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Model-year record

2016 Nissan Frontier
Image: Wikimedia Commons contributor · See source file

2016 Nissan Frontier

See the complaints, recalls, crash rating, and fuel economy in the public record. Then check the mileage and history of the car you found.

This page shows records, not a buy or avoid call.

The same model year can include a well-kept car and a neglected one. Use these records to plan what to check. Use the specific-car check when you know the mileage.

Complaints filed

42

Reports to NHTSA, 2016

Safety recalls

1

NHTSA campaigns on record

NHTSA crash test

Not rated

Overall NCAP rating

Combined MPG

18.5

EPA estimate

Known issues

Air Bags issues lead owner complaints (24% of 42 reports), followed by engine (14%).

Air Bags24% · 10 reports
Engine14% · 6 reports
Unknown Or Other14% · 6 reports
Fuel/Propulsion System12% · 5 reports
Power Train7% · 3 reports
Structure7% · 3 reports
Electrical System5% · 2 reports
Steering5% · 2 reports

+ 5 more component categories with fewer reports.

Share of all 42 NHTSA complaints for this model year, grouped by the component owners named. Bars are scaled to the largest category. Examples: ODI 11519626, ODI 11080268, ODI 11608384, ODI 11519270, ODI 11389453.

Individual complaint reports(42)

Showing the 42 most recent reports
Fuel/Propulsion SystemOct 2025 · ODI 11694089Details +

I am experiencing a fuel pump issue that stalls the engine while driving. The issue will sometimes go away if I first loosen the fuel cap on the gas tank to relieve built up pressure but after driving for 10 to 15 minutes or so the vehicle will begin to jerk while accelerating then it will stall and cut off. I have to wait a few minutes once it cuts off and then I can start the engine up again and drive for another 10 to 15 minutes before the issue occurs again. The vehicle has over 120,000 miles on it and all parts are original to the vehicle.

Reported
Oct 2025
Incident date
Oct 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11694089 at NHTSA →
StructureNov 2024 · ODI 11624547Details +

A loud squeaking has developed during every day driving. After inspecting - the front right truck bed mounting location has cracked and failed.

Reported
Nov 2024
Incident date
Aug 2024
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11624547 at NHTSA →
Fuel/Propulsion SystemSep 2024 · ODI 11614337Details +

WHILE FUELING AT DIFFERENT GAS STATIONS THE TANK SPILLS/BELCHES GAS ALL OVER. THIS IS A MAJOR SAFETY ISSUE AND NEEDS RECALLED. THERE ARE ENDLESS COMPLAINTS ON [XXX] OF SIMILAR ISSUES OCCURRING TO OTHER FRONTIER OWNERS. I TOOK IT TO MY LOCAL MECHANIC AND WAS QUOTED OVER $800 TO REPLACE ALL 5 COMPONENTS OF THE SYSTEM AS NISSAN HAS SUGGESTED IN A BULLETIN FOR MECHANICS. IF NISSAN IS AWARE OF THIS ISSUE ENOUGH TO ISSUE A TECHNICAL BULLETIN THEN THE ISSUE NEEDS TO BE RECALLED AND REPAIRED FOR FREE BECAUSE GAS SPILLING/SPRAYING ALL OVER ME EVERY TIME I FILL UP MY VEHICLE IS OUT RIGHT DANGEROUS AND UNSAFE. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Reported
Sep 2024
Incident date
Sep 2024
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11614337 at NHTSA →
Air BagsAug 2024 · ODI 11608384Details +

The airbag warning light is blinking and has been for approximately 9 months. I live in Salida, CO which does not have a Nissan Dealership to take my vehicle into for servicing. I recently saw an article on Fox 31 News pertaining to the same airbag malfunction and would like to know what to do about my problem.

Reported
Aug 2024
Incident date
Dec 2023
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11608384 at NHTSA →
EngineJun 2024 · ODI 11597546Details +

Head gasket blew and it warped the heads at 98,000 miles Replace motor with a 51,000 mile motor and less than 2 months later, motor is knocking inside with broken peices of the motor. I have to replace it again.

