The Nissan Armada is a three-row, full-size SUV that was introduced to North America in 2003.
Large and in charge, this SUV is highly capable and has refinement, smoothness and tech features more commonly found in pricier vehicles.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the Armada’s average lifespan…
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Here is the short answer to how long a Nissan Armada will last:
The Nissan Armada will typically last on average between 250,000 – 300,000 miles – and more when routinely serviced and properly maintained. Based on driving 15,000 miles per annum, an Armada will last between 17 – 20 years before requiring major repairs or breaking down.
How Long Do Nissan Armadas Last:
The Nissan Armada is built on the tried and tested, globally used Nissan Patrol platform which is known to be very durable, and with proper care, these vehicles can last a very long time.
The automotive research site, iseecars.com ranked the Nissan Armada as the 7th most reliable, longest-lasting, large SUV on the market.
This research is further backed up when looking up Armadas on used car marketplaces, such as Car Gurus and Autotrader, where you’ll find models with 300,000 miles on the odometer – and reaching 350,000 miles.
Despite this research, there are no guarantees that any vehicle can reach that mileage.
Here’s what owners had to say on the ClubArmada forum:
“My baby is 227,000 and running strong. I’ve replaced the tie rods on the front and the brake rotors and pads on all sides and, of course, struts as well. I’ve done regular maintenance work on it, and no major problems to report.”
“I own a 2004 Armada LE. 178,778 thousand miles. Everything is original… I’ve had NO problems with exception of the damn brake light.”
The Nissan Armada can usually last between 250,000 to 300,000 miles and longer, depending on its being driven responsibly and well-maintained.
Keep in mind the first-generation Armada’s 2004 to 2006 model years received the most complaints and reported problems, and although these are still expected to go the distance, they will cost more in repairs.
To ensure longevity:
- Change engine and transmission fluids regularly
- Perform routine maintenance
- Use smooth driving habits
- Fix repairs ASAP to prevent them from turning into more significant problems
New Nissan Armadas come with a 3 year / 36,000 miles limited warranty coverage and a 5 year / 60,000 miles powertrain warranty.
These warranties will give you extra peace of mind for the first few years of ownership; after that, you will be financially responsible for any repairs.
Common Problems of the Nissan Armada
A car’s longevity can be decreased by its problems; listed below are what Armada owners have had to deal with.
Note: the newer models have been relatively problem-free from 2017 onwards, and there have been minimal complaints since.
1. Service Brakes
Brake problems are the most commonly reported issues made by Nissan Armada owners.
The worst year for this problem was 2006, but it affected Armada model years from 2004 to 2008 too.
The average mileage that this problem occurred was at 105,050 miles, and the typical repair cost was $2,500.
It was discovered that the underlying problem was a defective delta stroke sensor that caused brake failure.
A class-action lawsuit was filed, which impacted some 350,000 vehicles.
2. Overhead Console Falling Down
On first-generation Nissan Armadas, the overhead console was known to fall down.
It is fortunately not a significant problem in terms of vehicle reliability, but it was a highly reported issue with Armada owners.
Owners needed to replace the faulty overhead console, with this occurring at an average of 84,000 miles and a typical repair cost of $2,000.
It mainly affected 2008 year models.
3. Engine Cooling Problem
Engine cooling is one of the most commonly reported problems with the 2004 and 2005 Nissan Armadas.
Symptoms of an overheating Armada include a raised engine temperature reading on the dashboard, white smoke from under the hood, and a blown head gasket.
The causes of this engine cooling problem are:
- Low coolant
- Faulty radiator fan
- Faulty thermostat
- Malfunctioning water pump
4. Airbag Problems
One of the Armada’s most reported issues regards its airbags.
It is a problem that mainly affects the 2013 to 2015 Armada models.
Nissan issued a recall for these models due to a malfunctioning issue in which the airbag inflator module malfunctioned or ruptured during deployment.
This problem was resolved at no cost to the consumer.
Related: 11 Common Nissan Armada Problems (Explained)
What is High Mileage for a Nissan Armada?
High mileage for a Nissan Armada is around 150,000 miles, even though it might have plenty of life left, it will more than likely need repairs and TLC due to the expected wear and tear and age of the vehicle.
Of course, newer and lower mileage Armada models generally offer higher levels of safety, reliability, and better warranty coverage.
However, when you’re shopping for an Armada, it is more important to inspect the vehicle’s overall condition than worry about its odometer reading.
A higher mileage model with only one previous owner is likely to be a better buy than an Armada being sold with lower mileage but led its life as a rental car.
When buying a second-hand Armada, consider the following factors:
- Service history. Check that the vehicle was adequately serviced and that the owner has documented evidence.
