Nissan Frontier
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.
Modern V6, But the Gearbox Is Still Finding Its Rhythm
The D41 is a proper modern truck at last — the 3.8L direct-injection V6 delivers 310 hp with more refinement and better fuel economy than the old 4.0. The 9-speed automatic is the weak link: hesitation from stops and low-speed jerkiness are well documented, though TCM software updates improve it. Infotainment occasionally reboots mid-drive. Still too young for a long-term reliability verdict, but the engine itself looks solid.
Engine Weaknesses 2
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
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
Vehicle Weaknesses 1
The touchscreen infotainment system freezes, displays a stuck backup camera image after shifting out of reverse, or reboots spontaneously while driving. CarPlay connectivity issues trigger many of the freezes. A hard reset (holding the volume knob) usually restores function, and replacing non-certified USB cables with genuine Apple cables has resolved some cases.