2005 Nissan Frontier problems
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Common 2005 Nissan Frontier problems
Based on complaints from owners of the Nissan Frontier 2005, several common problems have been identified:
- Timing Chain Tensioner Guide Failure:
- Another prevalent issue with the 2005 Nissan Frontier is the failure of the timing chain tensioner guide. This problem can cause engine damage, with the upper chain developing sharp edges that wear out the tensioner. If left unrepaired, this issue can lead to catastrophic engine failure. The problem was most common in the 2005-2007 models but persisted until 2010.
- Coolant Leaks and Transmission Damage:
- Many radiators in the 2005 Nissan Frontier were faulty and prone to leaking coolant fluid. This issue is significant as it can lead to transmission damage, emphasizing the importance of addressing radiator problems promptly.
- Sunroof Rattles and Explodes:
- In the 2005-2019 Nissan Frontier models, sunroof issues such as rattling and even exploding have been reported, indicating potential safety concerns.
- Inaccurate Fuel Gauge Readings:
- Some owners have experienced problems with the fuel gauge in the Nissan Frontier, where it provides inaccurate readings. This issue can lead to inconvenience and potential fuel-related problems.
These common problems with the 2005 Nissan Frontier highlight the importance of regular maintenance and prompt attention to any signs of mechanical issues to ensure the longevity and reliability of the vehicle.
What is the problem with the 2005 Nissan Frontier?
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.
What year was a bad year for a Nissan Frontier?
Nissan Frontiers with automatic transmissions manufactured between 2005 and 2008 have a defective radiator design. The fluid lines for the truck's transmission pass through the radiator. Any leaks or problems with the radiator can instantly destroy both the radiator and the transmission on these Frontier models.
How many miles does a 2005 Nissan Frontier last?
With proper care and maintenance, this truck is designed to last over two decades and can easily clock more than 200,000 miles or up to 20 years of service. This long-lasting performance is thanks to the Frontier's robust engine, superior corrosion protection, and high-quality production standards.
What year Nissan Frontiers had transmission problems?
Transmission Problems
Car Problem Zoo reported that 2005-2008 model years have the most complaints. Similarly, Car Complaints identified Nissan Frontier transmission problems as the number one type of issue with the truck. The radiators in the 2005-2008 Frontier tended to rupture before the truck reached 10,000 miles.
2005 Nissan Frontier complaints
The NHTSA has received 0 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2005 Nissan Frontier.
You can leave your car complaint via the special form below.
2005 Nissan Frontier recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 6 recalls for different components of the 2005 Nissan Frontier.
- Manufacturer: NISSAN NORTH AMERICA, INC.
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: NISSAN IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2004-2006 ARMADA, TITAN, INFINITI QX56 AND MODEL YEAR 2005-2006 FRONTIER, PATHFINDER AND XTERRA VEHICLES. THE INTELLIGENT POWER DISTRIBUTION MODULE (IPDM) ASSEMBLY CONTAINS AN ENGINE CONTROL MODULE (ECM) RELAY THAT HAS A DIODE FOR ELECTRICAL CURRENT NOISE REDUCTION. THE ECM RELAY MAY ALLOW SILICON VAPOR TO FORM AND, OVER TIME, THE SILICON EVAPORATES FROM THE DIODE MOLDING WHICH CAUSES SILICON OXIDE TO DEVELOP ON THE ECM RELAY CONTACT DUE TO ARCING.
- Consequence: THIS COULD CAUSE ENGINE STALLING INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE ECM RELAY INSIDE THE IPDM ASSEMBLY. THIS SERVICE WILL BE PERFORMED FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON DECEMBER 6, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT NISSAN AT 1-800-647-7261.
- Manufacturer: NISSAN NORTH AMERICA, INC.
- Components: SUSPENSION:FRONT:CONTROL ARM:LOWER ARM
- Summary: NISSAN IS RECALLING CERTAIN FRONT AND REAR LOWER LINKS, P/NOS. 54501ZQ00A, 54500ZQ00A, 551A1ZQ00A, 551A0ZQ00A , 54501EA00A, 54500EA00A, 551A1EA500, 551A0EA500, 54501ZR00A, AND 54500ZR00A, SOLD BETWEEN NOVEMBER 25, 2009 AND MAY 14, 2010 AS REPLACEMENT PARTS FOR MODEL YEAR 2004 THROUGH 2010 TITAN, ARMADA, AND QX56, AND MODEL YEARS 2005 THROUGH 2010 FRONTIER, XTERRA, AND PATHFINDER VEHICLES. THE LOWER CONTROL LINK ASSEMBLY HAS TWO CYLINDRICAL COLLARS FORMING THE INBOARD ATTACHMENT POINTS TO THE CHASSIS. DUE TO AN IMPROPER WELDING PROCESS SOME COLLARS MAY CONTAIN WELDS THAT DO NOT MEET STRENGTH SPECIFICATIONS.
