2021 Nissan Frontier Engine Is Stalling

Troubleshooting Causes of Engine Stalling in Your 2021 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 2021 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 2021 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 for a 2021 Nissan Frontier experiencing engine stalling?

When faced with engine stalling in your 2021 Nissan Frontier, it's essential to adopt a methodical diagnostic approach to efficiently identify the root cause. Start by checking for error codes using an OBD-II scanner, as these codes can reveal specific issues within the vehicle's systems. Next, inspect the fuel system, focusing on the fuel pump, filter, and injectors to ensure they are delivering the necessary fuel to the engine. Following this, examine the ignition system components, including spark plugs and ignition coils, to confirm they are providing a strong spark. Additionally, evaluate the air intake system for any blockages or leaks that could disrupt the air-fuel mixture. Lastly, don't overlook the battery and charging system; a weak battery or faulty alternator can lead to stalling as well. By systematically addressing these areas, you can effectively diagnose and potentially resolve the stalling issue in your Frontier.

What are the common problems that could cause the engine to stall in a 2021 Nissan Frontier?

When diagnosing engine stalling issues in a 2021 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 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 crucial role; faulty spark plugs or a failing ignition coil can prevent the engine from firing properly. Airflow obstructions, such as a dirty air filter or a malfunctioning mass airflow sensor, can also hinder engine performance and cause stalling. Furthermore, issues within the electrical system, like a weak battery or a faulty alternator, can lead to insufficient power for the engine to run smoothly. Sensor failures, particularly with critical components like the crankshaft or camshaft position sensors, can disrupt engine timing and result in stalling. Lastly, vacuum leaks from cracked hoses or faulty intake manifold gaskets can create imbalances in the air-fuel mixture, further contributing to engine stalling. By systematically addressing these potential issues, DIY enthusiasts can effectively troubleshoot and resolve stalling problems in their Nissan Frontier, ensuring reliable vehicle performance.

How urgent is it to address the engine stalling issue in a 2021 Nissan Frontier?

Addressing the engine stalling issue in a 2021 Nissan Frontier is of utmost urgency due to the significant safety risks it poses. An unexpected stall can occur while driving, potentially leading to dangerous situations or accidents. Moreover, neglecting this problem can exacerbate existing issues, resulting in more severe damage to the vehicle's components and ultimately leading to costly repairs. Regular maintenance and prompt repairs are essential not only for the vehicle's performance but also for ensuring the safety of the driver and passengers. By prioritizing the resolution of engine stalling, you can maintain the reliability of your Nissan Frontier and avoid the complications that arise from delayed action.

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2021 Nissan Frontier Engine Stalling: Causes & Repair Costs