2018 Nissan Frontier recalls, problems & safety ratings
NHTSA lists 2 recalls for the 2018 Nissan Frontier and 25 owner complaints. The most-reported problem areas are electrical system (5), unknown or other (4), service brakes (4). EPA-rated fuel economy is 18–19 mpg combined, depending on engine.
The 2018 ranks #5 of 14 Frontier model years for fewest complaints (2012–2025), with fewer complaints than the average year (42). It has 2 recalls vs. an average of 2.0 per model year.
Recalls 2
Every recall NHTSA lists for the 2018 Nissan Frontier. Not every recall applies to every vehicle, so check your VIN. Recall repairs are free at a franchised dealer.
Back over prevention · sensing system · camera
Problem: Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2018-2019 Nissan Altima, Armada, Frontier, Kicks, Leaf, Maxima, Murano, NV, NV200, Pathfinder, Rogue, Rogue Sport, Sentra, Titan, Titan Diesel, Versa Note and Versa Sedan vehicles, as well as Infiniti Q50, Q60, QX30 and QX80 vehicles. Additionally included are 2019 Nissan GT-R and Taxi and Infiniti QX50, QX60, Q70, Q70L vehicles. The back-up camera and display settings can be adjusted such that the rear view image is no longer visible and the system will retain that setting the next time the vehicle is placed in reverse. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 111, "Rear Visibility."
Risk: The lack of an image in the back-up camera display increases the risk of a crash.
Fix: Nissan will notify owners in phases, having dealers update the back-up camera settings software, free of charge. The recall began November 11, 2019 and all affected VINs should be activated. Owners may contact Nissan customer service at 1-800-867-7669 or INFINITI customer service at 1-800-662-6200.
Electrical system · ignition
Problem: Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2017 Nissan NV200, Sentra, NV3500 Van, NV3500 Bus, NV200 Taxi, NV1500, NV2500 Van, Chevrolet City Express, 2017-2018 Frontier, Versa Note, and Versa Sedan vehicles that have a mechanical (physical) key ignition system. In these models, over time, the weight on the key ring and road conditions or some other jarring event may cause the ignition switch to move out of the run position to the accessory position, turning off the engine.
Risk: If the vehicle stalls, it can increase the risk of a crash.
Fix: Nissan will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the production information on the ignition switch, and replace it as necessary, free of charge. The recall began October 1, 2018. Owners may contact Nissan customer service at 1-800-867-7669.
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
By the numbers
Recent owner reports
2018 Nissan Frontier Desert Runner... Battery inconsistently drains fast when off and while driving. Indicator lights for battery, brakes, ABS and traction control come on. Gauges malfunction. Tried another battery and still having same symptoms. Alternator and battery passed bench test. Fuses are good. Wiring harness appears to be in good condition. Grounds are tight and clean…
The passenger dashboard airbag keeps generating error codes and the airbag light continually flashes. There have been 2 costly repair attempts by a Nissan dealership, but the problem persists. The dealership stated the passenger airbag was not functioning properly. They want to try a 3rd repair attempt which is the most expensive yet. I have been in contact with Nissan customer…
15 mph door lock system does not work. Have been in garage with truck, and heard doors lock with no one near vehicle. I understand there is a class action suit about the door lock system. Seems to me this system could malfunction and possible lock you in vehicle. This is a 2018 Nissan frontier SL. The FOB function normal locking and unlocking vehicle.
Safety ratings
2018 Nissan Frontier Crew Cab PU/CC RWD
2018 Nissan Frontier Crew Cab PU/CC AWD
2018 Nissan Frontier King Cab PU/EC AWD
Fuel economy
EPA ratings for common configurations of the 2018 Nissan Frontier.
Frontier 2WD
Auto 5-spd · 4 cyl · 2.5 L
Regular
Frontier 2WD
Auto 5-spd · 6 cyl · 4.0 L
Regular
Frontier 2WD FFV
Auto 5-spd · 6 cyl · 4.0 L
Gasoline or E85
Other model years
Questions
How many recalls does the 2018 Nissan Frontier have?
NHTSA lists 2 recalls for the 2018 Nissan Frontier, most recently for back over prevention · sensing system · camera (09/12/2019). 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 2018 Nissan Frontier?
Based on 25 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the most-reported areas are electrical system (5), unknown or other (4), service brakes (4).
Is the 2018 Nissan Frontier safe?
NHTSA hasn't published an overall 5-star rating for the 2018 Nissan Frontier.
Is the 2018 a good year for the Nissan Frontier?
The 2018 ranks #5 of 14 Frontier model years for fewest complaints (2012–2025), with fewer complaints than the average year (42). It has 2 recalls vs. an average of 2.0 per model year.
What gas mileage does the 2018 Nissan Frontier get?
EPA ratings for the 2018 Nissan Frontier range from 18 to 19 mpg combined, depending on engine and drivetrain.
Own a 2018 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.