2020 Nissan Frontier Problems: 2 Issues Every Owner Should Know
2020 model year · 0+ owner reports · Updated April 2026
According to Au7o's analysis of 0+ owner reports, the 2020 Nissan Frontier has 2 documented known issues. No issues are rated critical, indicating generally reliable ownership. Across all issues, repair costs range from $30 to $1,000. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.
All 2 Known Issues
On the 2005-2021 Nissan Frontier, the D40 Frontier is known for progressive rear leaf spring sag, often called "flat bed syndrome." The factory leaf springs are relatively light-duty and sag over time, especially if the truck is used for hauling. The sagging rear end gives the truck a nose-up rake appearance and reduces payload capacity. The issue worsens with age regardless of load carrying, with many trucks showing noticeable sag by 60,000-80,000 miles.
Common Symptoms
- Truck sits low in the rear
- Nose-up stance/rake
- Reduced ride quality over bumps
- Bottoming out with light loads
- Uneven tire wear on rear
How to Fix
Add-a-leaf kit ($150-300 installed) provides a temporary fix. Full leaf spring replacement with heavy-duty springs from ORW, Alcan, or Deaver ($500-1,000 per pair installed). Some owners add helper airbags ($200-400) to assist with heavy loads. Ensure bump stops are in good condition when upgrading springs.
What Owners Are Using
Parts and tips from 0+ owners who fixed this issue
- Tip
- UpgradeComplete strut and shock absorber set for full suspension refresh (KYB Excel-G Strut/Shock Set)
- UpgradeFour-wheel alignment kit with cam bolts for proper tire wear correction (Moog Alignment Cam Bolt Kit)
On the 2005-2021 Nissan Frontier, the D40 Frontier develops a clunk from the rear end during acceleration and deceleration transitions, caused by worn rear differential mount bushings. The rubber bushings deteriorate over time, allowing the differential to shift and create a noticeable "clunk" when transitioning between acceleration and coast. This is one of the most commonly reported issues on Frontier forums and typically starts around 40,000-60,000 miles.
Common Symptoms
- Clunk from rear when accelerating from stop
- Clunk when transitioning from gas to coast
- Thud feeling through the floor
- Worse with higher mileage
- Noise reduced when differential is cold
How to Fix
Replace the rear differential mount bushings with polyurethane or upgraded rubber bushings. DIY cost: $30-80 for bushings. Shop labor: $150-300. Some owners install solid differential mounts or polyurethane mounts for a more permanent fix, though these may increase NVH. The upper and lower diff mounts should both be replaced at the same time.
What Owners Are Using
Parts and tips from 0+ owners who fixed this issue
- Tip
- UpgradeRoyal Purple Max-Gear differential fluid for superior protection (Royal Purple Max-Gear Differential Fluid)
- UpgradeDorman differential cover gasket — direct OE replacement (Dorman Differential Cover Gasket)