Nissan Armada problems

The Nissan Armada (retrospectively referred to unofficially as the Nissan Pathfinder Armada) is a full-size SUV manufactured by Nissan for the North American market. From 2003 to 2015, the first-generation Armada was assembled in Canton, Mississippi based on the Nissan Titan. From mid-2016 onwards, the second-generation Armada has been built in Yukuhashi, Kyushu, Japan and shares the same platform as the Nissan Patrol, with American-specific modifications, and went on sale in late mid-2016 as a 2017 model. A luxury version of the Armada has been sold as the Infiniti QX80 (originally QX56).
First generation (TA60; 2004)
The 2004 model Pathfinder Armada was unveiled on April 17, 2003, at the New York International Auto Show. Developed under Carlos Ghosn's NRP (Nissan Revival Plan), development was done in September 1999 to 2003 under lead designers Shiro Nakamura and Diane Allen and chief engineers Yuzo Sakita and Larry Dominique. In January 2001, a final exterior design by Giovanny Arroba had been approved by Sakita, Allen, Nakamura, and Nissan executive management, with the final design freeze being completed in July 2001. It is assigned the platform code TA60.
Prototypes based on the Y61 Patrol were hand-assembled as mules from 2001, with the first TA60-specific prototypes being completed and sent to testing in early 2002. Design patents were filed in 2003, with production starting on August 14, 2003, and going on sale on October 1, 2003.
The Armada had a 5.6 L VK56DE V8 engine that made 305 hp (227 kW) and 385 lb⋅ft (522 N⋅m) of torque. This was mated to a 5-speed automatic transmission, and the Armada had a choice of either rear-wheel drive or four-wheel drive. There are some Armadas that are capable of using E85. It has a towing capacity of up to 9,000 lb (4,000 kg).
The rear door handles are installed on the "C" pillar as part of a Nissan design tradition that started with the 1986 Nissan Pathfinder. When the four-door Pathfinder was introduced, Nissan chose to conceal the door handles as a part of the "C" pillar trim to visually make it appear like a two-door truck with a camper shell, with conventional door handles on the front doors.
The switch to the Armada name occurred in September 2004 for the 2005 model year, where it received new badges without "Pathfinder." The 2005 model year also included a backup camera.
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Nissan Armada model years
Common Nissan Armada problems
The Nissan Armada, a full-size SUV based on the Japanese manufacturer's popular Titan pickup truck, is known for its luxurious interior and smooth ride. However, like any vehicle, it is prone to certain problems. Here are some of the most common issues that Nissan Armada owners have reported, based on the provided search results:
- Rusty engine harness: The Nissan Armada's engine design has a flaw that allows water to accumulate between the transmission wiring harness and the engine, leading to corrosion. This can make starting the engine difficult, causing it to stall or crank without starting. In some cases, the transmission may also be affected, preventing it from shifting correctly. The rusty engine harness will need to be replaced to resolve the issue.
- Failed catalytic converter: The catalytic converter is responsible for reducing harmful emissions by filtering toxic byproducts from the exhaust gases. When it fails, the check engine warning light will illuminate. This issue is common in Nissan Armadas from 2005 to 2014. A faulty fuel pump or oxygen sensor can cause the converter's failure by lowering fuel pressure or causing a disparity in the air-to-fuel mixture. Replacing the fuel pump or oxygen sensor along with the failed catalytic converter should fix the problem.
- Pulsating brake pads: Some Nissan Armada drivers have reported experiencing pulsating vibrations in the brake pedals or steering wheel during moderate or light braking. This issue is most common in 2005, 2006, 2008, and 2011 models. All four brake rotors must be resurfaced or replaced, and updating the brake pads and other brake components is also required to complete the fix.
- Overhead console falls: The overhead consoles on a vehicle are not supposed to wear out, but the Nissan Armada's console has been known to fall due to reduced quality in the material used for its production. This can be dangerous as it may startle drivers and cause accidents.
- Suspension problems: The Nissan Armada's active air suspension, which provides a smooth ride, can develop issues with its sensors, airbags, control modules, compressor, and valve block. These problems can cause the vehicle to maintain an improper height, affect its movements, or even prevent it from lifting or dropping. A suspension warning light will alert drivers to these issues, and replacing or repairing the faulty components should resolve the problem.
It is important to note that not all Nissan Armadas will experience these issues, and many owners have reported having trouble-free experiences with their vehicles. However, being aware of these common problems can help potential buyers make informed decisions and take appropriate precautions when purchasing a Nissan Armada.
