When considering the purchase of a 2017 Nissan Armada, it's important to look at various aspects of the vehicle, including trims, common issues, diagnostic procedures, ownership experience, and market availability. Below is an in-depth analysis broken down into these categories.

Trim Levels Overview

The 2017 Nissan Armada is available in several trims:

1. SV (Standard Value)
2. SL (Super Luxury)
3. Platinum
4. Platinum Reserve

Weak Points by Trim:

• SV Trim:

  • Notable Weakness: Lacks advanced tech features found in higher trims, may feel spartan. Limited standard safety features as compared to rivals.

• SL Trim:

  • Notable Weakness: While it adds luxury features, it can suffer from navigation system lag and has fewer driver assistance technologies than the Platinum.

• Platinum Trim:

  • Notable Weakness: High price point compared to rivals, which can make it less appealing. Some users report that the leather quality isn’t as good as expected for the price.

• Platinum Reserve Trim:

  • Notable Weakness: High-end features can lead to more electronic issues, such as infotainment glitches. Concerns about the luxurious materials holding up over time.

Common Issues:

Here are the common issues to be aware of related to the engine, transmission, suspension, and electronics, including the average mileages at which these problems may arise:

Engine:

• Common Issues:
  • Oil consumption problems, which can arise around 60,000-80,000 miles. Look for unusual engine noises or smoke on startup.

Transmission:

• Common Issues:
  • Complaints about shifting delays, and erratic shifting behavior, typically noticed between 40,000-70,000 miles. Pay attention to any unusual sounds when changing gears.

Suspension:

• Common Issues:
  • Premature wear of struts and shocks, often reported around 50,000-70,000 miles. Listen for knocking sounds when driving over bumps.

Electronics:

• Common Issues:
  • Infotainment system glitches and issues with sensors (like blind-spot monitoring), commonly occurring around 30,000-50,000 miles. Check for proper functionality of all electronic equipment, including navigation and rear-view camera.

Diagnostics Required to Detect Issues:

When considering a used Nissan Armada, especially the 2017 model, the following procedures are recommended:

1. Engine Diagnostics:

   • Use an OBD-II scanner to check for any present trouble codes related to the engine.

2. Transmission Testing:

   • Check for smoothness in shifting and look for delays or jerking during acceleration. A test drive is essential.

3. Suspension Inspection:

   • A professional should conduct a visual inspection for oil leakage from shocks or struts and test drive for sounds indicating wear.

4. Electronics Test:

   • Check all electronic features, including the infotainment system, sensors, and backup cameras to ensure functionality.

Systems Requiring Special Attention:

• Transmission System: Given the reported issues, it's crucial to confirm that the transmission is in good working order, as repairs can be costly.
• Suspension and Steering: An inspection of these components can prevent future expensive repairs.
• Electronics: Since electronic issues are common, ensure every system is tested, as faulty electronics might not be covered by warranties.

Ownership Experience on the Secondary Market:

• Fuel Efficiency:

  • The 2017 Armada offers a V8 engine with an EPA rating of around 14-15 mpg city and 20-22 mpg highway, which is subpar for an SUV of its size. Owners may want to consider fuel costs as a significant ongoing expense.

• Breakdown Frequency:

  • The reported breakdown frequency is moderate to low, though issues mentioned earlier can cause concerns. Regular maintenance can mitigate many of these risks.

• Ease of Maintenance:

  • Parts availability is generally good in the U.S., with many Nissan dealerships and independent garages familiar with the Armada.

Recommendations on Long-Term Reliability and Maintenance Costs:

• Regular Maintenance: Ensure you keep up with regular scheduled maintenance like oil changes, transmission fluid replacements, and brake checks to enhance longevity.
• Warranty Considerations: Look for models still under warranty for added peace of mind. Consider purchasing extended warranties if offered.
• Potential Risks: Be wary of high-mileage vehicles or those with extensive electronic features; repairs can be costly.

Parts and Services Availability:

• The American market boasts a robust support network for Nissan parts and services, meaning repairs can often be done quickly. However, ensure that any repairs you need are performed by certified professionals who understand the Nissan brand's specific requirements to avoid issues.

Conclusion

In summary, the 2017 Nissan Armada is a capable SUV but is not without its flaws. It is essential to consider the trim and the common issues outlined, conduct thorough diagnostics, and remain aware of your long-term ownership experience. By being informed, you can make better decisions when purchasing a used Nissan Armada and effectively manage future maintenance and repair costs.