By Finn Hart The 2012 Nissan Armada presents several issues that potential buyers should consider. Common transmission problems include slipping and harsh shifting, necessitating fluid changes every 30,000 miles. Electrical system failures, such as battery drainage, frequently disrupt reliable starts. The brake system often displays premature wear, leading to grinding noises and extended stopping distances. Noteworthy recalls involve airbag malfunctions and fuel gauge inaccuracies, raising safety concerns. Despite these issues, the Armada's powerful 5.6-liter V8 engine boasts adequate towing capabilities. Owners cite fuel efficiency woes, averaging 13-19 MPG. Understanding these aspects aids in making an informed decision about the Armada. Further insights on ownership will reveal additional factors.
Overview of the 2012 Armada
The 2012 Nissan Armada is a big SUV with a strong engine and lots of space inside. It's great for families or anyone who needs to carry a lot of stuff. The SUV runs on a 5.6-liter V8 engine, giving it 317 horsepower and 385 lb-ft of torque. This power lets it tow up to 8,500 pounds, good for pulling trailers or boats.
The Armada is 208.9 inches long and 79.9 inches wide. It can fit up to eight people comfortably. Inside, there's plenty of room for heads and legs, especially in the front and second rows. The rear seats can fold down to make more room for cargo. With all seats up, there's 20 cubic feet of space, which grows to 97 cubic feet with the rear seats down.
The SUV comes with useful tech and safety features. It has a rearview camera, Bluetooth, and optional navigation. It has high safety ratings, which is great for families.
When looking at other SUVs like the Chevrolet Tahoe and Ford Expedition, the Armada is known for its powerful engine and roomy interior. However, it's not as fuel-efficient, getting about 13-19 MPG.
It's a strong choice in the large SUV market, offering a balance of power and space.
Common problems reported for the 2012 Armada
Issues Reported for the 2012 Nissan Armada
Transmission
The 2012 Nissan Armada often has issues with the transmission. Problems like slipping and harsh shifting happen often.
These problems cause slow acceleration and jerks, making the car hard to control. Many drivers aren't fully happy with this, with satisfaction at about 65%.
Electrical System
The electrical system is a big problem area. Many people face issues like the battery draining and alternators not working.
These problems happen more now than before. Drivers notice warning lights on the dashboard and the car sometimes doesn't start. This makes the car less reliable and can cause it to stall. Satisfaction here is low, around 58%.
Suspension
Suspension problems are also common. The bushings wear out quickly, and there are noises.
These issues haven't changed much over time. Drivers hear clunking sounds and feel the ride isn't smooth. This affects how the car handles and its comfort. Satisfaction in this area is around 70%.
Brakes
Brakes have issues like fading and wearing out too soon.
These problems happen moderately often and have slightly increased over time. Drivers hear grinding noises and notice longer stopping times, which can be unsafe. Satisfaction with brakes is 60%.
Engine
Engine issues, like using too much oil and rough idling, aren't very common.
These problems haven't changed much over time. People notice too much smoke and noise from the engine, which can hurt performance and may damage the engine. Satisfaction here is about 70%.
Fuel System
Problems with the fuel system happen often. The fuel pump can fail, and fuel economy is poor.
These issues haven't changed much. Drivers see check engine lights and get fewer miles per gallon, which costs more and affects performance. Satisfaction is around 65%.
Air Conditioning
Air conditioning problems aren't very common. Issues include not cooling well and compressor troubles.
These haven't changed much over time. Drivers feel weak airflow and hear odd noises, which can be uncomfortable. Satisfaction with air conditioning is higher, at about 75%.
Recall information specific to the 2012 Armada
The 2012 Nissan Armada has had several issues that affected its safety and reliability, leading to recalls. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) highlighted these problems, and owners should be aware of them.
- Airbag Problem: The airbag control unit might not work right. This could cause airbags to not deploy properly in a crash, risking passenger safety.
- Fuel Gauge Error: The fuel gauge may show the wrong fuel level. This mistake could lead to the car stopping due to running out of fuel unexpectedly, which can be dangerous.
- Brake Concerns: There are issues with the brake system that could reduce how well the brakes work. This can be a problem, especially in emergencies.
Nissan has informed owners about these problems and asked them to visit dealerships for repairs.
Owners should check if their car is affected by these recalls. They can do this by visiting the NHTSA website or talking to a Nissan dealership. Fixing these issues will help keep the 2012 Nissan Armada safe and reliable.
Owner reviews and satisfaction rates for the 2012 model
Owner reviews of the 2012 Nissan Armada show mixed feelings. Many like the strong 5.6-liter V8 engine. It offers 317 horsepower and 385 lb-ft of torque, which helps with towing. This is good for pulling trailers or boats. The big interior and comfy seats for up to eight people are appreciated by families.
But some problems keep coming up in reviews. Many owners are not happy with how much fuel the Armada uses. It gets about 13-18 miles per gallon, which is less than some other large SUVs.
Handling is another issue. Some drivers say the Armada feels hard to control in tight spots or sharp turns.
Reliability is also a concern. Some owners mention issues with the electrical systems. They have trouble with the navigation and entertainment systems.
Still, the Armada has strong safety ratings, like a five-star overall rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, which is a plus for some owners.
