1999 Nissan Frontier

Introduction:

The 1999 Nissan Frontier is a compact pickup truck available with different engine and transmission options. The standard engine is a 2.4-liter inline-four making 143 horsepower and 154 lb-ft of torque. A 3.3-liter V6 producing 170 horsepower and 202 lb-ft of torque is available as an upgrade. Transmission options include a five-speed manual and a four-speed automatic. The Frontier is praised for its affordability, reliability, and off-road capability. However, it has received criticism for its limited interior space, poor fuel economy, and dated design.

Engine

2.4-Liter Inline-Four

• Timing Chain Rattle:
  • Description/Symptoms: A rattling noise from the engine, especially at startup or when accelerating.
  • Solution: Replacement of the timing chain.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $700+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Head Gasket Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of coolant, overheating, and white smoke from the exhaust.
  • Solution: Replacement of the head gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

3.3-Liter V6

• Valve Cover Gasket Leak:
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaking from the top of the engine.
  • Solution: Replacement of the valve cover gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $250+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Exhaust Manifold Cracking:
  • Description/Symptoms: A ticking noise from the engine and exhaust fumes in the cabin.
  • Solution: Replacement of the exhaust manifold.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

Five-Speed Manual

• No Issues Found

Four-Speed Automatic

• Slipping Gears:
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting between gears or gears slipping out of place.
  • Solution: Replacement or rebuild of the transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $2500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Ball Joint Wear:
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or grinding noise when turning, and premature tire wear.
  • Solution: Replacement of the ball joints.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Leaf Spring Sagging:
  • Description/Symptoms: Drooping rear end and uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replacement of the leaf springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Dimming headlights, loss of battery power, and warning lights on the dashboard.
  • Solution: Replacement of the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain:
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty starting the vehicle, especially after sitting for extended periods.
  • Solution: Testing and replacement of faulty electrical components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust on Frame:
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust spots and perforation on the frame.
  • Solution: Rustproofing or frame replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Headlight Switch Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Headlights not turning on or intermittent operation.
  • Solution: Replacement of the headlight switch.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Air Conditioning Blower Motor Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: No air flow from the vents, even when the AC is turned on.
  • Solution: Replacement of the blower motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Cruise Control Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Cruise control not engaging or maintaining speed.
  • Solution: Replacement of the cruise control module or wiring harness.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

The 1999 Nissan Frontier has potential issues that can range from minor to severe. Engine problems, such as timing chain rattle and head gasket failure, can be costly to repair. Transmission issues like slipping gears can also lead to significant expenses. However, some issues, such as alternator failure and minor electrical problems, are relatively inexpensive to fix. Overall, the frequency and severity of issues can vary depending on maintenance and driving habits.