Used 2009 Nissan Frontier King Cab Consumer Reviews
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Buyer Beware! The Good the Bad, & The Ugly
MajesticGent, 06/14/2016
2009 Nissan Frontier SE 4dr King Cab 6.1 ft. SB (4.0L 6cyl 5A)
30 of 32 people found this review helpful
I will start this review off stating that the North Carolina Consumer Council urges people to stay away from this vehicle: http://www.carcomplaints.com/news/2016/dont-buy-nissan-pathfinder-frontier-xterra.shtml If you're looking to purchase a used Frontier it is imperative to look out for two costly failures. They start occurring around the 100k mark. I will list them from most to least expensive. 1. Coolant leaks in the transmission fluid. Bring a ratchet with an extension and a 10mm socket to remove the bolt and check the transmission fluid. The dipstick isn't easy to find, so Google it and you'll see where to locate it. If the transmission fluid is pink, or has the look and consistency of Pepto Bismol, the transmission will fail, and the radiator will need to be replaced. Estimated cost to repair at Nissan dealership = $3500 - $6000 2. Listen for the timing chain tensioner failure. After starting the engine pop open the hood and listen to area where the timing chain is near, also if you can have someone rev it up a few times to see if you hear the whine; if you hear a whining sound, similar to an remote controlled car moving, then timing chain tensioner has failed and the timing belt will eventually get too loose and destroy the engine. All of the timing chains and tensioners will need to be replaced. Estimated cost to repair at Nissan dealership = $1700 - $2000 if ignored and the timing chain fails you will need a rebuilt engine estimated cost ??? (thousands) The radiator/transmission issues can be avoided by rerouting the lines that run from the radiator to the transmission directly into the transmission cooler, but a better solution is to install an external transmission cooler bypassing the radiator altogether; this way coolant will never have a chance to enter the transmission even if the radiator fails, or leaks occur. If you've made it this far that means you still have interest in the vehicle so I'll continue with my review of actually owning the truck. The Good: Up until 100k the truck was sound mechanically. Had no major issues. The truck accelerates very nicely. The performance is great, and the ride is even more solid when you have a load. I have never towed with it, but the towing capacity is pretty good for a light truck. The A/C gets cold quickly, the heat sometimes acts up and doesn't want to heat until moving, but eventually that goes away. The bed size is great, I've hauled some pretty nice size loads in the thing and I've rarely had issues with not having enough space. I liked the look of this truck over the others in the class at the time. The king cab gives you enough room to store groceries, or have a small child in the back. I've had adults squeeze back there but I would not recommend it. The truck handles well, with the exception of the turning radius. The truck stops when you press on the brakes, and they will get spongy if you don't keep up on them, but even then it will stop abruptly. With that being said this truck is fun to drive and performs very well. The Bad: The Bridgestone trail rated tires that come with the truck are useless on wet pavement and makes the ride quality horrible. I replaced with Michelin tires, I can't recall the rating, but it changed the traction, handling, and ride quality dramatically! The turning radius isn't the greatest. I've wondered how heavy trucks can outturn my truck, at first I thought it was my driving skills, but after driving other trucks; I realized that it's the Frontier with a sad turning radius. You will have to get used to this and swing out on turns, and U-Turns in the thing are terrible at best. Good luck driving this truck, rear wheel drive, in the snow/ice without some kind of weight on the back of the bed. This probably holds true with most rear wheel vehicles, but I'm just pointing it out for people in snowy climates. The Ugly: I started noticing this weird whining sound, and rough start whenever I would crank up the car. The truck would rock when I started it up. I was due for a tune up, so after getting that done the rock went away a little, but the whine was still there. I started doing research and I saw that Nissan issued a service bulletin about the timing chain tensioner issues. Took it to the Nissan dealership the service tech said I need a new timing chain $1900. I did more research and found out that this has been an issue since the 2005 Frontiers and that I missed the boat on getting this fix done under warranty, at this point I was pissed because I was never aware of this issue until after the warrant before it happened! Went to another mechanic that fixed it for 10 hours labor & parts for $1700. Now I'm looking to bypass the radiator and get an external transmission cooler to prevent myself from possibly having to purchase a new transmission and radiator. Just know, Nissan is on the bottom of reliability and customer satisfaction rankings for a reason.
