2020 Nissan Frontier problems
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Common 2020 Nissan Frontier problems
The Nissan Frontier, a compact pickup truck, has been reported to have several common problems by its owners. While the latest models have gained a reputation for above-average reliability, older models, including the 2020 Nissan Frontier, have had their fair share of issues.
- Check Engine Light Issues: The most common problem reported by 2020 Nissan Frontier owners is the check engine light coming on, typically around 15,000 miles.
- Frozen Stereo System: Some 2020 Nissan Frontier owners have reported a frozen stereo system, which occurs around 1,000 miles.
- Brake Wear Issues: Brake wear issues have been reported on some 2020 Nissan Frontier models within the first 10,000 miles, particularly affecting the front brake pads.
- Fuel Level Sensor Failure: The fuel level sensor in the Nissan Frontier is prone to failure, with 277 owners reporting the problem across 11 model years, including the 2020 model.
- Timing Chain Problems: Some Nissan Frontier models, including the 2020 model, may develop problems with the timing chains, causing a loud noise from the timing chain area.
- Distributor Shaft Bearing Rust: Certain Nissan Frontier models, including some 2020 models, are prone to rusty distributor shaft bearings, which can seize and cause the engine to stall or not start at all.
It is essential to note that the Nissan Frontier has had a significant redesign for the 2022 model year, which may address some of these issues. However, potential buyers should be aware of these common problems when considering a used 2020 Nissan Frontier.
Are there any problems with the Nissan Frontier?
Nissan Frontier Reliability Problems. Frontier owners have made 986 complaints over 22 model years. Using our PainRank™ system we've ranked it 19th in overall reliability out of 26 Nissan models , with real transmission and engine concerns.
Are Nissan Frontiers reliable?
The Nissan Frontier scores generally high reliability ratings across model years. 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.
How many miles will a 2020 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.
2020 Nissan Frontier complaints
The NHTSA has received 0 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2020 Nissan Frontier.
You can leave your car complaint via the special form below.
2020 Nissan Frontier recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 2020 Nissan Frontier.
- Manufacturer: Nissan North America, Inc.
- Components: POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
- Summary: Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2020-2023 Titan, 2020-2022 Frontier, and 2023 Z vehicles. The transmission parking pawl may not engage when the vehicle is shifted into park, which can result in a vehicle rollaway.
- Consequence: A vehicle rollaway increases the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Owners are advised to apply the parking brake every time they park their vehicle. Dealers will perform the applicable repairs below, free of charge: Model Year 2020-2022 Frontier vehicles: reprogram Transmission Control Module (TCM) Model Year 2020-2022 Titan vehicles: reprogram TCM and Engine Control Module (ECM) Model Year 2023 Titan vehicles: reprogram TCM Model Year 2023 Z vehicles: reprogram TCM. Owner notification letters were mailed October 28, 2022. Owners may contact Nissan's customer service at 1-800-867-7669.
- Manufacturer: Nissan North America, Inc.
- Components: POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
- Summary: Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Frontier and Titan vehicles. The transmission parking pawl may not engage when the vehicle is shifted into park, which can result in a vehicle rollaway.
- Consequence: A vehicle rollaway increases the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Owners are advised to apply the parking brake every time they park their vehicle. Dealers will replace the transmission parking pawl pin, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed November 2022. Owners may contact Nissan's customer service at 1-800-867-7669. Nissan's number for this recall is R22A2 R22A3.