Reported
Jun 2024
Incident date
Jun 2024
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11597546 at NHTSA →
WheelsJun 2024 · ODI 11592565Details +

The issues iw with the lug nuts expanding locking on the tire so it cannot be takeoff for rotation or replacement or if you have a flat tire tout on the spare. Went to BJ's tire in Pasadena, MD (1-410-647-6600) to have a rotation and they said they could not do it the lug nuts expanded to larger size and it could cross thread if they got them off and tried tout them back on. AS WELL THEY MIGHT NOT BE SECURED TIGHT ENOUGH THAT THEY WOULD NOT FALLOFF WHILE DRIVING. A SAFTY ISSUES WITH BJ'S. BOTH MECHANICS VERIFIED IT AND THE TWO MANAGERS OF THE STORE AS WE.. I did not believe them so I took it to Sheehy Nissan in glen Burnie where the two top managers verified that the lug nut expanded so large they had to be replaces OR IT WOULD BE A SAFTY ISSUE with me driving with he old one on as they cannot be safely tightened down and may come off during driving. So I need all 24 lug nuts replaced. I think he said they expanded from 21 mm (or cm) to 22.5 mm (or cm).the manager has been doing this for over 30 years and his assistant said the same who has been doing it for over 25 years. Mr Brian Jordan at 1-410-760-3500 ext #81052) So I need all 24 replaced as the rest could expand. The real cost is over $800 but willing to do it for like $550 plus tire rotation. As both BJ's managers and tire people and Nissan managers are saying thesis a serious safety issue I believe them. They say unless proper tools used other issues can occur. And ALMOST IMPOSSIBLE TO REMOVE BY THE OWNER OF THE VECHILE. Especially if the person icon the road replacing the tier with the spare. They showed me on the internet the issues with ford and other manufactures from before 2000 having this issue. As I am [XXX] it would be really hard to deal with if an emergency came up o the road. You need look into this issue. IT IS A REAL SAFETY ISSUE esp. for older folks. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Reported
Jun 2024
Incident date
Jun 2024
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11592565 at NHTSA →
Power TrainDec 2023 · ODI 11562865Details +

My 2016 Nissan Frontier is leaking axle grease from the driver side rear tire. The grease/oil got all over the brake pads, rotor, and emergency brake. This seems to be a very common issue that was supposed to have been resolved several models prior.

Reported
Dec 2023
Incident date
Dec 2023
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11562865 at NHTSA →
Air BagsApr 2023 · ODI 11519626 · crash · 3 injuriesDetails +

Airbags didn’t deployed when the incident of the the truck crashed at the time. (April 05,2023)

Reported
Apr 2023
Incident date
Apr 2023
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
Crash 3 injuries
Open ODI 11519626 at NHTSA →
Air BagsApr 2023 · ODI 11519270Details +

The contact owns a 2016 Nissan Frontier. The contact stated that while operating the vehicle air bags warning light remained illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer who determined that the air bag system was disconnected under the passenger’s side dashboard. The system was reconnected, and the failure was remedied. The contact stated that the failure had recently reoccurred. The cause of the failure was not yet determined. The manufacturer and local dealer were notified of the failure, but no assistance was offered. The failure mileage was 90,632.

Reported
Apr 2023
Incident date
Dec 2022
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11519270 at NHTSA →
Visibility/WiperApr 2023 · ODI 11517510Details +

All glass in vehicle showing spotted areas with factory tinting

Reported
Apr 2023
Incident date
Apr 2023
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11517510 at NHTSA →
EngineMay 2022 · ODI 11466030Details +

The contact owns a 2016 Nissan Frontier. The contact stated that while driving approximately 60 MPH, the vehicle lost motive power and stalled. There were no warning lights illuminated. The contact was able to restart the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer but was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 90,000.

Reported
May 2022
Incident date
Nov 2021
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11466030 at NHTSA →
Air BagsJan 2021 · ODI 11389453Details +

I HAVE A 2016 NISSAN FRONTIER WITH ONLY 68,000 MILES ON IT. THE AIRBAG LIGHT ON THE DASH STARTED FLASHING. I TOOK IT TO ANY MOHR NISSAN AND THEY DIAGNOSED THAT THE SENSOR INSIDE THE PASSENGER SEAT THAT TELLS THE SYSTEM IF SOMEONE IS SITTING THERE HAS FAILED AND THAT IT IS AN $1800 REPAIR, BECAUSE THE ONLY WAY TO FIX IT IS TO REPLACE THE WHOLE SEAT. THEY SAID THEY COULDN'T SAY WHETHER THE AIRBAG WOULD DEPLOY OR NOT IN AN ACCIDENT IF I DIDN'T FIX THE SENSOR.