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One tough truck.
justin, 08/06/2009
2009 Nissan Frontier SE 4dr King Cab 4WD 6.1 ft. SB (4.0L 6cyl 6M)
10 of 10 people found this review helpful
I bought mine after a 3 month search, the guy at the dealership was great at finding my truck, and he gave me a great deal. I love this truck. Its rugged, and can take a beating. After a few rough off-road sessions and about 20k miles, the suspension loosened up a little more than I would have liked, but I should have bought the Pro 4X, which I am going to do now that my truck has been totaled in an accident. Which is another reason I love this truck, it took a 60 mph head on collision with a utility trailer & truck when they came into my lane from the other direction. I walked away, but the truck was totaled, but the important thing is it saved me.
2009 Nissan Frontier for sale near you
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- SE Crew Cab 5.0 ft.MSRP: $8,995102 mi away
- PRO-4X Crew Cab 5.0 ft.MSRP: $15,000226 mi away
- SE Crew Cab 5.0 ft.MSRP: $6,999256 mi away
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Better Than I Expected
*El Ocho1*, 12/04/2009
2009 Nissan Frontier SE 4dr King Cab 6.1 ft. SB (4.0L 6cyl 5A)
11 of 12 people found this review helpful
I just purchased this slightly used (8930 miles on it) 2009 Frontier King Cab SE. I mainly needed a truck for work & my two main criteria were confort & reliability. I had originally been looking for a Toyota Tacoma, but for the price of my Frontier I would of got an '06 Tacoma with a lot more miles on it. After driving my Frontier for 2 weeks now I am happier than ever. The truck is very comfortable for me (6'4") & performs great! It feels like a big truck, while keeping smaller dimensions. Looks very aggressive & rides like a car. every time my wife gets in it she comments on how comfortable it is! Hands down a better value than a Tacoma, much more bang for your buck!
I Love This Truck
Gary, 04/17/2010
2009 Nissan Frontier SE 4dr King Cab 6.1 ft. SB (4.0L 6cyl 5A)
5 of 6 people found this review helpful
I've had my Frontier a year, now. If I had it do again, I would still buy this truck. I looked at the Dakota and the Tacoma, and wasn't very impressed. First, I liked the look of the Frontier. But, when I drove one, that was it. The power, felt like a V-8. Too me, it was just what I wanted in a truck.
Buy it
John Holmes, 07/25/2016
updated 01/25/2019
2009 Nissan Frontier SE 4dr King Cab 4WD 6.1 ft. SB (4.0L 6cyl 5A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
Has been a great vehicle for me. Most all service at dealer. NO problems with truck. Handles well,rides well. Still get 20 mpg. Would buy another if still in truck market. This is a 2009 model 7/25/17 Have traded this vehicle in,last fall. Still miss the utility aspect of her. Still recommend a Nissan for whomever is looking. Was a great vehicle👍👌
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I should have bought another Toyota Tacoma
Scott G, 10/17/2020
2009 Nissan Frontier XE 4dr King Cab 6.1 ft. SB (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
I bought my 2009 Nissan Frontier XE King Cab RWD 4-cyl, 5-speed manual as an as-is used vehicle in May, 2020 to replace my old Tacoma that was totaled out in an accident. I wanted a basic cheap work truck and my previous vehicle the 1999 Tacoma served me quite well. I couldn't find a Toyota at a reasonable price so I went with this Nissan that had 165K miles on it. By October 2020 the truck had 173K miles and the check engine light came on and it started running rough. I read the trouble code "P0303" #3 cylinder misfire so I ordered a new set of Hitachi ignition coils, NGK platinum spark (both OEM spec) and a set of Beck-Arnley intake manifold gaskets. Intake gaskets were needed because the intake manifold must be removed first to access the coils and plugs - what a poor design. After going through that repair which fixed that issue when I reconnected the battery I now have no low beam head lights. After checking the bulbs, relay, and fuses all ok I took it to the dealer for diag. The body control module BCM is not sending a signal to the relay box for low beam head lights. The dealer quoted me $1540.69 to replace the BCM which I declined. Now I'm checking into getting the BCM repaired by an aftermarket company...these are problems I never had with my Toyota. There's a reason why a Tacoma is 30% higher on the used car market...not having nearly as many nit picking issues to deal with
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2009 Nissan Frontier/ XE
Dennis, 07/29/2009
2009 Nissan Frontier XE 4dr King Cab 6.1 ft. SB (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
3 of 4 people found this review helpful
This is my second Nissan Frontier, I've owned and drove my 2001 for 8 years and I must say it has been the most reliable vehicle I have ever owned, I still own it. I've owned the new Frontier for 2 months now and the only complaints I have thus far is the drivers seat and the center console.
