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2023 Nissan Frontier Report

Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Updated Jun 15, 2026·Daniel Wilson

Overall Score

6.9/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • The 3.8L V6 engine and 9-speed automatic transmission offer proven, if unexciting, truck capability.
  • A significant recall involving tire bead tear and potential rapid air loss necessitates a thorough inspection of all tires.
  • While public reliability is rated excellent, the LLM assessment suggests average reliability due to limited data and the tire recall.
  • The lack of consumer complaints is a positive indicator for other vehicle systems.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2023 Nissan Frontier

The 2023 Nissan Frontier presents a straightforward, work-oriented truck option for the used market. Powered by a robust 3.8-liter V6 engine paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission, it delivers dependable performance for hauling and towing. While its public reliability score is excellent, the LLM assessment indicates average reliability due to limited data and a notable tire recall. This recall, affecting 12 instances related to tire bead tear, requires careful attention. The absence of consumer complaints is a positive sign, but the concentrated recall on tires warrants a focused inspection.

Critical Failure Risk

A recall addressed a potential issue with the tire bead, which could lead to rapid air loss. While the recall remedy is in place, owners should remain vigilant for any tire abnormalities.

Early detection can help you avoid a $800-$1,200 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls12
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

0

No primary complaint themes found.

Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency
Combined
18
MPG
City
16
MPG
Highway
21
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

8.4/ 10

Practicality

5.0/ 10

The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Buyers seeking a straightforward, V6-powered mid-size truck for general work or light towing.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Buyers looking for the latest advanced technology or premium interior features.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2023 Nissan Frontier Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2023 Nissan Frontier.

  • Recall TimelineOfficial safety notices
  • Owner ComplaintsReal driver reports
  • Failure AnalysisKnown part defects
Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Regular
Transmission
Automatic (S9)
Drivetrain
Part-time 4-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Pickup
EPA Combined MPG
18

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See the full 2023 Nissan Frontier buyer report before you decide

Unlock the complete checklist, maintenance outlook, and buyer verdict in one place.

Most Common Issues

1. Tire Bead Tear

Most reported

Usage data observed

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Inspect Brake System - Inspect Wiper Blades

Est. shop cost: $120 - $180

5,000 mi

Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist
Complete maintenance schedule (5 service intervals)
Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context
Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it
Full specs and trim-level context
12 recall campaign details & remedy notes
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2023 Nissan Frontier reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2023 Nissan Frontier is 8.4/10. Reliability score is 8.4/10. NHTSA recalls: 12. Owner complaints: 0.

How practical is the 2023 Nissan Frontier for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 5.0/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 18 MPG.

What is the overall score for the 2023 Nissan Frontier?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2023 Nissan Frontier is 6.9/10. Overall score is 6.9/10 (Good). Confidence 55%. Maintenance 8.3/10. Practicality 5.0/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2023 Nissan Frontier?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Inspect Brake System - Inspect Wiper Blades at 5,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $400 - $600. Repair prediction highlight: Tires (typical at 40,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $800 • Max: $1,200).

What engine is in the 2023 Nissan Frontier?▾

Engine specs list 6 • 3.8.

What transmission does the 2023 Nissan Frontier use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2023 Nissan Frontier, transmission is Automatic (S9). The paired drivetrain is Part-time 4-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2023 Nissan Frontier?▾

EPA combined estimate is 18 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2023 Nissan Frontier?▾

10 standard and 1 optional driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.

What body style is the 2023 Nissan Frontier?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2023 Nissan Frontier, body style is pickup.

What drivetrain does the 2023 Nissan Frontier use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2023 Nissan Frontier, drivetrain is Part-time 4-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (S9).

Are there open safety recalls on the 2023 Nissan Frontier?▾

This model year has 12 official safety campaigns listed.

Start Here

Maintenance guide

Costs + intervals

Recall report

Campaigns + remedy notes

Owner complaints

Issue volume + categories

In this guide

  1. 01Overview
  2. 02Who This Car Is For
  3. 03Reliability & Problems
  4. 04Vehicle Specs
  5. 05Unlock Full Report
  6. 06FAQ

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