Nissan finally replaced the aging Frontier pickup for 2022 after years and years of waiting by truck enthusiasts. Like its predecessor, it is a handsome truck, that symbolizes Nissan’s commitment to quality, durability, and style. Being a new truck it has only been on the street for a year. But the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has received complaints. These areas we’ll categorize are electrical issues, powertrain issues, and cabin problems. 

Electrical issues

The complexity of the electronics is enormous. Unfortunately, that means there can be issues that crop up. One filed complaint begins with crackling noises in his brand new 2022 Frontier, that required what the owner calls “a full realignment” to correct. But within the first 1,000 miles, the backup camera and retractable aerial stopped working. A faulty camera control assembly unit is the problem. But another problem is that the dealership has said could take months to receive. 

Since then, the truck’s AEB sensor no longer is functioning properly. This can spontaneously activate the brakes while running on the highway. That, in turn, can lead to rear-end collisions. And another issue is the steering wheel action is very vague, causing the truck to sway while in driving lanes. Again, these issues are happening to one buyer’s 2022 Nissan Frontier.

Another electrical issue that has resulted in a technical service bulletin is with the wireless charging function. It only works with the doors closed. Though not a deal-breaker, this should be fixed without questions asked.

Powertrain and transmission issues

One of the main issues cropping up is with the new nine-speed automatic transmission. It has a tendency to want to quickly get to the next gear quickly, causing a sluggish feel. Downshifting as the driver slows down doesn’t happen as it should, in some cases requiring the driver to manually downshift to compensate. 

Another problem is with the tow hitch structurally compromising the fuel tank. Now the NHTSA has issued a recall over this (21V917000). It outlines that the leaf spring could make contact and even puncture the fuel tank. A fire could result should this happen.

Cabin problems

While 2022 Frontier pickups are comfortable and contain all of the latest electronics, Nissan uses a lot of plastic. The cabin has a cheap appearance with all of the plastic pieces slathered around the cabin. And the Frontier has already had a recall issued by the NHTSA. The recall is over seat belt bracket mounting bolts being tightened too hard. This can cause the belt brackets to break in a collision. If that happens, the driver or passenger is no longer restrained in the case of an accident.

RELATED: What’s Coming for the 2023 Nissan Frontier?

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