Nissan Frontier 2017 Lift Kit

So, you're thinking about lifting your 2017 Nissan Frontier? Excellent choice! A lift kit can dramatically improve your truck's off-road capabilities, give it a more aggressive stance, and allow you to fit larger tires. However, it's not just a bolt-on and forget-about-it upgrade. This article will cover some common problems that can arise when installing a lift kit on your 2017 Frontier and offer practical solutions.

Common Problems & Solutions with 2017 Nissan Frontier Lift Kits

1. Front End Vibration (Death Wobble)

One of the scariest and most common issues after lifting a Frontier is the dreaded "death wobble." This is a violent shaking in the front end, usually occurring at highway speeds after hitting a bump or imperfection in the road. It can be terrifying and definitely needs to be addressed immediately.

Causes: The primary cause of death wobble after a lift kit installation is often related to altered suspension geometry and its impact on steering components. Here are a few key areas to investigate:

• Inadequate Alignment: Lifting your truck significantly changes the caster, camber, and toe angles. An improper alignment is the most common culprit.
• Worn Steering Components: Even slightly worn ball joints, tie rod ends, or idler arms can be exacerbated by the increased angles and stress from the lift.
• Loose or Improperly Torqued Components: Ensure that every bolt and nut associated with the lift kit and steering system is torqued to the manufacturer's specifications. Double-check, and even triple-check!
• Incorrectly Installed Lift Kit: Sometimes, components are not installed correctly from the start, leading to premature wear and instability.

Solutions:

• Professional Alignment: This is non-negotiable. Take your Frontier to a reputable alignment shop experienced with lifted vehicles. Request a four-wheel alignment. They should be able to get the caster within the factory specified range, or as close as possible. Ask for a printout of the before and after alignment specs for your records.
• Inspect Steering Components: Carefully inspect ball joints, tie rod ends (inner and outer), the idler arm, and pitman arm for any play or excessive wear. Replacing worn components is essential for a stable and safe ride. Use a pry bar to check for play and have a friend move the steering wheel while you observe the components.
• Torque Check: Using a torque wrench, meticulously check and re-torque all bolts associated with the lift kit, suspension, and steering system. Refer to the lift kit manufacturer's instructions and the factory service manual for proper torque specifications.
• Steering Stabilizer: While not always a fix for the underlying problem, a steering stabilizer can help dampen vibrations and improve steering control, especially on rough roads. Consider adding one if the death wobble persists after addressing the other issues.
• Adjustable Track Bar (If Applicable): Some lift kits, especially those over 3 inches, may benefit from an adjustable track bar. This allows you to center the axle under the truck after the lift, which can improve handling and reduce stress on suspension components.

Tools Needed: Torque wrench, sockets, wrenches, pry bar, jack stands, alignment rack (for professional alignment), possibly a ball joint press or pickle fork for replacing steering components.

Approximate Cost: Alignment ($75-$150), Steering Components ($50-$300 per component), Steering Stabilizer ($100-$300), Adjustable Track Bar ($150-$400).

2. Driveline Vibrations

Lifting your Frontier changes the driveline angles, which can lead to vibrations, especially at higher speeds. These vibrations can be felt in the floorboard, seat, or steering wheel.

Causes:

• Excessive Driveline Angles: Lifting the truck increases the angle between the transmission, driveshaft, and differential. If these angles become too severe, the U-joints can bind and cause vibrations.
• Worn U-Joints: Similar to steering components, lifting the truck can accelerate wear on U-joints.

Solutions:

• Driveline Shims: Driveline shims (also known as axle shims) are installed between the leaf springs and the axle to adjust the pinion angle. By correcting the pinion angle, you can minimize driveline vibrations. Experiment with different degree shims to find the optimal angle. Start with a small shim and gradually increase the angle until the vibration is minimized.
• Carrier Bearing Drop Bracket (If Applicable): For two-piece driveshafts, a carrier bearing drop bracket lowers the carrier bearing, which helps to reduce the overall driveline angle. This is more common on full-size trucks, but some Frontier lifts might benefit from one.
• U-Joint Inspection & Replacement: Inspect the U-joints for any play or looseness. If they are worn, replace them with high-quality replacements. Greaseable U-joints are a good option, as they allow you to regularly lubricate them and extend their lifespan.

