Last updated: 2026-07-25

RELIABILITY SCORE: 74/100 (GOOD)

2021 Nissan Armada Reliability Report

Name: 2021 Nissan Armada
Brand: Nissan

The 2021 Nissan Armada scores 74/100 ("Good"). With 2 recalls and 12 owner complaints, reliability is acceptable but not class-leading.

Full Breakdown Compare Models

Recalls

Complaints

Complaint Rate

5.3per 10,000 sold

Est. Repair Cost

$550

Annual Fuel Cost

$4,650–$4,950

Detailed Score Breakdown

Complaint Severity71/100

Component-weighted complaints normalized by sales volume

Repair Costs70/100

Independent repair cost ratings

Recall Impact80/100

Recall count weighted by severity

Issue Diversity78/100

Breadth of reported problem categories

The Verdict

Consider

Acceptable reliability — worth considering with a pre-purchase inspection.

Top Issues to Watch

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (3)
ENGINE (3)
POWER TRAIN (2)

Generation & Refresh (US)

Refresh Year

2021 received a 2021 refresh update for the Second generation (Y62).

Changes: Redesigned front end; Larger grille and LED headlights; Updated interior with wider infotainment screen; Standard Safety Shield 360.
Year 5 in this generation (2017–2024).
2nd generation Armada (US).

What this means for buyers

Refresh years bring updates but can also introduce new issues. Check early recall data before buying.

2017: Second generation (Y62) Launch

Generation start — new platform.

2021: This Model Year (Refresh)

2021 received a 2021 refresh update for the Second generation (Y62).

Should You Buy the 2021 Nissan Armada?

At 74/100, the 2021 Nissan Armada lands in "Good" territory — acceptable, but not class-leading. 2021 received a 2021 refresh update for the Second generation (Y62).

Owners log 12 complaints on this model year — enough to suggest attention is needed, but no single failure mode dominates yet.

Get a pre-purchase inspection on any used example, with extra attention to electrical system (3). An extended warranty is worth pricing out.

Compared to the 2022 Nissan Armada, which scored 1 points higher. See also the 2020 Nissan Armada for an earlier comparison.

Pros

+Acceptable reliability score
+$234 cheaper to maintain than avg fullsize SUVs
+Low major repair risk (13%)
+Low recall count

Cons

−ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: Battery failures and malfunctioning sensors (3 complaints)
−ENGINE: Owners of the 2021 Nissan Armada report issues primarily related to engine... (3 complaints)

Compare 2021 Nissan Armada With

2021 Chevrolet Tahoe

Reliability: 58/100

Mixed

2021 Ford Expedition

Reliability: 57/100

Mixed

2021 Toyota Sequoia

Reliability: 72/100

Good

2021 GMC Yukon

Reliability: 55/100

Mixed

2021 Cadillac Escalade

Reliability: 54/100

Mixed

Common Problem Categories

Safety

LOW RISK

2 manufacturer recalls issued

Other

HIGH RISK

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (3)
ENGINE (3)

See detailed breakdown by component ↓

Recall Overview

recalls on record

The 2021 Nissan Armada carries 2 recalls — a low count. Authorized dealers repair any open recall free of charge, regardless of warranty status.

NHTSA.gov →

Complaint Breakdown

5.3

per 10,000 sold

Segment avg: 16.7

LowAvgHigh

Low

Safety Incidents

Crashes

Fires

Injuries

Deaths

Data sourced from NHTSA complaint filings and manufacturer recall notices. Complaint narratives are owner-reported.

2021 Nissan Armada Recall Details

2 recalls have been issued for the 2021 Nissan Armada. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.

26V4550002026-07-15

EQUIPMENT

Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2020-2026 Nissan Armada, 2011-2013 Infiniti QX56, and 2014-2027 QX80 vehicles equipped with 22" wheels. The Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) listed on the certification label is incorrect, which can allow the vehicle to be overloaded. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 110, "Tire Selection and Rims."

Consequence

An overloaded vehicle can increase the risk of a crash.

