2009 Nissan Frontier problems
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Common 2009 Nissan Frontier problems
The 2009 Nissan Frontier has been reported to have several common problems based on complaints from its owners. These issues include recalls related to the tires, equipment, latches/locks/linkages structure, and service brakes.
One of the recalls concerns the Tire Pressure Monitoring and Regulating Systems, which may not provide accurate warnings to the driver about underinflated tires, increasing the risk of tire failure and accidents.
Another recall is related to the mechanical accessory scissor/screw/bottle jack/lift, which may not function properly, potentially causing injury or damage during use.
The 2009 Nissan Frontier has also had issues with the tailgate latch/locks/linkages structure, which may not function correctly, leading to the tailgate opening unexpectedly while driving, increasing the risk of accidents and injuries.
Additionally, there have been recalls related to the service brakes, including the hydraulic system, pedals, and linkages, which may have defects that can affect the brake performance and increase the risk of accidents.
Beyond recalls, the 2009 Nissan Frontier has experienced problems with the automatic transmission cooling unit and lines, which may leak and cause the transmission to fail, leading to a loss of power and increased risk of accidents.
Furthermore, the fuel system, gasoline, has had issues, with the 2009 Nissan Frontier experiencing leaks that can lead to fires and accidents.
Consumer Reports suggests that the 2009 Nissan Frontier is less reliable than the average new car, based on data from 2022 and 2023 models, as well as the Nissan brand scores.
The Nissan Frontier's second generation (2005-2019) has also been reported to have problems with sunroof rattles and explosions, coolant leaks that destroy transmissions, timing chain defects, and inaccurate odometers.
Specific issues reported by 2009 Nissan Frontier owners include a plain radio that is not very loud, a cargo lamp that cannot be turned off manually, a rattling heat shield on the passenger side, and a vehicle that is a little long in the tooth compared to newer vehicles.
Is 2009 Nissan Frontier a good truck?
Edmunds says
The 2009 Nissan Frontier is a top pick for a compact pickup, thanks to its brawny nature and innovative features.
How many miles will a 2009 Nissan Frontier last?
Nissan vehicles are generally known for their reliability and longevity. On average, a well-maintained Nissan can last between 200,000 to 300,000 miles. This means if you drive around 15,000 miles per year, which is the average for most drivers, you can expect your Nissan to last between 13 to 20 years.
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.
What is the best year of the Nissan Frontier?
Most Reliable Years of the Nissan Frontier
- 2009.
- 2010.
- 2011.
- 2013.
- 2014.
- 2015.
2009 Nissan Frontier complaints
The NHTSA has received 0 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2009 Nissan Frontier.
You can leave your car complaint via the special form below.
2009 Nissan Frontier recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 5 recalls for different components of the 2009 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: MARATHON SEAT COVERS, INC.
- Components: EQUIPMENT
- Summary: MARATHON IS RECALLING CERTAIN SEAT COVERS, BRAND SUPERHIDES WITH PART NUMBERS 593, 594, 578, 960, 228, 228-09, 267-08, 333, 625, AND 630, SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE SEAT COVERS ARE MADE OF HEAVIER THREAD AND ARE NOT COMPATIBLE WITH SEATS CONTAINING SIDE AIRBAGS. THE HEAVIER SEAT COVER COULD INTERFERE WITH FULL DEPLOYMENT OF THE AIRBAG IN THE EVENT OF A CRASH.
- Consequence: AN IMPROPERLY DEPLOYED AIRBAG COULD RESULT IN SERIOUS INJURY.
- Remedy: MARATHON WILL NOTIFY OWNERS OF RECORD AND REPLACE THE SEAT COVER FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON SEPTEMBER 14, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT MARATHON AT 1-800-735-2769.
- 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.
Negative 2009 Nissan Frontier car reviews
Positive 2009 Nissan Frontier car reviews
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I am quite pleased with this truck. I was open minded towards purchasing any brand and type of truck. I chose the Frontier for several reasons:Better seating position then Tacoma (I am short); Good build quality; Power; (V6) plenty of it with decent fuel economy. Not too big, not too small; perfect size for someone who doesn't live in their truck. Drives very well; confident handling and feel. Don't be fooled, you can't have someone in the back for any long period of time in King Cab
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Great job on the off-road situations! I've had some serious ones and this truck has tackled them with confidence. The ride is a little stiff on the highway, but that was expected with this truck as equipped. The ground clearance is good, but I would like to see an upgrade in OE tires. They have done well so far. I could do without the roof rack that came with the truck. The only off-road issue has been the side step rails that I have scraped a couple of times.
