frontier 2016

Date Of Incident: 2024-09-12
Date Complaint: 2024-09-12
VIN: 1N6AD0ERXGN
Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
Summary: WHILE FUELING AT DIFFERENT GAS STATIONS THE TANK SPILLS/BELCHES GAS ALL OVER. THIS IS A MAJOR SAFETY ISSUE AND NEEDS RECALLED. THERE ARE ENDLESS COMPLAINTS ON [XXX] OF SIMILAR ISSUES OCCURRING TO OTHER FRONTIER OWNERS. I TOOK IT TO MY LOCAL MECHANIC AND WAS QUOTED OVER $800 TO REPLACE ALL 5 COMPONENTS OF THE SYSTEM AS NISSAN HAS SUGGESTED IN A BULLETIN FOR MECHANICS. IF NISSAN IS AWARE OF THIS ISSUE ENOUGH TO ISSUE A TECHNICAL BULLETIN THEN THE ISSUE NEEDS TO BE RECALLED AND REPAIRED FOR FREE BECAUSE GAS SPILLING/SPRAYING ALL OVER ME EVERY TIME I FILL UP MY VEHICLE IS OUT RIGHT DANGEROUS AND UNSAFE. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

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Nissan Frontier 2015

Date Of Incident: 2024-08-21
Date Complaint: 2024-09-12
VIN: 1N6AD0EV6FN
Components: AIR BAGS
Summary: Air bag light began blinking. I brought it to a nissan dealer for service and that have replaced and charged me for multiple parts in excess of $2,000.00. They stated my car was ready and repaired. Upon picking up my car the light was still blinking. They stated it's additional parts and cost to finish repair but if I wanted the car for the weekend I can have it and return when the parts come in. They were going to give my car back to me with a defective air bag system which I feel is extremely unsafe. They also damaged my front bumper which they had to repair. I don't feel they changed out some parts they charged me for. The car has been with them for repair since 08/22/2024. Nissan is not standing behind their product or safety.

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Nissan Frontier 2022

Date Of Incident: 2024-09-06
Date Complaint: 2024-09-06
VIN: 1N6ED1CL6NN
Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
Summary: my truck has been warning malfunction on cluster cause can't let me pedal push to go and can't let me on control cruise over 100 times. I went to Nissan dealership to check my truck. thy said need new engine. I felt they scammed me nine still fine and drive good. I told them to disgontic analysis my truck. still said ned replace new engine. 89,000 miles short time engine. when malfunction warning light will stop me go pedal or control cruise. I hav to turn off engine 10 mins then start to go working good until 1 hr again malfunction warning on cluster to prevent me go control cruise and pedal.

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Nissan Frontier 2019

Date Of Incident: 2024-05-15
Date Complaint: 2024-09-02
VIN: 1N6AD0EV3KN
Components: SERVICE BRAKES
Summary: Only have 17600 miles on vehicle and front caliber were sticking and squeaking. The garage replaced the pads and rebuilt the brakes as they were prematurely sticking and bad. Where not stopping good.

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Nissan Frontier 2022

Date Of Incident: 2024-08-27
Date Complaint: 2024-08-27
VIN: 1N6ED1EK0NN
Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
Summary: While driving multiple lights go off on the dash including ABS, traction control, and collision warning. The dash has a message that states system fault see owners manual. If you turn the truck off the system will reset and clear the faults. This does not stop the truck from faulting again in the future.

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Nissan Frontier 2021

Date Of Incident: 2024-08-21
Date Complaint: 2024-08-21
VIN: 1N6ED0EB5MN
Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Summary: The contact owns a 2021 Nissan Frontier. The contact stated while attempting to start the vehicle with the brake pedal depressed all the way to the floorboard, the contact heard an abnormal sound coming from the engine compartment, after which, upon pressing the Push to Start button the vehicle failed to start. After several attempts, the vehicle was able to start, but the failure became a regular occurrence. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was not taken to the dealer or an independent mechanic. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 17,000.

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Nissan Frontier 2021

Date Of Incident: 2024-08-19
Date Complaint: 2024-08-19
VIN: 1N6ED0EA9MN
Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING
Summary: The contact owns a 2021 Nissan Frontier. The contact stated while attempting to start the vehicle, the vehicle failed to start as intended. After several attempts, the contact was able to start the vehicle, after which the vehicle returned to normal functionality, but the failure became a regular occurrence. The contact also stated that when the failure occurred, the exterior lights would not function properly. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who diagnosed a failure with the brake light switch. The vehicle was not repaired. After investigating the failure, the contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V135000 (Exterior Lighting), but the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 36,000.