What is the common problem with Nissan Armada?
The Nissan Armada is a reliable full-size SUV with a 3.5 out of 5.0 reliability rating from RepairPal. Some of the top Nissan Armada problems include brake problems, the overhead console falling down, and catalytic converter failure.
Are Nissan Armada reliable?
The 2024 Nissan Armada has a predicted reliability score of 79 out of 100. A J.D. Power predicted reliability score of 91-100 is considered the Best, 81-90 is Great, 70-80 is Average and 0-69 is Fair and considered below average.
What years did Nissan Armada have transmission problems?
On the 2004-2015 Nissan Armada, the OEM transmission cooler isn't able to remove enough heat from the ATF, which is the leading cause of damaged transmission bands, clutches, and torque converters.
How many miles will a Armada last?
How long will the Nissan Armada last? The Nissan Armada can last around 200,000 miles or even more! As long as you are getting your routine maintenance and taking care of your car overall, this should be no problem.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Nissan Armada years
We have researched Nissan problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Nissan Armada cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Nissan Armada model years:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Nissan Armada model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Nissan Armada years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Nissan Armada car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Nissan Armada , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Service brakes problems
- Hydraulic problems
- Electrical system problems
- Air bags problems
- Unknown or other problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Nissan Armada vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Armada model years
A total of 62 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Armada model years
There were a total of 28 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Armada model years
There were a total of 64 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with deaths by Armada model years
There were a total of 2 complaints that resulted in a death. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 1691 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Nissan Armada . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Nissan Armada vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Nissan Armada 2017
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-03
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-20
- VIN: JN8AY2NC0H9
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
- Summary: When pressing button to start, car gets stuck mid turn on and shakes. Doesn’t fully turn on and continues shaking. Button stops working. After multiple presses eventually turns car back off. Sometimes happens twice in a row or will start after the shaking on off.
Nissan Armada 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-17
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-17
- VIN: JN8AY2NC5K9
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: Car intermittent problems with not starting. Believe it has to do with smart alternator not charging cause of short distance driving and not getting full charge so it runs down the battery.
Nissan Armada 2012
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-13
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-14
- VIN: 5N1BA0ND4CN
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Ignition doesn't respond when key is inserted and turned to start. Sometimes it does it, sometimes it doesn't. When it doesn't work, it usually takes about 10 or 15 times trying and then it eventually starts.
Nissan Armada 2018
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-25
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-01
- VIN: JN8AY2NC3JX
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: I TAKE MY VEHICLE TO THE SAME DEALER FOR ALL SERVICES AND OVER THE PAST SEVERAL YEARS, I'VE HAD "BATTERY ISSUES" THAT TURN OUT TO BE CONTROL MODULE ISSUES THAT REQUIRE NEW WIRING FOR THE VEHICLE TO RUN AT ALL, BATTERY COMPLETELY DRAINS AFTER SEVERAL SMALL TRIPS AROUND TOWN. I HAVE FULLY REPLACED THE BATTERY, DONE A WARRANTY ON IT AFTER THAN AND I'M STILL CONSTANTLY STRANDED. NISSAN DOESN'T WANT TO COVER ANY OF THE LABOR ($645.00) THAT IT REQUIRES TO RUN AT ALL. NO PARTS ARE NEEDED, IT'S JUST LABOR TO RECONFIGURE THE WAY THE ALTERNATOR WORKS BUT THEY'RE TELLING ME IT'S MY PROBLEM TO FIX BUT IT'S NOT A WORN OUT PART, IT'S LITERALLY THE ELECTRICAL. What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? BATTERY & SMART ALTERNATOR How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? VEHICLE WILL NOT START, BATTERY COMPLETELY DRAINS AFTER SEVERAL SMALL TRIPS AROUND TOWN. Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center? YES, THEY'RE FULLY AWARE OF THE PROBLEM THAT THESE ARMADAS ARE HAVING, RECALLS CURRENTLY ON 2017 & 2019 MODELS BUT THEY'RE NOT RECALLING MY YEAR, 2018! Has the vehicle or component been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives or others? YES, DEALER SERVICE CENTER SEVERAL TIMES. Were there any warning lamps, messages or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure, and when did they first appear? NO. FIRST STARTED IN 2019. I'VE GONE THROUGH SEVERAL BATTERIES, ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE AND PERSONAL JUMPS DUE TO THE FAULTY BATTERY LEAVING ME STRANDED SEVERAL TIMES OVER.