Reported
Jan 2021
Incident date
Jan 2021
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11389453 at NHTSA →
Fuel/Propulsion SystemDec 2020 · ODI 11385655Details +

WHILE FUELING AT DIFFERENT GAS STATIONS THE TANK SPILLS/BELCHES GAS ALL OVER. THIS IS A MAJOR SAFETY ISSUE AND NEEDS RECALLED. THERE ARE ENDLESS COMPLAINTS ON WWW.CLUBFRONTIER.ORG OF SIMILAR ISSUES OCCURRING TO OTHER FRONTIER OWNERS. I TOOK IT TO MY LOCAL MECHANIC AND WAS QUOTED OVER $800 TO REPLACE ALL 5 COMPONENTS OF THE SYSTEM AS NISSAN HAS SUGGESTED IN A BULLETIN FOR MECHANICS. IF NISSAN IS AWARE OF THIS ISSUE ENOUGH TO ISSUE A TECHNICAL BULLETIN THEN THE ISSUE NEEDS TO BE RECALLED AND REPAIRED FOR FREE BECAUSE GAS SPILLING/SPRAYING ALL OVER ME EVERY TIME I FILL UP MY VEHICLE IS OUT RIGHT DANGEROUS AND UNSAFE. BULLETIN NUMBER NTB16-122

Reported
Dec 2020
Incident date
Nov 2020
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11385655 at NHTSA →
EngineNov 2020 · ODI 11375755Details +

ENGINE VIBRATION AT LOW RPM THAT CAN'T BE EXPLAINED BY SEVERAL MECHANICS.

Reported
Nov 2020
Incident date
Jul 2020
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11375755 at NHTSA →
EngineNov 2020 · ODI 11373557Details +

ENGINE HESITATES OR STALLS ON ACCELERATION. WHEN PULLING OUT FROM A STOP ENGINE HESITATES TO NEAR STALL NO MATTER HOW HARD OR FAR YOU PRESS GAS PEDAL. EXTREMELY DANGEROUS. INTERMITTENT ISSUE, NO FAILURE CODES WHEN TESTED. IF ENGINE DOESN'T STALL, VEHICLE IS AT A STAND STILL EVEN WITH GAS PEDAL TO FLOOR OR PUMPING GAS PEDAL. IS HAPPENING ALL THE TIME, EXTREMELY DANGEROUS. NEARLY HIT BY ONCOMING TRAFFIC SEVERAL TIMES. DEALERSHIP HAS HAD MANY REPORTS OF SAME ISSUE, BUT NO SOLUTION. I AM AFRAID TO DRIVE VEHICLE.

Reported
Nov 2020
Incident date
Nov 2020
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11373557 at NHTSA →
SteeringSep 2020 · ODI 11352922Details +

KEY LOCKED IN IGNITION THEN STEERING WHEEL LOCKED. CAR WAS PARKED AT A PUBLIC BEACH PARKING LOT BEFORE THE ISSUE OCCURRED.

Reported
Sep 2020
Incident date
Aug 2020
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11352922 at NHTSA →
Power TrainAug 2020 · ODI 11349599Details +

TRANSMISSION AND BRAIN REPAIR BY DEALERSHIP UNDER WARRANTY 20017, AND OVERHEATING PROBLEM DUE TO RADIATOR IN 2020 AFTER EXPIRE OF WARRANTY, $1000 OUT OF POCKET REPAIRS.

Reported
Aug 2020
Incident date
Aug 2020
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11349599 at NHTSA →
Electronic Stability Control (ESC)Jun 2020 · ODI 11328733Details +

THE YAWRATE SENSOR AND ABS DIAGNOSTIC MODULE HAD TO BE REPLACED TO KEEP MY VEHICLE FROM GRABBING THE BRAKES AS I STARTED DRIVING

Reported
Jun 2020
Incident date
Jun 2020
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11328733 at NHTSA →
Fuel/Propulsion SystemMay 2020 · ODI 11325444Details +

HESITATION FROM IDLE TO TAKE OFF-NEVER KNOW WHEN IT IS GOING TO ACT UP,FOR EXAMPLE TURNING IN FRONT OF ANOTHER VEHICLE-- WILL I MAKE IT THIS TIME WITHOUT AN ACCIDENT? *TR

Reported
May 2020
Incident date
Dec 2019
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11325444 at NHTSA →
Unknown Or OtherJul 2019 · ODI 11229697Details +

MY VEHICLE WAS BURGLARIZED. THE THIEVES GOT IN THROUGH THE REAR SLIDING GLASS. THE LATCH DOES NOT LOCK AND IS FAULTY. IF THE LATCH WAS FULLY FUNCTIONAL, NOBODY WOULD HAVE GONE IN AND STOLEN EVERYTHING I OWNED.

Reported
Jul 2019
Incident date
Jun 2019
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11229697 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemMay 2019 · ODI 11206271Details +

WAS DRIVELING DOWN A STRAIGHT CITY STREET ON A CLEAR SPRING DAY AT ABOUT 30 MPH AND THE CAR TURNED OFF INCLUDING ALL ELECTRICAL DEVICES WITHOUT WARNING. THEN ABOUT 1.5 SECONDS LATER THE CAR TURNED BACK ON.