Horrible Truck
Larry McEnnis, 04/23/2010
2009 Nissan Frontier SE 4dr King Cab 4WD 6.1 ft. SB (4.0L 6cyl 5A)
2 of 3 people found this review helpful
Possibly the worse vehicle I've every owned? All of the companies that write reviews for this truck want to praise it, then why didn't I get the same truck they rave about? The front suspension is horrible. It will not drive straight on the pavement, it wonders from side to side, and heaven forbid if you hit a pothole as it will throw the truck sideways. And talk about bump steer, I've never experianced a truck whose steering wheel yanks to the side when you hit a bump. The steering will flat wear you out if you take it on a dirt road. It will want to pull the wheel side to side with every bump. I have owned trucks for 40 years and this is the worse. I can't wait to sell it.
First Impression
JJS, 11/26/2008
2009 Nissan Frontier SE 4dr King Cab 4WD 6.1 ft. SB (4.0L 6cyl 6M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I am quite pleased with this truck. I was open minded towards purchasing any brand and type of truck. I chose the Frontier for several reasons: Good build quality; metal where you normally see plastic and good fit. Smoothest shifting I've ever seen, especially into and out of 4WD. Name brand tires. Power; (V6) plenty of it with decent fuel economy. Not too big, not too small; perfect size for someone who doesn't live in their truck. Drives very well; confident handling and feel. Overall great truck I think. Assembled in USA. Don't be fooled, you can't have someone in the back for any long period of time in King Cab but I'm ok with that. Oil filter a little hard to get to.
HAPPY OWNER
EONAVYCB, 05/18/2009
2009 Nissan Frontier SE 4dr King Cab 4WD 6.1 ft. SB (4.0L 6cyl 5A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I just bought the SE king cab 4x4 a few days ago. I have been a dodge dakota owner the past few years, and this truck is 10 times better. The cab is quiet, the truck is very tight, and very fun to drive. I have also got several positive comments from others about the lokks and design. I am looking forward to many years of service from this wonderful truck.
Love it!
JCG, 05/25/2009
2009 Nissan Frontier SE 4dr King Cab 6.1 ft. SB (4.0L 6cyl 5A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I miss the fuel economy of my old 1993 Mazda B2200 but the smooth, quiet ride and great acceleration on the highway are so much better than the Mazda ever was and I got a great deal. This truck is also fun to drive with very little road noise. It takes a little while to get used to the quick response when turning the steering wheel. I may change my tune if gasoline hits $4.00 per gallon again but right now i'm extremely pleased with my purchase.
Great Truck
Mike, 06/20/2009
2009 Nissan Frontier SE 4dr King Cab 4WD 6.1 ft. SB (4.0L 6cyl 6M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I am quite pleased with this truck. I was open minded towards purchasing any brand and type of truck. I chose the Frontier for several reasons:Better seating position then Tacoma (I am short); Good build quality; Power; (V6) plenty of it with decent fuel economy. Not too big, not too small; perfect size for someone who doesn't live in their truck. Drives very well; confident handling and feel. Don't be fooled, you can't have someone in the back for any long period of time in King Cab
Fabulous truck!
Julie, 07/03/2009
2009 Nissan Frontier SE 4dr King Cab 6.1 ft. SB (4.0L 6cyl 5A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I bought this truck this week for my birthday...my husband and I have been wanting truck for years, but refused to pay the inflated prices that came along with the "cool factor" of owning a truck. We love nature, and wanted a compact, comfortable truck to take us to the national forests to explore the gravel/service roads where our sedan shouldn't go, as well as handle all kinds of weather, and gardening chores. The Frontier is just wonderful...not to big, very comfortable. I can zip in and out of downtown with no problem; a fabulous sound system. Okay, the armrest could be longer, but the lumbar support is terrific. Forget the Tacoma, it's not even close. There's only one Frontier.