Comparison to previous and subsequent Armada model years
When looking at the 2012 Nissan Armada compared to earlier and later models, some differences stand out that might matter to buyers. The 2012 version, part of the first generation starting in 2004, uses a strong 5.6-liter V8 engine with 317 horsepower. This engine is the same as in older models.
But in the 2017 update, the engine was boosted to 390 horsepower, giving it more power and better efficiency.
The design of the 2012 Armada has a tough look like earlier models. The 2017 model has a new style with a modern look and better aerodynamics.
Inside, the 2012 model has a roomy cabin with good materials. By 2017, the inside got better with higher-quality materials and new tech features like an updated infotainment system and improved soundproofing for a quieter ride.
Safety ratings have improved over time. The 2012 model had mixed results in crash tests. Later models, especially after 2016, have better safety features like forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking, leading to better safety ratings.
When choosing between the 2012 Nissan Armada and other years, consider aspects like performance, style, technology, and safety features. Newer models might have a higher price, but they come with modern features and potentially better reliability.
Tips for buying a used 2012 Armada
When thinking about buying a used 2012 Nissan Armada, it's smart to do some research and check the car thoroughly. This model offers a roomy interior and strong towing power, but it may have some issues.
1. Look at the Vehicle History Report****: Get a detailed vehicle history report from services like Carfax or AutoCheck. This will show past accidents, title issues, and service records.
Check for regular maintenance and any major repairs.
2. Check the Suspension and Brakes****: The 2012 Armada sometimes has suspension problems, like parts wearing out early. When you inspect the car, look closely at the shocks and struts.
Also, check the brakes for wear and consider replacing them if needed.
3. Go for a Test Drive and Listen for Sounds: Take the car for a test drive. Listen for any strange noises from the engine or transmission.
Pay attention to how smoothly the car shifts gears. Rough shifting might mean transmission problems.
Maintenance recommendations for the 2012 Armada
Keeping your 2012 Nissan Armada in good shape means doing regular maintenance. Here are some simple tasks to keep in mind:
| Maintenance Task | How Often to Do It | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Oil Change | Every 5,000 miles | Use synthetic oil to keep the engine running smoothly. |
| Tire Rotation | Every 5,000 miles | Helps tires wear evenly and last longer. |
| Brake Check | Every 10,000 miles | Look at pads, rotors, and fluid to stay safe. |
| Transmission Fluid Change | Every 30,000 miles | Keeps gear shifts smooth; watch for color changes. |
| Coolant Flush | Every 60,000 miles | Stops the engine from getting too hot. |
Regular oil changes with synthetic oil can make the engine work better and last longer. Rotating the tires helps them last and makes driving safer. Checking brakes every now and then keeps you safe on the road. Changing the transmission fluid helps the gears shift easily. Flushing the coolant keeps the engine from overheating.
Following these tips can help avoid expensive repairs later. Keep a schedule for these tasks to keep your Nissan Armada working well.
Resale value and long-term ownership costs
When thinking about the Nissan Armada, it's good to know how it holds its value and what it costs to own over time. The Armada is strong and well-equipped, but it loses value quickly and costs more to keep compared to some other big SUVs.
In the first year, the Armada's value goes down by 15-20%. After five years, it loses about half its value. Other SUVs like the Chevrolet Tahoe and Ford Expedition keep their value better because more people want them used.
Here's a look at how the Armada compares to these competitors:
| Aspect | Nissan Armada | Chevrolet Tahoe | Ford Expedition |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5-Year Depreciation Rate | ~50% | ~45% | ~42% |
| Average Annual Maintenance | $1,000 | $900 | $950 |
| 2023 Resale Value (est.) | $30,000 | $35,000 | $32,000 |
The Armada costs more to fix each year than the Tahoe and Expedition. This adds to the cost of owning it long-term. Also, the Armada's fuel economy is about 14-20 miles per gallon, which can also affect how much it costs to run. While it offers a roomy SUV experience, these factors are worth thinking about when compared to other similar SUVs.
People Also Ask
What Are the Common Engine Issues in the Nissan Armada?
The Nissan Armada often has engine problems like using too much oil, timing chain tensioner failures, and getting too hot. To keep the engine working well, it's important to do regular check-ups and fix any problems quickly.
How Does the Armada Perform in Crash Tests?
The Nissan Armada does well in crash tests. It has strong safety features that protect people inside. Its design helps keep passengers safe in both front and side crashes. This makes it a good choice for staying safe on the road.
What Is the Towing Capacity of the 2012 Nissan Armada?
The 2012 Nissan Armada can tow up to 8,500 pounds if it has the right equipment. This means it can pull big things like trailers or campers, making it a good choice for families who like to go on adventures with their gear.
Are There Any Known Electrical Issues With the Armada?
Yes, the Nissan Armada can have electrical problems. These might include issues with the battery, alternator, or wiring. Sometimes, the car might not work well because of these problems. It's a good idea to check and maintain your car regularly to avoid issues.
What Is the Average Lifespan of a Nissan Armada?
A Nissan Armada can last about 200,000 to 250,000 miles if you take good care of it. This means getting regular check-ups, driving safely, and keeping it in good conditions. Doing these things can help your car run well for a long time.