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This is definitely the best truck for the price that I have owned since I bought my first Toyota in 1982! I read that the output of this 6-cylinder was comparable to the F-150, which I had towed with before (22 ft Boston Whaler Dauntless), so I decided to buy it. It pulls my boat out of the ramp in the snow and ice we get here in Montana, 4-wheels the mountains, and gets over 20 MPG if I don't go over 70 MPH. It performs much better on premium gasoline and poorly if you put in alcohol-contaminated gasoline. I know this because I took this truck across the country towing a smaller boat. It is geared perfectly for whatever you need a truck to do!
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After considering a variety of cars to upgrade to from my previous vehicle, I chose the Frontier. It has a high level of features, great build quality, and is very comfortable to drive both around the city and on long HWY hauls. As a commuter vehicle, the Frontier has all the necessary comforts and features of a comparable sedan while also handling well. Additionally, the Frontier was an easy choice for me as I needed a vehicle that would accommodate the tools and supplies used for home renovation, and even with the 5ft bed it provides ample space.
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I purchased my 09 Frontier in August of 08 and have since driven 23,000 miles. It has great gas mileage for its engine size, averaging about 18 or 19 miles per gallon. I usually fill up when it reaches 1/4 tank and I have driven about 325 miles. The handling is second to none, both on the highway and off-road. The hill descent feature and hill start assist are fantastic options to have, especially in snowy conditions during the winter. Overall, it's a fantastic truck that can comfortably fit four people on long trips.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2009 Nissan Frontier problems:
I recently got a 2009 Nissan Frontier SE King Cab, I was wondering ...
Jul 29, 2018 ... I recently got a 2009 Nissan Frontier SE King Cab, I was wondering what some of the known common issues were with this truck and what fixes ...
2009 Nissan Frontier Problems and Complaints - 4 Issues
Top 2009 Nissan Frontier Problems · Check Engine Light Due to Faulty Fuel Level Sensor. 277 people have reported this · Noise From the Front of the Engine. 155 ...
Common problems with Frontiers | Nissan Frontier Forum
Apr 23, 2009 ... Attachments · 1. Engine knock in some trucks. Not just at start-up. · 2. Noise in dash, like a finger taping the dash somewhere. · 3. Squeaks, Dash
2009 Nissan Frontier | Read Owner Reviews, Prices, Specs
Another few common issues with this model is the head gasket blowing. Fortunately I have not had that happen but I am concerned as the vehicle le gets older of ...
What year Frontiers had the timing chain problems? | Nissan ...
Jan 10, 2017 ... Has anyone with any of these models had issues? Did they resolve the issue by these years? 2009 Nissan Frontier LE.
Other years of Nissan Frontier
Are you having problems with your 2009 Nissan Frontier?
Kaden McDermott 2024-03-06
I have been a Toyota Tacoma driver for 14 years, but recently switched to the Frontier. So far, it seems okay, although the ride is a bit rough and I am hearing some noises already, even though I only bought it on 7/31. However, the stereo is very nice and with the volume up, I can't hear the noises. The 4-cylinder automatic doesn't do too well with cruise on, but I do like the roominess of the cab and love the access doors. It's bigger than my 1995 Tacoma, so I'm getting used to the tighter turning radius. Unfortunately, I had to use cash for clunker and couldn't get a Toyota. If I had to do it over again, I might have taken my chances on waiting to get a Tacoma, which was my first choice. I'm just not sure if the Frontier is going to last me 14 years like my last truck did. Please note that I'm not sure if I chose the right style for this review. It's a 4-cylinder king cab with a power package and full bed.
Eduardo Turcotte 2024-02-09
I previously owned a GMC Sierra Ext. Cab 4 dr. and now I drive the Frontier to work every day. Unfortunately, the stiff suspension and jerking of the steering wheel when hitting a pothole spoils the fun of driving. I have never experienced this with any other car before. Additionally, I have noticed that it is difficult to turn the wheels too fast when pulling into a parking spot, even with two hands there seems to be strong resistance. The turning radius is also quite poor, making it impossible to make a U-turn on a 2-way street, which my previous truck could do with ease. While the engine is not as responsive as I would like it to be, I understand that everything is electronic, including the gas pedal. When I need to quickly accelerate at 60 mph, it takes 2 seconds for the transmission to downshift a gear and then it downshifts one more gear.