NHTSA & EPA data · updated October 21, 2026

2016 Nissan Frontier recalls, problems & safety ratings

Quick answer

NHTSA lists 1 recall for the 2016 Nissan Frontier and 43 owner complaints. The most-reported problem areas are air bags (10), unknown or other (9), fuel/propulsion system (8). EPA-rated fuel economy is 17–19 mpg combined, depending on engine.

The 2016 ranks #10 of 14 Frontier model years for fewest complaints (2012–2025), with more complaints than the average year (42). It has 1 recall vs. an average of 2.0 per model year.

Free. Shows whether a recall applies, plus specs, problems and ratings for your exact vehicle.

Recalls 1

Every recall NHTSA lists for the 2016 Nissan Frontier. Not every recall applies to every vehicle, so check your VIN. Recall repairs are free at a franchised dealer.

Electrical system · wiring · front underhoodNHTSA #16V181000 · 03/31/2016

Problem: Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2016 Frontier V6 vehicles manufactured February 29, 2016, to March 7, 2016. The starter motor wire harness may have been installed in an incorrect position, allowing the starter harness terminal to contact the heat shield and result in an electrical short.

Risk: An electrical short increases the risk of a fire.

Fix: Nissan will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and reposition the starter wire harness, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began on April 13, 2016. Owners may contact Nissan customer service at 1-800-647-7261.

Common problems

From complaints owners filed with NHTSA. Complaints aren't verified, but patterns across hundreds of owners point to known weak spots.

Most-reported problem areas

Air bags10
Unknown or other9
Fuel/propulsion system8
Engine8
Structure4
Power train3
Service brakes3
Wheels2

By the numbers

43owner complaints filed
3involved a crash
1involved a fire
3injuries reported

Recent owner reports

07/28/2026 · Unknown or other

Our 2016 nissan fronter has a slow air leak on the tires after haveing them checked by a tire dealer it was found the tire pressure sensor (tps) was leaking at the core dealer was unable to remove the core or the nut that holds the tps on the wheel. Galvonic reaction had welded all in place . Dealer cut the valve off and replaced with a new tps (non metal) as is there pratice a…

10/17/2025 · Fuel/propulsion system

I am experiencing a fuel pump issue that stalls the engine while driving. The issue will sometimes go away if I first loosen the fuel cap on the gas tank to relieve built up pressure but after driving for 10 to 15 minutes or so the vehicle will begin to jerk while accelerating then it will stall and cut off. I have to wait a few minutes once it cuts off and then I can start the…

11/11/2024 · Structure

A loud squeaking has developed during every day driving. After inspecting - the front right truck bed mounting location has cracked and failed.

Safety ratings

2016 Nissan Frontier Crew Cab PU/CC 4WD

OverallNot rated
Frontal crashNot rated
Side crashNot rated
Rollover★★★★★

2016 Nissan Frontier King Cab PU/EC RWD

OverallNot rated
Frontal crashNot rated
Side crashNot rated
Rollover★★★★★

2016 Nissan Frontier King Cab PU/EC 4WD

OverallNot rated
Frontal crashNot rated
Side crashNot rated
Rollover★★★★★

Fuel economy

EPA ratings for common configurations of the 2016 Nissan Frontier.

Frontier 2WD

Auto 5-spd · 6 cyl · 4.0 L

16city
22hwy
18combined

Regular

Frontier 2WD

Auto 5-spd · 4 cyl · 2.5 L

17city
22hwy
19combined

Regular

Frontier 4WD

Auto 5-spd · 6 cyl · 4.0 L

15city
21hwy
17combined

Regular

Frontier 4WD

Man 6-spd · 6 cyl · 4.0 L

16city
21hwy
18combined

Regular

Other model years

Compare every Nissan Frontier year

Questions

How many recalls does the 2016 Nissan Frontier have?

NHTSA lists 1 recall for the 2016 Nissan Frontier, most recently for electrical system · wiring · front underhood (03/31/2016). Recall repairs are free at a franchised dealer. Enter your VIN to check whether a recall applies to your vehicle.

What are the most common problems with the 2016 Nissan Frontier?

Based on 43 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the most-reported areas are air bags (10), unknown or other (9), fuel/propulsion system (8).

Is the 2016 Nissan Frontier safe?

NHTSA hasn't published an overall 5-star rating for the 2016 Nissan Frontier.

Is the 2016 a good year for the Nissan Frontier?

The 2016 ranks #10 of 14 Frontier model years for fewest complaints (2012–2025), with more complaints than the average year (42). It has 1 recall vs. an average of 2.0 per model year.

What gas mileage does the 2016 Nissan Frontier get?

EPA ratings for the 2016 Nissan Frontier range from 17 to 19 mpg combined, depending on engine and drivetrain.

Own a 2016 Nissan Frontier in South Carolina?

Our mobile mechanics diagnose and fix the problems above at your home, office or fleet lot in Lexington, Columbia and the Midlands, with dealer-grade scan tools.

Related vehicles

Sources: NHTSA recalls, complaints and 5-Star Safety Ratings APIs; EPA fueleconomy.gov. Data retrieved October 21, 2026. NHTSA model names used: FRONTIER, Frontier.

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