2021 Nissan Frontier problems
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Common 2021 Nissan Frontier problems
Based on complaints from owners of the 2021 Nissan Frontier, several common problems have been reported:
- Starting Issues: Some owners have experienced difficulties starting their 2021 Nissan Frontier, with complaints of extended cranking times before the engine starts. This issue can be frustrating and may indicate underlying problems with the vehicle's ignition system or fuel delivery.
- Lack of Popular Features: The 2021 Nissan Frontier has been criticized for missing popular content found in other mid-size pickup trucks, such as Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and advanced safety technology. This can be a drawback for drivers looking for modern connectivity and safety features in their vehicle.
- Small Back Seat in Crew Cab: Owners of the Crew Cab version of the 2021 Nissan Frontier have noted that the back seat is relatively small, which may impact passenger comfort, especially on longer journeys. This limitation could be a concern for those who frequently transport passengers in the rear seats.
- Unremarkable Fuel Economy: Despite its V-6 powertrain, the 2021 Nissan Frontier has been criticized for its unremarkable fuel economy. This issue may be a concern for drivers looking for a more fuel-efficient option in the mid-size pickup truck segment.
- Limited Amenities: The interior of the 2021 Nissan Frontier has been described as old-fashioned and plasticky, lacking in amenities compared to its competitors. This can affect the overall driving experience and comfort level for both the driver and passengers.
These common problems reported by owners of the 2021 Nissan Frontier highlight areas where the vehicle may fall short in terms of performance, features, and overall satisfaction. Addressing these issues could enhance the driving experience and competitiveness of the Frontier in the mid-size pickup truck market.
Are there any problems with the 2021 Nissan Frontier?
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. Tip: Recalls don't affect every vehicle of the same year, make and model.
Is the Nissan Frontier 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.
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.
Do Nissan Frontiers have transmission problems?
Furthermore, problems with the transmission, body and electrical accessories have plagued Nissan's midsize pickup, putting it among the top 10 least reliable 2024 models according to Consumer Reports. You've been warned.
2021 Nissan Frontier car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Nissan Frontier problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Unknown or other problems
- Electrical system problems
- Power train problems
- Fuel/propulsion system problems
- Exterior lighting problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2021 Nissan Frontier vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
2021 Nissan Frontier complaints
The NHTSA has received 14 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2021 Nissan Frontier.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-14
- 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.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 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.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 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.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-06-15
- VIN: 1N6ED0EA9MN
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: I purchased a 2021 certified preowned Nissan frontier with 21k miles and was promised it had passed a 167 point inspection and came with limited 7 year 100k power train warranty. This is addition to the factory warranty 3 year 36k and 5 year 60k mile that is still in effect. the truck has had to have several repairs upon purchasing. This includes AC line flushed because it was sloshing in the dash. A leaf in the right blower motor. And now my truck has been ins hop two weeks. Initially diagnosed as a bolt missing was causing a rattling in the dash . They said the dash would have to be broken down to find it and fix it. I ask them how they really know if they have to break down the dash. I had to get consumer affairs involved with Nissan because dealer said I would have to pay for the repair even though it is still under factory warranty and it was sold certified which means it was fully inspected for defects. A week and half later I was texted that it was a broken crash bar weld in dash. When the service tech called me and I raised safety concerns given it was broke after 27k miles. And he said it was not a major part of car and it is a bar that the dash attaches to and the steering column. But it wasn’t a major repair or concern. An additional question is what other wells were poorly done during production. Consumer affairs initially opened a case for replacement or buyback. But was denied when reviewed at corporate level. I appealed the decision. The truck is still in shop as I fear to drive a truck thats welds are breaking on crash bar at 27k miles. I have a young daughter that I travel long distances with every few weeks. The only way we know if a repair works is if we’re in a wreck. It is a little late at that point. Especially when service tech minimizes it purpose or the safety implications.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-06-27
- VIN: 1N6ED0EA5MN
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: The Vehicle hesitates when taking of from a stand still of from switching lanes from a stop. The Transmission is trying to switch from a stop causing the Vehicle to have no power of RPM's on the Torque Converter. Very Dangerous. Has almost caused me to have a wreck several times. Have taken the Vehicle to the Nissan Dealership 2 times . Dealership said there was a problem and Nissan has had other complaints but their Engineers does not have a fix. The first time at the Dealership they reprogramed the Transmission . Said that would fix it. The Reprogram was a Recall. Did not fix the issue. Today 06/27/2023 The said there was some complaints in Nissan's data the same as mine. Tech said he test a 2023 Nissan with same transmission ant they mine and it shifted the same. Told them they crazy my is a 2021 2 wheel drive , the one the test drove was 2023 4 wheel drive. Totally different.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-05-23
- VIN: 1N6ED0FBXMN
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: The contact owns a 2021 Nissan Frontier. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V457000 (Power Train) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-03-02
- VIN: 1N6ED0EB1MN
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Numerous complaints of problems with bad/defective engine mounts .
