Nissan Titan problems

The Nissan Titan is a full-size pickup truck manufactured in the United States for the North American market by Nissan. It was named after the Titans of Greek mythology.
First generation (A60; 2003)
Development of the Titan began in September 1999, with design work under Diane Allen. Giovanny Arroba's TA60 exterior was chosen in late 2000, with a final production freeze in July 2001. The design language of the future truck was previewed by the 2001 Alpha T concept shown at the 2001 North American International Auto Show, which had previously developed through November 2000.
Production began on September 21, 2003, and sales on December 1, 2003. The Titan used Nissan's new full-size F-Alpha platform. This new platform was shared with the Nissan Armada and Infiniti QX56 SUVs, with all three manufactured in Canton, Mississippi, United States. The first generation Titan continued without a major redesign through 2015.
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Nissan Titan model years
Common Nissan Titan problems
The Nissan Titan, a full-size pickup truck, has been known to have several common problems based on complaints from its owners. Here are the five most common problems:
- Fuel pump failure: The Nissan Titan is known to have problems with its fuel pump due to clogged fuel filters. This issue can cause trouble starting the car and starve the engine of gasoline. In some cases, it can also damage the catalytic converter, leading to the engine shutting down. This problem is particularly common in the 2018 Titan model.
- Transmission problems: Transmission issues are common in the Nissan Titan, with the 2016 model being especially notorious. Drivers have reported hard shifting, abrupt stopping during drives, and no recalls made to correct the issue. The 2004 to 2006 models also have rear axle seal leakage due to lack of ventilation or overheating, which can damage the axle bearings, differential assembly, and transmission system if left unchecked.
- Rear-axle seal leakage: The seals on the Titan's rear axles leak easily, with the 2004 to 2006 models being particularly problematic. This issue is caused by a lack of ventilation or overheating and can lead to low transmission fluid, which can damage the axle bearings, differential assembly, and transmission system. It is best to replace the entire differential assembly to fix the issue rather than replace only the problematic rear differential or component.
- Faulty interior accessories: The Titan has had many complaints from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) about its interior accessories. The driver and passenger seats are known to shake or separate from the seat frame after only two years of usage. The dash lights can turn dim in daylight, making it hard to tell which warning is up. Some drivers have also reported a disappearing starter button, smoke wafting out of the engine compartment, loud sounds from the engine, and busted nail indicators that cause rod knock and other sounds coming from the engine. The 2008 model is particularly notorious for such engine problems.
- Drivetrain problems: The worst problem category for the Nissan Titan is drivetrain problems. The 2018 model year is rated as the worst due to possible factors such as higher repair cost or more problems at lower mileage. The most-reported problem is with the 2005 Nissan Titan for rear axle failure, with an average cost to fix of $7,000 and an average mileage of 0 mi.
In summary, the Nissan Titan has had several common problems based on complaints from its owners. These issues include fuel pump failure, transmission problems, rear-axle seal leakage, faulty interior accessories, and drivetrain problems. While the Titan has many redeemable features, potential buyers should be aware of these issues, particularly in certain model years.
What years did the Titans avoid?
Quick Answer: Avoid 2004, 2005, 2006, 2008, 2016, and 2018 Nissan Titans. Nissan's first foray into full-size pickup trucks didn't go off without a hitch; in fact, it took them a few years to get things rolling.
Is the Nissan Titan a reliable truck?
When it comes to reliability, the Nissan Titan is leading the way compared to the Ram 1500. In fact, in 2022, J.D. Power awarded the 2022 Nissan Titan a "Great" Quality and a Reliability score of 85 out of 100.
Do Nissan Titans have transmission problems?
As surprising as it may sound, a design flaw in the radiator is actually the root cause of many Nissan Titan transmission failures. You see, the Nissan RE5R05A transmission pumps ATF forward to the radiator, where a special chamber allows it to release the heat that it's absorbed from all of the moving parts.
How many miles will a Nissan Titan last?