- Consequence: IF THE COLLAR WELD SEPARATES, THE VEHICLE HANDLING WILL DETERIORATE, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: NISSAN WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND DEALERS WILL REPLACE ANY AFFECTED LOWER LINK FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 12, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT NISSAN AT 1-800-647-7261.
- Manufacturer: NISSAN NORTH AMERICA, INC.
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL
- Summary: NISSAN IS RECALLING 242,720 MY 2005-2009 PATHFINDER, FRONTIER AND XTERRA VEHICLES ORIGINALLY SOLD IN OR CURRENTLY REGISTERED IN THE STATES OF CONNECTICUT, DELAWARE, ILLINOIS, INDIANA, IOWA, MAINE, MARYLAND, MASSACHUSETTS, MICHIGAN, MINNESOTA, MISSOURI, NEW HAMPSHIRE, NEW JERSEY, NEW YORK, OHIO, PENNSYLVANIA, RHODE ISLAND, VERMONT, WEST VIRGINIA, WISCONSIN, AND THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA. IN THOSE AREAS OF THE COUNTRY WHICH USE HEAVY CONCENTRATIONS OF ROAD SALT IN THE WINTER, A MIXTURE OF SNOW/WATER AND SALT CAN ENTER INTO THE FRONT CRASH ZONE SENSOR (CZS) HOUSING. IF THIS OCCURS, THE CZS MAY INTERNALLY RUST RESULTING IN A SIGNAL INTERRUPTION. IF THIS HAPPENS, THE RED AIR BAG WARNING LIGHT WILL ILLUMINATE TO ALERT THE VEHICLE OPERATOR.
- Consequence: THIS ISSUE COULD RESULT IN THE NON-DEPLOYMENT OF THE DRIVER AND PASSENGER FRONT AIR BAGS IN A CRASH, INCREASING THE RISK OF PERSONAL INJURY.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE FRONT CZS WITH A REDESIGNED SENSOR. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JANUARY 26, 2009. OWNERS IN THE OTHER STATES WILL RECEIVE EXTENDED WARRANTY COVERAGE FOR THE SENSOR TO 10 YEARS. THESE OWNERS WILL BE NOTIFIED OF THE WARRANTY EXTENSION BY MAIL AND WILL RECEIVE A STICKER TO PLACE IN THEIR WARRANTY BOOKLET EXPLAINING THE EXTENDED WARRANTY COVERAGE. OWNERS MAY CONTACT NISSAN AT 1-800-647-7261.
- Manufacturer: HOPKINS MANUFACTURING CORP.
- Components: EQUIPMENT
- Summary: CERTAIN HOPKINS AFTERMARKET TRAILER BRAKE CONTROL CONNECTION HARNESSES SOLD FOR USE ON CERTAIN MODELS OF NISSAN VEHICLES WHICH ARE LISTED ABOVE. THE INTERNAL PART NUMBERS WITHIN HOPKINS ARE: 1010476025, 1040376025, 1110476025, 1170376025, 1290376025, 1010476035, 1040376035, 1110476035, 1170376035, AND 1290376035. A WIRE MAY HAVE BEEN PLACED IN AN INCORRECT POSITION IN THE ELECTRICAL CONNECTOR HOUSING. THIS RESULTS IN AN INCORRECT ROUTING OF WIRES BETWEEN THE TRAILER BRAKE CONTROLLER AND THE TOWING VEHICLE WIRING SYSTEM.
- Consequence: THIS HARNESS WOULD RESULT IN POWER FROM THE TRAILER BRAKE CONTROLLER GOING TO THE TOWING VEHICLE DASH LIGHT CIRCUIT RATHER THAN THE TRAILER BRAKES. THIS RESULT WOULD BE THE LACK OF TRAILER BRAKING WHEN THE TOWING VEHICLE BRAKES WERE APPLIED. IT WOULD ALSO RESULT IN THE TOWING VEHICLES DASH LIGHTS BEING ACTIVATED WHEN THE VEHICLE BRAKES WERE APPLIED. THE FAILURE OF THE APPLICATION OF THE TRAILER BRAKE COULD RESULT IN REDUCED ABILITY TO STOP AND CONTRIBUTE TO A POSSIBLE CRASH.