- Take it for a test drive. Ask the seller to leave the car cold; this way, you’ll see how easily it starts up, and you can listen for any strange engine, transmission or exhaust noises.
- Check for rust. Rust is a common problem for all vehicles – even Armadas – and this is a problem that will spread if left untreated. Have a thorough look under the vehicle too.
- Examine the interior. The condition of the interior tells the story of how well the vehicle was maintained and cared for.
Nissan Armada Longevity Compared to Similar SUVs
In this section, we’ll compare the Armada to some of its rivals in the full-size SUV segment.
Nissan Armada vs. Ford Expedition
The Ford Expedition was the first three-row, full-size SUV in North America, creating the class in 1996.
It’s based on the world’s best-selling pickup truck, the F-150.
Powerful engines, luxury interiors, and heavy-duty capabilities set it as the benchmark for the full-size SUV category.
The Ford Expedition can typically last between 200,000 – 250,000 miles, which is slightly less than the Nissan Armada’s expected lifespan.
| Nissan Armada | Ford Expedition | |
| RepairPal Reliability Rating | 3.5 / 5.0 | 3.0 / 5.0 |
| RepairPal Reliability Ranking | 2nd / 16 full-size SUVs | 10th / 16 full-size SUVs |
| Average Annual Repair Cost | $550 | $685 |
While the Armada and Expedition have similar designs and constructions, the Armada has a slightly better reliability rating and ranking, which translates into a lower annual average repair cost.
For that reason, the Armada wins this comparison against the Expedition for its better reliability and longevity.
Related: How Long Do Ford Expeditions Last? (12 Important Facts)
Nisan Armada vs. Dodge Durango
Dodge’s Durango is a three-row, full-size SUV built on the same underpinnings as the brand’s Ram pickup trucks.
It boasts class-leading tech arrays, luxurious cabins, and seriously torquey motors, for which it is beloved by millions of owners.
The Dodge Durango can usually last between 200,000 – 250,000 miles, which is less than the expected longevity of the Nissan Armada.
| Nissan Armada | Dodge Durango | |
| RepairPal Reliability Rating | 3.5 / 5.0 | 3.5 / 5.0 |
| RepairPal Reliability Ranking | 2nd / 16 full-size SUVs | 3rd / 16 full-size SUVs |
| Average Annual Repair Cost | $550 | $675 |
The Durango and Armada are closely matched in terms of reliability rankings and ratings, with the Armada narrowly edging out the Durango.
The Armada’s lower annual average repair cost and extended lifespan noses it ahead to take the win in this matchup.
Related: How Long Do Dodge Durangos Last? (Solved and Explained!)
Nissan Armada vs Toyota Sequoia
The Sequoia is a three-row, full-size SUV from the Japanese automaker Toyota.
It is renowned for its longevity, reliability, and roomy interiors.
The Toyota Sequoia can typically last between 250,000 – 300,000 miles, which is the same as the expected lifespan of the Nissan Armada.
| Nissan Armada | Toyota Sequoia | |
| RepairPal Reliability Rating | 3.5 / 5.0 | 3.5 / 5.0 |
| RepairPal Reliability Ranking | 2nd / 16 full-size SUVs | 5th / 16 full-size SUVs |
| Average Annual Repair Cost | $550 | $642 |
The Toyota Sequoia and Nissan Armada are closely matched in the full-size SUV segment in terms of quality, drivetrains, and capabilities.
The Armada shines brighter than the Sequoia in terms of reliability, durability, and a lower maintenance cost, edging it ahead for the win in this comparison.
Related: How Long Do Toyota Sequoias Last? (12 Important Facts)
Comparison Chart
| Nissan Armada | Toyota Sequoia | Ford Expedition | Dodge Durango | |
| Annual Repair Cost | $550 | $642 | $685 | $675 |
| Reliability Rating | 3.5 / 5.0 | 3.5 / 5.0 | 3.0 / 5.0 | 3.5 / 5.0 |
| Reliability Rank | 2nd / 16 | 5th / 16 | 10th / 16 | 3rd / 16 |
| Lifespan (Miles) | 250k-300k | 250k-300k | 200k-250k | 200k-250k |
Nissan Armada Reliability
The Nissan Armada is a very reliable SUV, and it has been given strong reliability scores from auto critics and owners.
Nissan, as a Japanese brand, lives up to the stereotype of making dependable, long-lasting vehicles.
In recent years there are very few reported complaints for the Armada which is a testament to its reliability, although the earlier renditions were notably more problematic.
For most owners, a well-kept Nissan Armada shouldn’t pose any major reliability issues
.As with any vehicle, the Armada will only run as good as the care and maintenance it gets.