Nissan Armada 2018
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-23
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-28
- VIN: JN8AY2NEXJ9
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: Every year for the past 3 years the battery will not start stranding me multiple times. The dealer has stated tomhat multiple armadas have the same issue it is unknown what causes this random drain of the battery but each time the battery has to be replaced
Nissan Armada 2017
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-20
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-24
- VIN: JN8AY2NE6H9
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: On [XXX] my vehicle engine would not turn over. It then lost complete power moments later. The battery was recharged and reinstalled. I attempted to start the vehicle again and it drained the battery. I installed a NEW battery on [XXX] and the vehicle worked properly. On [XXX] I attempted to start the vehicle and the it drained the battery. This time, I called Nissan Customer Service and was instructed nothing old be done until a NISSAN DEALERSHIP ran diagnostics on the vehicle. Obviously, I had to call for a tow because the battery was dead. The tow truck driver was able to jump the battery and I drove to Ron Marhofer Nissan in Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio to have the diagnostics performed. After explaining the problems to the service technician, I was told that SOME Nissans (regardless of model or year), have been experiencing this problem, and the only fix was a battery saver update to the body control module. To date, I have not had any issues since the battery saver update was performed. The issues are, 1. This is a known problem affecting multiple Nissan models, 2. A Nissan Dealership is the only place this problem can be diagnosed or fixed, 3. The only way an owner becomes aware of this problem is after multiple battery issues, and ultimately, a trip to the Nissan Dealership, 4. Nissan is forcing owners to pay for this update that is necessary for their vehicle to run properly, 5. Nissan controls all aspects of the repair and has a monopoly over it INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Nissan Armada 2018
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-16
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-18
- VIN: JN8AY2NF3J9
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: Here’s an updated response for the NHTSA, incorporating the new information: --- **What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request?** The component that malfunctioned is the battery and electrical system in my 2018 Nissan Armada (VIN: [XXX] ). The vehicle experienced repeated battery drainage, requiring a replacement battery after only one year. I had to pay $300 to get the battery replaced, as I could only start the car with a jump. The replaced battery is currently at the dealership and available for inspection upon request. **How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk?** The repeated battery drainage compromised my safety by potentially stranding me in unsafe conditions. I was unable to start the vehicle without a jump, which could have left me and my passengers stranded on the road or in other hazardous situations. **Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center?** Yes, the problem was confirmed by the dealership, who replaced the battery but suggested that a software issue within the vehicle is causing the repeated drainage. They did not provide a permanent solution to prevent future occurrences. **Has the vehicle or component been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives, or others?** The vehicle has been inspected by the dealership, but not by the manufacturer, police, or insurance representatives. **Were there any warning lamps, messages, or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure, and when did they first appear?** No warning lamps or messages appeared prior to the battery failure. The issue occurred without any prior warnings, making it difficult to anticipate. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Nissan Armada 2017
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-06
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-14
- VIN: JN8AY2NE5H9
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS,ENGINE
- Summary: Was driving on a smooth road when suddenly airbag light on dash came on flashing. All the steering wheel buttons are working. Brought car to mechanic's shop to scan obd2, no dtc codes. Mechanic says they don't know what it is without a code. Nissan has been shady lately with technical service bulletins TSB instead of recalls. TSB according to Nissan hq is a repair at the discretion of the dealer meaning that they do not have to repair it even while it was under warranty. I had some piston slapping noise and burning smell coming from engine bay while under warranty the dealer Mechanic said," the noise is normal that of a suv and the burnt smell was the peanut packing oil burning off the outside of the engine". There was a TSB put out a few months later saying that Nissan acknowledged a defective short block in the engine causing abnormal wear on the piston. I brought it into the dealer and they refused to replace the short block and damaged cylinder. NHTSA needs to up their game and force these auto companies to be accountable. Years back my first edition Honda accord v6 had failed brakes that made me have an accident totaling the car. Veered off side of highway to minimize harm to others. Three years after the accident a recall on that models brakes came up. I was never given money for the totalled car by Honda. They need to be held accountable. Please take action and force the recalls instead of waiting for more people to be injured. Just look at the complaints on this make and model, why hasn't an investigation even begun? Airbag should be a top priority in recalls. Especially a blinking light with no explanation is a ticking time bomb that can set off an airbag at any given notice worst yet not deploy when there is an actual accident.
Nissan Armada 2017
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-06
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-09
- VIN: JN8AY2ND3H9
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Timing chain oil leak from faulty gasket.
