Used 2005 Nissan Frontier Consumer Reviews
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Great truck BUT not so good truck
I bought this truck in 2006 and really liked it until the timing chain guides failed. Found on the internet that this is a common problem. There is also a tech bulletin out on it. But Nissan would not cover the repair. $1400.00 later it is running well again. Check the internet before you buy, there is a wealth of reliability info there.
"""I can't believe it ""
i have 2005 frontier is a nightmare in one year over 10 times to the dealer and they refuse to do a complete job under the warranty, bottom line dont waste you money go for tacoma or chevy. Nissan dealer refused to honor the guarantee to replace the recall on the defected transmission they want $2500 deductible, they crazy .. i wont buy another nissan in my life and i will make sure my family neither.
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- Nismo Crew CabMSRP: $5,60083 mi away
- SE Crew CabMSRP: $3,99995 mi away
- SE King CabMSRP: $9,997256 mi away
LEMon
I bought this car brand new in 06...it was an 05. It has cost me thousands of dollars since then with a number of problems. Fuel sending unit, 02 sencors , Starter, Then ...the first time it needs to be smogged because I;m in Ca. it is 1,970.00. Oh ya ...I had already replaced the radiator because it was leaking radiator fluid into the transmission. I did that myself for around 300.00. Now that I have had it smogged and can drive it to have the transmission checked...I find out the transmission needs to be rebuilt. $2,400 minimum. This thing has cost me almost 6,000 so far and barely has 100,000 miles on it. The dealer and Nissan USA both gave me the bird on every issue. Nissan sux
My Nissan Stinks!!!
I bought my truck new off of the lot. Ran great for about 55k mi then hell broke loose. blower resistor blew ($150), then blower blew ($500), then at 45k mi a ujoints went and another at 59.5k mi. a week later PW on driverside blew, then last week with 64.5k mi i was informed that the motor needs to be replaced but guess what, 6yr-60k mile warranty is over and they won't touch it. oh, the timing chain is stretched to maximum limit and needs to be replaced and amazingly my oil pressure gauge hasn't moved since I bought the truck but i was 2 quarts low when I just had it serviced by Nissan. NEVER NEVER BUY ANOTHER NISSAN!!!!
Buy the 2.5L if you can find one for sale.
I bought mine new in 2005. It's 2012 and it still looks and runs like a brand new truck. With these high gas prices, having a truck that can haul light loads and get 22/23 MPG is really nice. Right now I wouldn't trade it for anything. And these are hard to find. Used 2.5L manual shift XEs are rarely found for sale, probably because the owners recognize their value. Took this 2WD truck on some dirt roads in Tennessee and had no problems at all. Very good truck.
Decent Truck
This truck is powerful, and very responsive. The quality is good, the ride is smooth. The truck has a great turning radius. I have taken this truck hunting and climbed over some pretty rough hills in Eastern Montana without a hitch; the truck grips! Ground clearance is plentiful as well. The truck is genuinely off-road capable. Very fun truck to drive. The only real negative I have had is in regard to the body design. If you drive on any gravel at all, the rear wheel flares get beat up pretty badly. I had to buy a bottle of touch up paint. Hopefully Nissan will do something about that in the 06 Model.
Bought it new at the re-design/12 years later....
This truck has never let us down. Aside from the extremely heavy tailgate, it has an overall superior design and has performed flawlessly. As important for me is the fact the paint still shines new when the truck is washed...no kidding. The not so tight turning radius is something I got used to very easily; not sure how it compared with other trucks in 2005. One main gripe was that I was never contacted by Nissan regarding the recall of the fuel sending unit. This was a repair I put off, expected it to be very expensive. I noticed content online regarding the problem, saw the recall posted, but it was too late for me. I even called the local dealer, who at least acted unaware of this problem....yeah right. A few downsides: more than a few times, the views of other cars have been blocked by the large A pillars, making for some quick braking, but never an accident. Also, the overall ride of the truck could be a bit smoother and less harsh over imperfect roads. Overall, this has been a fabulous truck.
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Never buy another Nissan (Besides a Z)
Purchased the Frontier brand new for $26,000 in Jan 2006. At 40k miles the left side catalytic convertor went out. Had it replaced under 60k mile power train warranty. At 50k miles the right side catalytic convertor went out. At 75k miles the transmissions clunks out. Thank the lord I was still under a new extended 80k miles warranty for the tranny. 100k miles the cam shaft sensor went out leaving me stranded. Only Nissans shut off on you in the middle of the road and do not start when their sensors go out. Another 10k miles and the crank shaft sensor went out. 110k miles the gas meter went dead. I'm currently at 140k miles and both of my lower o2 sensors need replacing as the check engine light came and the diagnosis stated so. I will never buy another Nissan ever again. Except for a Z of course!!!