Remedy

Dealers will install new labels, free of charge. Additionally, Nissan will mail replacement labels to owners. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed September 4, 2026. Owners may contact Nissan customer service at 1-800-867-7669. Nissan's numbers for this recall are R26B1 and R26B2. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on July 16, 2026.

21V3730002021-05-20

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE

Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Nissan Armada and 2020-2021 INFINITI QX80 vehicles equipped with V8 engines. The impeller can swell and bind within the fuel pump module, causing it to fail.

Consequence

Fuel pump failure can cause an engine stall, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy

Dealers will replace the fuel pump module, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed February 4, 2022. Owners may contact Nissan customer service at 1-800-867-7669. Nissan's number for this recall is R21A2. Owners may contact INFINITI customer service at 1-800-662-6200. INFINITI's number for this recall is R21A3.

VIN History Report

Buying a used 2021 Nissan Armada? Check its history first

Every 2021 Nissan Armada has a different past. A VIN check reveals hidden accidents, title problems, odometer rollbacks, and open recalls that reliability scores can't show you.

Accidents
Open Recalls
Title History
Odometer Rollback

2021 Nissan Armada NHTSA Safety Ratings

Crash Test Results by Configuration (expand)

Gas Powertrain

Rollover risk: 23.7%

Safety Technologies

Dynamic Head Restraints (Driver, Front Passenger)Head Restraint (Driver, Front Passenger, Rear Seat)Advanced Belt Feature (Standard)Adjustable Upper Belt Anchorage (Driver, Front Passenger, Rear Seat)Seat Belt Reminder System (Driver, Front Passenger, Rear Seat, 3rd row)Frontal Air Bag (Driver, Front Passenger)Curtain (Driver, Front Passenger, Rear Seat, 3rd row)Torso/Pelvis (Driver, Front Passenger)Knee (Driver, Front Passenger)Additional Air Bags (N/A)Meets Side Air Bag Out-of-Position Requirements (Yes)LATCH Locations (Rear Seat)Safety Power Windows (Anti-Pinch) (Not Available)Safety Power Windows (Anti-Pinch) locations (Not Available)

View full safety data on NHTSA.gov →

Nissan ArmadaRepair Costs & Maintenance

Maintenance Rating

3.5

Based on NHTSA complaint patterns, recall severity, and publicly available cost benchmarks.

Est. Annual Maintenance

$550

vs $784 avg for fullsize SUVs

vs $652 avg for all vehicles

Repair Frequency

0.4

unscheduled repair visits per year

Severe Repair Probability

13%

chance of a major repair

Annual Cost Comparison

Armada

$550

Category Avg

$784

All Vehicles

$652

Category-level averages derived from publicly available industry reports (AAA, CarMD). Model-level estimates produced by Auto Reliability Index.

MPG & Annual Running Costs

Gas

15–16 MPG

Running cost: $5,200–$5,500/yr

Fuel + repair

13–14 city / 18–19 hwy MPG

Running cost includes EPA fuel-cost estimate and independent repair-cost data (repair cost estimated at model level). Excludes routine maintenance, depreciation, and insurance. Data as of 2021 EPA label cycle.

Gas trims

Trim	Drive	Trans.	City	Hwy	Comb	Fuel Cost
Armada 2WD 5.6L 8-cyl	Rear-Wheel Drive	Automatic (S7)	14	19	16	$4,650
Armada 4WD 5.6L 8-cyl	4-Wheel Drive	Automatic (S7)	13	18	15	$4,950
Armada 4WD 5.6L 8-cyl	4-Wheel Drive	Automatic (S7)	13	18	15	$4,950

Used Buying Checklist

Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing a 2021 Nissan Armada.

