2018 Nissan Armada

The 2018 Nissan Armada is a full-size SUV known for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and powerful V8 engine. The 2018 Armada comes standard with a 5.6-liter V8 engine producing 390 horsepower and 394 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 7-speed automatic transmission. What owners appreciate about the Armada includes its towing capacity, roomy third-row seating, and user-friendly infotainment system. Common dislikes often cite its fuel economy and less agile handling compared to some competitors.

Engine

5.6L V8

• Engine Knocking/Ticking
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported a knocking or ticking noise coming from the engine, especially during cold starts or under load. This may be related to the valvetrain or other internal engine components.
  • Solution: Diagnosis is needed to pinpoint the exact cause. Solutions may range from adjusting valve lash to replacing internal engine parts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $5,000+ (depending on the cause)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Owners report the engine consuming excessive amounts of oil, requiring more frequent oil changes and top-offs between changes. This can be a sign of worn piston rings, valve seals, or other internal engine issues.
  • Solution: Diagnosis of the source of the oil consumption is crucial. Possible solutions include replacing valve seals, piston rings, or even a complete engine overhaul.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $5,000+ (depending on the cause)
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

7-Speed Automatic

• Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported experiencing harsh or jerky shifting, particularly between certain gears. This can indicate issues with the transmission valve body, solenoids, or internal wear.
  • Solution: Possible solutions include transmission fluid flush, valve body replacement, or transmission rebuild.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $4,000+ (depending on the cause)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Transmission Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission slipping, where the engine revs without a corresponding increase in vehicle speed, can occur. This could point to worn clutch packs or other internal damage.
  • Solution: Transmission rebuild or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $6,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Air Suspension Issues (if equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: Sagging rear end, compressor failure, or error messages related to the air suspension system. This issue could be from a leak in the air bags or a faulty compressor.
  • Solution: Air spring or compressor replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Freezing/Crashing
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment system may occasionally freeze, crash, or become unresponsive. This can affect navigation, audio, and other vehicle functions.
  • Solution: Software updates or replacement of the head unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Backup Camera Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The backup camera may intermittently fail to display an image or show a distorted view.
  • Solution: Camera replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Owners have reported issues of the battery draining overnight or within a couple days.
  • Solution: Check parasitic draws, replace battery, replace alternator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• No Issues Found

Interior

• Seat Heater Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: Seat heaters failing to function or not reaching the desired temperature.
  • Solution: Replacement of the heating element or control module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2018 Nissan Armada presents a range of potential issues, from engine and transmission problems to electrical and interior concerns. Engine and transmission issues can be costly to address, with repairs potentially ranging from a few hundred to several thousand dollars. Electrical problems are typically less severe but can still be frustrating. Overall, prospective buyers should be aware of these potential issues and thoroughly inspect the vehicle before purchase.