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Excellent in so many ways
I have had the NISMO Crew Frontier for quite a while now, and I KNOW that this is the last vehicle I will buy. I fully intend to drive this truck till the wheels fall off. Pretty much everything is gravy... first off, it is love at first sight on styling. Interior is decidedly untrucklike, in fact better than most sport sedans. Power and handling is exceptional, in all situations (I have driven it in ice, rain, LOTS of pavement, snowy mountain roads and a bunch of Moab UT offroad). Amenities such as the Rockford-Fosgate systems are fantastic, and the cargo accessories invaluable. Only little gripes are the fuel economy is a bit low (although expected) and an external MP3 jack would be nice.
A top midsize contender
Overall this has been a great truck to own. it's fun and easy to drive, with almost sporty handling and a very strong drivetrain. The driving position is comfortably upright with good all round visibility, easy controls and ample room for a six footer. Rear seats are cramped even for kids but there's good usable space back there for additional cargo. The utili-track bed system and factory applied bed liner are very practical. I don't know why all trucks don't have this as standard. The dealer took care of some initial interior rattles, but otherwise the truck has performed flawlessly. Hard interior plastics are showing there age already. Average real fuel economy is 17MPG, 14 City, 22HWY.
Cross country journey
Drove from west coast to east coast towing a vw golf completely packed, with the truck bed overloaded as well. Power to get up and over the rockies no problem. Reliable and rides like a cadillac compared to my previous audi tt. Never owned a pickup before, and I'm not disappointed.
2005 Nissan Frontier King Cab 4cyl Auto
I bought a new 2005 in Jan-06 in Jun- 07 I have 80,000 miles on it. This is my 5th Nissan I have purchased for use in my business and the only major thing I have ever replaced was a clutch at 200,000 miles. My last was a 1997 & I replaced 2 clutches, a starter & alternator. I traded it at 487,000 miles & the others were over 300,000 miles. I got them all from the same dealership. Now at 80,000 miles the transmission seal leaks & the flange in rear-end went. Nissan dealer said it would take 10days to get the part. The same dealer sent my mechanic the wrong part 3X. After 2 wks & 20 calls to corp. no one returns my calls & no answers when they'll have the right part made, no loaner.
Buy one if you can find one!
I owned a 04' Frontier and traded in for the '05 2.5L/5-speed - well worth it. Bigger everything and still reliable, expect for some body squeaks. The truck never had any mentionable problems but routine main. & a battery (not counting two wrecks which it took like a champ) and it's still running and hauling 1,000 lbs. well. I think the interior design and ergonomics are great for a king cab, and the bold exterior design sets it apart from the wimpier Tacoma and domestics. Would like to see a more stroked 4 (or inline 5?) base model - the 2.5 L does great for the weight of this sturdy truck, but acceleration and torque are issues. I hope to get the 4.0 next time.
Dav from fla
Have a 2005 frontier 110000 miles manual trans. Never had any issues.. spark plug change a pain but ok for back yard mechanic. best truck for the money put in New stereo, backup camera gps from amazon $120 makes truck like new. 17000 New can't beat it
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Disappointed in Nissan
This is my third Nissan pickup (80,82,05). Of the three I am really disappointed in the quality of the vehicle. I ONLY have 26,000 miles on it and already the exhaust manifold requires replacement (TSB was not sent to me), my fuel gauge sending unit is shot, and the wiper reservoir cracked. I will end up doing all the repairs as I will not pay for dealership service. Only good thing is I put on a Gibson performance exhaust, a custom CAI with a AMSOIL intake filter, replaced ALL fluids with AMSOIL and I am now getting 25 city and 33 highway. If nothing else goes out I will keep it. Otherwise, I will consider another manufacturer.
LE 4WD
Currently have about 92k. I love this truck. I have owned it for 4 years. I beat the crap out of this truck. Smashed it twice, and i drive it like i stole it. Never had any problems till recently. Catalytic converter on Drivers side went out on it at 83K just out of emissions warranty. Nissan wanted $1200 i did it myself on the ground for about $250. Now if having some sort of vibration coming from the transmission, almost like the torque converter lockup is not engaging correctly. My Gibson Exhaust rusted through and i ended up puttin a banks exhaust on it. I bought it for the power, boy does this truck move. Ive raced with it and ive run it through the mud. Cant beat a Frontier.