Inspect transmission for jerking and slow acceleration
Test infotainment screens and sensors for responsiveness
Check battery for signs of drainage or leakage
Verify emergency braking system does not activate unexpectedly
Confirm engine does not stall after refueling
Ensure Nissan Connect Services are functional if applicable

2021 Nissan Armada Common Problems by Component

12 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (3)ENGINE (3)POWER TRAIN (2)UNKNOWN OR OTHER (2)FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE (1)AIR BAGS (1)

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

3 complaints

Owners of the 2021 Nissan Armada report recurring electrical system issues, primarily involving battery failures and malfunctioning sensors. Complaints frequently mention problems with battery drainage and leakage, with some owners needing multiple battery replacements within a short period. Additionally, owners describe problems with the vehicle's screens going black and sensors activating incorrectly, leading to unexpected braking, especially at highway speeds. These issues typically begin around 10,000 to 34,000 miles and pose potential safety risks due to sudden vehicle stops. Prospective buyers should be aware of these electrical concerns, as they may affect vehicle reliability and safety.

3 complaints total

ENGINE

3 complaints

Owners of the 2021 Nissan Armada report issues primarily related to engine performance and starting problems. A common symptom includes the vehicle stalling, particularly after refueling, with one owner describing a dangerous stall near an interstate entrance. Another issue involves the vehicle's battery draining unexpectedly, leading to starting difficulties despite recent battery replacements. Additionally, one owner notes erratic RPM fluctuations accompanied by loud engine noise. These problems can pose safety risks, especially in scenarios involving stalling while merging or accelerating onto highways. These complaints suggest potential reliability concerns for used car buyers considering this model.

3 complaints total

POWER TRAIN

2 complaints

Owners of the 2021 Nissan Armada report experiencing transmission failures, often requiring complete replacements at around 100,000 miles. Common symptoms include jerking motions and slow acceleration, with some owners noting the absence of warning lights prior to the failure. Complaints suggest that these issues arise despite regular maintenance, and multiple owners describe similar failures at relatively low mileage. Safety implications are highlighted by the risk of being stranded or involved in an accident due to sudden transmission failure. This information is crucial for potential buyers considering a used 2021 Nissan Armada, particularly those approaching or exceeding 100,000 miles.

2 complaints total

UNKNOWN OR OTHER (2 complaints)

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

2 complaints

Owners of the 2021 Nissan Armada report issues related to engine performance and connectivity features. One owner describes a persistent engine sputtering and misfire code, initially attributed to the mass air sensor, but suggests it may relate to a known fuel pump recall issue. Another owner details difficulties activating Nissan Connect Services due to the vehicle being a Canadian model, resulting in non-functional safety and convenience features in the U.S. and potential complications with receiving recall notifications. These complaints highlight problems with both engine operation and feature functionality, with significant implications for connectivity and potential safety feature availability.

2 complaints total

FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE (1 complaints)

FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE

1 complaint

2026-03-30

My emergency breaking will come on and almost stop my vehicle driving down the road with no one near me. It’s very scary and it happens frequently. I will put my most recent incident below

AIR BAGS (1 complaints)

AIR BAGS

1 complaintSafety-related

2021-12-15Crash reported1 injury

I was driving a RENTED 2021 Nissan Armada. The brakes of this vehicle locked up when I was trying to avoid rear ending a car that had suddenly jumped in front of me. Instead of being able to control the braking, once I put the brake on, I tried to let up a little to see if I could stop the vehicle from skidding. However once I put my foot down on the brake it continued to stay depressed. I noticed that the vehicle was sliding and the steering wheel was also locked. I couldn't swerve to the left or right. I hit the van in front of me, the air bags deployed--driver's side air bag broke open and let out noxious gas. I have never driven a vehicle with such AEB troubles. If this is how the 2021 Nissan Armada acts, then other will find themselves not being able to avoid an accident as well. - Cheryl D., Frederick, MD, US

When Do 2021 Nissan Armada Problems Start?

Based on owner complaint patterns, here's when common issues tend to appear.

100,000 milesTransmission failures

10,000–34,000 milesElectrical system failures

Best & Worst Nissan Armada Years

Comprehensive reliability analysis based on NHTSA data, owner complaints, and historical performance.