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-03-10
- VIN: 1N6ED0EBXMN
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: I brought my truck in for service on 3/10/23 and they preformed the recall for the transmission. This involved reprogramming no parts were available yet. On my trip home from the shop I noticed right away my fuel economy went from 21MPG to 18 MPG (same roads I always drive) and I have been having a warning light come on after I let and it has came on and off twice. I worry about what would make such a drastic change and what is it doing to my transmission. I have notified the dealer but they are not open till Monday. I do not want my private information shared. I do not know if this is a normal or common problem
UNKNOWN OR OTHER,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-02-16
- VIN: 1n6ed0ce5mn
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: Transmission in Park Nissan sent notice truck could roll away. Radio turns self on and off 2-3 times after starting vehicle no lights or messages show up Cell phone bluetooth won't work
SEAT BELTS,SEATS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-06-29
- VIN: 1n6ed0ea1mn
- Components: SEAT BELTS,SEATS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: have gone to Nissan for excessive rattle noise in passenger footwell would sound louder as i gave it gas they concluded that the heater core bracket was loose and tighten but sound did no go away took it in again heater core bracket not good would need to replace so had to take it in third time for same heater core issue eventually they replaced heater core but still have problems with the air was taken to Nissan over 7 times for climate problems. it was not equal driver side blew hotter than the that passenger side eventually it stop blowing air through front vents only the defrost vent works seat adjusting bracket did not lock in place when coming to a stop the passenger seat would slide forward defective Nissan replaced --few month later passenger seatbelt tensioner went bad check engine error code took it to Nissan was replaced by Nissan Nissan service mechanics driving car with defective seatbelt that no issue until part came in same with bracket i had to take them on a ride they kept saying they cant recreate problem as far as climate its been a heat wave over 98 degrees outside and I'm having to drive in a hot car these problems have been since first day i drove car home I've been to service center over 12 times don't feel safe with vehicle i have spoken to Nissan arbitration dept enter Jessica Willis car currently has no air and they are aware of my situation and the heat wave that im having to deal with
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-04-15
- VIN: 1N6ED0EB2MN
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: Sidewall failed at 70MPH on I-40 Westbound causing immediate deflation of the tire almost causing loss of vehicle control. The problem has NOT been reproduced by a dealer or independent service center. The vehicle has NOT been inspected by any police or manufacturer. The low tire warning lamp illuminated seconds after said blowout. HANCOOK DYNAPRO AT M P265/75R16
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-09-23
- VIN: 1n6ed0ea0mn
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2021 Nissan Frontier. The contact stated while driving 75 MPH, the air bag warning light illuminated and was flashing. The contact continued driving to his residence. The following day the vehicle was taken to a dealer to be inspected. The mechanic found and tightened a loose wire to fix the failure however, several days later the failure recurred. The contact took the vehicle back to the local dealer who reset the air bag sensor to clear the code. The contact was concerned that the failure would recur. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 2,000.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SERVICE BRAKES,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-08-12
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1N6ED0EB6MN
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SERVICE BRAKES,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
- Summary: My husband and I bought a new truck. My husband pulled the truck into our garage, once in the garage the back tires started to spin out of control, he looked down and saw he had his foot on the brake only, but truck surged forward causing no injuries but have minor truck and property damage. Have a picture of where there is stationary tire marks on our epoxy garage floor showing the black tire marks of the tires spinning out of control just before the truck surged forward. After this incident we found articles about sudden unintended acceleration which we feel is what happened to my husband. The dealership we bought the vehicle from has been derogatory from the start of this incident. We have contacted several attorneys to only be turned down saying we don’t have a case because my husband wasn’t injured (thank God). We waived the manufacturer arbitration and found only one attorney who took us through pre-litigation but then discharged us after getting the denial letter from the manufacturer, telling us to get a second opinion. We're at a crossroads and don't know what to do at this point. Morally, would it be right to trade in what we feel is a dangerously defective new vehicle? For that is the crossroads we stand at, either pursuing a civil lawsuit or trading it in. The truck was inspected once by the manufacturer and once by the dealership where we bought it. We are currently asking the dealership’s garage to further check the electronic throttle-control and brake override system on this truck. Any help you can provide would be greatly appreciated. Thank you.
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-08-20
- VIN: 1n6ed0eb2mn
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: Descending my driveway which is an approximately 15 degree slope with the transmission selected to remain in 1st gear, and approximately one third of a tank of fuel or less remaining in the fuel tank the engine seems to momentarily cut out as the vehicle feels like the transmission is in neutral, but the tachometer indicates the engine is running. When this occurs the MIL comes on along with the check AT light. Stopping the vehicle and restarting the vehicle clears the Check AT light, but it takes several drive cycles to clear the MIL light. This has happened on two occasions. After the first occurrence the dealer checked for any locked in codes, but none were present. Since the MIL only stays locked in for a limited time it appears that the on board diagnostics are not storing codes due to it being a momentary issue.
