2002 Nissan Pickup

The 2002 Nissan Pickup, also known as the Frontier in some markets, is a compact truck known for its reliability and off-road capability. Engine options for this model year include a 2.4L inline-four and a 3.3L V6. The 2.4L engine produces around 143 horsepower and 154 lb-ft of torque. The 3.3L V6 offers more power, with approximately 170 horsepower and 200 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options include a 5-speed manual and a 4-speed automatic. Owners often appreciate the truck’s simple design and durable nature, while common complaints revolve around the relatively low power of the 2.4L engine and the age-related issues that come with owning a vehicle of this vintage.

Engine

2.4L Inline-Four

• Distributor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine misfires, rough running, and eventual stalling due to a faulty distributor. The engine may not start at all.
  • Solution: Replacement of the distributor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

3.3L V6

• Timing Belt Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine stops running. Catastrophic engine damage can occur if the timing belt breaks, especially on interference engines.
  • Solution: Replacement of the timing belt. Replacing the water pump at the same time is recommended.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic

• Transmission Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Delayed or jerky shifts, difficulty accelerating, and the transmission slipping out of gear.
  • Solution: Depending on the severity, a transmission fluid flush, valve body repair, or a full transmission rebuild or replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 (fluid flush) - $3000+ (rebuild/replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

5-Speed Manual

• Clutch Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, clutch slippage (engine revs without accelerating), and a spongy or unresponsive clutch pedal.
  • Solution: Replacement of the clutch disc, pressure plate, and throw-out bearing.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Ball Joint Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or popping noises from the front suspension, uneven tire wear, and loose steering.
  • Solution: Replacement of the upper and/or lower ball joints.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+ per ball joint
  • Recalls: None Found
• Leaf Spring Sagging/Breaking
  • Description/Symptoms: Rear of the truck sagging, reduced load-carrying capacity, and potential for broken leaf springs.
  • Solution: Replacement of the leaf springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+ per spring
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Dimming headlights, slow or no start, and battery warning light illumination.
  • Solution: Replacement of the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Starter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clicking sound when trying to start, engine not cranking, and eventual no-start condition.
  • Solution: Replacement of the starter motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust can appear in multiple locations, especially in areas with road salt use. Common areas include rocker panels, wheel wells, and frame.
  • Solution: Depending on the severity, rust repair can range from patching small areas to replacing entire body panels or frame sections.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $2000+ (depending on severity)
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Cracked Dashboard
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks appearing on the dashboard surface due to sun exposure and age.
  • Solution: Replacement of the dashboard or installation of a dashboard cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Door Handle Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Door handle breaking or becoming difficult to use.
  • Solution: Replacement of the door handle.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2002 Nissan Pickup is generally a reliable truck, but age-related issues are common. Engine and transmission problems can be costly, especially those related to timing belt failures and automatic transmission issues. Suspension components like ball joints and leaf springs are also known to wear out. Electrical issues are common due to the age of the car and the alternator/starter motor starting to fail. Rust is a major concern, especially in colder climates. Overall, potential buyers should thoroughly inspect the vehicle for rust and mechanical wear and factor in potential repair costs.