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Nissan Frontier: which year should you buy?

Across the 20112025 model years, the public record is strongest on the 2013 (96/100). Every year below is scored on its own NHTSA complaint and recall history — pick the year, not just the nameplate.

Best years to target

2013 96 · 2011 96 · 2016 95 · 2018 94

Every model year, scored

Same math for every year (how we score). A neutral Unproven or Too New stamp means too few owner reports are on file to affirm the year — not that it’s clean.

202593/100
Buy

7 complaints · 3 recalls

202271/100
Buy

110 complaints · 6 recalls

202193/100
Buy

17 complaints · 2 recalls

201992/100
Buy

28 complaints · 1 recalls

201894/100
Buy

25 complaints · 2 recalls

201791/100
Buy

38 complaints · 1 recalls

201695/100
Buy

42 complaints · 1 recalls

201493/100
Buy

42 complaints · 2 recalls

201396/100
Buybest year

48 complaints · 1 recalls

201293/100
Buy

78 complaints · 3 recalls

201196/100
Buy

64 complaints · 1 recalls

Zeroing in on the 2013?

The full year-by-year verdict is free. When you’re ready to inspect and negotiate one specific car, the Full Report turns the 2013 Nissan Frontier’s complaint breakdown and recall list into an inspection-ready, shareable PDF.

Recalls, complaint breakdown & inspection checklist — a shareable PDF

Cross-shopping a different nameplate? Compare the 2025 Nissan Frontier head-to-head →

The fine print: each year’s verdict is computed from public NHTSA complaint and recall records for the Nissan Frontier as a model, not for any individual car. A well-kept example of a weaker year can outlast a neglected strong one. Informational only — always get a professional pre-purchase inspection.