2021 Nissan Frontier recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 2021 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 2021 Nissan Frontier car reviews
Positive 2021 Nissan Frontier car reviews
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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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I recently traded in my 2017 Nissan Titan for my fourth Frontier, an SV Crew Cab 4x4. I have always been a fan of the Frontier and have never had any problems with the ones I've owned. I'm not an expert and I don't get paid for reviews, but I can confidently say that I love the Nissan Frontier. It handles well, is fun to drive, and is quick. Despite having the same body style since 2006, it remains reliable and even has Bluetooth for my phone. I am absolutely in love with my new 2021 Nissan SV 4X4 and would give it 5 stars without hesitation. I've even owned two Datsuns before they changed their name.
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Roomy and good driving. The acceleration is impressive. The spray-in bed liner is great, ensuring that the load does not shift!
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The amenities in this particular trim are fantastic. The truck drives great and other reviews I've looked at are positive. It's also the best-priced truck in its class!
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Replaced 4 Cyl. RAM Promaster City, (not needed anymore) with a used 2019 Nissan crew cab Frontier with a 6 cyl engine. Although I do miss the better gas mileage of the Promaster City, I am enjoying the smoother and quieter ride of the Frontier. However, there are a few things that I find annoying or odd. Firstly, the interior door handle is placed too far back, making it difficult to reach. It would be better if it was placed more towards the middle or front of the door. Secondly, the downhill assist works by lightly applying the brakes, which could cause overheating on long downhill grades. I think it would be better if it worked via the automatic transmission, preventing it from upshifting. Thirdly, like most newer vehicles, there is no CD player built in. Lastly, the LCD panel on the radio only has two brightness settings, Night and Day, with the Night setting being too bright. Overall, I am enjoying my new Nissan Frontier despite these minor inconveniences.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2021 Nissan Frontier problems:
2021 Nissan Frontier sometimes won't start : r/nissanfrontier
Aug 25, 2023 ... I've also noticed sometimes the TCS light will come on and stay on, which I've read indicates braking issues (fluid level looks fine). Has ...
2021 Nissan Frontier 9speed | Nissan Frontier Forum
May 9, 2021 ... Any issues with your transmission or the truck at all. I'm kind of freaked out ...between the turbine sound winding down and at 55mpg up hill i ...
2021 SV push start issues : r/nissanfrontier
Nov 18, 2022 ... Definitely sounds like it could be an issue with the Brake Switch behind the pedal. Being a '21 take it down to your local Nissan and see if ...
2021 Nissan Frontier Review, Problems, Reliability, Value, Life ...
Dec 20, 2023 ... Reliability 8/10 – There are no widespread complaints on the 2021 Frontier. Stay away from the 2012 model since it has engine problems while ...
Other years of Nissan Frontier
Are you having problems with your 2021 Nissan Frontier?
Ted Walker 2024-10-05
I recently visited Indiana just after Christmas and was provided with a 4X4 SV truck by Alamo. Although I wasn't initially thrilled with driving a truck, as I planned to drive to Ohio and Michigan before returning to Indiana and didn't need a truck or the low mpg, the 4X4 proved to be a great asset during the last couple of days when there was some messy snow. I had never used 4 wheel drive before, but after reading the manual, it was easy to carefully switch when needed. During my trip, I drove mostly on the highway and got approximately 20 mpg when using 2wd. In poor weather with more city driving and using 4wd more often, it was about 17 mpg. Although the turn radius was poor, the backup camera was a great help. The ride was okay, but it felt very bouncy on bumps. I previously owned a 2013 Toyota Tacoma 2wd for a short time and I liked that truck much better. The extended cab is nice for the additional seating, but it does hurt side visibility if you are checking your shoulder on lane changes.
Moises Schaefer 2024-09-26
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 purchased the vehicle in Massachusetts despite living in Connecticut.
Abraham Weimann 2024-09-07
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.
Cicero Fahey 2024-08-10
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.
Trey Tillman 2024-06-25
The issue of the infotainment screen freezing and rebooting while streaming music from Spotify using an iPhone 8 Plus via Bluetooth has been thoroughly investigated by two dealerships. Despite the extensive time spent on the issue, it has been identified as a known problem between the stereo and the most common make of smartphone on the planet. While there is currently no fix available, it is being worked on and a solution will be provided as soon as possible. It is important to note that this issue has been reported by Frontier owner websites for over a year. We apologize for any inconvenience caused and assure you that we are doing everything we can to resolve this issue. Thank you for your patience and understanding.