2008 Nissan Frontier problems
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Common 2008 Nissan Frontier problems
The Nissan Frontier, known for its no-frills and hardworking nature, has had its fair share of issues over the years, particularly with the 2008 model. One of the most common problems reported by owners is related to the powertrain, with 54 complaints regarding radiator failure and overheating. This issue has led to total transmission rebuilds in some cases, with the problem occurring under 150,000 miles.
Another problem that has affected a number of 2008 Nissan Frontier owners is the fuel gauge reading incorrectly. Some drivers have reported running out of gas in the middle of a trip because their gauge showed a quarter tank while they had much less fuel in the tank. This issue was addressed in a 2010 recall, which targeted trucks that could run out of gas due to the possibility of the tank shells deforming.
The 2008 Nissan Frontier has also been recalled six times, which is within the median range for a truck of this age. However, it is still a significant number of recalls for a single model year.
In terms of reliability, the 2008 Nissan Frontier has been found to be less reliable than the average new car, based on data from 2022 and 2023 models, as well as the Nissan brand scores. This is a concerning finding, as reliability is an important factor for many car buyers.
The 2008 Nissan Frontier has also been known to have issues with the check engine light due to a faulty fuel level sensor. This problem has been reported by a significant number of owners, making it one of the most common issues with the 2008 Frontier.
In addition to these specific issues, the 2008 Nissan Frontier has also been criticized for its cheap-feeling interior trim and the lack of a regular cab option. These issues may not be as critical as some of the other problems mentioned, but they can still impact the overall driving experience and the value of the vehicle.
In conclusion, the 2008 Nissan Frontier has had a number of issues that have affected its reliability and overall quality. From powertrain problems to faulty fuel gauges and recalls, there have been several areas of concern for owners of this model year. While the Frontier is known for its hardworking nature, these issues may give potential buyers pause and lead them to consider other options in the compact pickup truck market.
Is Nissan Frontier 2008 a good truck?
If you need a truck that hauls, tows and loves to get dirty, but don't want to deal with the mass of a full-size pickup, the 2008 Nissan Frontier will impress you with its capability, utility and refined ride.
How many miles will a 2008 Nissan Frontier last?
How Long Will the 2008 Nissan Frontier Last? Frontier drivers have reported mileage as high as 300,000 on the original transmission. Realistically you have to expect a little wear and tear has already been sustained when you buy a used truck, so expect a lifespan of around 250,000 miles before the first major repair.
Is there any recalls on a 2008 Nissan Frontier?
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. Tip: Recalls don't affect every vehicle of the same year, make and model.
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.
2008 Nissan Frontier complaints
The NHTSA has received 0 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2008 Nissan Frontier.
You can leave your car complaint via the special form below.
2008 Nissan Frontier recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 6 recalls for different components of the 2008 Nissan Frontier.
- 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.
- Manufacturer: NISSAN NORTH AMERICA, INC.
- Components: EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:NAVIGATIONAL SYSTEM(GLOBAL POSITIONING SYSTEM)
- Summary: NISSAN IS RECALLING CERTAIN VEHICLES THAT WERE EQUIPPED WITH A GARMIN NUVI MODEL 750 NAVIGATION SYSTEM. THE BATTERIES CONTAINED IN THE AFFECTED GPS UNITS CAN OVERHEAT.
- Consequence: OVERHEATED BATTERIES COULD RESULT IN A FIRE.
- Remedy: NISSAN WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND THE REPAIRS WILL BE PERFORMED BY GARMIN TECHNICIANS BY REPLACING THE BATTERY AND INSERTING A SPACER ON TOP OF THE BATTERY FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON SEPTEMBER 16, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT GARMIN DIRECTLY AT 1-866-957-1981 OR 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: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:STORAGE:AUXILLARY TANK
- Summary: NISSAN IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2006 AND MODEL YEAR 2008 FRONTIER, XTERRA AND PATHFINDER VEHICLES. THE MOLDED FUEL TANK SHELLS CAN DEFORM, CAUSING THE FUEL SENDER FLOAT ARM TO CONTACT AN EMBOSSMENT MOLDED INTO THE TANK SHELL CAUSING THE INSTRUMENT PANEL FUEL GAUGE TO SHOW THAT THE VEHICLE HAS APPROXIMATELY ONE QUARTER TANK WHEN THE FUEL TANK IS EMPTY.
- Consequence: THIS COULD CAUSE THE VEHICLE TO RUN OUT OF GAS AND STALL IN TRAFFIC, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE FUEL LEVEL SENDING UNIT INSIDE THE FUEL TANK WITH A NEW ONE THAT HAS A MODIFIED FLOAT ARM. THIS SERVICE WILL BE PERFORMED FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN ON OR BEFORE MARCH 22, 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: NISSAN NORTH AMERICA, INC.