Reliability scores:
- RepairPal ranked the Armada 2nd out of 16 full-size SUVs for reliability, with a score of 3.5 / 5.
- Kelley Blue Book gave the Armada a reliability score of 4.5 / 5
- Consumer Reports ranks Nissan as the 9th most reliable brand out of 28 car brands
- JD Power gave the Armada a Quality and Reliability score of 91/100
The most commonly reported problems with the Armada included:
- Service Brakes
- Overhead Console Falling Down
- Airbag Problems
How Reliable is the Nissan Armada Compared to Other SUVs?
| Model | Reliability |
| Mazda CX-9 | 4.0 / 5.0 |
| Nissan Armada | 3.5 / 5.0 |
| Dodge Durango | 3.5 / 5.0 |
| Jeep Commander | 3.5 / 5.0 |
| Toyota Sequoia | 3.5 / 5.0 |
| GMC Yukon | 3.5 / 5.0 |
| Ford Expedition | 3.0 / 5.0 |
| Chevrolet Avalanche | 3.0 / 5.0 |
| Chevrolet Suburban 1500 | 3.0 / 5.0 |
| GMC Yukon XL 1500 | 3.0 / 5.0 |
| Chevrolet Suburban | 3.0 / 5.0 |
| GMC Yukon XL | 3.0 / 5.0 |
| Chevrolet Suburban 2500 | 2.5 / 5.0 |
| Toyota Land Cruiser | 2.5 / 5.0 |
| Avg. Fullsize SUV | 3.0 |
Best and Worst Years of the Nissan Armada
In this section, we’ll look at the best and worst model years of the Nissan Armada.
Worst Model Years
The 2006 model year Nissan Armada is rated as the worst, according to the number of complaints reported on CarComplaints and CarProblemZoo. However, we’d advise steering clear of 2004 and 2005 models also.
This is because of the nature of the reported problems as having a high repair cost or more problems at lower mileage.
The 2006 model year Armada’s most reported complaint was brake failure.
Best Model Years
The best Nissan Armada model years are the newer models from the second generation, from 2018 to the present day’s 2023 model year.
The newer model years have the lowest number of reported complaints and faults, as Nissan has likely worked out all the production issues over the lifecycle of the second-generation models.
Later model Armadas are also equipped with the latest in safety, tech and luxury features.
If you’re on a tight budget models from 2012 – 2016 are also very reliable choices.
Related: 16 Best & Worst Nissan Armada Years (With Pictures)
Nissan Armada Recalls
The Nissan Armada has had a total of 40 recalls since 2004.
You can check if your Nissan Armada has been subjected to a recall campaign by entering your car’s VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) on the NHTSA website.
Recalls are safety-impacting, manufacturing faults repaired at no charge to the consumer.
Nissan Armada recalls, according to the NHTSA’s records:
- 2004 Nissan Armada: 3
- 2005 Nissan Armada: 5
- 2006 Nissan Armada: 5
- 2007 Nissan Armada: 3
- 2008 Nissan Armada: 6
- 2009 Nissan Armada: 3
- 2010 Nissan Armada: 4
- 2011 Nissan Armada: 0
- 2012 Nissan Armada: 1
- 2013 Nissan Armada: 2
- 2014 Nissan Armada: 1
- 2015 Nissan Armada: 3
- 2016 Nissan Armada: 0
- 2017 Nissan Armada: 0
- 2018 Nissan Armada: 1
- 2019 Nissan Armada: 1
- 2020 Nissan Armada: 1
- 2021 Nissan Armada: 1
- 2022 Nissan Armada: 0
- 2023 Nissan Armada: 0
Nissan Armada Generations and Model Years
First Generation (2004-2015)
- 2004 Nissan Armada
- 2005 Nissan Armada
- 2006 Nissan Armada
- 2007 Nissan Armada
- 2008 Nissan Armada
- 2009 Nissan Armada
- 2010 Nissan Armada
- 2011 Nissan Armada
- 2012 Nissan Armada
- 2013 Nissan Armada
- 2014 Nissan Armada
- 2015 Nissan Armada
- 2016 Nissan Armada
Second Generation (2017-present)
- 2017 Nissan Armada
- 2018 Nissan Armada
- 2019 Nissan Armada
- 2020 Nissan Armada
- 2021 Nissan Armada
- 2022 Nissan Armada
- 2023 Nissan Armada
Maintenance Costs
The Nissan Armada is an affordable full-size SUV to maintain thanks to its strong reliability, its annual repair costs are well below the sector’s annual average. RepairPal estimates the Armada’s average yearly repair cost to be $550, while the segment’s average is $784.