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Nissan Frontier 2022

Date Of Incident: 2021-12-01
Date Complaint: 2024-08-18
VIN: 1N6ED1EJ7NN
Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Summary: In December 2021, I purchased a 2022 Nissan Frontier Pro-X. The vehicle comes with built-in navigation that, according to their website, should receive map updates quarterly. Since purchasing the vehicle, brand new, there have been no updates to the navigation system nor maps. I have gone back and forth with Nissan support and the dealership only to be told there are no updates. The maps are severely out of date, making a feature that many people rely on useless. Therefore, we are not getting full value of what we are paying for. This is a complaint for numerous Nissan owners as I've found in message board forums. Nissan is not addressing the problem and will not return my messages or address my concern directly.

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Nissan Frontier 2016

Date Of Incident: 2023-12-01
Date Complaint: 2024-08-14
VIN: 1N6AD0EV2GN
Components: AIR BAGS
Summary: The airbag warning light is blinking and has been for approximately 9 months. I live in Salida, CO which does not have a Nissan Dealership to take my vehicle into for servicing. I recently saw an article on Fox 31 News pertaining to the same airbag malfunction and would like to know what to do about my problem.

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Latest 5 recalls Nissan Frontier

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 97 recalls for different components of the Nissan Frontier.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.

Model: Nissan Frontier 2023
Report Received Date: 2023-04-17
Manufacturer: Nissan North America, Inc.
Components: TIRES:BEAD
Summary: Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2023 Titan and Frontier vehicles. The tires may have a tear in the inner bead which can cause a rapid loss of tire pressure.
Consequence: A rapid loss of tire pressure while driving can lead to a loss of vehicle control, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will replace all four road tires, or inspect and replace the spare tire assembly, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed June 10, 2023. Owners may contact Nissan's customer service at 1-800-867-7669. Nissan's number for this recall is PC973 and PC974.

Model: Nissan Frontier 2010
Report Received Date: 2023-02-10
Manufacturer: Nissan North America, Inc.
Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL
Summary: Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2008-2011 Titan, Frontier, Xterra, Pathfinder, Armada, and 2008-2009 Quest vehicles. The resin emblem on the driver's air bag cover may develop cracks and detach during air bag deployment.
Consequence: A detached emblem can become a projectile during air bag deployment, increasing the risk of injury to vehicle occupants.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the drivers airbag cover. Owner letters were mailed December 8, 2023. Owners may contact Nissan's customer service at 1-800-867-7669. Nissan's number for this recall are PC944, PC945, and PC946.

Model: Nissan Frontier 2011
Report Received Date: 2023-02-10
Manufacturer: Nissan North America, Inc.
Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL
Summary: Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2008-2011 Titan, Frontier, Xterra, Pathfinder, Armada, and 2008-2009 Quest vehicles. The resin emblem on the driver's air bag cover may develop cracks and detach during air bag deployment.
Consequence: A detached emblem can become a projectile during air bag deployment, increasing the risk of injury to vehicle occupants.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the drivers airbag cover. Owner letters were mailed December 8, 2023. Owners may contact Nissan's customer service at 1-800-867-7669. Nissan's number for this recall are PC944, PC945, and PC946.

Model: Nissan Frontier 2009
Report Received Date: 2023-02-10
Manufacturer: Nissan North America, Inc.
Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL
Summary: Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2008-2011 Titan, Frontier, Xterra, Pathfinder, Armada, and 2008-2009 Quest vehicles. The resin emblem on the driver's air bag cover may develop cracks and detach during air bag deployment.
Consequence: A detached emblem can become a projectile during air bag deployment, increasing the risk of injury to vehicle occupants.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the drivers airbag cover. Owner letters were mailed December 8, 2023. Owners may contact Nissan's customer service at 1-800-867-7669. Nissan's number for this recall are PC944, PC945, and PC946.

Model: Nissan Frontier 2008
Report Received Date: 2023-02-10
Manufacturer: Nissan North America, Inc.
Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL
Summary: Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2008-2011 Titan, Frontier, Xterra, Pathfinder, Armada, and 2008-2009 Quest vehicles. The resin emblem on the driver's air bag cover may develop cracks and detach during air bag deployment.
Consequence: A detached emblem can become a projectile during air bag deployment, increasing the risk of injury to vehicle occupants.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the drivers airbag cover. Owner letters were mailed December 8, 2023. Owners may contact Nissan's customer service at 1-800-867-7669. Nissan's number for this recall are PC944, PC945, and PC946.