Reported
May 2019
Incident date
May 2019
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11206271 at NHTSA →
Air BagsApr 2019 · ODI 11203149Details +

TAKATA RECALL AIR BAG DISPLAY LITE FLASHES ON AND OFF ! NOT SAFE IN MOTION

Reported
Apr 2019
Incident date
Apr 2019
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11203149 at NHTSA →
Seat BeltsFeb 2019 · ODI 11179952Details +

ONGOING DISPUTE WITH MANUFACTURER AND DEALER. THE VEHICLE HAS NO LOWER LATCH BRACKETS TO ATTACH A CHILD SEAT . THE DEALER SERVICE MANAGER STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS EXEMPT FROM THE REGULATION. THE ONLY EXEMPTIONS I SEE IN THE STATUTE ARE FOR SCHOOLBUSES. CONVERTIBLES, AND VEHICLES WITH A GVR OF 8500 LBS OR OVER. MY FRONTIER HAS A GVR OF ABOUT 6500 LBS. PLEASE ADVISE ME IF THIS IS CORRECT.

Reported
Feb 2019
Incident date
Oct 2016
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11179952 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemJan 2019 · ODI 11170646 · fireDetails +

IN MOTION, PULLING INTO PARKING STALL, WHEN SOMETHING STARTED TO SMELL LIKE IT WAS ON FIRE, STARTED TO SEE FLAMES COMING FROM MOTOR. CAR CAUGHT ON FIRE. POLICE CASE #19-0773 *DT *DT*JB

Reported
Jan 2019
Incident date
Jan 2019
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
Fire
Open ODI 11170646 at NHTSA →
EngineJan 2019 · ODI 11166687Details +

I HAVE REPLACE THE SERPENTINE BELT, TENSOR AND PULLEY THREE TIMES AND, AFTER ONE WEEK START TO DO THE SAME NOISE. AT THE BEGINNING ONLY IN THE MORNING, BUT FEW DAYS LATER ALL THE TIME, EVEN WHEN IS ON MOTION.

Reported
Jan 2019
Incident date
Nov 2018
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11166687 at NHTSA →
StructureOct 2018 · ODI 11140326Details +

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2016 NISSAN FRONTIER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE SPOT WELDS BETWEEN THE OUTER BODY PANEL AND THE INNER BED ON THE PASSSENGER SIDE OF THE VEHICLE FAILED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO LIA NISSAN OF COLONIE (2233 CENTRAL AVE, SCHENECTADY, NY 12304, 518-631-2393) WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THERE WAS AN OVERLOAD FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE AND STATED THAT IT WAS NOT COVERED UNDER WARRANTY. HE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 35,035. *DT *JB

Reported
Oct 2018
Incident date
Sep 2018
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11140326 at NHTSA →
Unknown Or OtherAug 2018 · ODI 11121923Details +

I PURCHASED MY 2016 NISSAN FRONTIER NEW IN CAPE GIRARDEAU, MO. I DIDN'T REALIZE IT DIDN'T HAVE POWER DOOR LOCKS UNTIL AFTER TAKING DELIVERY. I MADE THE MISTAKE OF ASSUMING IT DID BECAUSE OF ALL THE OTHER EXTRAS IT HAD STANDARD AND HAD NEVER HEARD OF NEW VEHICLES NOT HAVING THIS STANDARD SAFETY FEATURE.. AFTER DRIVING IT ONCE AND TRYING TO UNLOCK THE BACK DOOR I REALIZED THERE WAS A BIG SAFETY ISSUE. THE ONLY WAY TO UNLOCK THE BACK DOOR IS TO REACH BETWEEN THE SUPPORT COLUMN AND THE SEAT AND THE CLEARANCE ONLY ALLOWS A SMALL HAND TO FIT THROUGH. I SPOKE WITH THE DEALERSHIP AND I WROTE TO CORPORATE SEVERAL TIMES ONLY TO BE TOLD THEY WOULD DO NOTHING. I ASKED FOR THEM TO SPLIT THE COST WITH ME TO HAVE POST MARKET AUXILIARY ELECTRONICS LOCKS INSTALLED AND THEY REFUSED. IT HAS BEEN AN ONGOING SAFETY HAZARD SINCE I GOT IT BY NOT HAVING AMPLE ACCESS TO OPEN THE BACK DOORS. I WILL HAVE GRANDCHILDREN ONE OF THESE DAYS AND I WILL BE FORCED TO TRADE THIS TRUCK IN BECASUE THERE IS NO WAY I WOULD STRAP AN INFANT INTO THE BACK SEAT WITHOUT BEING ABLE TO QUICKLY OPEN THE DOOR IF THEY BECAME CHOKED OR FOR SOME OTHER REASON THEY NEEDED QUICK ATTENTION. IF SOMEONE NOT FAMILIAR WITH THIS TRUCK WERE TO HAVE TO OPEN THE BACK DOOR, THEY WOULD NOT BE ABLE TO AND THIS COULD LEAD TO DEATH OF SOMEONE IN THE BACK SEAT SINCE THERE IS NO KEY ENTRY ON THE BACK DOOR AND IT IS NOT SAFELY ACCESSIBLE FOR OPENING. I WAS TOLD BY THEIR CORPORATE THAT THERE WASN'T ANYTHING THEY WOULD DO EVEN AFTER TELLING THEM ALL OF THE ABOVE. I THINK THIS NEEDS ADDRESSED WITH THE MANUFACTURER.

