2012 Nissan Armada

The 2012 Nissan Armada is a full-size SUV known for its robust capabilities and spacious interior. It came standard with a 5.6-liter V8 engine producing 317 horsepower and 385 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission. Owners often appreciate the Armada’s towing capacity and comfortable ride, but some dislike its poor fuel economy and large size, making it difficult to maneuver in tight spaces.

Engine

5.6L VK56DE V8

• Timing Chain Tensioner Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noise from the engine, especially upon startup. This can lead to the timing chain jumping timing and causing significant engine damage.
  • Solution: Replace the timing chain tensioner, timing chain, and guides.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Leaks from Valve Cover Gaskets
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaking down the sides of the engine, burning oil smell, low oil level.
  • Solution: Replace the valve cover gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic

• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibration at low speeds, especially during acceleration. Difficulty shifting gears.
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter. In some cases, the entire transmission might need replacement if the torque converter failure caused significant damage.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Transmission Slipping or Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Delayed engagement of gears, slipping during acceleration, harsh or jerky shifts.
  • Solution: Perform a transmission fluid flush and filter replacement. If the problem persists, valve body replacement or a complete transmission rebuild/replacement might be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (fluid flush) to $3,500+ (transmission replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Air Suspension Failure (if equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: Rear of the vehicle sagging, compressor running constantly, ride height warning light illuminated.
  • Solution: Replace the air springs, compressor, or height sensors, depending on the source of the problem.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Front Strut Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, poor handling, clunking noises over bumps.
  • Solution: Replace the front struts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery light illuminated, dim headlights, difficulty starting the vehicle.
  • Solution: Replace the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery draining overnight, difficulty starting the vehicle.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the source of the parasitic drain, which could be a faulty relay, module, or wiring issue.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ (depending on the complexity of the issue)
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Liftgate Strut Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The liftgate won’t stay open or closes on its own.
  • Solution: Replace the liftgate struts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Navigation System Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Navigation system not functioning correctly, freezing, or displaying errors.
  • Solution: Attempt to update the software. If that doesn’t work, the navigation unit may need replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (software update) to $1,000+ (unit replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Climate Control Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The climate control system blows hot or cold air inconsistently or doesn’t respond to adjustments.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the faulty components, such as the blend door actuator or temperature sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2012 Nissan Armada can be a reliable vehicle if properly maintained. However, potential buyers should be aware of common issues like timing chain tensioner problems, transmission issues, and potential suspension failures. While some issues, like liftgate struts and oil leaks, are relatively inexpensive to fix, others, like timing chain or transmission problems, can be costly repairs, ranging from a few hundred to several thousand dollars. Checking the vehicle’s maintenance history and performing a thorough inspection before purchase is recommended.