GMC Sierra vs Nissan Frontier
For 2005–2022 models, the GMC Sierra has 1.7 owner complaints per 10,000 sold, against 19.6 for the Nissan Frontier. Below: what each one’s owners report most, when it shows up, and what it costs to fix.
Both rates cover the same model years (2005–2022), counting each complaint once and dividing by US sales, so the more popular vehicle isn’t penalized for being popular. Years too new to judge are left out. How this is calculated.
GMC Sierra
1.7 complaints per 10,000 sold
91% fewer than the Nissan Frontier
- Complaints
- 634
- Sold
- 3,631,629
- Recall campaigns
- 21
- Open NHTSA investigations
- 0
Most complaints: 2008 and 2014. Fewest: 2018–2021. Every year →
Most-reported problems
-
Calipers, hoses and lines
Typically around 99,634 mi · repair $230–$880
-
Airbags, seatbelts and restraints
Typically around 60,000 mi
-
Doors, windows, latches, seats and trim
Typically around 38,000 mi
-
Body control and other modules
Typically around 55,000 mi
-
Wiring harness, grounds and connectors
Typically around 3,000 mi
Nissan Frontier
19.6 complaints per 10,000 sold
11.5× the GMC Sierra’s rate
- Complaints
- 2,247
- Sold
- 1,143,933
- Recall campaigns
- 19
- Open NHTSA investigations
- 1
Most complaints: 2005–2008. Fewest: 2018–2021. Every year →
Most-reported problems
-
Fuel pump and sending unit
Typically around 64,450 mi · repair $630–$1,700
-
Transmission cooler and fluid overheating
Typically around 104,500 mi · repair $200–$600
-
Harsh, delayed or erratic shifting
Typically around 100,005 mi
-
Airbags, seatbelts and restraints
Typically around 74,000 mi
-
Cooling system: radiator, water pump, thermostat, fan
Typically around 102,000 mi · repair $260–$1,910
Common questions
Which has fewer problems, the GMC Sierra or the Nissan Frontier?
For 2005–2022 models, the GMC Sierra has 1.7 owner complaints per 10,000 sold and the Nissan Frontier has 19.6, counting the same model years for both.
What is the most common problem on the GMC Sierra?
The most-reported problem on the GMC Sierra is calipers, hoses and lines, typically around 99,634 miles; the repair typically runs $230–$880.
What is the most common problem on the Nissan Frontier?
The most-reported problem on the Nissan Frontier is fuel pump and sending unit, typically around 64,450 miles; the repair typically runs $630–$1,700.
Which GMC Sierra and Nissan Frontier years have the most complaints?
Relative to each vehicle's typical year: GMC Sierra: 2008 and 2014; Nissan Frontier: 2005–2008.
Source: NHTSA owner complaints, recalls and investigations; US sales from public industry figures; repair costs from book labor hours and parts pricing at national rates. Complaints are self-reported and not independently verified. Problem lists cover each vehicle’s full history. This is not a recommendation to buy or avoid either vehicle.