2017 Nissan Titan XD

The 2017 Nissan Titan XD is a unique truck, designed as a bridge between light-duty and heavy-duty pickups. The standard engine is a 5.6L Endurance V8 gasoline engine producing 390 horsepower and 394 lb-ft of torque. The Titan XD also offered a 5.0L Cummins Turbo Diesel V8 engine producing 310 horsepower and 555 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with an Aisin 6-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise the Titan XD’s robust towing capacity and comfortable ride, especially with the Cummins diesel. Common complaints include lower fuel economy compared to light-duty trucks, some reliability issues, and a higher price point than some competitors.

Engine

5.6L Endurance V8 Gasoline Engine

• Timing Chain Tensioner Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine rattle upon startup, especially in colder weather. Can lead to timing chain skipping and potential engine damage if left unaddressed.
  • Solution: Replace the timing chain tensioners, guides, and chain. Inspect for any damage to the engine components caused by the issue.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil spots under the vehicle, burning oil smell, low oil level. Common leak areas include valve cover gaskets and the oil pan gasket.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking gaskets. Clean the engine to remove oil residue and monitor for further leaks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+ depending on the location of the leak
  • Recalls: None Found

5.0L Cummins Turbo Diesel V8 Engine

• Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Frequent DPF regeneration cycles, reduced engine performance, “Exhaust Filter Full” message on the dashboard. Can be caused by excessive soot buildup or sensor failures.
  • Solution: Perform a forced DPF regeneration, replace faulty sensors (DPF pressure sensor, temperature sensor), or, in severe cases, replace the DPF.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $3,000+ depending on the repair
  • Recalls: None Found
• EGR Cooler Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant loss, white smoke from the exhaust, engine overheating. The EGR cooler can crack and leak coolant into the exhaust system.
  • Solution: Replace the EGR cooler. Flush the cooling system to remove any contaminants.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Turbocharger Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, excessive black smoke from the exhaust, whistling or whining noise from the turbocharger. Can be caused by oil starvation, worn bearings, or damaged compressor/turbine wheels.
  • Solution: Inspect the turbocharger for damage or wear. Replace the turbocharger if necessary. Check oil supply lines for restrictions.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

Aisin 6-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Harsh Shifting/Jerking
  • Description/Symptoms: Hard shifts between gears, especially when cold. Jerking or clunking during acceleration or deceleration.
  • Solution: Perform a transmission fluid flush and filter change using the correct Nissan-approved fluid. Inspect valve body and solenoids for proper function. In severe cases, valve body replacement or transmission rebuild may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $4,000+ depending on the repair
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Shudder
  • Description/Symptoms: Vibration or shuddering felt at highway speeds, especially under light acceleration.
  • Solution: Perform a transmission fluid flush with a fluid specifically designed to address torque converter shudder. In some cases, torque converter replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,500+ depending on the repair
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Suspension Ball Joint Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the front suspension, uneven tire wear, loose steering.
  • Solution: Replace the ball joints. An alignment is required after the repair.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Freezing/Crashing
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment screen freezes, becomes unresponsive, or crashes frequently.
  • Solution: Try resetting the infotainment system. Check for software updates. If the problem persists, the unit may need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 - $1,500+ depending on the repair
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sensor Failures
  • Description/Symptoms: Check Engine Light illumination, malfunction of safety systems (ABS, traction control), inaccurate readings from sensors (e.g., O2 sensor, mass airflow sensor).
  • Solution: Diagnose the faulty sensor using a scan tool. Replace the sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the sensor
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust bubbles or flaking paint, most common in areas subject to road salt or moisture.
  • Solution: Remove the rust and repair the damaged area.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $2,000+ depending on the repair
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Loose or Rattling Trim Pieces
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling or squeaking noises coming from interior trim panels, dashboard, or door panels.
  • Solution: Secure or replace the loose trim pieces. Add foam padding to dampen vibrations.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 - $200+ depending on the repair
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2017 Nissan Titan XD has a range of potential issues, varying in severity and cost. Engine problems, particularly with the Cummins diesel (DPF, EGR cooler, turbocharger), can be expensive to fix. Transmission issues like harsh shifting and torque converter shudder are also common. Electrical issues can range from minor sensor failures to more significant infotainment system problems. While some problems are relatively minor, others can be costly, so a thorough inspection is recommended before purchasing a used 2017 Titan XD. The 5.6L V8 is also known for timing chain issues. Addressing any developing concerns early on is key to preventing expensive repairs down the road.