The annual average repair cost across all makes and models of vehicles in the United States is $652.
| Model | Avg. Annual Repair Cost | Frequency of Unscheduled Repairs (per year) | Probability of SevereRepairs |
| Mazda CX-9 | $539 | 0.6 | 10% |
| Nissan Armada | $550 | 0.4 | 13% |
| Dodge Durango | $675 | 0.2 | 13% |
| Jeep Commander | $639 | 0.4 | 15% |
| Toyota Sequoia | $642 | 0.4 | 15% |
| GMC Yukon | $747 | 0.3 | 16% |
| Ford Expedition | $861 | 0.3 | 15% |
| Chevrolet Avalanche | $700 | 0.5 | 18% |
| Chevrolet Suburban 1500 | $821 | 0.4 | 18% |
| GMC Yukon XL 1500 | $852 | 0.4 | 18% |
| Chevrolet Suburban | $944 | 0.5 | 15% |
| GMC Yukon XL | $934 | 0.6 | 16% |
| Chevrolet Suburban 2500 | $870 | 0.3 | 21% |
| Toyota Land Cruiser | $843 | 0.7 | 21% |
| Avg. Fullsize SUV | $784 | 0.4 | 15% |
How Long Do Armada Brakes Last?
The Nissan Armada’s brake pads typically last between 30,000 – 70,000 miles. This depends on several factors, such as driving style, traffic conditions, and towing frequency.
A conservative driving style and smoother use of the brake pedal will help to maximize the lifespan of an Armada’s brake pads.
Ways to prolong your Armada’s brake pads:
- Do not over speed
- Avoid accelerating while braking
- Use engine braking
- Allow adequate stopping distance
- Avoid overloading your vehicle
- Regularly inspect the brake pads
How Long Do Armada Tires Last?
Nissan Armada tires usually last between 40,000 to 50,000 miles or 4 – 5 years. However, they can wear out much sooner. Your driving habits, climate, and road conditions play a prominent role in determining the lifespan of your tires.
- Rotate tires every 5,000 miles to ensure even wear.
- Check tire pressures regularly every two weeks to ensure they’re at the optimum tire pressure.
- Have a mechanic or tire shop check your wheel alignment every 6 months.
How Long Do Armada Transmissions Last?
The Nissan Armada’s transmission typically lasts over 200,000 miles, and with regular maintenance, it can even last the entire useful life of the vehicle.
How Long Do Armada Spark Plugs Last?
The Armada’s spark plugs usually last between 30,000 to 40,000 miles.
It is recommended that the Nissan Armada’s spark plugs are inspected every time you take the SUV in for a tune-up at our local workshop.
Signs of a fouled spark plug include:
- Reduced gas mileage
- Lack of acceleration
- Rough idling
- Hard starts
- Engine misfires
How Long Do Armada Engines Last?
A Nissan Armada’s engine can usually last 200,000 miles or more, before potentially encountering significant problems. With routine care and preventative maintenance, Nissan Armada engines can last a very long time.
There are many Nissan Armadas with more than 300,000 miles on used car marketplaces – further highlighting the Armadas’ dependable and reliable engines.
How Long Do Armada 12V Batteries Last?
A Nissan Armada’s 12V battery can typically last for 3 – 5 years, depending on several factors, such as battery size, weather conditions, driving habits, the condition of the battery, and more.
- Keep your battery tightly fastened: The vibrations of the Armada can loosen the connections, potentially resulting in short circuits and internal damage.
- Limit short rides: Quick car rides prevent the battery from fully charging.
- Storage: Keep your Armada in a garage, away from extreme temperature changes.
- Control corrosion: Clean the terminals (toothbrush dipped in baking soda and water mixture) and keep them free from build-up.
What Are the Insurance Costs?
The average cost of full insurance coverage for a Nissan Armada is $1,690 per year or approximately $141 per month.
The average annual cost across full-size SUVs is $1,720,
Insurance costs can vary greatly, so be sure to shop around to find the best possible deal for yourself.
How to Get the Most Life From Your Nissan Armada
- Follow the maintenance schedule outlined in the owner’s manual
- Have recalls and repairs addressed ASAP
- Use original parts and quality fluids
- If possible, keep the vehicle stored in a garage, out of the elements
- Invest in ceramic paint protection to keep the car looking new
- Drive smoothly and conservatively
- Check your tire pressure regularly and rotate your tires
Sources:
https://www.cargurus.com/Cars/l-Used-Nissan-Armada-d238
https://www.autotrader.com/cars-for-sale/nissan/armada
https://www.carcomplaints.com/Nissan/Armada/
https://www.carproblemzoo.com/nissan/armada/
https://insuraviz.com/vehicles/nissan/nissan-armada-insurance/