How long do Nissan Titans last? Typically, a Nissan Titan can last around 200,000 miles - though some can make it as far as 400,000 miles. Many things can go wrong with the Titan, but it will serve you well if you provide the effort it needs to sustain itself.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Nissan Titan years
We have researched Nissan problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Nissan Titan cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Nissan Titan model years:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Nissan Titan model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Nissan Titan years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Nissan Titan car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Nissan Titan , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Power train problems
- Service brakes problems
- Engine problems
- Hydraulic problems
- Electrical system problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Nissan Titan vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Titan model years
A total of 93 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 Titan model years
There were a total of 45 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 Titan model years
There were a total of 66 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 Titan model years
There were a total of 8 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 3007 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Nissan Titan . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Nissan Titan vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Nissan Titan 2018
- Date Of Incident: 2023-07-17
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-24
- VIN: 1N6AA1C4XJN
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: The contact owns a 2018 Nissan Titan. The contact stated that upon starting their vehicle all of a sudden the Traction Control, ABS, Check Engine, Parking Sensor Error, Four Wheel Drive Error, and Ebrake light had illuminated on the vehicles dashboard. The contact was to continue drive their vehicle with all of the warning lights illuminated however he noticed that when putting the vehicle into reverse the vehicles exterior cameras will only partially work, on certain occasion only the front, driver and passenger side cameras will work, while the backup camera would be out of service, and on other occasions only the backup camera would work, and the front, driver and passenger exterior cameras would be out of service. The contact stated that the functionality of these cameras and whether they would work was random. The contact also stated that on certain occasions upon attempting to turn their vehicle off, the engine would continue to run, while the rest of the vehicles components remained off. The vehicle was not taken to a local dealer. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 100,000.
Nissan Titan 2018
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-05
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-18
- VIN: 1N6AA1E59JN
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Oil doesn’t get to the 7th cylinder causing unrepairable damage. It’s a known issue by Nissan
Nissan Titan 2018
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-10
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-15
- VIN: 1N6BA1F34JN
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Traveling 65mph down the highway, engine started shaking extremely bad and smoke pouring from the exhaust.
Nissan Titan 2018
- Date Of Incident: 2024-05-16
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-15
- VIN: 1N6BA1F4XJN
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Vehicle was well maintained and only drive it around 10,000 miles per year or less. Had no issues or warning signs, my truck just bogged down while going 65mph on the highway. By the time I pulled over and cut it off I checked all fluids and tried to turn it over again, all you hear is a heavy knocking sound like the engine was struggling. Took it to a mechanic shop and found out it had a broken crankshaft, it has under 50,000 miles!
Nissan Titan 2017
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-08
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-29
- VIN: 1N6BA1F45HN
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: The bearing left go in the block causing crankshaft problems
Nissan Titan 2017
- Date Of Incident: 2024-05-15
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-27
- VIN: 1N6BA1F4XHN
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,FUEL SYSTEM, DIESEL
- Summary: The contact owns a 2017 Nissan Titan. The contact stated that the turbo stand, the liftgate latch, and the bolt had failed and were previously repaired. Additionally, the contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed that the Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) system and the EGR cooler were leaking. The dealer determined that the DEF tank and the EGR cooler needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired and remained at the dealer for over 6 months. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and offered to partially cover the cost of the repair. The failure mileage was approximately 109,000.
Nissan Titan 2017
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-04
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-24
- VIN: 1N6BA1C46HN
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Engine locked up driving down the road. Broke crank driving 65 miles a hour.
Nissan Titan 2017
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-02
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-02
- VIN: 1N6BA1F40HN
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ENGINE
- Summary: My turbo actuator went out in 2022, paid $2,000 to get it fixed. A year later in 2023 it went out again and ruined both the low and high turbos, had to get them replaced again this time under warranty but Nissan of Dearborn in Dearborn, Michigan had my truck for 87 days before I got it back. They tried to tell me I needed a whole new engine block. I’m scared because if this happens again who is going to be held liable for it, me? Not to mention the damage it’s most likely caused on the engine block and crankshaft. The last thing I want is for that to break as I’m going down the highway.
Nissan Titan 2017
- Date Of Incident: 2021-04-19
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-31
- VIN: 1N6BA1F35HN
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Unknown
Nissan Titan 2017
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-07
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-30
- VIN: 1N6BA1RP7HN
- Components: ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: I have owned this vehicle since day one... this was meticulously maintained and serviced regularly. While sitting at an idle, with no prior warning, the vehicle just stopped running. After having diagnosed by a reputable diesel mechanic near me, it was determined that the CP4 fuel pump, known to be faulty in these and other trucks as well had failed. After extensive examination, it resulting in a catastrophic failure of the fuel system, ultimately requiring a $14, 000+ repair. (Unrealistic cost due to the current value of the truck being around $10k - $14k. Metal chards had been distributed all throughout the entire fuel system. This failure is unfortunately very common and Nissan or Cummins should be held accountable for this issue.
Nissan Titan 2017
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-26
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-27
- VIN: 1N6BA1F40HN
- Components: ENGINE,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
- Summary: Pulled up to a stop light my truck turned off had got towed back and turner the truck on and the engine had rod nock and is over heating and not running smooth
Nissan Titan 2009
- Date Of Incident: 2023-11-26
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-26
- VIN: 1N6AA07D39N
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2009 Nissan Titan. The contact stated while attempting to cold start the vehicle, the Master warning light illuminated, and the vehicle was difficult to start. The contact had the vehicle towed to an independent mechanic who diagnosed the vehicle and determined that the Engine Control Module (ECM) needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 150,000.