Reported
Aug 2018
Incident date
Jun 2016
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11121923 at NHTSA →
Unknown Or OtherJul 2018 · ODI 11114333Details +

VERY SERIOUS SAFETY HAZARD WHEN USING "NISSAN CONNECT" HANDS-FREE SYSTEM WITH ALL CELL PHONES. "NISSAN CONNECT" DOES NOT DIFFERENTIATE THE DIFFERENCE WHEN CALLING A PERSON WITH MULTIPLE PHONE NUMBERS. INSTEAD OF ASKING "WOULD YOU LIKE TO CALL ____ ON CELL OR AT HOME"?, IT ASKS YOU WHICH PHONE NUMBER IS CORRECT? THIS NOW FORCES YOU TO GRAB YOUR PHONE, SEARCH FOR THE CONTACT, AND VERIFY WHICH PHONE NUMBER IS CORRECT. THE ENTIRE TIME, YOU ARE NOW DISTRACTED FROM DRIVING AND DEFEATS THE PURPOSE OF BEING HANDS FREE. THIS IS A SERIOUS SAFETY HAZARD WITH ALL NISSAN VEHICLES THAT HAVE NISSAN CONNECT.

Reported
Jul 2018
Incident date
Jul 2018
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11114333 at NHTSA →
EngineMay 2018 · ODI 11092116Details +

WHEN THE THROTTLE PEDAL IS PRESSED THE ENGINE DOES NOT REACT IMMEDIATELY. VERY DIFFICULT TO PULL OUT INTO TRAFFIC. VERY DANGEROUS PULLING OUT INTO TRAFFIC. YOU NEVER KNOW HOW LONG IT IS GOING TO TAKE FOR THE ENGINE TO RESPOND TO THE THROTTLE POSITION SENSOR (TPS) AND ACCELERATE. I HAVE BEEN TO THE SELLING DEALER 2 TIMES FOR THIS, THEY CANNOT "DUPLICATE" THE ISSUE.

Reported
May 2018
Incident date
May 2018
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11092116 at NHTSA →
Service BrakesApr 2018 · ODI 11083520Details +

THE BRAKE PEDAL IS VERY SPONGY PEDAL WILL TOUCH THE FLOOR. EVEN WHEN THE TRUCK IS EMPTY YOU WONDER IF YOU ARE GOING TO STOP. DEALER SAYS THIS IS NORMAL.

Reported
Apr 2018
Incident date
Mar 2018
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11083520 at NHTSA →
Air BagsMar 2018 · ODI 11080268 · crashDetails +

WE PURCHASED OUR 2016 NISSAN FRONTIER IN OCTOBER 2016. UNFORTUNATELY WE HAVE BEEN INVOLVED IN THREE MAJOR CAR ACCIDENTS AND TWO OUT OF THE THREE TIMES THE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. EVERY ACCIDENT WE WERE INVOLVED IN COST OVER $10,000 TO REPAIR OUR VEHICLE SO WE KNOW THAT THE FRONT END DAMAGE WAS VERY SEVERE. WE WOULD LIKE OUR VEHICLE INSPECTED FOR ANY AIR BAG MAIL FUNCTION THE LAST ACCIDENT WE WERE INVOLVED IN WE HIT VERY HARD AND THE AIR BAGS DIDN'T DEPLOY I HIT THE STEERING WHEEL PRETTY HARD.

