2020 Nissan Armada

The 2020 Nissan Armada is a full-size SUV known for its robust body-on-frame construction, spacious interior, and comfortable ride. It is powered by a 5.6-liter V8 engine that produces 390 horsepower and 394 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 7-speed automatic transmission. People generally like the Armada for its towing capability, comfortable seats, and user-friendly infotainment system. However, some common criticisms include its relatively poor fuel economy, dated interior design, and large turning radius.

Engine

5.6L V8

• Timing Chain Tensioner Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noise on startup, especially when cold. Can lead to engine damage if left unaddressed.
  • Solution: Replacement of the timing chain tensioners, guides, and potentially the timing chain itself.
  • 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 oil pan gasket.
  • Solution: Replacement of the leaking gaskets or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ depending on the location of the leak.
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

7-Speed Automatic

• Rough Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or jerky shifting between gears, especially at lower speeds.
  • Solution: Transmission fluid flush and software update may resolve the issue. In some cases, valve body replacement or a full transmission rebuild/replacement is required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 for fluid flush and software update, $800 - $1500+ for valve body replacement, $3,000 - $6,000+ for rebuild/replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Air Suspension Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Rear of the vehicle sagging, compressor running constantly or not at all, error messages related to the air suspension system.
  • Solution: Replacement of the air springs, compressor, or related sensors/modules.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+ per air spring, $500 - $1000+ for the compressor.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Freezing/Crashing
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment screen freezes, becomes unresponsive, or randomly restarts.
  • Solution: Software update or replacement of the infotainment unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 for software update, $500 - $1500+ for unit replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: The battery drains quickly, especially when the vehicle is not in use, resulting in difficulty starting the vehicle.
  • Solution: Diagnose parasitic drain and repair or replace the faulty component.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the cause.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• No Issues Found

Interior

• Delaminating Dashboard
  • Description/Symptoms: The dashboard material starts to separate and bubble, especially in hot climates.
  • Solution: Replacement of the dashboard.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2020 Nissan Armada can have several issues that owners should be aware of. The most prevalent ones appear to be related to the engine timing chain, rough shifting in the transmission, and potential problems with the infotainment system. Some of these issues, such as a timing chain tensioner failure or dashboard delamination, can be quite expensive to repair. While the Armada is generally considered a reliable SUV, it is important to be aware of these potential problems when considering purchasing one.