2017 Nissan Frontier Engine Is Stalling

Troubleshooting Causes of Engine Stalling in Your 2017 Nissan Frontier and How to Resolve Them

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Reviewed by
Aisha
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
30% chance it's the
Fuel System
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15% chance it's the
Air Intake System
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55% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a 2017 Nissan Frontier engine is stalling are the fuel system, the air intake system, or the ignition system.
  • Fuel System: A clogged fuel filter or failing fuel pump can restrict fuel flow, resulting in poor engine performance and starting issues.
  • Air Intake System: A dirty or damaged air filter or a malfunctioning mass airflow sensor can restrict airflow, leading to reduced engine performance and efficiency.
Proper diagnosis will determine the exact cause of your symptom, saving you money on unnecessary repairs. The diagnostic experts at RepairPal Certified shops have the right tools and experience to solve any symptom.

How much does it cost to fix a 2017 Nissan Frontier engine is stalling?

Common Repairs

The total repair cost will vary based on the condition of your vehicle and the number of repairs needed to fix your symptom. Proper diagnosis will save you money by finding the exact repairs needed to fix your car right the first time.

If the MAF sensor sends an erroneous signal, a few things happen. The engine's computer will trigger the check engine light, and the on-board diagnostic (OBD) trouble codes will reflect the airflow discrepancy noted by the MAF sensor. Depending on the reported volume of air, the engine may try to compensate for these conditions, causing the engine to burn excessive amounts of fuel and emit black smoke from the exhaust. In this case, the OBD trouble codes would also reference faults recognized by the exhaust oxygen sensors. The engine may also have issues with idling roughly, failing to start, stalling, hesitation, power loss, misfires, and fuel consumption.

»MORE: Signs of a failing mass airflow sensor

A faulty oxygen sensor is one of the most common causes of a check engine light. Symptoms may include a decrease in fuel mileage, hesitation or misfiring from the engine, rough idling or even stalling. A faulty sensor may cause the vehicle to fail an emissions test.

Any time there is an emissions fault the check engine light will be displayed. The purpose of the check engine light is to inform the driver that an emission related fault has been found, and that there are on-board diagnostic (OBD) trouble codes stored in the powertrain or engine control module. Additionally, since the emissions systems are so intertwined into engine control and transmission control systems, symptoms may include nearly any sort of drivability concerns. This may include harsh shifting, failure to shift, hesitation on acceleration, jerking, engine failure to start or run, loss of power, or any number of other drivability issues.

When the Check Engine Light comes on, you may experience engine performance issues such as poor acceleration, rough idling, or an engine that won't start. In some cases, no abnormal symptoms will be experienced. Other systems like the transmission or ABS can cause the Check Engine Light to illuminate and lights for those systems can come on at the same time. Similar lights may say "Check Engine Soon", "Malfunction Indicator Light" or just "Check". In rare case the engine can overheat.

What are the initial diagnostic steps to take when a 2017 Nissan Frontier's engine is stalling?

When troubleshooting a stalling engine in a 2017 Nissan Frontier, it's essential to adopt a methodical diagnostic approach that begins with the most accessible components. Start by examining the fuel system, as a lack of fuel delivery can often be the culprit. Check the fuel pump, filter, and injectors to ensure they are functioning correctly. Next, turn your attention to the ignition system; inspect the spark plugs and ignition coils for any signs of wear or damage that could hinder performance. Utilizing an OBD-II scanner is a crucial step in this process, as it allows you to retrieve error codes from the vehicle's computer, providing insights into potential issues. Additionally, don't overlook the air intake system; a clogged air filter or dirty throttle body can significantly impact engine operation. Finally, assess the various sensors, particularly the crankshaft and camshaft position sensors, as faulty sensors can lead to stalling. By following this structured approach, you can effectively diagnose and address the engine stalling issue in your Nissan Frontier, ensuring a smoother and more reliable driving experience.

What are the common problems that could cause the engine to stall in a 2017 Nissan Frontier?

When dealing with engine stalling in a 2017 Nissan Frontier, it's essential to consider several common problems that could be at play. One of the primary culprits is the fuel system, where issues such as a clogged fuel filter or a malfunctioning fuel pump can disrupt the flow of fuel to the engine, leading to stalling. Additionally, the ignition system plays a critical role; faulty spark plugs or ignition coils can prevent the engine from firing properly. Airflow issues, often caused by a dirty air filter or a malfunctioning airflow sensor, can also upset the delicate air-fuel mixture necessary for smooth engine operation. Furthermore, sensor malfunctions, particularly with components like the crankshaft or camshaft position sensors, can send incorrect signals to the engine control unit, resulting in stalling. Electrical problems, including a weak battery or faulty alternator, can further exacerbate the situation, as can vacuum leaks that disrupt the air-fuel ratio. By understanding these potential issues, DIYers can systematically diagnose and address the root causes of engine stalling in their Nissan Frontier, ensuring a smoother and more reliable driving experience.

How urgent is it to address the engine stalling issue in a 2017 Nissan Frontier?

Addressing the engine stalling issue in a 2017 Nissan Frontier is of utmost urgency due to the serious safety risks it poses. When an engine stalls unexpectedly, it can lead to a sudden loss of power, which is particularly dangerous when driving in traffic or at high speeds. This not only endangers the driver and passengers but also other road users. Additionally, a stalling engine can make it difficult to restart the vehicle, potentially leaving you stranded in unsafe or inconvenient locations. Ignoring these symptoms can lead to more severe problems, as the underlying issues may cause damage to other critical components of the vehicle, resulting in costly repairs down the line. Therefore, it is essential to address any engine stalling issues promptly to ensure the safety and reliability of your Nissan Frontier on the road.

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2017 Nissan Frontier Engine Stalling: Causes & Repairs