Reported
Mar 2018
Incident date
Feb 2018
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
Crash
Open ODI 11080268 at NHTSA →
Air BagsAug 2017 · ODI 11014610Details +

I HAVE TAKEN MY TRUCK TWICE TO THE NISSAN DEALER FOR REPAIR AIR BAG DASH LIGHT WARNING. THE SRS LIGHT KEEPS GOING OFF EVEN WHEN I TOOK TO THE NISSAN DEALER SHOP WHERE PURCHASED THE VEHICLE. I CAN ONLY SPECULATE THAT IT HAS TO DO SOMETHING WITH THE AIR BAG ITSELF OR POSSIBLY THE SENSOR FOR THE PASSENGER SEAT. BOTH TIMES AFTER THEY SO CALLED "FIXED" THE PROBLEM, THE LIGHT WOULD COME BACK ON A DAY OR TWO AFTER. MOSTLY WHENEVER I HAVE A PASSENGER SIT IN THE PASSENGER CHAIR. THE "SRS" AIR BAG LIGHT WOULD TURN OFF FOR A WHILE AT FIRST AFTER FIRST PASSENGER WOULD SIT. HOWEVER, ONCE THE DASHBOARD AIRBAG LIGHT COMES BAG ON, IT WILL NEVER TURN OFF. THIS IS A DEFECT IN MY VEHICLE AND I KNOW OTHER MODELS UNDER NISSAN HAVE BEEN RECALLED, BUT MY TRUCK SEEMS TO BE AFFECTED AS WELL. I WOULD THINK MY VEHICLE FALLS UNDER THE SAME RECALL, HOWEVER NISSAN DOES NOT RECOGNIZE THIS DEFECT.

Reported
Aug 2017
Incident date
Sep 2016
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11014610 at NHTSA →
Air BagsJul 2017 · ODI 11002604Details +

AIR BAG LIGHT COMES ON WHEN DRIVING ON A DIRT ROAD. FUEL RELATED, BUT NOT SURE, ENGINE LIGHT IS ON IT MIGHT BE EVAPORATIVE EMISSION SYSTEM VENT CIRCUIT SHORTED. LEFT WHEEL PASSENGER SIDE ROTOR COVER KEEPS TWISTING AND RUBS AGAINST THE WHEEL AND MAKES NOISE.

Reported
Jul 2017
Incident date
Jun 2017
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11002604 at NHTSA →
Unknown Or OtherMar 2017 · ODI 10967385Details +

I HAVE DOCUMENTED EVERYTHING. PICTURES, RECEIPTS, WHO I TALKED TO, DATES. EVERYTHING IN A LONG OUTLINE THAT I WILL ATTACH. PLEASE READ IT. THE ISSUE IS THAT I PURCHASED THIS TRUCK 12-28-2016 AND HAVE YET TO GET THE ADVERTISED FUEL CAPACITY OF 21.1 GALLONS. MY TRUCK GETS ABOUT CONSISTENTLY 15 GALLONS TO FILL UP AND NO RESERVE TANK. NISSAN IS NOT DISPUTING THAT THERE IS A DEFECT AND MY VEHICLE IS NOT THE ONLY ONE. THERE IS ANOTHER TRUCK AT MY DEALERSHIP RIGHT NOW WITH THE SAME EXACT PROBLEM. AND THE DEALERSHIP HAS ADMITTED THAT THERE ARE OTHERS. PLUS I'VE FOUND MORE ONLINE IN FORUMS. THEY DON'T KNOW HOW TO FIX IT YET.

Reported
Mar 2017
Incident date
Dec 2016
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 10967385 at NHTSA →
Unknown Or OtherMar 2017 · ODI 10958447Details +

VERY SERIOUS SAFETY HAZARD WHEN USING "NISSAN CONNECT" HANDS-FREE SYSTEM WITH ALL CELL PHONES. "NISSAN CONNECT" DOES NOT DIFFERENTIATE THE DIFFERENCE WHEN CALLING A PERSON WITH MULTIPLE PHONE NUMBERS. INSTEAD OF ASKING "WOULD YOU LIKE TO CALL ____ ON CELL OR AT HOME"?, IT ASKS YOU WHICH PHONE NUMBER IS CORRECT? THIS NOW FORCES YOU TO GRAB YOUR PHONE, SEARCH FOR THE CONTACT, AND VERIFY WHICH PHONE NUMBER IS CORRECT. THE ENTIRE TIME, YOU ARE NOW DISTRACTED FROM DRIVING AND DEFEATS THE PURPOSE OF BEING HANDS FREE. THIS IS A SERIOUS SAFETY HAZARD WITH ALL NISSAN VEHICLES THAT HAVE NISSAN CONNECT.

