By proving themselves as the pinnacle of reliability, Japanese manufacturers have taken the American automotive market by storm. The 2016 Nissan Frontier Crew Cab is an extension of the same philosophy to the pickup truck segment which is generally dominated by American cars. Reporting only 31 complaints and a single recall this year, it sure looks good on paper as well. However, with some of the complaints being associated with transmission failures, we have to take a deeper dive into the reliability of this car. Prices for the Frontier are also on the lower side, starting at an MSRP of $24,365 while luxurious as well as off-road capable variants don’t cost much extra. It competes against the Honda Ridgeline, the Jeep Gladiator, and the Chevrolet Colorado. Read on to find out how Nissan Frontier's reliability matches up against its competitors.
2016 Nissan Frontier Crew Cab User Complaints and Problems
Mechanical problems:
- Many owners face problems with the engine vibrating, hesitating, or stalling. No matter how hard the gas pedal is pressed, this issue happens. Some owners have reported 2016 Nissan Frontier starting problems as well.
- One car had an issue with several noises coming from the engine. The owner then had to replace the serpentine belt, tensioner, and pulley three times and the issue would not go away.
- The fuel tank of this car is known to have a problem with not having the same capacity as advertised. The gas also spills out of the car when filled.
- A few people have also had issues with the transmission system not reacting at all. This could be a complete transmission failure. There are a few 2016 Nissan Frontier transmission problems reported in forums.
- Some owners have had the issue of the brake being so spongy that it touches the floor.
Electrical system problems:
- One owner reported that while driving, the vehicle suddenly turned off without any warning along with several electrical devices associated with it. It then turned back on a few seconds later.
- Another owner smelled something while driving the car and discovered that an electrical fire had broken out.
- Other electrical problems in the car include the yaw rate sensor and the ABS diagnostic module needing to be replaced to prevent them from causing malfunctions in the brake system.
- Another one on the list of 2016 Nissan Frontier common problems is that the key of the car gets stuck in the ignition position.
Safety problems:
- A few owners have reported complaints about the airbag warning light flashing in the car even though it has never been involved in an accident. This has happened in multiple vehicles and looks like a common fault.
- One car was involved in a collision which resulted in significant damage but the airbag did not deploy.
- An issue that gravely concerned safety is the design of the vehicle which does not have a lower latch to attach a child seat.
- A few owners have also reported problems with burglary because the rear sliding glass can be unlocked.
2016 Nissan Frontier Crew Cab Recalls
|
S. No. |
Date |
NHTSA Campaign Number |
Issues Noticed |
Additional Remarks |
Remedy |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
1 |
March 31, 2016 |
16V181000 |
Starter motor wiring harness may short |
The starter motor wiring harness may have been installed in the wrong position, and allow the internal terminal to short. |
Dealers will inspect and reposition the starter wiring harness |
Should you buy the 2016 Nissan Frontier Crew Cab?
Considering how pickup trucks are generally riddled with complaints and recalls, 31 complaints and only a single recall on the Nissan Frontier showcase it as quite a welcome change to the class. The Nissan Frontier Crew Cab is a great pick due to it being a reliable car while also being very functional. It is true that the manufacturer has not addressed all the problems through recalls but it still has done a fair bit. With a set of good engines, plush interiors, and decent exterior styling, it has become much more desirable. We would recommend it to our readers.
