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2004 Nissan Armada Overview, Reviews, Ratings & Specs

Rating: 4.67
Based on 21 Owner Reviews â–¶
Cathleen V | March 31, 2025
The 2004 Nissan Armada marked Nissan's entry into the full-size SUV market. This body-on-frame SUV offered ample space and robust towing capabilities. Model years spanned from 2004 to 2015 for this generation. Key trims included the SE, LE, and later, the SE Off-Road. Original pricing ranged from approximately $35,000 to $45,000. Its impressive size, powerful V8 engine, and relative affordability made it a popular choice for families needing space and utility.
The Good

The 2004 Nissan Armada boasts a strong V8 engine providing ample power for towing and hauling (practical). It offered a comfortable ride and spacious interior (emotional/practical). Its rugged design appealed to those seeking a capable and dependable SUV (emotional). While not the most fuel-efficient, it offered good value for the size and features (practical).

The Bad

Known weaknesses of the 2004 Nissan Armada include relatively poor fuel economy. Potential buyers should watch out for issues with the rear auto-leveling suspension, rust, particularly in areas with road salt, and potential transmission problems. Regular maintenance records are crucial due to these possible long-term issues.

2004 Nissan Armada: Quick Overview

  • Engine Options: 5.6L V8
  • Horsepower: 305 hp @ 4,900 rpm
  • Fuel Economy: Approximately 13 mpg city / 19 mpg highway (actual figures may vary)
  • 0-60 Times: Around 7.8 seconds
  • Towing Capacity: Up to 9,100 lbs (depending on configuration)
  • Trim-Level Features:
    • SE: Standard features included cloth upholstery, alloy wheels, power windows and locks, keyless entry, and a CD stereo system.
    • LE: Upgraded features often included leather upholstery, heated front seats, a Bose audio system, dual-zone automatic climate control, power-adjustable pedals, and rear parking sensors.
    • SE Off-Road (later years): Added features catered to off-road use, such as skid plates and sometimes, a locking rear differential.
  • Key Specs Summary: The 2004 Nissan Armada was primarily powered by a robust 5.6L V8 engine, delivering 305 horsepower, providing ample power for hauling and towing. Fuel economy was typically around 13 mpg in the city and 19 mpg on the highway. It could achieve 0-60 mph in approximately 7.8 seconds. The Armada's towing capacity was a significant selling point, rated up to 9,100 pounds when properly equipped, making it suitable for towing boats or trailers. The trim levels offered a range of features, from the base SE with essential comforts to the LE with luxury appointments and the SE Off-Road for those seeking enhanced off-road capability.

2004 Nissan Armada Specifications

Vehicle Information
Year 2004
Make Nissan
Model Armada
Trim -
Style -
Type Wagon
Category Minivan Medium Truck
Manufacturing Details
Made In United States
Manufacturing City NAGOYA
Dimensions
Doors 4-Door
Curb Weight -
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating -
Overall Height -
Overall Length -
Overall Width -
Wheelbase Length -
Standard Seating -
Engine & Performance
Engine VK56DE
Engine Size 5.6L
Engine Cylinders 8
Transmission Automatic 5-Speed
Transmission Type Automatic
Transmission Speeds 5-Speed
Drivetrain Four-Wheel Drive
Additional Features
Anti-Brake System Standard
Steering Type -
Pricing
Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) -
Invoice Price -
Delivery Charges -

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What Problems Does the 2004 Nissan Armada Have?

Frequently reported problems for the 2004 Nissan Armada include issues with the rear auto-leveling suspension. The air suspension components, particularly the air bags, can degrade over time, leading to sagging or failure, requiring replacement. Rust is also a common concern, especially in regions where road salt is used during winter; undercarriage and body panel rust should be carefully inspected. Transmission problems, such as slipping or harsh shifting, have been reported, though less frequently than the suspension and rust issues.
Recalls for the 2004 Nissan Armada mainly centered around airbag systems and potential fuel leaks. It's crucial to check the vehicle's VIN on the NHTSA website (nhtsa.gov) to verify whether all applicable recalls have been addressed.
Long-term reliability concerns include potential engine issues, such as oil consumption at higher mileage. Electrical problems, while not widespread, can also occur. Earlier model years might be more susceptible to certain issues due to age and wear. Owners should prioritize regular maintenance, including timely oil changes, transmission fluid flushes, and inspection of the suspension and brake systems, to mitigate potential problems and ensure long-term reliability.

How long will the 2004 Nissan Armada last?