Reported
Mar 2017
Incident date
Mar 2017
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 10958447 at NHTSA →
SteeringJan 2017 · ODI 10947100 · crashDetails +

LIBERTY MUTUAL INSURANCE APPROVED A BODY SHOP TO REPAIR MY TRUCK FROM AN ACCIDENT (I WAS NOT AT FAULT) BY REMOVING ALL PARTS OF MY TRUCK FROM IT'S ORIGINAL FRAME AND PUTTING IT BACK TOGETHER ON ANOTHER FRAME. I WAS SITTING STILL, WHEN I WAS HIT FROM BEHIND AND PUSHED INTO VEHICLE IN FRONT OF ME. ALL PARTIES GOT STOPPED, EXCEPT THE LADY THAT HIT ME IN THE REAR.

Reported
Jan 2017
Incident date
Dec 2016
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
Crash
Open ODI 10947100 at NHTSA →
Unknown Or OtherDec 2016 · ODI 10929618Details +

WHEN I STOP AND PUT THE GAS AGAIN THE TRANSMISSION DO NOT ENGAGE, AFTER AFTER SKIPPING THE ENGAGE IT ENGAGE SUDDENLY.

Reported
Dec 2016
Incident date
Oct 2016
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 10929618 at NHTSA →
Air BagsNov 2016 · ODI 10928160Details +

THE ISSUE WITH MY NISSAN FRONTIER IS THAT THE PASSENGER AIRBAG LIGHT ILLUMINATES RANDOMLY WHILE DRIVING (INDICATING THAT THERE IS NOT SOMEONE SITTING IN THE SEAT AND THE AIRBAG WOULD NOT GO OFF) WHILE THERE HAVE BEEN FULL-GROWN ADULTS SITTING PROPERLY IN THE SEAT. . I WAS SENT TO A DEALER, WHERE I WAS CHARGED FOR THEM TO LOOK INTO THIS AND I WAS TOLD THERE WAS NOT ANYTHING THEY COULD DO BECAUSE THEY COULD NOT REPLICATE THE ISSUE. I TRIED TO EXPLAIN IT RANDOMLY HAPPENS AND THAT IS DOES NOT HAPPEN EVERY TIME, HOWEVER I WAS TOLD THEY COULD NOT DO ANYTHING ELSE FOR ME. I HAVE TRIED TO REACH YOUR COMPANY MULTIPLE TIMES AND HAVE BEEN IGNORED. THIS IS A SERIOUS SAFETY CONCERN. I HAVE VIDEOS OF THIS ISSUE AND NO ONE WILL HELP ME. *TR

Reported
Nov 2016
Incident date
Jul 2016
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 10928160 at NHTSA →
StructureNov 2016 · ODI 10924315Details +

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2016 NISSAN FRONTIER. WHILE ATTEMPTING TO PURCHASE A CAB FOR THE VEHICLE, THE CAB WOULD NOT FIT DUE TO THE INCORRECT SIZE OF THE TRUCK BED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER WHERE IT WAS DETERMINED THAT THE VEHICLE MODIFICATION WOULD HAVE TO BE DONE AT AN INDEPENDENT SHOP. WHEN THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE INDEPENDENT MECHANIC, THE FRAME WAS REPAIRED. THE CONTACT REFUSED TO TAKE BACK POSSESSION OF THE VEHICLE BECAUSE OF THE FRAME MODIFICATION TO THE VEHICLE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED. THE VIN WAS UNKNOWN. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 1,200.

Reported
Nov 2016
Incident date
Oct 2016
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 10924315 at NHTSA →
Air BagsJul 2016 · ODI 10882870Details +

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2016 NISSAN FRONTIER. AFTER THE VEHICLE WAS SERVICED FOR AN OIL CHANGE, THE AIR BAG WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED NOR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 14,007. THE VIN WAS UNAVAILABLE. UPDATED 08/30/16*LJ *AS

Reported
Jul 2016
Incident date
Jun 2016
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 10882870 at NHTSA →
Fuel/Propulsion SystemJun 2016 · ODI 10873982Details +

THE THROTTLE ON THE TRUCK WILL FAIL TO ACCELERATE THEN WILL SURGE FORWARD. OTHER TIMES IT IS AS IF THE TRUCK ENGINE IS TRYING TO QUIT RUNNING . TODAY I STOPPED BY THE DEALERSHIP AND THEY FOUND NO DCTS ON THE COMPUTER, AFTER TEST DRIVING THE TRUCK 10 MI. NO PROBLEMS FOUND. BUT THIS IS AN INTERMITTENT PROBLEM. AFTER THIS TEST THE TRUCK DID IT AGAIN GOING HOME STALL THEN SURGE FORWARD ( COULD DO IT IN FWD OR REV) WILL CONTINUE TO GET DEALER TO TEST BY LEAVING TRUCK THERE A FEW DAYS. JUST WONDERING IF ANY OTHERS OUT THERE. SOME SAY THESE TRUCKS HAVE SENSITIVE ACCELERATORS THIS IS NOT SENSITIVE. THIS ALWAYS HAPPENS WHEN THE TRUCK HAS BEEN STOPPED LIKE AT A RED LIGHT WHEN STARTING TO ACCELERATE AGAIN BUT CANNOT BE PREDICTED AND 80% OF THE TIME IT WON'T HAPPEN. THE ACCELERATOR OR THE THROTTLE BODY I BELIEVE IS THE PROBLEM BUT AGAIN NO DTCS WERE FOUND????. (THE DEALERSHIP I BELIEVE WILL FIX THIS THEY ARE VERY HELPFUL BUT THERE MAY BE MORE OUT THERE)

