2010 Nissan Armada

The 2010 Nissan Armada is a full-size SUV known for its spacious interior, powerful V8 engine, and towing capability. The Armada came standard with a 5.6L VK56DE V8 engine producing 317 horsepower and 385 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission. Owners generally appreciate the Armada’s robust engine and comfortable ride, but some dislike its fuel economy and large size, which can make it difficult to maneuver in tight spaces.

Engine

5.6L VK56DE V8

• Timing Chain Tensioner Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noise upon startup, especially when cold. This is due to worn or failed timing chain tensioners that fail to maintain proper tension on the timing chains. This can lead to improper timing, reduced performance, and potential engine damage.
  • Solution: Replacement of the timing chain tensioners, guides, and potentially the timing chains themselves.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Catalytic Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light illuminated (typically with codes related to catalytic converter efficiency), decreased fuel economy, and a sulfur-like smell from the exhaust. This occurs when the catalytic converter fails to properly convert harmful emissions.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty catalytic converter(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic

• Transmission Slipping/Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Noticeable slipping between gears, delayed engagement, or harsh/jerky shifts. This can be caused by worn clutches, valve body issues, or low transmission fluid.
  • Solution: Depending on the severity, solutions range from a transmission fluid flush and filter replacement to valve body repair or a complete transmission rebuild/replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $4000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Air Suspension Leaks/Failure (if equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: Rear of the vehicle sagging, compressor running constantly, or suspension warning light illuminated. This can be caused by leaks in the air springs, faulty compressor, or issues with the ride height sensors.
  • Solution: Replacement of the leaking air springs, compressor, or ride height sensors. Converting to a coil-spring suspension is another option.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Front Strut Mount Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or popping noises from the front suspension, especially when turning or going over bumps. This occurs when the strut mounts wear out or crack.
  • Solution: Replacement of the strut mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• IPDM (Intelligent Power Distribution Module) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Random electrical issues such as the vehicle not starting, headlights not working, or other electrical components malfunctioning. This is due to a faulty IPDM that controls various electrical functions.
  • Solution: Replacement of the IPDM. Reprogramming may be required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found
• Fuel Gauge Inaccuracy
  • Description/Symptoms: Fuel gauge reading inaccurately, either showing empty when the tank is full or full when the tank is empty. This may indicate a faulty fuel level sending unit inside the fuel tank.
  • Solution: Replacement of the fuel level sending unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $700
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rear Liftgate Strut Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The rear liftgate not staying open on its own or closing unexpectedly. This is caused by worn liftgate struts.
  • Solution: Replacement of the liftgate struts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• HVAC Blend Door Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Inability to control the temperature in the cabin, with hot or cold air blowing constantly from the vents regardless of the temperature setting. This is caused by a faulty blend door actuator.
  • Solution: Replacement of the blend door actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power Window Regulator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Power windows not operating properly, moving slowly, or not moving at all. This is caused by a faulty power window regulator.
  • Solution: Replacement of the power window regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2010 Nissan Armada, while offering a powerful engine and spacious interior, has some common issues that potential buyers should be aware of. Engine-related issues, particularly timing chain tensioner and catalytic converter failures, can be costly to repair. Transmission slipping and electrical problems with the IPDM are also concerns. Suspension issues, especially with the rear air suspension, can also lead to significant repair bills if equipped. Overall, while some of these issues may be relatively minor, others can be quite expensive to fix, making a thorough inspection before purchase advisable.