A well-maintained 2004 Nissan Armada can realistically achieve 200,000 miles or more. With diligent maintenance, some owners have reported surpassing 250,000 miles. However, long-term durability hinges heavily on maintenance habits. Weaknesses over time include potential suspension issues (especially the rear auto-leveling system), rust, and transmission wear. Regular fluid changes (oil, transmission, coolant) and proactive repairs are crucial to maximizing longevity. Neglecting maintenance will significantly shorten the vehicle's lifespan. Routine checks on hoses, belts, and other wear items are also essential to prevent breakdowns.

What Technology & Safety Features are Included?

The 2004 Nissan Armada's built-in tech and entertainment features were relatively basic for its time. Standard features included a CD player, while higher trims offered a Bose audio system. Navigation was available as an option on the LE trim. Driver-assistance features were limited compared to modern vehicles. Rear parking sensors were available on some models.
Safety features included anti-lock brakes (ABS), traction control, and front and side airbags. Electronic stability control was not standard on all trims. Crash-test ratings from the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) were generally good for frontal impact protection but showed some vulnerability in side-impact tests. Rollover ratings were typical for a large SUV of that era.
Optional features included a DVD entertainment system for rear passengers, power-adjustable pedals, and heated front seats. Compared to today's standards, the 2004 Armada lacks advanced driver-assistance systems like lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, or automatic emergency braking. The technology is dated, but the essential safety features were present.

What Colors Options are Available?

Exterior Colors
Alpine White
Arctic Blue Metallic
Silver Lightning Metallic
Smoke Metallic
Red Brawn Metallic
Galaxy Black Metallic
Desert Stone Metallic
Graphite Blue Metallic
Interior Colors
Stone
Graphite

2004 Nissan Armada Prices and Market Value

The 2004 Nissan Armada originally priced from approximately $35,000 to $45,000, depending on the trim and options. Current used market prices typically range from $3,000 to $8,000, depending on condition, mileage, and location. The Armada has experienced significant depreciation due to its age, fuel consumption, and potential maintenance costs. Factors affecting resale value include overall condition, maintenance records, mileage, and rust. Models with lower mileage and well-documented maintenance history command higher prices. Rust significantly reduces resale value. Demand for large, older SUVs is also a factor.

2004 Nissan Armada Cost of Ownership

The 2004 Nissan Armada is generally considered costly to own. Insurance premiums can be moderate to high, depending on driving record and coverage. Fuel costs are high due to poor fuel economy. Maintenance and repair costs can be significant, especially as the vehicle ages. Parts may become harder to find and more expensive. Long-term ownership costs are driven primarily by fuel consumption, potential repairs, and the need for preventative maintenance to avoid major issues. It's not an economical choice compared to smaller or newer vehicles.

2004 Nissan Armada Fuel Efficiency

Fuel Type Gasoline
Fuel Capacity -
City Mileage -
Highway Mileage -

2004 Nissan Armada Safety Rating

NHTSA
Overall Rating Not Tested
Overall Frontal Star Rating Not Tested
Side Overall Star Rating Not Tested
Overall Rollover Star Rating Not Tested
Combined Front Seat Rating Not Tested
Combined Rear Seat Rating Not Tested
Overall Frontal Star Rating Not Tested
Frontal Barrier Star Ratings Not Tested
Side Barrier Star Ratings Not Tested
Rollover Resistance Star Rating Not Tested

