2003 Nissan Frontier recalls and problems
The 2003 Nissan Frontier has 4 safety recalls and 77 owner complaints filed with NHTSA. Recall repairs are free at any Nissan dealer.
Recalls may cover only some 2003 Nissan Frontier vehicles. Check your VIN at NHTSA ↗ to see open recalls for your exact car.
2003 Nissan Frontier recalls
Recall 10V-554: Steering
Problem: Nissan is recalling certain model year 2002-2004 frontier vehicles manufactured from july 9, 2001 through october 20, 2004, and model year 2002-2004, xterra vehicles manufactured from july 9, 2001, through january 6, 2005. Over time corrosion may form in the lower steering column joint and limit movement of the joint. The limited movement of this joint may create excessive load on the lower steering column shaft. If the vehicle continues to be driven in this condition, it may lead to cracking of the shaft during low speed maneuvers that require large steering inputs.
Risk: The shaft may break which could result in loss of steering control during these low speed maneuvers increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix: The steering column shaft and joint will be replaced with a shaft of a different design. This service will be performed free of charge. The recall began on december 13, 2010. Owners may contact nissan at 1-800-647-7261.
Recall 04V-230: Fuel System, Gasoline
Problem: On certain pickup trucks equipped with six cylinder engines and sport utility vehicles equipped with four or six cylinder engines, the fuel pump terminal on the fuel-sending unit can develop a crack in the plastic molding. This can cause the terminal strip to corrode under some environmental conditions.
Risk: If corrosion occurs, the terminal strip could eventually break causing the fuel pump to stop operation. This will result in not being able to start the engine or cause the engine to stop running without warning, which can result in a crash.
Fix: In the following states, dealers will replace the fuel-sending unit. These states are connecticut, delaware, illinois, indiana, iowa, kentucky, maine, maryland, massachusetts, michigan, minnesota, new hampshire, new jersey, new york, ohio, pennsylvania, rhode island, tennessee, vermont, virginia, west virginia, wisconsin, and the district of columbia. In the other states, the dealer will inspect the fuel pump terminal on the sending unit for corrosion. If corrosion is present, the dealer will replace the unit. If there is not corrosion, the dealer will apply sealant to the terminal housing to help prevent corrosion in the future. Owner notification began on june 28, 2004. Owners should contact nissan at 1-800-647-7261.
Recall 02V-316: Wheels
Problem: On certain sport utility vehicles equipped with a v6 engine, an incorrect size wheel rim for the spare tire was provided in these vehicles. The wheel rim does not fit properly as a replacement for a front wheel.
Risk: When installed on the front of the vehicle, the wheel rim will contact the brake caliper causing a loud rubbing noise and could result in wear on the caliper and/or wheel rim if driving continues. Continued usage of the spare tire wheel at the front location can also result in loosening of the lug nuts and deterioration in braking performance. This could eventually cause the wheel assembly to separate form the vehicle and result in loss of control and a crash.
Fix: Dealers will replace the spare tire wheel rim with a new one, and remount the spare tire on it. Owner notification began january 13, 2003. Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact nissan at 1-800-647-7261.
Recall 02V-299: Suspension
Problem: On certain pickup trucks and sport utility vehicles, water may enter the rear axle housing due to inadequate sealing of the anti-lock braking system (Abs) sensor.
Risk: This can result in corrosion and eventual failure of the wheel bearing. If this occurs, the wheel assembly could separate from the vehicle increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix: Dealers will inspect the rear axle for water intrusion and any affected components will be replaced. The ABS sensor will be resealed to prevent water intrusion. Owner notification began december 10, 2003. Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact nissan at 1-800-647-7261.
2003 Nissan Frontier problems reported by owners
| Problem area | Reports | |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel System, Gasoline | 15 | |
| Suspension | 11 | |
| Structure | 10 | |
| Steering | 9 | |
| Power Train | 8 | |
| Air Bags | 5 | |
| Unknown or Other | 5 | |
| Service Brakes, Hydraulic | 4 | |
| Engine and Engine Cooling | 4 | |
| Electrical System | 3 | |
| Wheels | 3 | |
| Service Brakes | 3 |
Most reported parts
- Structure › Body — 7
- Suspension › Rear — 4
- Power Train › Automatic Transmission — 3
- Equipment › Appliance › Air Conditioner — 2
- Fuel System, Gasoline › Delivery — 2
- Fuel System, Gasoline › Storage › Tank Assembly — 2
- Suspension › Rear › Springs › Leaf Spring Assembly — 2
- Air Bags › Frontal — 1
Typical mileage at the time of the problem: 70,000 miles (median of owner reports).
Problems that are not covered by a recall are paid repairs; labor rates follow local mechanic pay — see what auto mechanics earn in each state.
Recent 2003 Nissan Frontier complaints
Owner reports filed with NHTSA, as written (personal details removed). Complaints are not verified by NHTSA.
Other Nissan Frontier years
Frequently asked questions
Does the 2003 Nissan Frontier have any recalls?
Yes — NHTSA lists 4 recalls for the 2003 Nissan Frontier: 10V-554 (steering), 04V-230 (fuel system, gasoline), 02V-316 (wheels), 02V-299 (suspension). Not every vehicle is affected, so check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
What is the most common problem with the 2003 Nissan Frontier?
Owners report fuel system, gasoline problems most often (15 reports), followed by suspension (11). The typical mileage when problems were reported is about 70,000 miles.
Are Nissan recall repairs free?
Yes. Safety recall repairs are free at authorized Nissan dealers, whether you are the first owner or bought the car used.