Took the plunge from FORD
Rickter, 07/01/2009
2009 Nissan Frontier PRO-4X 4dr King Cab 4WD 6.1 ft. SB (4.0L 6cyl 5A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Set out to buy a Ford Ranger 4X4. Ford would not deal but Nissan made me a great deal. The Truck is awesome. Very Strong for a mid size. I need a tight turn radius. No wheel hop with this truck. Full size is way too big. They can't fit between many trees when 4 wheelin' The wheels truly unlock and truly lock when you need it. Very nice ride. Interior is nothing to write about but nice enough. Love the 6 speed. Gas mileage average. I wanted the maneuverability in a mid with good pulling power for my HD trailer. Very nice tires and wheels stock on the Pro4X. Bed Tie down system is awesome. Test drive it, you will see.
Great mid size truck
William, 08/04/2009
2009 Nissan Frontier SE 4dr King Cab 6.1 ft. SB (2.5L 4cyl 5A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
The cash for clunkers program stimulated me to trade but it would have been well worth it, even if I had to pay the extra $4500. Nice ride, better mileage than what I was driving and looks great. The 4 cylinder is sufficient for my purpose of mostly driving and some hauling.
2009 Frontier
Susan, 09/08/2009
2009 Nissan Frontier SE 4dr King Cab 6.1 ft. SB (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Been Toyota Tacoma driver for 14 years. Frontier seems ok so far. Rides a little ruff, think it's going to be a rattling truck. Hearing some noises already, bought on 7/31. Stereo is very nice so w/volume up can't hear noises. 4cy automatic doesn't do too well w/cruise on. Like roominess cab, love access doors. Bigger than my 1995 Tacoma so I'm getting used to tighter turning radius. Did cash for clunker & couldn't get Toyota. If I had do overs I might would have taken my chances on waiting to get Tacoma, that was my 1st choice. Just not sure it's going to last me 14 years like last truck. On this review, I'm not sure I chose the right style. It's 4Cy, king cab, power package, full bed
This Truck Is A Keeper ! ! ! !
MaximusStimulus, 11/29/2009
2009 Nissan Frontier SE 4dr King Cab 6.1 ft. SB (2.5L 4cyl 5A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I have just over 4K miles on this truck. I consider it the best looking truck in it's class. It handles well. The ride is slightly stiff but not bad. (Hey...It's a truck...wink) The engine is adequate and the 5 speed auto transmission shifts smooth. The interior is unusually quiet when on the road. (Good sound proofing.) I have the base stereo and it sounds above average. I consider the fit and finish on this truck to be top quality and I look very closely when buying. The interior has excellent quality plastic (dash and door panels, etc) compared to some I've seen. I get 20-22 MPG on combination driving. I haven't done a strictly highway trip...yet. I am completely satisfied ! ! !
Hooked on the King Cab 4cyl 5man
jkw, 04/29/2010
2009 Nissan Frontier XE 4dr King Cab 6.1 ft. SB (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
This is the third King Cab 4cyl 5/man since 1985. 'Nuff said.
Little BIG truck!
rd, 08/20/2010
2009 Nissan Frontier PRO-4X 4dr King Cab 4WD 6.1 ft. SB (4.0L 6cyl 5A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
AWESOME ! This is without a doubt the best truck for the buck I've owned since I bought my first Toyota in 1982. What those trucks did for Toyota this truck should do for Nissan. I read that the output of this 6-cyl was near the F-150 and I had towed with the F-150 (22 ft Boston Whaler Dauntless), so I bought it. It pulls her out of the ramp in the snow and ice we get here in Montana, 4-wheels the mountains and gets over 20 MPG if I don't go over 70 MPH. It does a whole lot better on premium and lousy if you put in alcohol contaminated gasoline. I know that because I took this truck across country towing a smaller boat. Geared right for whatever you want a truck to do.