Reported
Jun 2016
Incident date
Jun 2016
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 10873982 at NHTSA →
Power TrainNov 2015 · ODI 10789715Details +

THE TRANSMISSION DON'T CHANGE TO REVERSE, NEUTRAL, AND PARKING.

Reported
Nov 2015
Incident date
Nov 2015
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 10789715 at NHTSA →

Recalls(1)

Open a recall to read what NHTSA says is wrong, what can happen, and how it gets fixed. Check the VIN and remedy eligibility with a dealer; federal no-charge requirements have an age limit, though a manufacturer may offer more coverage.

Electrical System · 16V181000Details +

Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2016 Frontier V6 vehicles manufactured February 29, 2016, to March 7, 2016. The starter motor wire harness may have been installed in an incorrect position, allowing the starter harness terminal to contact the heat shield and result in an electrical short.

Risk: An electrical short increases the risk of a fire.

Remedy: Nissan will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and reposition the starter wire harness, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began on April 13, 2016. Owners may contact Nissan customer service at 1-800-647-7261.

Open full NHTSA recall record →

A campaign can apply to this model year without being incomplete on a specific vehicle. Check the VIN with NHTSA or a dealer to confirm whether a particular car needs repair.

Investigations

0 NHTSA investigations on record

No investigations are on record as of Jul 2026. An empty record is not a clean bill of health.

Crash-test ratings

2016 Nissan Frontier Crew Cab PU/CC RWD NHTSA source

Overall
Not rated
Frontal
Not rated
Side
Not rated
Rollover

2016 Nissan Frontier King Cab PU/EC 4WD NHTSA source

Overall
Not rated
Frontal
Not rated
Side
Not rated
Rollover

2016 Nissan Frontier King Cab PU/EC RWD NHTSA source

Overall
Not rated
Frontal
Not rated
Side
Not rated
Rollover

2016 Nissan Frontier Crew Cab PU/CC 4WD NHTSA source

Overall
Not rated
Frontal
Not rated
Side
Not rated
Rollover

Source: NHTSA New Car Assessment Program (NCAP).

Fuel economy by trim

TrimEngineDrivetrainCityHwyCombined
Frontier 2WD2.5L 4-cylRear-Wheel Drive192321
Frontier 2WD4.0L 6-cylRear-Wheel Drive172219
Frontier 2WD2.5L 4-cylRear-Wheel Drive172219
Frontier 4WD4.0L 6-cylPart-time 4-Wheel Drive162118
Frontier 2WD4.0L 6-cylRear-Wheel Drive162218
Frontier 4WD4.0L 6-cylPart-time 4-Wheel Drive152117

EPA laboratory estimates by trim and engine. Actual mileage varies with driving, weather, load, and maintenance. EPA source.

Before you buy

Useful next checks

Federal records tell you about patterns. These checks can tell you more about the specific car in front of you.

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Compare the year-by-year record

Open another year for its own evidence-gated decision. TireKick does not crown a best year from raw complaint totals.

2016 Nissan Frontier: frequently asked

What does the complaint record show for the 2016 Nissan Frontier?

Owners filed 42 NHTSA complaints about the 2016 Nissan Frontier. This is raw owner-reported complaint volume with no production or exposure normalization, so it is not a reliability score or a best/worst-year ranking.

What are the most common problems on the 2016 Nissan Frontier?

The most-reported problem areas are Air Bags (24% of complaints) and engine (14%).

How many recalls does the 2016 Nissan Frontier have?

1 recall has been issued that affect the 2016 Nissan Frontier, covering components such as electrical system. Check the VIN with NHTSA and ask a dealer to confirm remedy eligibility; federal no-charge requirements have an age limit, though manufacturers may offer more coverage.

What gas mileage does the 2016 Nissan Frontier get?

The EPA rates the 2016 Nissan Frontier between 17 and 21 mpg combined, depending on trim and drivetrain.