When Nissan redesigned the Frontier for 2022, it ditched the old five-speed automatic for a nine-speed, paired with the 310-horsepower 3.8-liter V6. More gears means better acceleration and fuel economy on paper. In real life, it also means more chances for the transmission software to feel indecisive.
The recall you need to check: rollaway in Park
In 2022 Nissan recalled 2020-2022 Frontier trucks twice for the same scary problem: the parking pawl might not engage when you shift into Park.
- 22V457 (June 2022): Nissan told owners to use the parking brake every time they park, and dealers replace the parking pawl pin for free.
- 22V671 (September 2022): Nissan's report says friction between the parking rod and the wedge inside the 9-speed can stop the pawl from moving. For the 2022 Frontier (built July 13, 2021 to August 11, 2022), the free fix is reprogramming the TCM.
NHTSA complaints from 2022 owners show why this matters. Several describe trucks rolling while in Park, including one that rolled into a garage and another that moved on a hillside. A number of owners also complained that parts and remedies took months to arrive.
The shift complaints
Outside the recall, owner reports to NHTSA for 2022-2024 trucks repeat the same handful of complaints:
- Jerky or harsh shifts between 0 and 30 mph, and when slowing to a stop.
- Gear hunting around 25 to 30 mph.
- A delay of a few seconds before the truck moves from a stop.
- Downshifting for no reason and then getting stuck in a gear.
- A hard downshift while braking for a light.
A few owners went further. One 2022 owner reported a catastrophic failure at 1,300 miles, with Nissan confirming failed solenoids. Another reported a failure at about 75,000 miles. Pickup Truck Talk notes that several owners said dealer software updates improved shifting, and it describes most complaints as drivability and calibration issues rather than widespread failures.
What it costs
| Situation | Who | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Park recall (22V457, 22V671) | Nissan dealer | $0 |
| Under 5 years/60,000 miles | Nissan dealer | Usually $0 (powertrain warranty) |
| Transmission fluid change, 2022-2025 | Shop (RepairPal) | $402 to $431 |
| Transmission fluid change, 2023 Crew Cab | Independent (KBB, Columbus OH ZIP) | $326 to $382 |
| Transmission fluid change, 2023 Crew Cab | Dealer (KBB, Columbus OH ZIP) | $356 to $420 |
| Transmission replacement, 2022 Crew Cab | Dealer (KBB, Columbus OH ZIP) | $7,570 to $8,142 |
Easy things to try first
- Ask for software updates. It's free, and owners say it often helps.
- Scan for codes. A cheap OBD-II reader will tell you if the transmission stored a fault.
- Write down when it happens. Cold or warm? Uphill? Towing? Speed? A tech who can recreate it can fix it.
- Look for leaks. Fluid under the middle of the truck is a sign to book service now.
What to ask the dealer
- "Are 22V457 and 22V671 done on my VIN?"
- "Is there newer TCM software for my truck?"
- "What codes are stored?"
- "Can you ride along with me so you can feel the shift?"
- "Is this covered under my 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty?"
Is it worth fixing?
Yes. Every 2022-2025 Frontier with normal mileage is still inside powertrain coverage, so push for a fix now and keep records of every visit. Out of warranty, a $7,500-plus replacement is a big hit, but these trucks hold value well, so a used or remanufactured unit with a written warranty can still make sense.
More help is on the Nissan Frontier repair page. ABS light on? See our Frontier brake cost and ABS guide. Prices checked October 14, 2026.
