Transmission Noise problems of the 2005 Nissan Frontier

While driving my Frontier, the transmission starting making noise. It started slipping when I was taking off, after having stopped for a red light. Then the service light and indicator lights came on. I could tell that 2nd gear was gone. The truck was towed to a certified Nissan dealer. They informed me that the truck was not covered under warranty and gave me a $5190 estimate. This does not include the $300 for the rental I have had to get for this first week, or the $101 for the towing and diagnostic testing. I have since discovered that the coolant was leaked into the transmission and has caused it to fail. I have also learned that hundreds, if not thousands, have registered complaints that this was due to a radiator failure that was known by Nissan. I did not receive a recall notice or any other notification concerning this problem. I called Nissan consumer affairs and received a case number. After 24 hrs. They called to tell me that they had extended the warranties on the radiators up to 8 yrs. And 80,000 miles, but that they would not be able to help me with my case. I have since found out online that Nissan did not issue recalls on this. My truck had been properly serviced at my Nissan dealership, and both the radiator and transmission was flushed at 30,000 and 60,000 miles. The power-steering was also flushed at 60,000 miles. I believe my dealership should have made me aware of the problem when my truck was in for servicing, and then I could have had the radiator taken care of under the warranty period before all the transmission damage was done. And Nissan should have issued a safety recall, as my truck stopped at 35 mph; and was almost rear ended. I would have normally been on the highway, except once the noise started, I decided to take an alternate route in order to get my vehicle to a safe area. Nissan should have to pay for this period!.

The problem began with a growling noise accompanied by a shuddering sensation. I had the problem diagnosed at the dealership as transmission fluid contamination. They advised me to take the vehicle out of service for repairs at an estimated cost of $6500. I could not afford this so I had my local asme certified mechanic replace the radiator and power flush the transmission at a cost of $900. The problem persists and I expect a catastrophic transmission failure at any time.

Whining noise from front of engine. Diagnosed as timing chain tensioner failing. Numerous complaints online. Dealer covered 300 dollars but after 20 days and 13 phone calls, Nissan USA refused to participate in repair or discuss the issue. Concern for transmission failure due to coolant leaking into transmission. Nissan extended warranty to 80,000 which does very little for those of us that keep our vehicles a long time.

Had been getting some noises from the transmission for a little while, but mechanic never caught the real issue. Transmission failed while driving 100km/h, overdrive and 4th gears no longer worked. Was able to make it home and do quick internet search where it became obvious that my problem was related to engine coolant getting mixed with transmission oil due to failed cooler inside radiator. Opened up radiator cap which confirmed this fact, tranny oil floating on top of the engine coolant. Costs for rebuilding transmission over $5,000, hooked up oil to external cooler already in the truck, therefore saved cost of replacing radiator (bypassed this cooler). This is obviously a manufacturing or design defect, nothing do do with normal wear and tear. Nissan will not reimburse the repair.