2005 Nissan Frontier Crew Cab RWD SE MT
I bought my used truck 4 years ago for work with 15K miles already on it. I have put 60K additional miles on and have had no mechanical issues. I do get a chirping sound from the air vents after I turn the ignition off and the dealership can't figure out the issue. I've only changed the belts, done regular maintenance and am due to have the breaks changed for the first time. The gas mileage is less than desirable as I average 18-19mpg whether I am in the city or driving long distances on the highway. The rear seat is not the most comfortable as it sits straight up and does not offer much leg room. The power is decent and it has functioned fine when towing.
Great Pickup
The 2005 Nissan Frontier is one fun truck to drive, its feels like I am driving a fullsize pickup. The pickup on the truck is very quick. It moves with some great speed. It is very comfortable to drive in, and it handles great in snow. Its interior is very nice, and the spray-in bedliner is a money savor. Also, the four wheel disk breaks have great stopping power. The Frontier is easy to get in and out of and its visibility is very good.
Still love it after 1 year
I bought my Nismo Frontier just over a year ago. I still volunteer to drive friends places just to drive it and look over my shoulder after I park it just to see it again. It's been great in every way. My favorite vehicle I've owned yet.
Warped Heads
I didn't realize at the time I purchased it from a dealer, that got the truck from an auction, that it had a bad head. So my opinion might be slightly slanted. But I still love this truck. I like the tie downs in the bed, the off road 4 wheel drive and I'm super impressed with the acceleration.
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first new truck in 25 years
this is the first new truck i have bought in 25 years, i looked at a lot of mid size trucks so far i am very happy with my nissan frontier drives great, it's fun to drive very comfortable gas mileage is ok around 20-21 with automatic trans, had a 93 nissan pickup very reliable so i was leaning toward a nissan truck, highly recommend.
I would buy it again
This is a work truck for me and I spend a lot of time on the road. The seats are comfortable and the layout of the interior is very clean. It has plenty of power, starts and runs smooth. I have been getting around 18.3MPG in town and 22MPG Highway. The only problem I have had was a rattle noise from the engine. I took the truck in, there was a TSB for the noise, they ordered the part and the truck was fixed.
2nd Frontier
This was my second frontier. Loved it, great MPG , good power for a 4 banger. Only really dumb move on Nissan's part is even offering a truck without AC. I bought the truck second hand for a great deal, and other than having no AC whatsoever, the truck was awesome.
Frontier vs Tacoma
I did a lot of research, the more I looked the more I found supporting the Frontier as the superior truck. I drove both and also drove the Colorado. All drive similar with the Tacoma having a cushier ride. Questionable if that's what you want in a high CG vehicle. I bought the Frontier. Full box frame, 4 wheel disk brakes, 265 hp V6 on regular unleaded gas, sprayed on bed liner developed specifically for Nissan. It was really no contest. Toyota dealers would not even give me a price quote hinting that truck of the year warranted no price concessions. Nissan dealers wanted to make a deal and gave me the best deal.
Biggest mistake of my life
I had high hopes for this truck when I got it. It was my first brand new vehicle. From the very first day I had problems with it. Ranging from a broken steering column to bad tires leaky windshield, brake problems and the list goes on. I have lost countless hours of work going to get it fixed for a bunch of different reasons. My truck currently has 29,000 miles and doesn't work. I've gone through 3 different batteries. The truck turns off while driving or it won't turn on at all. I was getting charged over $1000 to replace abs module but it looks like that isn't the problem or it may be a problem but it seems that it is another problem why it won't turn on.
Nissan won't back their product
I bought the truck used with 15K and it now has 53K. For relatively few miles there has been some real issues! -Constant squeaks in the suspension will never be corrected. -I had the common fuel sending unit go out at 49K miles. It should have been covered under the 60K 5 yr warranty but they denied the coverage and I am currently fighting with them -The paint quality is terrible. With little research I was able to find I am not the only one that has paint just randomly start bubbling and peeling with no chip or scratch even starting it! Nissan consumer affairs is totally unprofessional and untimely to be in coherts with. Very disappointing they can't stand behind their product.
