Frontier timing chain and coolant issues?

[kweetech]

Looking at a new Pro-4x Crewcab ( dealer is selling for 25,400, and willing to give me 13k for my 04 Tacoma DC w/127k).
I've read a bit about the timing chain/tensioner and tranny cooler/coolant issues. have these been rectified for the new models? Can't seem to find solid info...

 

[justinhw]

I've read that the timing chain tensioner on the secondary timing chain (linking the intake/exhaust camshafts of each cylinder bank) wears out (it's plastic). I have a picture of it on my computer somewhere that I'll try to find.

It is also my understanding that division in the radiator that separates the coolant from the transmission fluid can leak resulting in mixing of those two fluids. I assume it's due to vibration, but unsure if it's a design or manufacturing issue.

I would think that a newer/aftermarket radiator will solve that issue; as to the timing chain tensioner I'm not sure if there are any options besides replacing it when it wears out (evidently it starts making a lot of noise as the plastic wears out exposing the metal bracketry underneath).

Other than that I really like the design of the VQ engine - one aspect in particular I found cool is that the water pump is run off the timing chain, not the serpentine belt.

 

[davidshourd]

If yiur looking at new I think they got both of those issues resolved, but I dont know for sure. Check out clubfrontier.org. Good luck on the purchase

 

[Terawanderer]

I have an 08 6 speed manual....obviously no radiator issue for me....I only have 25,000 miles on it and love the smoothness and power....18 mpg average on trips from LA to Death Valley.....only issue is lifting the truck has very few options...unlike a Toyota.....and get the locker in the rear since the front has little articulation.....very happy with the comfort and ride of this truck...

 

[kweetech]

what I seem to find is this has not been resolved in the newer vehicles...and Nissan doesn't do much to help folks out. Would love to hear to the contrary...

 

[davidshourd]

what I seem to find is this has not been resolved in the newer vehicles...and Nissan doesn't do much to help folks out. Would love to hear to the contrary...

to make a long story short, I had the timing chain tensioner replaced under warranty even though I was out of my warranty in years and miles. took it into Nissan asked them what they thought, they called nissan north america and it was a done deal. got a rental car paid for for two days while all of the work was done and a 60k tune up over half off by the time they were done with the tensioner work. I have taken my truck into nissan for all service and they have always been good (I think) about what I need to keep the truck healthy. I move around a bit so I am currently on my third dealership with good experiences.

 

[troseph]

I can't remember where, but I read the timing chain should be fixed 07+ years. The "radiator kills the trans" fix should be on the newer (07+) models. I just got it done on my 05 Xterra for free at the dealer.

It took until 89,000 miles before my Xterra got the timing chain whine. It was fixed under warranty with the "improved" parts.

 

[AlabamaWill]

Ok, I know the timing chain tensioner is plastic and it wears out. What kind of sound am I going to hear when they start going bad? The reason I ask is my truck is an 06 NISMO with 138*** miles on it. And the only problems Ive had is the catalytic converters went out and evap system. Oh and my factor roof rack has now started to vibrate, making this annoying noise in the cab.

 

[lamontagne]

I have an '05 CrewCab 2wd. The timing chain issue was related to the '05-early '06 models. I got mine replaced at 52K. The radiator issue is suppose to be a 05-early 07 issue. I'm at 100K now and I haven't had a problem yet, but I do plan to bypass the radiator next time I change the oil.

Oh...and I had to get the EMC replaced, the fuses will fail and shut the truck off at random. While driving down the freeway at 70 mph in rush hour traffic with no power steering or brakes!

Other than that, it has been a great truck!