Nissan Titan 2006
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-26
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-26
- VIN: 1N6AA07B76N
- Components: AIR BAGS,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: Unknown
Nissan Titan 2017
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-24
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-25
- VIN: 1N6BA1F47HN
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Loss of Motive Power due to broken crankshaft with no ability to restart.
Nissan Titan 2018
- Date Of Incident: 2022-11-27
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-21
- VIN: 1N6BA1F49JN
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: In November of 2022 we heard a knocking noise from the engine and then the low oil warning came on. Vehicle would then not start. When we towed it to the dealership they found noise from the bottom end and low oil pressure code P0524 and verified engine will not start and does make a bad knocking noise during short crank period. Determined the engine came apart internally and had large rod and main bearing material in oil pan loose metal ran through engine and engine will need to be replaced. We had all necessary warranty work done at the certified dealership and all oil changes were done as recommended, all documentation sent to dealership. Nissan would not cover the damage, we were 12,370 miles over warranty and still owed $24,000 on the vehicle. On April 4/17/2023 we paid $17,977 for a new engine on the truck. Upon our research this is a "known" issue with this engine and the crank shaft failing.
Latest 5 recalls Nissan Titan
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 77 recalls for different components of the Nissan Titan.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Nissan Titan 2021
- Report Received Date: 2024-08-05
- Manufacturer: Nissan North America, Inc.
- Components: AIR BAGS: AIR BAG/RESTRAINT CONTROL MODULE
- Summary: Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2021 and 2024 Titan vehicles. The Air Bag Control Unit (ACU) may be missing a spacer, which can allow the fastener to loosen and result in an unsecured ACU.
- Consequence: An unsecured ACU can prevent or delay air bags from deploying as intended, increasing the risk of injury in a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the ACU, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 19, 2024. Owners may contact Nissan customer service at 1-800-867-7669. Nissan's number for this recall is PD120.
- Model: Nissan Titan 2024
- Report Received Date: 2024-08-05
- Manufacturer: Nissan North America, Inc.
- Components: AIR BAGS: AIR BAG/RESTRAINT CONTROL MODULE
- Summary: Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2021 and 2024 Titan vehicles. The Air Bag Control Unit (ACU) may be missing a spacer, which can allow the fastener to loosen and result in an unsecured ACU.
- Consequence: An unsecured ACU can prevent or delay air bags from deploying as intended, increasing the risk of injury in a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the ACU, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 19, 2024. Owners may contact Nissan customer service at 1-800-867-7669. Nissan's number for this recall is PD120.
- Model: Nissan Titan 2024
- Report Received Date: 2024-02-27
- Manufacturer: Nissan North America, Inc.
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2024 Titan, Frontier, Infiniti QX60, Pathfinder, 2023-2024 Sentra, Versa, Kicks, Infiniti QX50, and 2023 Rogue vehicles. Due to a manufacturing issue, the driver's air bag inflator may absorb moisture, and cause the air bag to deploy improperly.
- Consequence: An air bag that deploys improperly may not protect the driver as intended during a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the front driver's air bag assembly, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 10, 2024. Owners may contact Nissan customer service at 1-800-867-7669. Nissan's numbers for this recall are PD103, PD104, and PMA34.
- Model: Nissan Titan 2023
- Report Received Date: 2023-04-17
- Manufacturer: Nissan North America, Inc.
- Components: TIRES:BEAD
- Summary: Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2023 Titan and Frontier vehicles. The tires may have a tear in the inner bead which can cause a rapid loss of tire pressure.
- Consequence: A rapid loss of tire pressure while driving can lead to a loss of vehicle control, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace all four road tires, or inspect and replace the spare tire assembly, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed June 10, 2023. Owners may contact Nissan's customer service at 1-800-867-7669. Nissan's number for this recall is PC973 and PC974.
- Model: Nissan Titan 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.
Latest negative Nissan Titan car reviews
Latest positive Nissan Titan car reviews
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Vehicle year: 2006
We recently traded in our 2003 Toyota Tundra for the Titan. Although the Tundra was a reliable vehicle, we are thoroughly enjoying the luxurious interior and smooth ride of the Titan. So far, we have not encountered any issues with the Titan despite the fact that we have not put many miles on it yet.
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Vehicle year: 2009
I've had this truck for 8 years now and haven't had a single problem! And it's going on 250,000 miles! I would definitely recommend this truck to anyone.