2004 Nissan Armada Recalls & Defects

Equipment
Recall date 2007-07-03
Recall no. 07e046000
Source NHTSA
Summary Certain Hopkins Aftermarket Trailer Brake Control Connection Harnesses Sold FOR USE ON Certain Models OF Nissan Vehicles Which ARE Listed Above. THE Internal Part Numbers Within Hopkins Are: 1010476025, 1040376025, 1110476025, 1170376025, 1290376025, 1010476035, 1040376035, 1110476035, 1170376035, and 1290376035. A Wire MAY Have Been Placed IN AN Incorrect Position IN THE Electrical Connector Housing. This Results IN AN Incorrect Routing OF Wires Between THE Trailer Brake Controller and THE Towing Vehicle Wiring System.
Consequence This Harness Would Result IN Power From THE Trailer Brake Controller Going TO THE Towing Vehicle Dash Light Circuit Rather Than THE Trailer Brakes. This Result Would BE THE Lack OF Trailer Braking When THE Towing Vehicle Brakes Were Applied. IT Would Also Result IN THE Towing Vehicles Dash Lights Being Activated When THE Vehicle Brakes Were Applied. THE Failure OF THE Application OF THE Trailer Brake Could Result IN Reduced Ability TO Stop and Contribute TO A Possible Crash.
Remedy Hopkins Will Notify Owners and Replace THE Original Harness With A Revised Harness Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began August 17, 2007. Owners CAN Contact Hopkins AT 800-835-0129.
Notes This Recall Only Pertains TO Aftermarket Harnesses and HAS NO Relation TO ANY Original Equipment Installed ON Vehicles Manufactured BY Nissan.customers MAY Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty: 1-800-424-9153); or GO TO Http://Www.safercar.gov.
Engine and Engine Cooling
Recall date 2010-10-28
Recall no. 10v517000
Source NHTSA
Summary Nissan IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2004-2006 Armada, Titan, Infiniti Qx56 and Model Year 2005-2006 Frontier, Pathfinder and Xterra Vehicles. THE Intelligent Power Distribution Module (Ipdm) Assembly Contains AN Engine Control Module (Ecm) Relay That HAS A Diode FOR Electrical Current Noise Reduction. THE ECM Relay MAY Allow Silicon Vapor TO Form And, Over Time, THE Silicon Evaporates From THE Diode Molding Which Causes Silicon Oxide TO Develop ON THE ECM Relay Contact DUE TO Arcing.
Consequence This Could Cause Engine Stalling Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy Dealers Will Replace THE ECM Relay Inside THE Ipdm Assembly. This Service Will BE Performed Free OF Charge. THE Safety Recall Began ON December 6, 2010. Owners MAY Contact Nissan AT 1-800-647-7261.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO <A Href=http://Www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
Suspension:front:control Arm:lower ARM
Recall date 2010-05-20
Recall no. 10e019000
Source NHTSA
Summary Nissan IS Recalling Certain Front and Rear Lower Links, P/Nos. 54501zq00a, 54500zq00a, 551a1zq00a, 551a0zq00a , 54501ea00a, 54500ea00a, 551a1ea500, 551a0ea500, 54501zr00a, and 54500zr00a, Sold Between November 25, 2009 and MAY 14, 2010 AS Replacement Parts FOR Model Year 2004 Through 2010 Titan, Armada, and Qx56, and Model Years 2005 Through 2010 Frontier, Xterra, and Pathfinder Vehicles. THE Lower Control Link Assembly HAS Two Cylindrical Collars Forming THE Inboard Attachment Points TO THE Chassis. DUE TO AN Improper Welding Process Some Collars MAY Contain Welds That DO NOT Meet Strength Specifications.
Consequence IF THE Collar Weld Separates, THE Vehicle Handling Will Deteriorate, Possibly Resulting IN A Vehicle Crash.
Remedy Nissan Will Notify Owners and Dealers Will Replace ANY Affected Lower Link Free OF Charge. THE Safety Recall Began ON July 12, 2010. Owners MAY Contact Nissan AT 1-800-647-7261.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO <A Href=http://Www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .

2004 Nissan Armada Insurance

Insurance for a 2004 Nissan Armada is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Wagon with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.

How Does the 2004 Nissan Armada Compare to Other Wagon?

The 2004 Nissan Armada competed against full-size SUVs like the Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban, Ford Expedition, and Toyota Sequoia. In terms of performance, the Armada's V8 engine was comparable, offering similar power and towing capacity. Feature-wise, it was competitive but lacked some of the advanced options available in the Tahoe and Expedition. Reliability is where the Armada falls slightly behind, with more reported issues than the Sequoia, known for its long-term dependability. Price-wise, the Armada was often more affordable than the Sequoia when new, and this price difference extends to the used market.
Alternatives to the 2004 Armada include:
  • Toyota Sequoia: Offers better long-term reliability but typically costs more.
  • Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban: Provides a wider range of features and configurations, but reliability can vary.
  • Ford Expedition: Similar performance and features, but may have comparable reliability concerns.

If reliability is a primary concern, the Toyota Sequoia is a better alternative, despite the higher price. If a lower price point and comparable features are desired, the Chevy Tahoe or Ford Expedition are similar options, but thorough inspection and maintenance records are crucial.

Ranks #1065 SUV

1 2023 Toyota 4Runner (5.0★)
2 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid (5.0★)
3 2023 Lexus GX (0.0★)
4 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV (0.0★)
5 2024 Subaru Crosstrek (5.0★)
6 2024 BMW iX (0.0★)
7 2023 Ford Bronco Sport (3.0★)
8 2023 Mercedes-Benz EQB (0.0★)
9 2024 Chevrolet Trax (5.0★)
10 2023 Audi A4 allroad (0.0★)
11 2023 Hyundai Kona N (0.0★)
12 2023 Nissan ARIYA (5.0★)
1065 2004 Nissan Armada (5.0★)

Final Verdict: Is the 2004 Nissan Armada a Good Wagon?

