Nissan Frontier D41

The 3.8L direct-injection V6 replaced the aging VQ40DE for the 2022 redesign. Makes 310 hp with noticeably more refinement and better fuel economy than the old 4.0. Pairs exclusively with a JATCO 9-speed automatic that is the main sore point — hesitation from stops, harsh low-speed shifts, and gear-hunting at highway speeds are well documented in TSBs (NTB21-073, NTB24-005). TCM reprograms help but do not fully solve the issue. Some early-production engines show cold-start knocking that Nissan has warranted with full engine replacements. The infotainment system occasionally reboots mid-drive. Overall a solid modern powertrain that needs a few more software revisions to smooth out.

• !! Cold start engine knocking noise from 8,000 km

  Some early-production VQ38DD engines develop a noticeable knocking sound on cold starts, typically within the first 10,000 miles. The knock usually subsides within minutes as the engine warms. Nissan has replaced engines under warranty in some cases, but the root cause remains unclear.

  Symptoms: Loud metallic knocking on cold start that fades after 2-5 minutes of warming, noise appears to come from the bottom end, more pronounced after overnight sits
  0–5,000 $
  Ad VQ38DD engine Nissan Frontier 2022Frontier D41 engine knock warranty
• !! 9-speed automatic harsh shifts and hesitation from 15,000 km

  The JATCO 9-speed automatic (GE9R01A) exhibits hesitation when accelerating from a stop, harsh low-speed shifts, and occasional clunking during gear changes. Nissan has issued multiple TSBs (NTB21-073, NTB21-086) for TCM reprogramming, but fixes don't fully resolve the issue for all owners.

  Symptoms: Hesitation or lag when accelerating from stop, jerking at low speeds in traffic, clunking noise during 1-2 or 2-3 upshifts, transmission hunting between gears at 40-50 mph
  0–3,000 $
  Ad GE9R01A transmission Nissan FrontierTCM reprogram Frontier 9-speed NTB21-0739-speed valve body Nissan Frontier D41
• !! High-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) premature wear from 100,000 km

  The mechanical high-pressure fuel pump on the VQ38DD generates the injection pressure required for direct injection. Similar to experience with the VQ37VHR, the pump can show premature wear — especially with infrequent oil changes. Symptoms include hard cold starts and pressure drop faults.

  Symptoms: Hard cold start or extended cranking time, fuel pressure fault code P0087, power loss at high rpm, possible misfires under load
  400–1,200 $
  Ad VQ38DD high pressure fuel pump HPFP16600-JK20D fuel pump Nissan Frontierfuel pressure regulator VQ38DD

+ 3 more engine weaknesses + vehicle weaknesses