Negative 2020 Nissan Frontier car reviews
Positive 2020 Nissan Frontier car reviews
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I recently purchased a 2019 SC Midnight Edition with the Double Cab 4x4. It had only 29 miles on it when I bought it. After owning it for a week, I have come to appreciate the simplicity and beauty of this truck. Although the interior is a bit dated, it looks like it will hold up well over time. The stereo has good sound for a base model, and the exterior still looks great even after 15 years without any changes. From the reviews I have read, it seems that this truck is highly reliable. While I know that older models had issues with the radiator mixing with the transmission coolant, it appears that this problem was fixed around 2010/12. Additionally, the timing chain guide issue was resolved after 2010. Despite its small size, the truck is surprisingly roomy, with comfortable seats and good outward visibility. The Midnight Edition comes with black 18-inch wheels and blacked-out badges, which look incredible. I was also able to take advantage of a promotion to get the value pack for free. While the steering radius is a bit big, it's still better than my old Ram. I chose this truck primarily for its reliability and price, as I had also considered the Tacoma, Gladiator, and Ranger, but found their costs to be too high for similarly equipped models. Overall, I'm extremely happy with my purchase and hopeful that the Nissan reliability will hold true for my truck. I'll be sure to update my review once I've put more miles on it.
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I've driven many vehicles in the past, including a Dodge Ram 1500 when they first came out. However, I switched over to a smaller vehicle due to commuting and gas prices. Unfortunately, I totaled my Honda CRV, but I wanted to feel a heavy truck that made contact with the road from my steering wheel after this terrible ordeal. This truck does exactly what it says it'll do. If you're looking for a good old pickup truck at a reasonable price, this is your truck. Plus, my dogs love it, and I have five!
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This truck is perfect for anyone who needs to move furniture and belongings anywhere in the nation. The cab is actually more comfortable than the critics say, and the jump seats in the back of the driver and passenger seats are perfect for children or small people. The rearview camera is a great plus, and it's inexpensive to maintain. However, the mileage is typical of most pick-ups (approximately 19.5 mpg with 5-speed manual, city and interstate driving). The four-cylinder engine is great for my use, but it may be underpowered for towing anything larger than lawn mowing equipment.
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Nine months of ownership and I could not be happier. It is simple and tough with enough comfort and convenience for a near perfect package. I find the seats to be comfortable for my 6' 220 lb frame. It has great power from the 3.8 ltr V6 and smooth 9 speed transmission. It does everything well that a truck should do at a fair price. The value truck package bundled everything I would have added for towing and appearance. In all, my favorite truck of the seven I've owned.
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2019 SV 4x4 value package MPG is okay, averaging around 20-21 on the highway. The turning radius is decent and it fits easily in my garage. It has no problem pulling my boat and performs exceptionally well in the snow. Having driven a F150, Ram 1500, Tahoe, and a Tundra in the last 20 years, I can confidently say that I really like the Frontier. It's a great basic truck.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2020 Nissan Frontier problems:
Not very happy with the 2020 | Nissan Frontier Forum
Jan 27, 2021 ... I sold my old Frontier with over 200,000 on it, it was a good truck, had its issues though. Well, I decided I would buy the 2020 midnight ...
2020 Nissan Frontier Crew Cab Problems | Kelley Blue Book
How reliable is the 2020 Nissan Frontier Crew Cab? See the most common repairs performed and learn if your vehicle is at risk for major repairs in the next ...
2020 Engine failure | Nissan Frontier Forum
Aug 9, 2023 ... It's such an involved procedure that most are starting to just not fix it, as it's typically an extremely minor leak. Tundras leak oil at the ...
Has anyone experienced any of the reported issues with the new ...
Jan 4, 2023 ... It's a damn fine looking truck and the NA engine should run for a long time. ... I have a 2020 with 17000 miles on it that just absolutely died on ...
2020 Nissan Frontier Problems, Issues & Top Complaints
Complaints reported to NHTSA about the 2020 model are varied and across-the-board. The 4 complaints on record specify 7 different problems. These relate to back ...
Other years of Nissan Frontier
Are you having problems with your 2020 Nissan Frontier?