Nissan Armada 2010
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-24
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-29
- VIN: 5N1AA0NC0AN
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: We bought this Armada used about two years ago and it had about 85,000 miles on it then. On Monday August 26th 2024 my wife came home and as she pulled in to park the brake pedal went to the floor. The passenger side front steer tire inside was covered in brake fluid. I pulled it in to our garage and removed the tire and had her pump the brake pedal to find the fluid loss spot. Upon inspection I discovered the Steer tire had rubbed through the brake hose causing brake fluid loss. I replaced the hose and inspected the driver side to discover it was almost rubbed through to the cords inside the hose. It will be replaced too. I have saved the passenger side hose and will save the driver hose after I replace it. My pictures are of the passenger side front brake hose.
Nissan Armada 2017
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-26
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-27
- VIN: JN8AY2NE8H9
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SERVICE BRAKES,BACK OVER PREVENTION
- Summary: My vehicle was having intermitten BCI (Backup Collision Intervention) malfunction lights on the dash. On one occurrence it caused my vehicle to slam on the brakes suddenly at 20mph, it is definitely a safety issue. I replaced both brake switches which solved it temporarily but now it is on constantly. It has been scanned with various Nissan scan tools and no errors are found. I have read endless forum posts of Armada owners having this problem and the dealerships are giving them the run around with no clear solution.
Nissan Armada 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-18
- VIN: JN8AY2NC6K9
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: The rear end air suspension stopped working and will not raise the vehicle to the proper height. This caused the vehicle to become unstable in the rear and difficult to fully control the vehicle. With a wet road it becomes much worse as the rear end will lose contact with the road even at a much lower reduced speed. I've noticed several other Armada's with sagging rear ends and I've read several threads online with owners. After experiencing this first hand as a CDL-A driver. This is very dangerous and Nissan doesn't appear to care one bit about this issue with their high end product. Please help us do something about this before someone gets hurt or worse, thank you for your consideration in the matter.
Nissan Armada 2014
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-31
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-14
- VIN: 5N1AA0NE4EN
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2014 Nissan Armada. The contact stated while driving 35-40 MPH, the air bag warning light illuminated. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or the dealer. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 97,600.
Nissan Armada 2005
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-13
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-13
- VIN: 5N1AA08A15N
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: Unknown the light for air bags is on
Nissan Armada 2010
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-12
- VIN: 5N1BA0NDXAN
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: This vehicles fuel control module has caused my children and me safety to put at risk by vehicle breaking down in the middle of traffic and not capable of starting vehicle back up. thie has been confirmed from trusted mechanic.
Latest 5 recalls Nissan Armada
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 44 recalls for different components of the Nissan Armada.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Nissan Armada 2010
- Report Received Date: 2023-02-10
- Manufacturer: Nissan North America, Inc.
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL
- Summary: Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2008-2011 Titan, Frontier, Xterra, Pathfinder, Armada, and 2008-2009 Quest vehicles. The resin emblem on the driver's air bag cover may develop cracks and detach during air bag deployment.
- Consequence: A detached emblem can become a projectile during air bag deployment, increasing the risk of injury to vehicle occupants.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the drivers airbag cover. Owner letters were mailed December 8, 2023. Owners may contact Nissan's customer service at 1-800-867-7669. Nissan's number for this recall are PC944, PC945, and PC946.
- Model: Nissan Armada 2008
- Report Received Date: 2023-02-10
- Manufacturer: Nissan North America, Inc.
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL
- Summary: Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2008-2011 Titan, Frontier, Xterra, Pathfinder, Armada, and 2008-2009 Quest vehicles. The resin emblem on the driver's air bag cover may develop cracks and detach during air bag deployment.
- Consequence: A detached emblem can become a projectile during air bag deployment, increasing the risk of injury to vehicle occupants.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the drivers airbag cover. Owner letters were mailed December 8, 2023. Owners may contact Nissan's customer service at 1-800-867-7669. Nissan's number for this recall are PC944, PC945, and PC946.
- Model: Nissan Armada 2011
- Report Received Date: 2023-02-10
- Manufacturer: Nissan North America, Inc.
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL
- Summary: Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2008-2011 Titan, Frontier, Xterra, Pathfinder, Armada, and 2008-2009 Quest vehicles. The resin emblem on the driver's air bag cover may develop cracks and detach during air bag deployment.
- Consequence: A detached emblem can become a projectile during air bag deployment, increasing the risk of injury to vehicle occupants.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the drivers airbag cover. Owner letters were mailed December 8, 2023. Owners may contact Nissan's customer service at 1-800-867-7669. Nissan's number for this recall are PC944, PC945, and PC946.