Tools Needed: Torque wrench, sockets, wrenches, jack stands, angle finder, possibly a U-joint press.

Approximate Cost: Driveline Shims ($20-$50 per set), Carrier Bearing Drop Bracket ($50-$100), U-Joints ($20-$50 per U-joint).

3. Brake Line Extension Issues

When lifting your Frontier, the factory brake lines might become too short, especially with larger lifts. This can lead to them being stretched and potentially damaged, creating a safety hazard.

Causes:

• Insufficient Length: The factory brake lines simply aren't long enough to accommodate the increased suspension travel after the lift.

Solutions:

• Brake Line Extensions: The easiest solution is to install brake line extensions. These are typically braided stainless steel lines that provide the extra length needed.
• Relocation Brackets: Some kits might include relocation brackets that allow you to reposition the existing brake lines to provide more slack. However, be careful not to over-bend or kink the lines.

Important: Never drive your vehicle with stretched or damaged brake lines. This is a serious safety risk.

Tools Needed: Wrenches, flare nut wrenches (essential for brake lines to avoid rounding off the fittings), brake fluid, bleeding kit.

Approximate Cost: Brake Line Extensions ($50-$150 per set), Brake Fluid ($10-$20), Bleeding Kit ($20-$50).

4. ABS Sensor Wire Stretching

Similar to brake lines, the ABS sensor wires can also be stretched when lifting your Frontier, potentially damaging them or causing the ABS system to malfunction.

Causes:

• Insufficient Length: The factory ABS sensor wires are not designed for the increased suspension travel after a lift.

Solutions:

• ABS Sensor Wire Extensions: You can purchase ABS sensor wire extensions to provide the necessary slack. These extensions typically plug directly into the existing wiring harness.
• Careful Routing: Ensure that the ABS sensor wires are routed in a way that minimizes stress and allows for full suspension travel. Use zip ties to secure the wires and prevent them from rubbing against other components.

Tools Needed: Wire strippers, crimpers, zip ties.

Approximate Cost: ABS Sensor Wire Extensions ($20-$50 per pair).

5. Difficulty Installing the Lift Kit

Installing a lift kit can be challenging, especially if you're not experienced with suspension work. It's crucial to follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully and have the right tools.

Causes:

• Lack of Experience: Suspension work requires a good understanding of automotive mechanics and the proper use of tools.
• Incorrect Tools: Using the wrong tools can make the job much harder and potentially damage components.
• Missing Hardware: Ensure that you have all the necessary hardware before starting the installation.
• Stuck or Corroded Bolts: Older vehicles often have bolts that are rusted or seized in place.

Solutions:

• Thorough Research: Read the lift kit instructions carefully before starting the installation. Watch online videos and consult with other Frontier owners who have installed similar kits.
• Gather the Right Tools: Make sure you have all the necessary tools, including a good set of sockets, wrenches, torque wrench, jack stands, and a ball joint press (if needed).
• Penetrating Oil: Apply penetrating oil to any rusty or seized bolts several hours before attempting to remove them.
• Heat: Use a torch to heat up rusty bolts. Heat can help to break the corrosion and make them easier to remove.
• Impact Wrench: An impact wrench can be very helpful for removing stubborn bolts.
• Professional Installation: If you're not comfortable installing the lift kit yourself, it's best to have it done by a qualified mechanic.

Tools Needed: Socket set, wrench set, torque wrench, jack stands, penetrating oil, torch, impact wrench, ball joint press (if needed), spring compressors (depending on the kit).

Approximate Cost: Professional Installation ($400-$1000+ depending on the complexity of the lift kit).

Important Considerations Before Lifting:

• Tire Size: Consider the tire size you want to run after the lift. This will help you determine the appropriate lift height.
• Driving Style: Think about how you'll be using your Frontier after the lift. If you'll be doing a lot of off-roading, you'll need a more robust lift kit.
• Budget: Lift kits range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars. Set a budget before you start shopping.

By addressing these common problems and carefully planning your lift kit installation, you can enjoy the benefits of a lifted 2017 Nissan Frontier without the headaches. Remember, safety should always be your top priority. If you're unsure about any aspect of the installation, don't hesitate to seek professional help. Happy trails!