Landen Casper 2025-09-25
I purchased the Nissan Frontier for my small business as it was the only small pick-up truck available in the market at the time. Despite having only 500 miles on the vehicle, the transmission locked up and the truck died while I was driving it, which was a scary experience. The dealership had it for a week and said it needed a computer update. Although I was nervous to drive it again, we did, but it broke down again in a few days. This time, the accessory lights on the dashboard went on, the fan in the engine went on, and the truck wouldn't start. We tried using the key fob as instructed by Nissan, but it didn't work. The truck has been at the dealership for a week now, and they are still trying to figure out what's wrong with it. Despite their initial diagnosis of the alternator, I doubted it, and they confirmed that it wasn't the issue. They are now waiting for Nissan to get back to them. I spent $33,000 on this truck right before my business's busy season, so I wouldn't have to worry about the vehicle breaking down. However, I fear that this vehicle will be a lemon and cause ongoing issues. Unfortunately, the lemon law doesn't cover businesses, and I live in Connecticut but purchased the vehicle in Massachusetts.
Tyshawn Parisian 2024-07-14
My son purchased a brand new Nissan Frontier 4x4 with a manual transmission. Unfortunately, the clutch failed at around 30000 miles. Despite some initial resistance from the dealer, they eventually agreed to replace the parts, although labor costs were not covered. After the repair, the Nissan manager advised my son that he should avoid purchasing a Nissan truck with a manual transmission due to potential mechanical issues. This was surprising news to my son, as he had not been informed of this when he made the purchase. As a result, he decided to trade it in at the Toyota dealer.
Amparo Nolan 2024-07-07
I strongly advise against purchasing a new vehicle. My 2007 Nissan Xterra was much more reliable compared to the truck I recently purchased. Within the first 5 months, I experienced multiple oil pressure losses and issues with the diff lock not engaging for low. The diff lock light flickers and blinks, and the ABS system failed, all within 18,000 miles. Additionally, I encountered several electrical issues, such as the lights dimming and the AC stopping working. The rear differential also started leaking within the first two months. In my opinion, it is much better to buy a used vehicle and replace the radiator, rather than investing in this new setup.
Narciso Morar 2024-05-17
In May 2021, I purchased a certified pre-owned 2020 Nissan Frontier SV Truck with less than 3,500 miles. Unfortunately, in January 2022 at 18,500 miles, the engine started making a huge noise and stalled while I was out of state. Despite calling my dealership 20 times, I was unable to get through until they finally gave me the NISSAN warranty service phone number to call for assistance. Although it took some time, I was eventually able to get help and was provided with a rental car to return home. While I did have to pay for the rental car upfront, I am hopeful that I will be reimbursed since my vehicle is still under warranty. Although it has been frustrating to deal with this issue, I am grateful for the support I have received from Nissan and my dealership. I am looking forward to getting my truck back on the road soon!My Nissan Frontier SV Truck has been in the shop for 75 days due to engine parts being on backorder. Unfortunately, Nissan Corp has informed me that they cannot offer me a good trade-in value for my vehicle to upgrade to a new one. Additionally, they have stated that they will not reimburse me for the $1,265 in rental car fees that I am owed until my vehicle is fixed and the case is closed. After researching the TN LEMON LAW, I have come to understand that if a vehicle breaks down within the first year under warranty and is in the shop for over 30 calendar days, the vehicle is considered a
Elvis Robel 2024-04-15
This truck has not undergone significant changes since 2005, but there have been some minor cosmetic updates. While the interior is not the best among midsize trucks, the engine is fantastic, with impressive HP to torque ratios and a fully boxed frame. Unfortunately, there have been some issues with sensors, brakes, and coolant mixing with the transmission, resulting in costly repairs. Despite this, Nissan denies responsibility for these issues, which is frustrating for many users. It's important to note that many people have reported transmission issues due to a faulty part that allows coolant to mix with transmission fluid. The heater inside the truck has also been problematic for some users. While this truck may not be the best option for those looking for a long-lasting vehicle, it still has potential. Nissan is releasing a new Frontier model in 2022, which may be worth considering. Overall, I recommend doing your research and considering all options before making a purchase.Hey there! I just wanted to share my experience with you. While I did have some issues with my Nissan Frontier, I found that other truck owners with Chevy and Ford pickups had similar mileage and had to replace parts as well. It's important to do your research and inspect for rust on the frame before making a purchase. Although I've had to make some repairs, my truck is still running and it's been a great asset to have. Thanks for listening!