2004 Nissan Pickup

The 2004 Nissan Pickup, also known as the Frontier in North America, is a compact truck known for its reliability and off-road capability. Engine options included a 2.4L inline-4 and a 3.3L V6. The 2.4L produced approximately 143 horsepower and 154 lb-ft of torque. The 3.3L V6 offered around 180 horsepower and 202 lb-ft of torque. Available transmissions were a 5-speed manual and a 4-speed automatic. Owners often praised its simple design and ruggedness, but some common complaints involved rust issues and certain component failures related to age.

Engine

2.4L Inline-4

• Timing Chain Tensioner Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noise from the engine, especially on startup. Can lead to timing chain skipping and severe engine damage.
  • Solution: Replace the timing chain tensioner and possibly the timing chain itself, depending on the severity of the damage.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

3.3L V6

• Distributor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine misfires, rough running, stalling, and difficulty starting. Check engine light may illuminate with codes related to the distributor or camshaft position sensor.
  • Solution: Replace the distributor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Leaks (Valve Cover Gaskets and Oil Pan Gasket)
  • Description/Symptoms: Visible oil leaks on the engine, burning oil smell, low oil level.
  • Solution: Replace the valve cover gaskets and/or oil pan gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400 (per gasket replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic

• Shifting Problems/Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Erratic shifting, slipping between gears, delayed engagement, or failure to shift properly.
  • Solution: In some cases, a fluid flush and filter change might help. More severe cases may require a transmission rebuild or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 (fluid change) - $2000+ (rebuild/replace)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Lower Ball Joint Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the front suspension, especially when turning or going over bumps. Excessive play in the front wheels when checked manually. Can cause loss of control.
  • Solution: Replace the lower ball joints.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500 (per side)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Idler Arm/Pitman Arm Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Loose steering, wandering, difficulty keeping the vehicle straight on the road.
  • Solution: Replace the idler arm and/or pitman arm.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Dimming headlights, slow cranking, battery warning light on, stalling.
  • Solution: Replace the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found
• Instrument Cluster Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Gauges stop working or provide inaccurate readings. Illumination problems.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the instrument cluster.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust (Frame and Body)
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust forming on the frame, especially in areas with road salt exposure. Rust on the body panels, particularly around the wheel wells, rocker panels, and door bottoms.
  • Solution: Rust repair or replacement of affected panels. Frame repair can be very costly or require complete frame replacement, depending on the severity.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $5000+ (depending on the extent of the rust)
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks forming in the dashboard plastic, especially in areas exposed to direct sunlight.
  • Solution: Dash cover or dashboard replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2004 Nissan Pickup suffers from typical issues associated with aging vehicles, especially concerning rust and wear on suspension components. Engine and transmission issues, while present, tend to be less widespread. Rust is the most serious concern due to potential safety implications and high repair costs. Addressing suspension issues promptly can prevent further damage and maintain safe handling. Dashboard cracking is a common cosmetic issue. Overall, the severity and cost of repairs vary significantly depending on the vehicle’s condition and location.