- Components: EQUIPMENT:OTHER:LABELS
- Summary: NISSAN IS RECALLING 5,523 MY 2008 TITAN, FRONTIER AND XTERRA VEHICLES FOR FAILING TO COMPLY TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 110, 'TIRE SELECTION AND RIMS FOR MOTOR VEHICLES.' THE TIRE PLACARD LISTS AN INCORRECT VEHICLE CAPACITY WEIGHT.
- Consequence: THIS STANDARD SPECIFIES REQUIREMENTS FOR TIRE SELECTION TO PREVENT OVERLOADING.
- Remedy: NISSAN WILL MAIL A CORRECT TIRE PLACARD AND INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS TO OWNERS OF THE AFFECTED VEHICLES. THE RECALL BEGAN ON FEBRUARY 25, 2008. OWNERS MAY CONTACT NISSAN AT 1-800-647-7261.
Negative 2008 Nissan Frontier car reviews
Positive 2008 Nissan Frontier car reviews
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I'm really impressed with the 261HP & 281FT-LBS of the 4.0L V6, especially considering I live at an elevation of over 6000ft. The quality of this truck is excellent all-around! The front of the cab is VERY spacious, which is a huge plus. My truck has the 'SE Value Pkg', which includes ABLS brakes, bedliner, power windows and locks, RKE, cruise-control, and painted aluminum wheels. It's actually a mid-sized truck with a nice, high road-stance. Overall, I think this is a great truck for the money.
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Hey everyone! I wanted to share my experience with Tacomas and Frontiers. I've owned Tacomas from 2000 to 2007, but recently I purchased a 2007 Nismo 4WD CC Frontier and I have to say, there's no comparison. In my opinion, the newer Frontier is a much more solid truck than the new Tacoma. The engine, transmission, axles, and even the interior are all top-notch. Overall, I highly recommend the Frontier as a much more solid truck. Thanks for listening!
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Great to hear that the truck is running well! It was bought in Jan 2008 and has only been driven 6000 miles by my wife. However, the fuel economy of 14 is not quite accurate as she only gets 12-13 mpg if lucky. We did install a Flowmaster exhaust which sounds amazing and has helped with gas mileage. I highly recommend it to anyone with a truck. Although the city mileage is not great, we did manage to get 20 mpg on a road trip. The interior may be a bit plasticy, but it's not a big deal since it is a truck. The shifts are smooth, the V-6 is powerful, and we love the looks. Overall, we have no complaints except for the gas mileage.
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The Frontier boasts excellent power and a car-like ride, while still providing ample room for my 6-foot frame. Although I previously owned a full-sized 2006 Chevrolet crew cab that was easier to park than my Frontier, I am still confident in my choice. While the turning radius could be improved for a mid-sized truck, the city mileage is impressive at 18-19 mpg, which is about 5 mpg better than my previous Chevy. Although the headlights could be better, I believe that fog lights should be standard. Overall, I am confident in the Frontier's capabilities and performance.
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I purchased this truck at the end of March and have driven around 4600 miles in 4 months without any incidents. The performance is incredible, and the handling is superb for a 4wd truck. The ride is very comfortable, but it is still a truck with a light back end. The mileage is on par with the EPA average. Although the light output from the headlights is not the best, I highly recommend getting the fog lights as they help a great deal. The only issue I have had so far is a cracked windshield washer nozzle, which is being replaced under warranty in a few days. I was torn between the Frontier, Ranger, and Tacoma, but this truck cannot be beaten for its value, power, and practicality.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2008 Nissan Frontier problems:
Transmission issues due to coolant fluid leak on 2008 frontier ...
Jun 18, 2019 ... However, the factory-installed, Calsonic-made radiators used in Nissan Pathfinders and V6 Frontiers/Xterras from 2005-2010 (and even a few ...
2008 Nissan Frontier Problems and Complaints - 6 Issues
Top 2008 Nissan Frontier Problems · Check Engine Light Due to Faulty Fuel Level Sensor · Noise From the Front of the Engine · No Start, Engine Stalls · Check ...
2008 Nissan Frontier : r/nissanfrontier
Feb 8, 2022 ... Cam position sensor twice, crank shaft position sensor, and now O2 sensor problems caused by leaking head gasket shorting out the sensor. About ...
2008 Nissan Frontier: Q&A on Battery, Starting Issues
May 5, 2017 ... See if it can activate the ECM relay and check cam/crank sensor signal. The issue you are experiencing points towards a faulty cam/crank sensor ...
2008 4.0 v6 reliability? : r/nissanfrontier
Jul 12, 2023 ... The 4.0 is a tried and true workhorse that will treat you well as long as you treat it well (change the oil). The entire rest of the truck would ...
Other years of Nissan Frontier
Are you having problems with your 2008 Nissan Frontier?
Jeromy Heaney 2025-01-04
Any truck would be an improvement! It sounds like you've had a really tough time with your current one. From doors that wouldn't shut properly to multiple replacements of important parts, it's no wonder you're feeling frustrated. It's important to have a reliable vehicle that you can count on, and I hope you find one that meets your needs soon.