Three problems related to differential unit have been reported for the 2008 Nissan Frontier. The most recently reported issues are listed below. Please also check out the statistics and reliability analysis of the 2008 Nissan Frontier based on all problems reported for the 2008 Frontier.
Drivers side rear axle seal leak. Differential vent leak. Both started about 100,000 miles.
Noticed oil / grease on rear tires sidewall. Taken to Nissan dealer for inspection. Mechanic found a failure of both rear axle seals causing fluid to cover rear axle, differential, rear brakes, and tires. I was advised to not drive the truck due to possible axle and wheel separation from the rear end. If I had not found this I could easily be dead due to wheel axle separation from the vehicle in motion. This is a major safety issue and the vehicle recalled for this problem. After repair was performed the mechanic told me the rear axle housing vent tube clogged causing pressure to build up blowing out the rear seals. Nissan corp. Usa was notified but declined to assist customer with extensive repairs stating that although being under the 60,000 mile power train limit the vehicle was 5 months over the 5 year age limit. Nissan corp. Usa did not view this as a safety issue.
The contact owns a 2008 Nissan Frontier. The contact stated that the vehicle was being repaired for routine maintenance when he was informed that the rear differential axle seals failed. As a result, fluid leaked and the brakes were damaged. The dealer stated the brakes, rear axle, and seals needed to be replaced. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and did not offer any assistance. The vehicle was repaired. The failure mileage was 78,889 and the current mileage was 79,300.