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Vehicle year: 2010
I've owned a few Ford F-150's in the past, but due to the spark plug issues affecting the 5.4L Triton, I decided to explore other options. I tried Chevrolet, but wasn't impressed, and Dodge wasn't even considered. Toyota was a bit too pricey for me. However, a friend recommended the Titan, and I have to say, I was thoroughly impressed with its performance, fit and finish, and overall comfort. I was lucky enough to find a 2010 LE model with less than 10,000 miles, and so far, it has exceeded all of my expectations. On my first trip, which was about 300 miles round trip, I was able to get about 19 MPG with the A/C running the entire time. Not too shabby for a four-wheel drive truck!
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Vehicle year: 2006
There are things I both love and dislike about this truck. The performance, in terms of road handling and power, is fantastic - this truck really moves when you put your foot down! The stability and steering are all good, even at high speeds. However, off-road performance is lacking and the handling can be rough. I've had to replace the sway bar mounts five times, but the last time I used a beefed-up aftermarket kit and instead of the joints breaking, the whole sway bar broke off. I've also had multiple broken U-joints. Now, you might think I'm beating this truck to death, but this is just simple off-road washbed driving, not trail running or jumping craziness like I used to do in my Silverado. Unfortunately, the paint on the roof, hood, and wheel wells is completely faded, despite my hand-waxing it four times a year.
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Vehicle year: 2011
The Nissan truck with a 5.6 engine is quite muscular and has good acceleration. As with all Nissans, the drivetrain and ride are smooth and civilized. The fold-up seats in the crew cab are far more comfortable than those of Ford and other brands. I personally tend to put tools and groceries inside the cab with the seats folded up. Additionally, the Titan has an aggressive and cool look, which I really like. Although the Toyota Tundra was great before it went panda-looking, I think the Chevy Silverado has it in the good looks department. However, the Titan's bed seems a little cheap, with plastic liner covering places where there isn't sheet metal underneath, which I didn't like.
Montana Schultz 2025-06-24
Vehicle year: 2020
I have owned three 2nd generation Titans, all 4X4's: a '16 XD SV, a '17 SL, and currently a '19 PRO-4X. These trucks have been reliable and durable, even with high mileage exceeding 50,000 miles per year. However, I did experience an issue with the engine that required repair. Despite initial resistance from Nissan's customer service, they ultimately fulfilled their obligation and repaired the engine.
Frankie Langosh 2025-06-21
Vehicle year: 2013
I recently purchased a 2011 Nissan Titan sv, but unfortunately, I have had a lot of issues with it. It has been in and out of the shop for 6 out of the 11 months that I have owned it. Despite changing the ecu and wiring harness, the truck still had the same issues. After further investigation, they discovered a misfire in the number 2 cylinder and had to replace the head gasket twice, which only made things worse. Eventually, they found out that the motor was the problem and are currently installing a new one as of 7/8/2016. This experience has caused me to lose money and jobs, which has been frustrating. I would advise against going to Peoria Nissan in Arizona as they sold me a lemon. It's worth noting that every time I brought the truck in, Peoria Nissan assured me that it was fine, but it wasn't until I took it to Avondale Nissan that the issues were properly addressed. Thank you for your attention to this matter. Sincerely, Rodney S.
Cole Farrell 2025-06-15
Vehicle year: 2017
I am confident in my decision to move on from my 2017 SL King Cab Titan with 73k miles. Despite my efforts to fix the lean code bank 2 issue, it has persisted and I am not willing to continue throwing money at the problem. Additionally, the transmission has become problematic. I have decided to part ways with this truck and explore other options.
Hershel Marks 2025-06-12
Vehicle year: 2017
The product quality of Nissan's truck is severely lacking, with poor fit and finish. The truck was missing paint and caulking, and the bed had an unsealed seam. Despite bringing the issue to the attention of three dealers and Nissan Consumer Affairs, the customer service has been disappointing. However, after visiting a different dealer, a warranty claim was made for over $12,000 in body work needed. While the truck cannot be fixed to factory spec, steps are being taken to address the issues. It is unfortunate that the customer had to go through such a frustrating experience, but Nissan is committed to resolving the issue and ensuring customer satisfaction.
Erik Bruen 2025-06-09
Vehicle year: 2005
I agree with the person who wrote, "the list of things that didn't go wrong would be shorter." this truck and Nissan corp usa can take this truck and shove it! These people charged me for a fuel-pump, oil/spark-plug change, ipdm, and a mass-air-flow-sensor, as well as a throttle position-sensor, to the tune of $6300.00, when all that was wrong at the time was a loose wire on the #2"mini-super-coil". (which they gladly fixed for free) Kraft Nissan in Tallahassee, Florida is one dealer you should pass up. I was told by Nissan corp. USA and Kraft Nissan that they had the best techs and they were right and I was wrong. I hope that $6300.00 gets them through this rough economy, they are gonna need it!