Latest negative Nissan Frontier car reviews

Kevin Collier 2025-06-25

Vehicle year: 1998

I like this truck a lot. It may not be the smoothest ride out there, but it does alright. The gas mileage is not great, with a little over 200 miles on a 13-gallon tank. However, it is very reliable and starts well in cold weather. It loves winter driving! I would definitely recommend the Frontier.
Paolo Parisian 2025-06-24

Vehicle year: 2014

So far, the truck is working out well. It's great to hear that there is minimal road noise for a pickup and that it has plenty of power. The steering tracks very well, especially at high speeds. Although the interior could have been better thought out, the seats are firm and comfortable. It's a shame that there are too many cup holders that could have been used for storage compartments, and the cheap plastic chrome exterior trim is a bit of a letdown. However, it's impressive that it gets 21+mpg mixed hwy/city. Overall, it's a good value when compared to the competition with similar equipment. It's also fun to drive!
Cristian Kris 2025-06-23

Vehicle year: 1999

This truck has had persistent mechanical issues since its purchase in 2002 with 30,000 miles. The engine and axle oil leak were fixed under warranty, but the windshield wiper motor failed during a thunderstorm in a remote location, leaving me without wipers. Additionally, the clutch motor has required two repairs within six months, and the clutch itself is expensive to fix due to its location. These recurring problems have made this truck unreliable.
Andy Runolfsson 2025-06-22

Vehicle year: 2002

I recently purchased the Desert Runner with 100,000 miles on it, after owning a 97 Dodge. Unfortunately, I have had a few issues with the heater core and controls, which cost me $700 and $250 respectively. Additionally, the air distribution box under the dash still needs to be replaced, but I am holding off on that for now. While I have owned many small trucks in the past, I have to say that this one rides quite rough. I have already replaced the shocks and plan to change the tires soon. On a smooth road, it is great, but on a rough road, it can be a bit challenging. As someone who is 6'3
Adriel Mitchell 2025-06-16

Vehicle year: 2009

Hey there! We wanted to let you know that some Nissan owners have reported issues with their cars after 40,000 miles. We recommend doing some research before making a purchase to ensure you're getting the best quality for your money. Thanks for considering this information!

Latest positive Nissan Frontier car reviews

Robert Treutel 2025-06-26

Vehicle year: 2001

I've owned this vehicle since the beginning and it has served me well. Currently, it has about 210,000 miles on it and I use it primarily for yard work, mulch, etc. Although I've had some problems with the vehicle due to a wreck, the dealer and Nissan worked with me to fix it at no cost and even provided a loaner vehicle for over a month. Overall, I'm satisfied with the vehicle and would consider buying this brand again. Thank you for considering my experience.
Maxine Lynch 2025-06-25

Vehicle year: 2009

This has been a great vehicle for me! I've had most of the services done at the dealer and have had NO problems with the truck. It handles and rides well, and I still get 20 mpg. I would definitely buy another Nissan if I were still in the truck market. Although I traded this vehicle in last fall, I still miss the utility aspect of her. I highly recommend a Nissan for anyone who is looking for a reliable and efficient vehicle. It was truly a great vehicle! 👍👌
Dagmar Kilback 2025-06-24

Vehicle year: 2008

Great mid-size with plenty of interior space.
Kim Nienow 2025-06-24

Vehicle year: 2008

The truck is a great size, not too big or small. The ride is a bit stiff and bouncy, but it's understandable given that it's a 4X4. The steering radius is a bit wide, but I'm sure I'll get used to it. It handled really well in the snow, but I haven't taken it to the hunting camp yet, so I can't speak to its performance in mud. The interior is comfortable and the controls are well-designed. On a careful road trip with the cruise set at 65 MPH, I was able to get 22.2 MPG, which is pretty good for a 4.0 liter 6 cyl 4X4 with an automatic transmission. Overall, I really like this truck and would definitely recommend it.
Lee Leffler 2025-06-23

Vehicle year: 2019

Update 7/27/2020. Hi there! It’s been 13 months since I got my Nissan Frontier and I still absolutely love it. I've even towed a 3500# camper for a few hundred miles and the V6 handled it like a champ. Mostly though, I've been using it for highway driving and it handles really well with plenty of torque. The average MPG overall has been 17.8, which is pretty good considering the times I was getting 10-12 while towing. My last truck was a 2003 Ford F-150 Supercrew, which I had for 16+ years and 140,000 miles. It was definitely time for something new, but I was surprised to find that full size trucks have gotten so huge since then! That's why I started looking at midsize trucks. I was hesitant to try the new Ranger since it was just coming to market and only available in 4cyl. The GM trucks just didn’t appeal to me and I tried to like the Tacoma, but the price and “go cart” seating position next to the floor were deal killers. Yes, the Frontier is an old design, but I genuinely love the look of the truck - always have. Plus, the lack of safety nanny electronics was actually a plus for me. I just wanted a modestly sized four door truck with four wheel drive that I could afford to buy brand new. The other benefit was that the dealership was willing to deal on price. Overall, I’m extremely happy with my new truck purchase and I would definitely recommend the Nissan Frontier to anyone who isn't overly concerned about what other people think about the vehicle they buy. Some people might criticize your decision, but it’s not their money being spent. I think dollar for dollar it’s one of the best kept secrets in the pickup truck market today. Thanks for reading!