- Model: Nissan Armada 2009
- Report Received Date: 2023-02-10
- Manufacturer: Nissan North America, Inc.
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL
- Summary: Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2008-2011 Titan, Frontier, Xterra, Pathfinder, Armada, and 2008-2009 Quest vehicles. The resin emblem on the driver's air bag cover may develop cracks and detach during air bag deployment.
- Consequence: A detached emblem can become a projectile during air bag deployment, increasing the risk of injury to vehicle occupants.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the drivers airbag cover. Owner letters were mailed December 8, 2023. Owners may contact Nissan's customer service at 1-800-867-7669. Nissan's number for this recall are PC944, PC945, and PC946.
- Model: Nissan Armada 2021
- Report Received Date: 2021-05-20
- Manufacturer: Nissan North America, Inc.
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP:CONTROL/DRIVE MODULE
- Summary: Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Nissan Armada and 2020-2021 INFINITI QX80 vehicles equipped with V8 engines. The impeller can swell and bind within the fuel pump module, causing it to fail.
- Consequence: Fuel pump failure can cause an engine stall, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the fuel pump module, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed February 4, 2022. Owners may contact Nissan customer service at 1-800-867-7669. Nissan's number for this recall is R21A2. Owners may contact INFINITI customer service at 1-800-662-6200. INFINITI's number for this recall is R21A3.
Latest negative Nissan Armada car reviews
Latest positive Nissan Armada car reviews
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Vehicle year: 2015
I purchased this Armada after having two Pathfinders that I loved but needed more room. It has been a great investment so far! With 65,000 miles on it, I have not had a single problem. I think some of the negative reviews out there are unfounded, as I just had the original brakes checked and they are still in great condition. I expect to get 100,000 miles on the original pads. At $32,000, this vehicle was tens of thousands less than a similar Toyota, Ford, Chevy, etc. when new. It does absolutely everything we have asked it to do, and the stereo with satellite radio is amazing, as is the Bluetooth. I highly recommend putting this on your shopping list - it's a huge value for the price and performance!
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Vehicle year: 2013
Have a 2010 Titanium 4wd Armada. It's such a great family vehicle! This car makes towing easy and it's very capable off-road as well. Overall, I'm very pleased with it.
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Vehicle year: 2008
It sounds like the Armada is the perfect fit for your needs! Its dependable power is great for towing your boat to different lakes, and the big, brawny ride provides a comfortable and commanding driving experience. Plus, sitting high in traffic is always a plus. I'm glad to hear that you enjoy running around in the Armada!
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Vehicle year: 2008
Love the space! It's a great improvement from the 04 ride. It's not as bumpy and it's a more plush drive. It still drives like an SUV, but it doesn't rattle as much as the earlier models. The panels and quality of materials have also seen great improvements. As a previous owner of the 04 and 05 models, I can assure you that this is a fantastic improvement. I absolutely love the ride and I love my truck!
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Vehicle year: 2020
The Armada Platinum is a fantastic choice for those who want a powerful and luxurious vehicle without breaking the bank. Unlike the Highlander Hybrid or the X7 or MB GLS 450, the Armada growls like a beast and is incredibly powerful, reaching 60MPH in just 6.3 seconds. Plus, with a reasonable price tag, middle-income earners like myself can consider owning one. The Armada Platinum comes with all the bells and whistles as standard, including real leather seats throughout, even in the 3rd row. The standard 13-speaker BOSE sound system is a real treat for the ears. The Armada's silk smooth 4 corner independent suspension soaks up bumps with ease, making for a comfortable ride. Plus, with a towing capacity of up to 8,500lbs, the Armada is a real workhorse. While the steering may feel a bit loose, the body roll is minimal, allowing for confident cornering. With an average of 15 miles per gallon using unleaded gas, the Armada is a great choice for those who want a powerful and luxurious SUV without sacrificing fuel efficiency.Of course, I've been taking it easy on the throttle, but I can't resist the excellent sound of the engine. It makes me feel like I'm driving a Mustang GT! I gave it 4 stars because of the gas mileage, but overall, especially when compared to six-figure name brand vehicles, I think it's a great choice. I'm not an automotive analyst or critic who drives tons of new fancy vehicles every year, but for American middle-income earners, I would definitely recommend considering the Armada Platinum!