- Remedy: HOPKINS WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE ORIGINAL HARNESS WITH A REVISED HARNESS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN AUGUST 17, 2007. OWNERS CAN CONTACT HOPKINS AT 800-835-0129.
- Manufacturer: TRADESONIC
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: CERTAIN TRADESONIC COMBINATION LAMPS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON THE ABOVE LISTED PASSENGER VEHICLES. COMBINATION LAMPS NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.
- Consequence: LACK OF AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS IN THE LAMPS WILL DECREASE LIGHTING VISIBILITY TO OTHER DRIVERS AND MAY POSSIBLY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: TRADESONIC WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE LAMPS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN DURING JULY 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT TRADESONIC AT 626-934-8884.
- Manufacturer: NISSAN NORTH AMERICA, INC.
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY:FILLER PIPE AND CAP
- Summary: ON CERTAIN KING CAB TRUCKS, IN A SEVERE SIDE IMPACT CRASH, THERE IS A POSSIBILITY THAT DEFORMATION OF THE VEHICLE'S BODY COULD CAUSE THE FUEL FILLER CAP TETHER TO BE STRETCHED TO THE POINT OF UNSCREWING THE FUEL FILLER CAP.
- Consequence: THIS MAY RESULT IN A FUEL SPILL WHICH IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE COULD RESULT IN A FIRE.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE FUEL CAP TETHER PIN ASSEMBLY WITH A MODIFIED ONE FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON APRIL 24, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT NISSAN AT 1-800-647-7261.
Negative 2005 Nissan Frontier car reviews
Positive 2005 Nissan Frontier car reviews
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I bought my truck new in 2005 and it still looks and runs like it's brand new. With the high gas prices, having a truck that can haul light loads and get 22/23 MPG is really nice. Right now, I wouldn't trade it for anything. These trucks are hard to find. Used 2.5L manual shift XEs are rarely found for sale, probably because the owners recognize their value. I took this 2WD truck on some dirt roads in Tennessee and had no problems at all. It's a very good truck.
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I currently have about 92k miles on my truck and I absolutely love it! I've owned it for 4 years and have definitely put it through its paces. Despite smashing it twice and driving it like I stole it, I never had any problems until recently. Unfortunately, the catalytic converter on the driver's side went out at 83k, just out of emissions warranty. Nissan quoted me $1200, but I managed to fix it myself on the ground for about $250. Now, I'm experiencing some sort of vibration coming from the transmission, almost like the torque converter lockup is not engaging correctly. On the bright side, I replaced my rusted Gibson Exhaust with a Banks Exhaust and the power on this truck is incredible! I've raced with it and taken it through the mud, and I can confidently say that you can't beat a Frontier!
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This truck is really impressive! It's powerful, responsive, and the quality is top-notch. The ride is smooth and the turning radius is great, making it easy to handle. I've taken this truck hunting and it climbed over some pretty rough hills in Eastern Montana without any issues - the truck really grips the road! The ground clearance is also plentiful, making it genuinely off-road capable. It's such a fun truck to drive! The only downside I've experienced is with the body design. If you drive on any gravel, the rear wheel flares tend to get beat up pretty badly. I had to buy a bottle of touch-up paint. Hopefully, Nissan will address this issue in the 06 Model. Overall, I highly recommend this truck!
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After conducting extensive research, I found that the Frontier is the superior truck. I test drove both the Frontier and the Colorado, and while they both drive similarly, the Tacoma has a cushier ride which may not be ideal for a high CG vehicle. Ultimately, I decided to purchase the Frontier due to its full box frame, 4 wheel disk brakes, 265 hp V6 engine that runs on regular unleaded gas, and sprayed-on bed liner developed specifically for Nissan. The decision was clear for me. While Toyota dealers were not willing to offer any price concessions, Nissan dealers were eager to make a deal and offered me the best deal possible.
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I hope you had a great trip! It sounds like your truck was up to the task of towing your VW Golf and handling the Rockies with ease. It's great to hear that you're happy with your purchase and that it rides smoothly. Even though it's your first pickup, it seems like you made a great choice!