Indestructable Nissan
I had a 92 Nissan Pickup that was great, so I purchased this one. I have not been disappointed. This truck is rugged and looks aggressive. The previous owner equipped it with more aggressive tires which killed the ride, but gave it much more traction. The interior is rugged too. Hard plastic may not be elegant, but it wears well anf fits the character of the truck. The bedliner is bulletproof and the Utili-track system is ingenious. The truck was inexpensive and a great value. I haven't been able to use the rear locking axle because I haven't been able to get this 2WD stuck. Amazing.
bullet resistant
Bought news. was over $9000 less than the base Tundra. Has 4L six, massive power lousey gas mileage. Just towed a steel two horse trailer with two horses up 15% grade to yosimite pulled like a champ. Only mechanical issues is rear end went out under warranty and fuel sensor. Factory replaced with no issue. Nissan has way cooler looks than Toyota and a better overall value than Toyota. Some interior noise and squeaks. But I off road. I just changed the facotry tires and brakes at 78,000 miles. Every time I go to the dealer they try to buy it from me. Ran the sand dunes at Pismo fine people couldn't believe the power or abilities. Did I mention no accelorator problems? GO NISSAN!
2005 Nissan
I've owned this truck for 2 years now with 19,555 miles,bought new. Been an excellent truck for 2 years, no problems at all.Bought the basic XE with the 4cyl,stick with bedliner and bed caps, XE preferred package, and floor mats. Listed for 18090.00,paid 14500.Truck averages about 22 mpg,and is very comfortable to drive and handles well. Does fine on the highway, runs at 85 MPH with no problem and seems to be willing to offer more.This is my 3rd Nissan,but by far the best I have ever owned. I've waited 2 years to really judge the vehicle and I couldn't be happier
Great Choice
NISMO 4WD CC Sunroof plg, Off Road pkg, Radio pkg. Pros Rides taunt. Steering is very true. Handles Northeast weather and roads very well. Fit and finish are pretty nice. Room for 4. Rockford radio sound is very good. Controls are easy to use. Very happy with choice. Cons Needs driver armrest. Rubber floor mats instead of carpet. Haven't calculated mpg yet.
Love it!!! 100+ mi and still kicking!
I had a Silverado with the 5.3L V8 a couple vehicles before this one. This is just as powerful, if not more, with the 4.0 V6. I live near the city so I wanted something a little more agile but still had plenty of muscle for all my excursions. This truck does perfect. 4WD makes it a billy goat. LOVE THE NISMO! You really don't have to do anything to this truck when you have that package...except maybe a bigger tire. By the way, 285 BFG AT's fit perfect with no modifications or rubbing. The interior design is perfect. Controls seem to be built for men (easy and straight forward). Opt for the Rockford sound system if possible. 6-Disc CD Changer is pretty convenient.
Still my favorite vehicle
After about a year and a half of owning this truck, I love it even more than when it was new, because I've had a chance to haul and tow with it, I've routinely driven it in deep snow, taken it off-road, and loaded and unloaded an ATV and a motorcycle several times. After 47,000 Km (~29,200 mi) I've really come to appreciate the incredible balance Nissan has struck between car-like handling and performance, and truck-like utility. This is my daily commuter, and I can't say enough about the comfort, handling, versatility, and that incredible engine. I'm glad I bought a mid-size. I get great MPG and I can pull a 30ft. camping trailer with an ATV in the back and three passengers with luggage.
2005 Nissan SE Crew Cab 4x4
I have my 2005 Nissan Frontier almost one and half years now. I really enjoy driving this truck. Four wheels driving is exciting. I drove in the mountain when I was in Idaho, this truck gives me enough confidence to climb high mountain and handling is quite good. I really have nothing to complain about this truck.
Fantastic Truck
This is a solid truck that looks good and has a cab that will help you stay organized. I think it is the best value in the marketplace, but the gas mileage on the 2wd Nismo stinks.
Not sure
A good solid truck with a lot of promise. I have owned it for 3 years now with nothing major wrong with it. Just a lot of little things. Things like gas cap door spring falling off, door handle cover falling off, ac ducts came loose, rear bumper lights becoming loose, rattling in the exhaust. I have to say it hauls a load well and the bed track system is great.
05 Frontier
Body integrity needs work. Tailgate hinges have been replaced but tailgate is too heavy and has caused body damage to lower part of tailgate. Fosgate radio is good but two bands of AM and only 1 of FM doesn't make sense. Satellite from Nissan is too expensive even though convenient. My spouse doesn't like the passenger seat for trips but driver's seat is very comfy. Reliability has been very good except body integrity.
Great Truck
I looked at all the Mid sized trucks, no better bang for the buck in the Frontier. Toyota would have been at least 6k more and who wants an 11 MPG dakota, an that's it in the mid-sized market. All that aside I love this truck! drives great fun to drive. absolutely no complaints. if your looking BUY ONE.
