Nissan Armada Years to Avoid When Buying Used

When you plan to buy a used Nissan Armada, research a bit about which years to avoid. To be honest, not all model years are created equal, and some come with more issues than others. 

Certain years have a history of causing owners headaches, from engine problems to transmission issues. In this article, I’ll walk you through the Nissan Armada years to avoid so you can make a more informed decision when looking for your next ride.

Common Issues with the Nissan Armada

Some of the most common problems in certain Nissan Armada models are:

Engine Problems

The Nissan Armada is used to having engine problems, especially with the 5.6-liter V8 engine. The owners have reported excessive oil consumption and engine misfires. Such issues can result in expensive repairs, especially when the engine must be fully replaced.

Transmission Failures

Transmission issues have been a common complaint with the Nissan Armada and cars often have rough shifts or fail altogether. The affected drivers have also complained of slipping gears, hesitation while accelerating, and delayed gear shifts. Fixing or replacing the transmission can be costly and time-consuming.

Suspension and Brake Concerns

Nissan Armada’s suspension system can have a premature fault that can cause a rougher ride and poor handling. In addition, brake components, including the rotors and pads, can wear out too fast. These problems can become a factor in the vehicle’s overall performance and safety.

Electronic System Malfunctions

Electronic system failures of the Nissan Armada can frustrate owners and make them incapable of solving particular problems. Some owners have experienced issues with the sensors and warning lights on the vehicle, which leads to confusion and expensive diagnostic tests. There are even times when there are issues with the electricity, and the car will not start or respond.

Fuel Economy Issues

There is so much negative feedback on the Nissan Armada’s durability due to poor fuel economy, particularly when it comes to large SUVs. The fact that it is a heavy vehicle and its engine is powerful means that it consumes a lot of fuel, which can cost daily users a lot of money. This problem is very clear to those owners who make long road trips or use their Armada for towing purposes.

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Nissan Armada Years to Avoid

A couple of Nissan Armada model years have earned a bad name in terms of reliability. The model years that are to be avoided if you want the best performance and life from your vehicle are as listed below.

2004 Nissan Armada

The 2004 Armada was a revolutionary vehicle from the past but is famous for several mechanical problems. It had some engine issues, such as excessive oil consumption and unpleasant idling, and many owners reported transmission failures. Also, the vehicle’s suspension system was problematic. This made the 2004 model a less reliable choice for long-term purchase.

2005 Nissan Armada

The 2005 model did not do much better, as the engine and transmission problems experienced in the previous year continued. Bothersome complaints included electrical malfunctions like failure of the power windows and problems with the lighting system. These issues continued, resulting in a major drop in reliability, with which many owners were not happy with the purchase.

2017 Nissan Armada

Younger as compared to the 2017 Armada, older issues still affected it, which can prove problematic to used car buyers. The suspension system was constantly criticized for offering a bumpy and uncomfortable ride, and several drivers complained of poor fuel consumption. Also, some owners complained about the braking system as premature wear and weird noises occurred.

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Best Nissan Armada Years to Consider

Some Nissan Armada models are more reliable and don’t have any serious issues. They are better for long-term ownership. These models include:

2010 Nissan Armada

The 2010 Armada is usually considered as one of the most reliable models of recent years. It has advanced features and design upgrades, fixing the problems that were experienced in the previous models. Owners have mentioned fewer mechanical problems, a better ride, smoother interior, and this car makes a good choice for those who need a good family SUV.

2012 Nissan Armada

The 2012 Armada continues the trend of solid performance with fewer reliability concerns. This model year had fewer engine or transmission failure reports than earlier, and its ride quality was generally improved. 

Nissan made big updates to the interior, offering a more modern and comfortable experience. These things made it a favorite among buyers looking for a reliable full-size SUV.

2018 Nissan Armada

The 2018 Armada is the second generation of this type of vehicle and is known for its modern features and good performance. The 2018 model has better technology, more security features, and a smoother ride. 

It fixed many of the problems that have been seen in the past few years. The 2018 Armada has better overall reliability and fewer mechanical issues, and so the model is one of the best used options.

2020 Nissan Armada

One of the newest models, which has received good reviews so far, is the 2020 Nissan Armada. It has better features and reliability, among other things. It offers the latest tech, including new safety equipment and a smoother, quieter cabin. 

The engine and transmission work effectively, and the car is famous for its towing abilities; it is a good choice for those who need power without compromising on comfort.

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Nissan Armada Maintenance Tips

To keep your Nissan Armada in good condition, you should adhere to regular maintenance. 

• Start with regular oil changes, around 5,000 miles, for the engine to run smoothly. 
• Regularly check and replace transmission fluids and brake pads, especially if you tow heavy loads. 
• Monitor tire pressure and alignment for even wear. 
• Be sure to check the suspension and the cooling system occasionally, as they have a bad reputation. 
• Also, do not rule out warning lights on the dashboard; get them inspected immediately. 

These easy steps can save you from larger troubles and can make your Armada last much longer.

Conclusion

Although the Armada offers great performance and comfort, you should know which specific Nissan Armada years to avoid. Examples of such models have been given above and are famous for regular engine, transmission, and suspension problems. 

Therefore, it is not the best choice for a long-term drive. If you are looking for a used Armada, choosing a later version can help you have a smoother experience on the road.

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