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2005 Nissan Frontier problems:
How reliable are these 2005 Frontiers LE 4.0 V6? Looking to buy ...
Dec 8, 2021 ... How reliable are these 2005 Frontiers LE 4.0 V6? ... There is a common problem with the transmission ... Nissan Frontier Owners. 23K Members. 7 ...
2005 nismo problems | Nissan Frontier Forum
Jul 26, 2009 ... Timing chain guides failing at low miles. Tensioners failing. Trannys leaking into radiators (or vice versa). etc... Remember the cracked ...
2005 Nissan Frontier Problems and Complaints - 8 Issues
Top 2005 Nissan Frontier Problems · Check Engine Light Due to Faulty Fuel Level Sensor · Noise From the Front of the Engine · No Start, Engine Stalls · Check ...
Nissan Frontier Problems Worth Knowing of - VehicleHistory
Mar 5, 2021 ... The 2005 Nissan Frontier is notorious for transmission failure. It's actually caused by a faulty seal in the radiator. The radiator leaks, ...
Nissan Frontier 2005: Q&A on Thermostat, Overheating & Engine ...
Jun 5, 2013 ... There is issues with the trans cooler for the automatic trans for these radiators. Since yours is a manual, that is the best thing. Jay : when ...
Other years of Nissan Frontier
Are you having problems with your 2005 Nissan Frontier?
Torrance Cremin 2025-06-10
I have a 2005 Frontier and unfortunately, I have had a negative experience with it. Despite taking it to the dealer over 10 times within a year, they have not been able to fully address the issues covered under warranty. In addition, the Nissan dealer has refused to honor the guarantee to replace the defective transmission, instead asking for a $2500 deductible. As a result of these experiences, I have lost confidence in Nissan and will not be purchasing another vehicle from them in the future. Thank you for considering my feedback.
Alford Flatley 2025-05-10
Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I just wanted to share my experience with my Nissan. I've been a loyal Nissan customer for years and have purchased 5 of them for my business. They've been incredibly reliable, with my last one lasting over 487,000 miles! I recently had a small issue with my current Nissan, where the transmission seal was leaking and the flange in the rear-end went. Unfortunately, it's taking a bit longer than expected to get the part, but I'm confident that the Nissan dealer will get it sorted out soon. Despite a few hiccups, I still highly recommend Nissan for their quality and reliability. Thanks for listening!
Garth Schultz 2025-04-29
Although I had high hopes for my first brand new vehicle, this truck has unfortunately been plagued with numerous issues from the very beginning. Despite my efforts to address these problems, including multiple trips to the mechanic, the truck still does not function properly even with only 29,000 miles on it. While I have experienced some frustration with the battery and starting system, I remain confident that the underlying issue can be resolved with the right expertise and attention. I am determined to get this truck back on the road and running smoothly.
Mose Bayer 2025-04-19
Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I wanted to share my experience with my car that I bought brand new in 2006, which was actually a 2005 model. Unfortunately, I've had a few issues with it over the years, including problems with the fuel sending unit, O2 sensors, and starter. Living in California, I recently had to get it smogged, which cost me $1,970.00. On top of that, I had to replace the radiator myself for around $300.00 because it was leaking fluid into the transmission. Now that I've had it smogged and can drive it to have the transmission checked, I found out that it needs to be rebuilt, which will cost a minimum of $2,400.00. All in all, it's been a bit of a costly experience, with almost $6,000 spent so far and barely 100,000 miles on the car. Unfortunately, both the dealer and Nissan USA haven't been very helpful with these issues. Thanks for listening!
Chris Corkery 2025-03-02
I bought my Frontier brand new for $26,000 in Jan 2006. Unfortunately, at 40k miles, the left side catalytic converter went out. However, I was able to get it replaced under the 60k mile power train warranty. At 50k miles, the right side catalytic converter went out, and at 75k miles, the transmission clunked out. Luckily, I was still under a new extended 80k miles warranty for the transmission. At 100k miles, the camshaft sensor went out, leaving me stranded. It was frustrating that only Nissans shut off on you in the middle of the road and do not start when their sensors go out. Another 10k miles and the crankshaft sensor went out. At 110k miles, the gas meter went dead. Currently, at 140k miles, both of my lower o2 sensors need replacing as the check engine light came on and the diagnosis stated so. Although I will never buy another Nissan again, except for a Z of course!!!