2017 Nissan Frontier Coolant Capacity & Type

The 2017 Nissan Frontier typically holds between 9.5 to 10.5 quarts (9.0 to 9.9 liters) of coolant in its cooling system, depending on the engine and specific configuration.

Quick Answer

• Total Cooling System Capacity: 9.5 to 10.5 quarts (9.0 to 9.9 liters)
• OEM Coolant Spec: Nissan Genuine Long Life Antifreeze/Coolant (Blue, Ethylene Glycol-based, HOAT/Hybrid Organic Acid Technology, Nissan L250 Anti-freeze Coolant specifically, or equivalent JASO M325 compliant coolant).
• Mix Ratio: 50/50 Pre-mix or Concentrate mixed with distilled water.

Capacity by Engine Option

The 2017 Nissan Frontier was available with two engine options, and their cooling system capacities are slightly different:

• 2.5L 4-Cylinder Engine: Approximately 9.5 quarts (9.0 liters)
• 4.0L V6 Engine: Approximately 10.5 quarts (9.9 liters)

These capacities are for a complete drain and refill, including the radiator, engine block, and heater core. Always refer to your owner's manual for the most accurate figures for your specific vehicle.

Flush Interval

Maintaining your coolant is crucial for the longevity of your engine. Nissan recommends the following flush intervals for the 2017 Frontier:

• Normal Duty: Replace initially at 105,000 miles or 84 months, then every 75,000 miles or 60 months thereafter.
• Severe Duty (e.g., towing, extreme temperatures, dusty conditions): Consider replacing every 60,000 miles or 48 months, or more frequently if indicated by coolant condition.

Regularly inspect your coolant level and condition. If the coolant appears discolored, cloudy, or has particles, it's time for a flush and refill regardless of mileage.

How to Refill & Bleed

Refilling and bleeding the cooling system properly after a flush is essential to prevent air pockets, which can lead to overheating. Here's a general procedure for the 2017 Nissan Frontier:

1. Drain the System: With the engine cool, place a drain pan under the radiator. Open the radiator drain cock and remove the radiator cap. For a more complete drain, you may also need to remove a lower radiator hose.
2. Close Drain & Refill: Close the radiator drain cock (or reattach hose) and begin filling the radiator with the specified Nissan Genuine Long Life Antifreeze/Coolant (Blue 50/50 pre-mix). Fill slowly to allow air to escape.
3. Fill Reservoir: Fill the coolant reservoir to the "MAX" line.
4. Bleed Air: Start the engine with the radiator cap off (or loosely secured) and the heater on high. Allow the engine to reach operating temperature. As the engine warms up, the thermostat will open, and coolant will circulate. Continue to add coolant to the radiator as the level drops. Squeeze the upper and lower radiator hoses several times to help release trapped air.
5. Check for Bleed Screws (if applicable): Some Nissan engines may have a bleed screw or valve on the thermostat housing or upper radiator hose. Consult your service manual to see if your 2017 Frontier has one. If so, open it slightly until a steady stream of coolant emerges, then close it.
6. Cool Down & Recheck: Once no more air bubbles appear, install the radiator cap. Let the engine cool completely. Recheck the coolant level in the reservoir and top off as needed. Repeat the bleed process if the level drops significantly.
7. Monitor: Over the next few driving cycles, regularly check the coolant level in the reservoir and add coolant as necessary until it stabilizes.

Common Cooling System Issues for this Generation (D40 Frontier 2005-2021)

While generally reliable, the D40 generation Nissan Frontier (which includes the 2017 model year) can experience some common cooling system issues:

• Radiator Failure: The plastic end tanks on the radiator can become brittle and crack over time, leading to leaks. This is more common as the vehicle ages.
• Water Pump Leaks: The water pump seal can fail, causing coolant to leak, usually from the weep hole on the pump. A failing water pump can also make noise.
• Thermostat Issues: A stuck closed thermostat will cause overheating, while a stuck open thermostat will prevent the engine from reaching operating temperature, leading to poor fuel economy and reduced heater performance.
• Hose Leaks: Rubber hoses can degrade, crack, and leak over time due to age and exposure to heat and pressure. Inspect hoses regularly for bulges, cracks, or softness.
• Coolant Temperature Sensor Failure: A faulty coolant temperature sensor can send incorrect readings to the engine control unit (ECU), leading to incorrect fan operation or dashboard warning lights.
• Heater Core Clogging/Leaks: While less common, the heater core can become clogged, leading to a lack of cabin heat, or it can leak, causing a sweet smell inside the cabin and fogging of the windows.

Regular maintenance and using the correct type and mix of coolant are your best defenses against these issues.

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