The 2004 Nissan Armada is ideal for buyers needing a large, capable SUV for towing and hauling on a budget. It's worth buying *used*, but only under specific conditions: a thorough pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic is essential. Prioritize models with documented maintenance history, particularly regarding suspension, transmission, and rust prevention. Look for the LE trim for added features, but be prepared for potential maintenance costs associated with the luxury options. Due to its age and fuel consumption, it's not a practical daily driver for everyone. If reliability and fuel economy are top priorities, consider a Toyota Sequoia, but be prepared to pay more.

2004 Nissan Armada Owner Reviews

4.67
Consumer Rating, Based on 21 Consumer Reviews
Overall rating
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John SIMPSON on January 24, 2023

YOU NEED THIS

RECENTLY GOT AHOLD OF ONE. WOW... COMFORT, ROOMY, BUT EXPECT TO PAY FOR MILAGE. I BOUGHT IT TO TOW A R.V. YEARS OLD BUT I'M HAPPY. MINOR FIX DETAILS

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eides_2000 on June 10, 2018

My favorite vehicle

Exterior 5.0

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Mena on May 25, 2018

Great for a large family

My husband bought this vehicle for himself in 2004. Its 2018 and still going strong. The first time I drove it, it was mine, i fell in love. I took it from him and get him the Nissan Titan I am 5'1" and it suites me great as the seats are adjustable both forward and and up. If you have a large family it's the way to go. We took multiple road trips, it fits 8 people comfortably. My kids are now grown and have their own vehicles so I'm thinking to dowsize, but every time I think about selling it I have withdrawal anxiety. I'm planning on buying a new vehicle but I know it will be hard to leave my baby. The braking issues that were mentioned are correct. I had to replace mine as well. Also the dashboard will crack. But for the comfort it gave me and my family for so many years I would make the same purchase. It also allows you to earn respect on the road. No one try to run this baby over, except for the trailers of course lol. Oh almost forget the heated leather seats, the automatic tail gate and the lists go on. I love this truck.

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Neoblueb on March 26, 2018

Best bang for the buck

Great family traveling car. Will accomplish any task except extreme off road only due to ride height. Biggest gripe of most is maintenance. If you know how to work on cars then this is perfect. Engine and drivetrain are bullet proof. Everything else to me doesn?t matter. Just weekend projects. Every issue I had was addressed in a forum somewhere and was easy to fix

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Ducepbfl on February 1, 2018

This sight

Love the truck but is currently at Nissan for 2 (two recalls). This sight says there are no recalls.

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NRC on December 22, 2017

Reliable for the daily haul

It has been a month sense i bought my Armada. It needed some minor fixes such as a fuel pump and some cosmetics but runs well.

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AmmoWookie on September 11, 2017

One of the best SUVs ever

I bought my Armada with 99k miles on it & it's still going strong @ 280k+ I have towed a Semi with it once loaded down with scrap cars, strong engine and transmission. It's the type you buy and own for a lifetime!

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JamesC on September 9, 2017

Best SUV for the money

The Nissan Armada has excellent handling and is very spacious for a large family. It has the towing ability of a large truck and luxuries of a high end SUV.

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Cgarcia24 on June 14, 2017

Great truck

Roomy and reliable truck. Drives nice and is comfortable. Looks nice too. Really glad I purchased it.

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Gatt on August 9, 2013

Best Vehicle I have ever owned

I have a 2004. I brought this vehicle back in 2008 from my credit union's repo lot. It has been the best vehicle that I have owned. I am 6'4", and weight 270, and this vehicle fits me like a glove! I have put it on the road for a trip at a moments notice and it took me between 8 and 16 hours trips and no problem. I didn't buy it for the gas mileage, so I wasn't concern with that, just how good it felt to drive! I love my Armada. The only major change I did was get a rear monitor put in it. Love CD player, SPACE, and 3rd row of seats. My wife is 5'4" and hate driving it, though she does when I take her car in the shop. I was thinking about up grading to a 2006, but love this vehicle too much! Love driving it, even to corner store!

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Cathleen V

Cathleen is an exceptional freelance writer covering hot topics in the automotive world from a gearhead's perspective. Her articles delve into various aspects of automotive technology and history, offering readers detailed insights into engine performance, reliability, and maintenance. Through her engaging and informative writing, Cathleen provides valuable information to automotive enthusiasts and consumers alike, helping them make informed decisions about vehicle maintenance and purchases.