2005 Frontier
Love the durability and handling of this truck. Tows my trailer without any problems or lack of horse-power. Bed is more like a full size pickup and the interior feels like a full size truck. A big improvement over the previous generation of mini pickups.
One year old and still strong
I have had the truck for a little over a year and am still enjoying every drive. I was able to get the hitch and tool box included at $1000 less than MSRP. The optional tool box works great for me as a construction worker, and it blends in with the style of the truck. The front seats have plenty of room and are reasonably comfortable for longer trips. The rear seats can be a little tight when the front seats are all the way back. Overall, the truck is excellent, and I am glad I didn't choose the Tacoma or Dakota instead.
FANTASTIC!
I purchased the 2005 Frontier Crew Nismo with some hesitation. I am glad however; my husband pushed for it. The Nismo package is great! It feels like a full size truck with fabulous gas mileage. The interior is comfortably suited for ease, access and security. The only features missings are the audio controls on the steering wheel and leather interior. I would highly recommend the truck without hesitation!
Clutch Problem
The clutch "got burned out" according to the dealer here in Asheville, NC. I have been driving stick shifts since I was 16 (I'm 57), have driven trucks and cars over 125,000 miles and owned for over nine years. Have NEVER had a clutch problem. Something's wrong here.
2005 Frontier Crew Cab
The most leg room in the back of the crew cab I've ever experienced. Good design, tight and stought. The engine belt did squeak which was embarrassing until dealer replaced, the brakes still squeak when applied while backing up. Turning radius too wide and I dont like gearing due to fact that when automatic kicks into passing, rpms reve up to high in comparison to acceleration. Have not towed anything. 1 recall on tow hitch electrical. As good as to better that any truck I've ever owned.
2005 Nissan king SE V-6 Review
I have had my SE King Automatic V-6 for alomst 2 years now and have put 33,000 miles with no problems whatsoever. I have to say I love it. I would have bought a Crew Cab, but they are not available in long box. 5 Foot box just is not going to do it for me. Get on it Nissan. Shift points could be a little better to get more performance out of motor. But over all not too bad of a comprimise.
14500 lbs pulled like a champ
i got my nismo in 8/05 i have not been easy with it i work on a tobbaco farm and i use it every day driving through the fields at high speed that i would not dare to take a ford or dodge because you would tear the hell out of it. now power all i have to say i weighed in at the scalls at 14,500 lbs and pulled it better than any half ton truck. it is a awsome 4 welling machine i have only got stuck twice and that was becouse i sunk stright down to the chasy u could only see about 3 inches of the tires. it i s a great truck and well worth the money.
Love it.
I bought the Nissan basically because of the design. It is by far the best looking 4 door truck out there. I have grown to love it for other reasons. It has amazing power, its fun todrive and it is very convenient.
Fun to drive, beautiful to look at
Pros: Wonderful power, but even cruising leasurely this truck just gives you confidence, knowing it can just leap forward with a slight tip in on the right hand pedale Massive brakes and sure stopping power. Handling; again, confidence inspiring, solid, feels like the wheels are planted five feet beyond the fenders. The seats; the best I have ever experience in ANY car. Tough, beautiful fabric, looks like it will last 100 years. Dash; fully functional, everything reads at a quick glance. Stereo controls on the steering wheel are NICE. Sitting height, perfect, commanding view of the road, yet its easy to enter and exit the cab.
good truck
this truck is very powerful for a midsize truck, ok gas milage and it looks great. very happy with my purchase
Truck of the Year
Bought 2005 Frontier King Cab, w/NISMO package in Red. This truck is awsome. It has huge horspower / torque and lots of cool features you can add on. It rides great and pretty much whoops on all other midsize truck that have a V6 engine. I upgraded and got the Audio Package, Bed Package with liner ect.., the in cabin microfilter, and alarm.
A manly truck indeed
I have beaten the heck out of this truck on many rough and desolate west Texas roads. The truck performs flawlessly. Its locking rear differential gets me in and out of situations normally reserved for 4WD vehicles. Whether cruising 85+ mph on the interstate or slowly clawing through a dry wash, this truck is amazing. It is absolutely the finest truck I have ever owned. You can spend a heck of a lot more for other makes without coming close to the value this truck offers. It is exceptional in appearance, features and performance. Do yourself a favor if you are in the market for a truck. Test drive a Nissan NISMO. You will be amazed by Nissan engineering. I am. Thanks...
Love it
Great truck! If you are looking a new midsize you must put this truck on your list. lots of room and explosive power from the V6. Very quiet cab and if you love music you must get the Rockford package. One drive is all it will take to.