2020 Nissan Frontier: Power Train complaints
Owner-reported issue (NHTSA complaints, not a recall)
Symptoms
NHTSA has 12 owner complaints for the 2020 Nissan Frontier that list the power train component. Complaints are individual owner reports, not verified defects.
Examples:
- NHTSA complaint ODI #11749618 (filed 07/10/2026): “Crank bolt snapped causing me to loose power steering, a part failed that shouldn't have .i have the bolt looks like in was cracked when they put it together, it was only on by about three threads, my mechanic and the one from nissan said they'd never seen one come apart before,lucky i wasn't …”
- NHTSA complaint ODI #11747306 (filed 06/29/2026): “The 9 speed automatic transmission suffered a catastrophic internal failure (codes po893 and po876), forcing the vehicle into limp mode. the vehicle loses propulsion unexpectedly in traffic, and the transmission risk complete mechanical lockup while driving. the vehicle is unsafe to operate on pub…”
- NHTSA complaint ODI #11665234 (filed 06/06/2025): “Hello, i was an owner of a new 2020 nissan frontier pro4x. my vehicle had 33,000 miles, garaged in the winter and never used for towing. all minor maintenance were performed at a certified nissan dealer. on [xxx] i was driving my truck on [xxx] in youngstown when suddenly i heard a terrifying loud g…”
Likely causes
These complaints do not establish a single root cause; read the examples above and get a diagnosis.
Fix, in plain English
No single fix is established by these reports. Check your VIN for open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls, ask a dealer about technical service bulletins (TSBs) or extended warranty coverage, then have the system diagnosed.
DIY difficulty: Pro
Diagnosis needs a scan tool; repair or replacement needs a lift, transmission jack and the manufacturer's fluid fill/relearn procedure. (Our assessment.)
Cost
No sourced cost range for this issue. Get a written quote after diagnosis.
Typical parts (search links, no affiliate codes)
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Sources
Page last updated .