NHTSA // CRASH-TESTED
2025 Nissan Frontier
Federal crash-test performance, recalls, and complaints, scored into one NHTSA Safety Index.
The Nissan Frontier is a midsize pickup truck that has competed in one of America's most contested segments for decades. Aimed at buyers who want a capable, no-frills workhorse without stepping up to a full-size rig, the Frontier targets value-conscious truck shoppers, small business owners, and outdoor enthusiasts who prioritize utility over luxury.
The 2025 Nissan Frontier earns an NHTSA Safety Index of 79 out of 100, an average result driven by its federal crash-test stars and its recall record. It has 3 recalls on record, reflected in the score.
- new and teen drivers who want standard crash-avoidance tech
- urban drivers exposed to side-impact risk
Reviewers generally regard the Frontier as a straightforward, unpretentious midsize truck that delivers honest capability without the complexity of more premium competitors. They tend to appreciate its no-nonsense character and improved refinement in newer generations, while noting that it trails some rivals in interior technology and on-road sophistication. Most consider it a solid, if unspectacular, choice in the segment.
NCAP // CRASH TESTCrash-test breakdown
Source: NHTSA NCAP, VehicleId 20750
Index breakdown
NCAP // CRASH IMAGESCrash-test images
Crash-test images are US federal government works (NHTSA / NCAP), public domain.
NHTSA // RECALLSRecall record
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:DOORS:LATCH26V023000
Risk: A door that opens unexpectedly while the vehicle is in motion increases the risk of injury or a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the door strikers, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 17, 2026. Owners may contact Nissan's customer service at 800-647-7261. Nissan's numbers for this recall are PD185 and PMA61. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall will be searchable on NHTSA.gov beginning January 28, 2026.
Reported 2026-01-21
EXTERIOR LIGHTING:LIGHTING CONTROL MODULE:SOFTWARE25V508000
Risk: Daytime running lights that dim unexpectedly may cause confusion to other vehicles or pedestrians, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will update the engine control module software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 17, 2025. Owners may contact Nissan's customer service at 800-647-7261. Nissan's number for this recall is R25C3.
Reported 2025-08-07
BACK OVER PREVENTION:SOFTWARE25V324000
Risk: A rearview image that does not display can reduce the driver's view of what is behind the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will update the software on the vehicle’s center information display, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 10, 2025. The manufacturer numbers for this recall are PD152 and PMA48.
Reported 2025-06-04
NHTSA // COMPLAINTSOwner complaints
7 owner complaints on file. These are unverified allegations reported to NHTSA.