Ford Explorer vs Nissan Armada
For 2005–2022 models, the Nissan Armada has 30.9 owner complaints per 10,000 sold, against 47.9 for the Ford Explorer. Below: what each one’s owners report most, when it shows up, and what it costs to fix.
Both rates cover the same model years (2005–2022), counting each complaint once and dividing by US sales, so the more popular vehicle isn’t penalized for being popular. Years too new to judge are left out. How this is calculated.
Ford Explorer
47.9 complaints per 10,000 sold
1.6× the Nissan Armada’s rate
- Complaints
- 15,961
- Sold
- 3,332,262
- Recall campaigns
- 72
- Open NHTSA investigations
- 3
Most complaints: 2011, 2013–2014 and 2016. Fewest: 2005, 2007, 2009 and 2022. Every year →
Most-reported problems
-
Doors, windows, latches, seats and trim
Typically around 82,000 mi
-
Electric power steering motor and module
Typically around 78,000 mi · repair $750–$2,230
-
Power steering pump, rack and lines
Typically around 77,000 mi · repair $750–$2,230
-
Harsh, delayed or erratic shifting
Typically around 88,300 mi
-
Water leaks and seals
Typically around 60,000 mi
Nissan Armada
30.9 complaints per 10,000 sold
35% fewer than the Ford Explorer
- Complaints
- 1,225
- Sold
- 395,902
- Recall campaigns
- 15
- Open NHTSA investigations
- 0
Most complaints: 2005–2006 and 2008. Fewest: 2012, 2016 and 2021–2022. Every year →
Most-reported problems
-
ABS module and wheel speed sensors
Typically around 92,000 mi · repair $660–$1,260
-
Master cylinder and booster
Typically around 75,385 mi
-
Body control and other modules
Typically around 49,970 mi
-
Fuel pump and sending unit
Typically around 115,000 mi · repair $630–$1,700
-
Airbags, seatbelts and restraints
Typically around 102,016 mi
Common questions
Which has fewer problems, the Ford Explorer or the Nissan Armada?
For 2005–2022 models, the Nissan Armada has 30.9 owner complaints per 10,000 sold and the Ford Explorer has 47.9, counting the same model years for both.
What is the most common problem on the Ford Explorer?
The most-reported problem on the Ford Explorer is doors, windows, latches, seats and trim, typically around 82,000 miles.
What is the most common problem on the Nissan Armada?
The most-reported problem on the Nissan Armada is abs module and wheel speed sensors, typically around 92,000 miles; the repair typically runs $660–$1,260.
Which Ford Explorer and Nissan Armada years have the most complaints?
Relative to each vehicle's typical year: Ford Explorer: 2011, 2013–2014 and 2016; Nissan Armada: 2005–2006 and 2008.
Source: NHTSA owner complaints, recalls and investigations; US sales from public industry figures; repair costs from book labor hours and parts pricing at national rates. Complaints are self-reported and not independently verified. Problem lists cover each vehicle’s full history. This is not a recommendation to buy or avoid either vehicle.