How to Improve a Nissan Frontier Fuel Mileage

Ensure that your Nissan Frontier achieves the best possible fuel mileage.

Originally introduced in 1998 as a compact pickup, the Nissan Frontier sought to compete with such popular mainstays as the Ford Ranger and Toyota Tacoma. In 2005, however, Nissan redesigned the Frontier, increasing the physical size of the truck as well as its engine. Yet the Frontier's gas mileage didn't suffer. Immediately after the change, the manual four-wheel drive, 4.0L Frontier averaged 17 miles per gallon/city and 21 mpg/highway, whereas prior to the redesign the manual V-6, four-wheel drive managed just 15 and 18 mpg, respectively. Ultimately, no what year Frontier you have, you can help it achieve its standard fuel mileage rating and perhaps even exceed it.
Difficulty: Moderately Easy
Instructions
1

Drop as much weight as possible from your Nissan Frontier. While your truck is designed to haul heavy loads, weight severely limits fuel efficiency. In fact, an extra 100 lbs. is enough to reduce your gas mileage by 2 percent, according to the Federal Trade Commission. Therefore, do not drive with unnecessary cargo in the bed or cab. Also, if you've installed aftermarket accessories such as steel wheels, large tires, a tool box or grille guard, remove them.
2

Decrease your speed while driving your Frontier. Whether it's the early compact or late-model mid-size pickup, the Frontier is not equipped for speeding or swerving nimbly in and out of traffic. Keep the truck at a steady speed, preferably below 60 mph. In fact, the slower you go, the more gas you'll save. Use your cruise control to limit your speed on the highway. Also, try not to rapidly accelerate or slam your brakes, as these things further decrease fuel economy.
3

Latch your Nissan's tailgate in the upright position. Lowering or removing the tailgate will not increase your gas mileage. With the tailgate, a pocket of air is created behind the cab of the truck. This swirling pocket of air serves to reduce drag. When latched, the tailgate also adds to the structural soundness of your truck, which is important in case of an accident.
4

Do not haul any cargo on the roof of your Nissan Frontier. Although many Frontiers come with an optional roof rack, you should not make use of it if you wish to increase your gas mileage. Not only will the cargo add to your truck's weight, it will drastically mangle the Frontier's aerodynamics.
5

Check your Frontier's air filter often, especially if you use the truck for off-roading. A dirt or dust-clogged filter will make it impossible for your engine to breathe properly. Without a supply of quality air, the truck's gas mileage will suffer. Also, remember to change your Frontier's oil every 5,000 miles (or more if you use it for heavy towing, hauling or off-road). One final way to maintain your Nissan truck and increase its gas mileage: ensure that your tires are fully inflated to the level marked on the sidewalls.