CarComplaints.com Notes: In a very limited selection on small pickup trucks, the Frontier is one of the best options except -- and I cannot emphasize this enough -- for one problem that makes it an avoid-at-all-costs pain in you know what: the radiator ruptures and leaks coolant into the transmission, killing it. Such a buzzkill.

This problem affects most 2005-2008 (and maybe beyond) Frontiers.

Collapse Safety Ratings

NCAP 5-Star Crash Test & Rollover Safety Ratings

Driver FrontPassenger FrontDriver SidePassenger SideRollover
2005 Frontier 4-DR.******************
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2005 Frontier Extended Cab
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IIHS Crash Test & Rollover Safety Ratings

Good Acceptable Marginal Poor

2005 Nissan Frontier Crew cab pickup

Moderate Overlap FrontSmall Overlap DriverSmall Overlap PassengerSide1Rear2Rollover3
G Overall
G Structure
G Head/Neck Injury
G Chest Injury
M Left Leg Injury
A Right Leg Injury
G Restraints
Full IIHS Moderate Overlap Crash Test report »
Not tested. Not tested. G Overall
G Structure
Driver
G Head Protection
G Head/Neck Injury
A Torso Injury
G Pelvis/Legs Injury
Rear Passenger
G Head Protection
G Head/Neck Injury
G Torso Injury
G Pelvis/Legs Injury
Full IIHS Side Impact Crash Test report »
P Overall
G Geometry
P Dynamic
Full IIHS Rear Impact Crash Test report »
G Overall
Full IIHS Rollover Safety report »

1 — With optional side airbags. With optional side airbags

2 — Seats with adjustable lumbar AHR.

3 — Rating applies to both the Nissan Frontier Crew Cab (tested) and the structurally similar 2009-12 models of the Suzuki Equator Crew Cab.

Good Acceptable Marginal Poor

2005 Nissan Frontier Extended cab pickup

Moderate Overlap FrontSmall Overlap DriverSmall Overlap PassengerSideRear1Rollover
G Overall
G Structure
G Head/Neck Injury
G Chest Injury
M Left Leg Injury
A Right Leg Injury
G Restraints
Full IIHS Moderate Overlap Crash Test report »
Not tested. Not tested. Not tested. P Overall
G Geometry
P Dynamic
Full IIHS Rear Impact Crash Test report »
Not tested.

1 — Seats with adjustable lumbar AHR.

Ratings only apply to the model and body or seat type tested. The date of manufacture and optional safety equipment can affect results. For full details see www.iihs.org.

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