2013 Nissan Armada

The 2013 Nissan Armada is a full-size SUV known for its spaciousness, powerful engine, and towing capacity. It came standard with a 5.6L V8 engine producing 317 horsepower and 385 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise the Armada’s comfortable ride, ample cargo space, and robust capabilities, but common complaints include relatively poor fuel economy, a dated interior, and some reliability concerns.

Engine

5.6L V8

• Timing Chain Guide Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noise upon startup, especially when cold. Check engine light may illuminate. Can lead to engine damage if not addressed.
  • Solution: Replace the timing chain, tensioners, and guides.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Exhaust Manifold Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Ticking noise, especially when cold. Burning smell may be present. Reduced fuel economy and performance.
  • Solution: Replace the exhaust manifold and gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Catalytic Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rotten egg smell, check engine light, reduced engine performance.
  • Solution: Replace the catalytic converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic

• Torque Converter Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering during acceleration, especially at lower speeds. Can also cause slipping or hesitation when shifting.
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Body Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or erratic shifting, delayed engagement, slipping between gears.
  • Solution: Replace or rebuild the valve body.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Air Suspension Failure (if equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: The rear of the vehicle sags or sits unevenly. The compressor may run constantly or not at all.
  • Solution: Replace the air springs, compressor, and/or height sensors.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Worn Bushings
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises, especially when going over bumps. Poor handling and stability.
  • Solution: Replace worn bushings in the control arms, sway bar links, and other suspension components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery frequently dies, especially overnight. Difficulty starting the vehicle.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the source of the parasitic drain. Common culprits include the alternator, door lock actuators, or aftermarket accessories.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Window Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Window does not go up or down, or moves very slowly. Grinding noise may be present.
  • Solution: Replace the window motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Liftgate Strut Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The liftgate is difficult to open or close and may not stay open on its own.
  • Solution: Replace the liftgate struts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Navigation System Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The navigation screen freezes, reboots, or displays error messages.
  • Solution: Update the software, replace the navigation unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• HVAC Blower Motor Resistor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The blower motor only works on certain speeds or not at all.
  • Solution: Replace the blower motor resistor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

The 2013 Nissan Armada, while offering spaciousness and power, has some common issues. Engine problems like timing chain and exhaust manifold issues can be costly. Transmission concerns, particularly with the torque converter and valve body, may also require significant repairs. Electrical issues like battery drain and window motor failures are also present. While some issues are relatively minor, others can be quite expensive to fix. Overall, potential buyers should be aware of these potential problems and factor them into their purchasing decision.