Are you in the market for a reliable and durable pickup truck that won’t break the bank? The Nissan Frontier is popular for those seeking a tough and dependable ride. However, not all Frontier model years are created equal when it comes to maintenance and repair costs.

While the Frontier has a reputation for being a durable and dependable truck, it’s important to note that certain model years have experienced more maintenance issues than others. So let’s look at the worst used Nissan Frontier model years to avoid when car shopping.

Among the worst, the 2005 Nissan Frontier needs a regular inspection

The 2005 Nissan Frontier has received a significant number of complaints regarding its timing chain. Owners have reported that the timing chain can wear prematurely, causing a rattling noise and, in some cases, complete engine failure. This issue can typically occur around 88,000 miles or more, and the cost to repair can range from $1,600.

Over time, the fuel-sending unit can become worn or damaged, leading to inaccurate readings or even a complete failure of the gauge. This can be a frustrating and potentially dangerous issue, as running out of gas unexpectedly can leave you stranded on the side of the road.

Car Complaints states that the average cost to replace the fuel sending unit in a 2005 Frontier is around $500, and the issue typically occurs around 70,000 miles.

The radiator in this model year has been known to develop cracks, leading to coolant mixing with transmission fluid. This can cause severe damage to the transmission and, in some cases, even complete failure. The average cost to repair this issue is around $3,700, and it typically occurs around 103,000 miles.

The 2006 Frontier has some costly repairs to keep in mind

As a 2006 Frontier owner, it’s important to be aware of the potential issues that may arise with the vehicle. One such issue is a radiator leak, which can be costly to fix, with an average cost of $3,200. If left unchecked, this leak can lead to even more expensive repairs, such as a cracked transmission, which can cost an average of $4,100 to fix at 117,000 miles.

Another common issue to watch is faulty timing chains and guides, which can cost an average of $1,700 to repair at 91,000 miles.

Despite the potential for costly repairs, owning a 2006 Frontier can still be worthwhile as long as the proper maintenance and preventative measures are taken. Regular inspections and proactive repairs can help extend the lifespan of the vehicle and save you money in the long run.

There are some common issues with the 2007 Nissan Frontier

The failure of the fuel level-sending unit is a common problem in many vehicles, including the 2007 Nissan Frontier. At around 75,000 miles, when it fails, the gauge may read inaccurately or not at all, causing inconvenience and potentially dangerous situations if the driver runs out of fuel unexpectedly. The average cost to fix this issue is around $400.

The worn timing chain tensioners and associated equipment are another potential issue in the 2007 Nissan Frontier, especially as the mileage increases to around 86,000 miles. If the timing chain tensioners wear out, the chain may become loose, leading to poor engine performance, misfires, or even engine failure. Timing chain tensioner replacement and associated parts can cost up to $2,200 on average.

The coolant seepage, which can contaminate the transmission fluid in the 2007 Frontier, has an average cost of $3,600 to fix and occurs after 110,000 miles. This issue may seem daunting and potentially expensive to fix, but it is essential to address it promptly.

These are the worst Nissan Frontier models to avoid, but that shouldn’t deter you from checking out other models with fewer reported issues.