1998 Nissan Frontier Reliability ReportB- grade · moderate risk · system-by-system breakdown
Quick Facts · 1998 Nissan Frontier
- The system most likely to surface first: frame & body rust (major severity).
- Has 5 NHTSA recalls on record — the most notable involves the exterior lighting.
- Outscores the 2000 Nissan Frontier by 4 points — one of the stronger nearby years to consider.
Is the 1998 Nissan Frontier Worth Buying?
The 1998 Nissan Frontier is a robust, no-nonsense pickup that offers surprising longevity if well-cared for. Its straightforward engineering means fewer complex systems to fail, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious buyers seeking a dependable workhorse. However, diligent pre-purchase inspection is paramount, particularly for rust and age-related wear, to secure a truly reliable example.
Biggest Strengths
- Durable KA24DE 4-cylinder engine
- Simple, proven drivetrain components
- Relatively low cost of ownership for a pickup
What Tends to Fail First on the 1998 Nissan Frontier
The systems that break first on the 1998 Nissan Frontier. Mileage windows, repair costs, and fix-before-you-buy notes are in the full report.
1998 Nissan Frontier Recall History
5 recalls on record from NHTSA. Check your VIN atnhtsa.gov to see if the repair was performed.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
SABERSPORT IS RECALLING 16,270 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS
DOPE, INC. IS RECALLING 42,540 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.
What breaks on the 1998 Nissan Frontier?
Full reliability breakdown — engine, transmission, rust, electrical. With repair costs and mileage danger zones.
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Other Nissan Frontier Years to Consider
Compare KeepScores across nearby years of the Nissan Frontier. Click any year for its full report.
1998 Nissan Frontier Alternatives
Similar class, similar year range — ranked by KeepScore.
Relevant Products for Your 1998 Nissan Frontier
Parts and accessories matched to your 1998 Nissan Frontier
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Frequently Asked Questions
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