2022-2025 Nissan Frontier Right Tail Light: Failures, Part Numbers, and Replacement

Symptoms of a Failing Tail Light

A damaged or failing tail light on your 2022-2025 Nissan Frontier is a safety hazard and can result in a traffic ticket. Since these trucks use modern LED units, you'll see different symptoms than you would with older, bulb-style lights. Here are the most common signs of a problem:

• Dim or Flickering Light: One or more functions of the tail light may appear dim, flicker intermittently, or not light up at all. This often points to an internal failure of the LED circuit board or a wiring issue.
• Brake Light or Turn Signal Malfunction: The brake light may not illuminate when you press the pedal, or the turn signal may not flash. Sometimes, a bad tail light can cause other lights on the same circuit to blink rapidly, a condition known as 'hyperflashing'.
• Condensation or Water Inside the Lens: Visible moisture, water droplets, or a foggy appearance inside the tail light housing is a clear sign that the factory seal has failed. This is a major problem for LED lights, as moisture will quickly corrode the electronic circuits and cause permanent failure.
• Cracked or Damaged Housing: Physical damage from an impact can break the lens or the black plastic housing. This not only looks bad but also allows water to enter, leading to electrical problems.
• Blown Fuses: If a tail light completely stops working, a blown fuse could be the cause. This can sometimes happen if water gets inside the assembly and causes a short circuit. A Reddit user with a '23 Frontier reported their rear marker lights not working, which was resolved by replacing a blown 10-amp fuse.

Buying a Used Tail Light: What to Check

Purchasing a used OEM tail light is an excellent way to save money while getting a part that fits perfectly and matches the quality of the original. However, it's important to inspect a recycled part carefully before buying. Here’s what to look for:

• Check for Cracks and Scratches: Inspect the red and clear lens surfaces for any cracks, even hairline fractures. Minor surface scuffs can often be polished out, but deep scratches or cracks compromise the housing's seal.
• Look for Signs of Moisture: This is the most critical check. Hold the light up and look for any haziness, dried water spots, or a faint white line on the inside of the lens. These are all signs that water has been inside, and the internal electronics could be damaged or on the verge of failing.
• Inspect All Mounting Tabs: The tail light is held in place by several plastic mounting tabs where bolts or clips attach. Make sure all of these tabs are intact and not cracked or broken. A broken tab will cause the light to fit loosely and may allow vibrations that can lead to premature failure.
• Examine the Electrical Connector: Look at the electrical connector on the back of the assembly. The pins should be clean, straight, and free of any green or white corrosion. A corroded connector indicates moisture damage.
• Verify Part Numbers: While these tail lights fit all 2022-2025 trim levels (S, SV, PRO-X, and PRO-4X), it's always a good idea to match the part number if possible. The numbers are typically stamped on the back of the housing.

Known Issues, TSBs, and Recalls

As of early 2026, there are no specific recalls or widespread technical service bulletins (TSBs) from Nissan related to tail light failure on the 2022-2025 Frontier. The lighting system on this generation has proven to be reliable. Some owners have experienced issues with the trailer wiring running light circuit, which is often caused by a missing fuse or relay and is not a fault of the tail light assembly itself.

NHTSA has issued recalls for some 2024-2025 Frontiers related to other lighting issues, such as missing headlight aiming marks or dimming Daytime Running Lights caused by an ECM software error, but these do not involve the rear tail light assemblies.

Replacement Guide

Replacing the passenger side tail light on a 2022-2025 Nissan Frontier is a straightforward job that most DIYers can complete with basic hand tools.

• Difficulty: 1 out of 5 (Very Easy)
• Estimated Time: 15-20 minutes
• Tools Needed: 10mm socket with ratchet or a Phillips head screwdriver.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Lower the Tailgate: Open the tailgate to get access to the two fasteners holding the tail light in place.
2. Remove the Fasteners: On the inside edge of the truck bed, next to the tail light, you will see two 10mm bolts (which may also have Phillips head slots). Remove both of these bolts.
3. Pull the Assembly Out: Grip the tail light assembly firmly and pull it straight back, away from the side of the truck. There are alignment pins that pop out of plastic clips in the body, so a steady pull is required.
4. Disconnect the Wiring: With the assembly free, locate the main electrical connector on the back. Press the release tab on the connector and pull it apart.
5. Install the New Light: Connect the wiring harness to the new tail light assembly, making sure it clicks securely. Align the pins on the back of the new light with the holes in the truck's body and press it firmly into place. Reinstall the two 10mm bolts and tighten them until they are snug, but do not overtighten.
6. Test All Functions: Before finishing, have a helper confirm that the running lights, brake lights, turn signal, and reverse lights all work correctly.

Cost Comparison

The cost for a replacement passenger side tail light can vary significantly depending on the source.

Technical Specifications & Part Numbers

This information applies to the right-hand (RH), passenger side tail light assembly.

• Technology: Full LED
• Fitment: All trim levels (S, SV, PRO-X, PRO-4X) for model years 2022, 2023, 2024, and 2025.
• Known OEM Part Numbers: 26550-9BU1A, 26550-9BU1B, 26550-9BU2A. Part number 26550-9BU1B is the latest revision and replaces the other numbers.