2017 Nissan Armada

The 2017 Nissan Armada is a full-size SUV known for its robust capabilities and spacious interior. It’s generally well-regarded for its comfortable ride and towing capacity. However, it’s not without its drawbacks, with some owners reporting issues related to reliability and fuel economy. The Armada is equipped with a 5.6-liter V8 engine producing 390 horsepower and 394 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 7-speed automatic transmission. It’s appreciated for its powerful engine and ability to comfortably seat up to eight passengers. Criticisms often include its large size, which can make it challenging to maneuver in tight spaces, and its relatively outdated interior compared to some competitors.

Engine

5.6L VK56VD V8

• Timing Chain Rattle/Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: A rattling noise upon startup, especially when cold. This can progress to a more constant noise and eventually lead to engine misfires or failure if the timing chain stretches or breaks.
  • Solution: Replacement of the timing chain, tensioners, guides, and potentially the variable valve timing (VVT) sprockets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive oil consumption requiring frequent top-offs between oil changes. This can be caused by worn piston rings or valve seals.
  • Solution: In some cases, a switch to a higher viscosity oil may temporarily alleviate the issue. More permanent solutions involve replacing the piston rings or valve seals, which requires significant engine work.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,500 - $6,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Engine Knocking/Pinging
  • Description/Symptoms: Knocking or pinging sound during acceleration, especially under load. This can be caused by low-quality fuel or carbon buildup in the engine.
  • Solution: Use high-octane fuel, perform an engine carbon cleaning service, or replace knock sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ for cleaning, $200 - $600+ for knock sensor.
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

7-Speed Automatic Transmission (RE7R01H)

• Harsh Shifting/Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough or jerky shifts between gears, especially during acceleration or deceleration. Transmission slipping, where the engine revs up without a corresponding increase in speed.
  • Solution: A transmission fluid flush and filter change may help in some cases. More severe cases may require valve body repair or replacement, or a complete transmission rebuild or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+ for fluid and filter, $800 - $2,000+ for valve body, $3,000 - $6,000+ for rebuild/replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibration at low speeds, especially when the torque converter is locking and unlocking.
  • Solution: Torque converter replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Air Suspension Failure (if equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: The rear of the vehicle sagging, especially overnight. The air compressor running constantly or not at all. Error messages on the dashboard related to the air suspension system.
  • Solution: Replacement of the air springs, air compressor, or ride height sensors.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+ per air spring, $400 - $800+ for the compressor.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: The battery draining overnight or within a few days of non-use.
  • Solution: Identifying and addressing the parasitic drain. This may involve testing individual circuits to find the source of the drain, and replacing the faulty component.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the complexity of the issue.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Infotainment System Freezing/Crashing
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment system freezing, crashing, or becoming unresponsive.
  • Solution: Software updates may resolve some issues. More severe cases may require replacement of the infotainment system.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+ for software updates, $500 - $1,500+ for system replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sensor Failures (ABS, TPMS, etc.)
  • Description/Symptoms: Warning lights illuminating on the dashboard for systems like ABS or TPMS.
  • Solution: Diagnosis with a scan tool to identify the faulty sensor, and replacement of the sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400+ per sensor.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Automatic Liftgate Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: The automatic liftgate failing to open or close properly, or getting stuck.
  • Solution: Replacing the liftgate struts, motor, or sensors.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Seat Heater Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The seat heaters failing to warm up or only working intermittently.
  • Solution: Replacing the heating element or switch.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per seat.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sunroof Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Water leaking into the cabin from the sunroof, especially during heavy rain.
  • Solution: Clearing the sunroof drain tubes or resealing the sunroof.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400+ for cleaning drains, $300 - $800+ for resealing.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2017 Nissan Armada, while generally a reliable vehicle, does have some common issues that prospective buyers should be aware of. The most concerning problems relate to the engine and transmission, which can be costly to repair. Electrical and suspension issues can also occur. While not every Armada will experience these problems, understanding the potential issues can help buyers make a more informed decision and budget accordingly for potential repairs. Overall, the severity of these issues ranges from moderate to severe, with repair costs varying significantly depending on the specific problem.