Best Nissan Armada Years to Buy

Based on reliability index score

The best Nissan Armada year is 2024 with a reliability score of 75/100, rated good. Other strong picks include 2023 (75/100) and 2022 (75/100).

Top Pick

Good

Nissan Armada Years to Avoid

No Nissan Armada years are statistical outliers in our data.

All model years score consistently well. The Nissan Armada maintains one of the highest industry standards for long-term durability across its entire production span.

See full Nissan Armada years-to-avoid analysis

Nissan Armada Reliability Score Trend

Nissan Armada reliability has remained consistent across model years, averaging 73/100.

Scores 0–100. Higher is better. Current year highlighted.

Nissan Armada reliability scores by year
Year	Score	Rating
2018	70/100	Good
2019	72/100	Good
2020	72/100	Good
2021	74/100	Good
2022	75/100	Good
2023	75/100	Good
2024	75/100	Good
2025	73/100	Good
2026	74/100	Good

Nissan Armada Reliability Compared to Other Years

Reliability scores compared across model years
Year	Score	vs Prior Year	Rating	Recalls	Complaints
2026	74/100	+1	Good	2	6
2025	73/100	-2	Good	2	19
2024	75/100	0	Good	1	4
2023	75/100	0	Good	1	5
2022	75/100	+1	Good	1	8
2021(selected)	74/100	+2	Good	2	12
2020	72/100	0	Good	2	26
2019	72/100	+2	Good	1	72
2018	70/100	—	Good	1	73

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the 2021 Nissan Armada reliable?

The 2021 Nissan Armada has a "Good" reliability rating with a score of 74/100. It is reasonably reliable with 2 recalls and 12 owner complaints, though some issues have been reported.

What are the most common problems with the 2021 Nissan Armada?

The most commonly reported problems with the 2021 Nissan Armada include: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (3 complaints), ENGINE (3 complaints), POWER TRAIN (2 complaints), UNKNOWN OR OTHER (2 complaints), FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE (1 complaints). These issues were identified from owner complaints analyzed by Auto Reliability Index.

How many recalls does the 2021 Nissan Armada have?

The 2021 Nissan Armada has 2 recalls on record. Recalls are safety or compliance fixes issued by the manufacturer and repaired at no cost at authorized dealerships.

Is the 2021 Nissan Armada expensive to maintain?

The 2021 Nissan Armada has estimated annual repair costs of $550/year, which is $234 less than the fullsize SUVs average of $784. With a reliability score of 74/100, some repairs may be needed, but overall ownership costs are manageable.

Don’t buy a 2021 Nissan Armada without checking its VIN first — hidden accidents, title issues, and open recalls could cost you thousands.

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Look Up a VIN →

How We Calculate Reliability Scores

Auto Reliability Index scores are calculated on a 0–100 scale using a weighted formula that combines multiple public data sources. Each factor is weighted based on its predictive value for real-world ownership experience.

Key Ranking Factors

Complaint Severity

NHTSA owner complaints weighted by component category (e.g., powertrain, safety systems, electronics, cosmetic) — safety-critical issues carry more weight than cosmetic ones. Adjusted for sales volume so high-volume models aren't unfairly penalized.

Repair Costs

Independent reliability ratings based on repair frequency, average repair costs, and severity of typical repairs for each model.

Recall Impact

Number of NHTSA recalls weighted by severity. “Stop driving” and fire-risk recalls are penalized more heavily than minor software or labeling recalls.

Issue Diversity

Measures how many major vehicle systems (engine, transmission, electrical, braking, etc.) have recorded complaints. A vehicle with issues spread across many systems may indicate systemic quality issues.

Scores are grouped into four tiers:

80–100: Excellent— Top-tier reliability, minimal issues
60–79: Good— Reliable with some minor concerns
40–59: Mixed— Notable issues, research before buying
0–39: Risky— Significant problems, proceed with caution

Data is sourced from NHTSA recall records, owner complaint filings, and independent repair databases. Scores are recalculated as new data becomes available. While the weighting model is proprietary, all underlying data sources are public and traceable.

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