2018 Nissan Frontier: Transmission & Axle Gear Ratios
AI-generated reference. Always verify torque values, fluid capacities, intervals, and procedures against the manufacturer's service manual or OEM repair information before performing work. Repairius is not liable for damage from acting on this content without verification.
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Transmission gear ratios
The 2018 Nissan Frontier was offered with a choice of two transmissions: a 5-speed automatic and a 5-speed manual for 4-cylinder models, or a 5-speed automatic and a 6-speed manual for V6 models.
5-Speed Automatic (RE5R05A)
| Gear | Ratio |
|---|---|
| 1st | 3.84:1 |
| 2nd | 2.35:1 |
| 3rd | 1.53:1 |
| 4th | 1.00:1 |
| 5th | 0.84:1 |
| Reverse | 2.77:1 |
6-Speed Manual (FS6R31)
| Gear | Ratio |
|---|---|
| 1st | 4.37:1 |
| 2nd | 2.52:1 |
| 3rd | 1.77:1 |
| 4th | 1.25:1 |
| 5th | 1.00:1 |
| 6th | 0.87:1 |
| Reverse | 3.96:1 |
5-Speed Manual (FS5W71C) - 4-Cylinder Only
| Gear | Ratio |
|---|---|
| 1st | 3.99:1 |
| 2nd | 2.38:1 |
| 3rd | 1.50:1 |
| 4th | 1.00:1 |
| 5th | 0.81:1 |
| Reverse | 3.66:1 |
Available axle ratios
| Ratio | Available With (engine/trim/package) | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| 3.13:1 | V6, Automatic, 2WD | Fuel Economy |
| 3.36:1 | V6, Automatic, 4WD | Balanced |
| 3.54:1 | V6, Manual, 4WD | Balanced |
| 3.69:1 | V6, Manual, 2WD | Towing |
| 4.64:1 | 4-Cylinder, Manual, 2WD | Towing |
| 4.88:1 | 4-Cylinder, Automatic, 2WD | Towing |
How to identify your axle ratio
Unlike GM vehicles with RPO codes in the glove box or Ford/Ram with axle tags, Nissan uses a different identification method. The easiest way to determine your 2018 Nissan Frontier's axle ratio is to check the vehicle information sticker located on the driver's side door jamb. Look for the "Axle" code, which will be a four-character code. The last two characters of this code correspond to the axle ratio. For example, a code of CA31 would indicate a 3.13:1 ratio.
Towing vs MPG impact
A numerically lower axle ratio (e.g., 3.13:1) will result in lower engine RPM at highway speeds, which generally leads to better fuel economy. Conversely, a numerically higher axle ratio (e.g., 3.69:1 or higher) provides more torque to the wheels, which is better for towing and acceleration, but will result in higher engine RPM and thus, lower fuel economy.
Common issues
While the 2018 Nissan Frontier is generally a reliable truck, some owners have reported issues with the rear differential, specifically with the axle seals. This can lead to a fluid leak, which if left unaddressed, can cause damage to the ring and pinion gears due to lack of lubrication. It's important to address any signs of a leak promptly to avoid a more costly repair.
Find a driveline shop on Repairius.
More specs for the 2018 Nissan Frontier
Oil Capacity & Filter
Capacity, weight, filter PN, drain plug torque, change interval.
Fluid Type Specs
Engine oil, coolant, ATF, diff, brake, PS, DEF — with OEM spec numbers.
Coolant Capacity & Type
Total system capacity, OEM coolant spec, flush interval, bleed tips.
Transmission Fluid & Service
Trans model, fluid spec, capacity, filter PN, service interval.
Torque Specifications
Lug nuts, drain plug, caliper, axle nut, plug, key fasteners.
Brake Pad & Rotor Specs
Pad PNs, rotor size, min thickness, caliper torque.
Tire Size & Pressure
OEM size, cold psi, bolt pattern, wheel size, TPMS.
Battery Size & Group
Group size, CCA, AGM/flooded, dimensions, reset note.
A/C Refrigerant & Oil
R-134a or R-1234yf, charge oz, PAG oil spec.
Bulb Sizes (Headlight, Tail, Fog)
Headlight, fog, tail, turn, reverse, interior.
Factory Maintenance Schedule
Service intervals by mileage, severe-duty notes, known issues.
Towing Capacity & Payload
Max tow, payload, GVWR/GCWR, hitch class by trim.
Fuse Box Diagram & Amperage
Fuse box locations, layout, amps, and what each fuse controls.
Serpentine Belt Routing & Length
Belt routing, length, rib count, OEM + aftermarket PNs.
Wheel Alignment Specifications
Camber, caster, toe ranges (front & rear), adjustability notes.
Paint Color Codes
All factory colors with paint codes, sticker location, touch-up tips.
Wiper Blade Sizes
Driver/passenger/rear blade size, attachment, OEM + cross-refs.
Spark Plug Type & Gap
Plug PN, gap, torque, interval by engine.
Key Fob Programming
DIY programming steps, FCC ID, fob PN, battery, transponder.
Same spec — other model years
Maintenance & repair guides
2018 Nissan Frontier Maintenance Schedule →
Available maintenance guidance; confirm the manufacturer schedule.
Repair planning references →
Plan the scope of work; detailed procedures need configuration-matched evidence.
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