Delaney Lang 2025-06-03
Vehicle year: 2006
The idea of owning an Armada is great, with its power and comfort. However, I have experienced some issues with the computer systems and brakes, which have required frequent visits to the dealership. Additionally, I have noticed a vibration after hitting 10k miles, which has also been reported by others. I wish I had taken the advice of those who recommended Toyota.
Zack Conn 2025-05-28
Vehicle year: 2012
With a $4,500 incentive, the Armada is the clear winner. Even a 3-4 year old used large SUV couldn't compete. The rear view camera is critical on a large SUV and the Armada has the best one. It boasts best-in-class 3rd row comfort and cargo space. The interior design is nice, despite a few rough edges. There's lots of little storage, but sub-floor storage in the back would be a helpful addition. Push-button start and proximity unlock on the hatch would be nice improvements. The ride quality is excellent, despite the engine roar (which is part of its character). While it has the worst gas mileage in its class at 14mpg mixed, the excellent towing and amazing acceleration make it worth it. If you don't need off-road or towing capabilities, a minivan may be a better option as it offers more space, more convenience, and is 30% cheaper. As a loyal Nissan customer, this is my 5th Nissan!
Abdiel Wisoky 2025-05-21
Vehicle year: 2010
With a $4,500 incentive, the Armada is the clear winner. Even a 3-4 year old used large SUV couldn't compete. The rear view camera is critical on a large SUV and the Armada has the best one. It boasts best-in-class 3rd row comfort and cargo space. The interior design is nice, despite a few rough edges. There's lots of little storage, but sub-floor storage in the back would be a helpful addition. Push-button start and proximity unlock on the hatch would be nice improvements. The ride quality is excellent, despite the engine roar (which is part of its character). While it has the worst gas mileage in its class at 14mpg mixed, the excellent towing and amazing acceleration make it worth it. If you don't need off-road or towing capabilities, a minivan may be a better option as it offers more space, more convenience, and is 30% cheaper. As a loyal Nissan customer, this is my 5th Nissan!
Laverne Kulas 2025-05-20
Vehicle year: 2005
This vehicle has had several issues, including problems with the transmission while towing and poor AM/FM reception. The front brakes also needed to be replaced at a low mileage. Despite these challenges, I am confident in my assessment of the vehicle's expensive operating costs. It is important to note that the salesman provided inaccurate information about the towing capacity and gas mileage, which was disappointing. However, I am confident in my ability to make informed decisions about future vehicle purchases based on my experiences with this one.
Conner Mayer 2025-05-17
Vehicle year: 2015
The alternator may not power everything and charge the battery at idle. Additionally, the engine's electrical connections are designed to fail after 5 years. The ECU programming for the electrical system was programmed incorrectly from the factory. Furthermore, Nissan does not lube axle splines or wheel bearing packs from the factory, which results in a lifespan of only 5 years. Nissan also uses substandard rebranded batteries with a maximum lifespan of 2 years and no warranty. The front end electrical connections are copper wire crimped (not soldered) into pot metal eyelets, bolted to a painted screw hole with painted tin bolts and screws. The voltage transmission efficiency is below 25%, and there are 128 bad ground connections in the front end. The electrical system is programmed to read full charge at 12.1 volts, 11.1 at the battery, making it impossible to get a full charge even with zero load on the system. The differentials and gear are Dana made in Mexico with no heat treating, so expect to replace diffs at least once before warranty expiration. The alternator is located at the bottom of the engine, so deep water will destroy it before water gets to the running boards. Nissan's warranty only covers broken parts, so if your shocks wear out at 20k miles, but don't The car has experienced several issues, including brake problems that caused the brake force to shift to the bearing packs and tie rods, resulting in the original front brakes lasting only 14k miles and the front bearing hubs lasting only 35k miles due to brake slider contamination. The front brake force geometry also caused the tie rod ends to wear out at 50k miles. Unfortunately, Nissan will not cover these issues under warranty as they are not considered 'broken'. Additionally, there have been issues with the brake lights, rear tire, front shocks, ball joints, and electrical connections, all of which Nissan has refused to cover under warranty. It is important to note that while Nissan claims the car is capable of towing up to 9000lbs with a tow package, it is recommended to limit the tow weight to 4500lbs to ensure the suspension, brakes, and performance stay within factory norms. Even at 4500lbs, it is recommended to drive in the far right lane at a maximum speed of 45mph with flashers on when going up a 10% grade for more than two miles. Towing a 4500lb trailer from Yuma to San Diego or a 4500lb boat from Sacramento to Reno is not recommended, and towing a 4500lb boat through the Appalacians is minimally possible.