In this guide, I’ll analyze all Nissan Titan generations, revealing the best Titan years to buy and the worst Nissan Titan years to avoid.
Drawing from sources like NHTSA, VehicleHistory, and Consumer Reports, I’ve meticulously sifted through many ratings, reviews, and real-owner feedback to bring you an informed perspective on Titan’s yearly performance and reliability.
As we journey through each generation, I’ll spotlight the standout years, delve into specific engine and trim options, and even shed light on Titan’s resale values.
Let’s dive right in!
Table of ContentsShow
Nissan Titan Generations
The Nissan Titan, a bold venture into the full-size pickup market by Nissan, was first introduced in 2004. This initial model stood out due to its robust V8 engine and roomy interior, promising a compelling mix of power and comfort.
As the years have progressed, the Titan underwent various updates, marking distinct generational shifts.
Below is a table that showcases all generations of the Nissan Titan from 2004 to now:
| Generation | Years |
|---|---|
| 1st generation (A60) | 2004-2015 |
| 2nd generation (A61) | 2017-Present |
Recognizing the distinctions between each generation is crucial as significant changes often accompany these shifts, potentially influencing a buyer’s decision.
Nissan Titan Best, Neutral, and Worst Years
When evaluating the best and worst Nissan Titan years, we utilize a comprehensive approach, considering a multitude of factors, including but not limited to:
- Owner-reported reliability (surveys)
- Annual maintenance costs
- Safety ratings
- Consumer Reports reliability scores
- Consumer Reports owner satisfaction scores
- NHTSA recalls, investigations, and complaints
- Edmunds owner ratings
- JD Power owner ratings
- Kelley’s Blue Book (KBB) owner ratings
- VehicleHistory owner ratings
- Cars.com owner ratings
Next, I’ll present a graph compiling the cumulative ratings from the sources above, providing an at-a-glance overview of Titan’s yearly performance.
Following this, I have structured a table delineating each Nissan Titan model year and its corresponding ranking, be it ‘best,’ ‘neutral,’ or ‘worst’ years.
| Generation | Best Years | Neutral Years | Worst Years |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1st generation (A60) | 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 | 2007 2008 | 2004 2005 2006 |
| 2nd generation (A61) | 2018 2019 2020 2021 2023 2024 | 2022 | 2017 |
“Neutral Years” do not stand out for exemplary performance or notable issues, essentially the middle ground regarding reliability and customer satisfaction.
Certain factors, like NHTSA recalls, are detrimental to our assessment. A surge in complaints or recalls inherently diminishes the vehicle’s reliability rating.
Let’s explore the best, neutral, and worst Nissan Titan years.
Best & Worst Years for Nissan Titan 1st Generation (2004-2015)
When Nissan unveiled the Titan in 2004, it was their ambitious step into the full-sized pickup market. Promising power, durability, and modern amenities, the Titan aimed to break American dominance in the segment.
The 2004-2006 model years are the worst Nissan Titan years of this generation, so it is wise to avoid these initial years altogether. The best first-generation Nissan Titan years span from 2009 to 2015.
The Best Years: 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015
Backed by our research, I can confirm that 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, and 2015 are the best and most reliable Nissan Titan years of its generation, with the lowest counts of recalls and owner complaints across NHTSA and Edmunds.
The reliable 5.6-liter V8 engine, offering 317 hp and 385 lb-ft of torque, was paired with a five-speed automatic transmission, optimizing fuel consumption around 12 city/17 highway mpg.
Noteworthy trim levels included the PRO-4X, tailored for off-roading, the upscale SL, and the well-rounded SV.
These models witnessed advancements like the NissanConnect infotainment system, Bluetooth integration, and rearview cameras.
Safety wasn’t compromised either; an advanced airbag system, anti-lock brakes, and electronic brake force distribution further enhanced the Titan’s appeal.
The Neutral Years: 2007, 2008
While admirable, the Titans from the 2007 and 2008 model years had their share of hiccups.
Still housing the robust 5.6-liter V8, they came with trims like the XE, SE, and LE, providing ample features like stability control and tire pressure monitoring.
However, complaints about differential and transmission problems shadowed their achievements.
The Worst Years: 2004, 2005, 2006
What are the Nissan Titan years to avoid? I wouldn’t recommend the 2004, 2005, and 2006 Nissan Titan years due to various powertrain and brake issues, so avoid these years at all costs.
Owners frequently reported failures in both front and rear axles, causing leaks that led to subsequent brake failures. This posed a serious safety concern.
There were differential issues, and fractured exhaust manifolds added to the problems.
Recalls were issued concerning seat belts, faulty Engine Control Modules causing stalling, and misleading fuel gauges in the 2005 and 2006 Titan models.
These complications, combined with its nascent production stage, placed these years in the worst Nissan Titan years category.
See NHTSA 2004, 2005, 2006 Nissan Titan recalls and complaints.
Best & Worst Years for Nissan Titan 2nd Generation (2017-Present)
Introduced in 2017, the second generation of the Nissan Titan brought a revitalized design and improved engineering, aiming to build upon the legacy of its predecessor while addressing previous criticisms.
Nissan Titan’s 2017 model year is the only year you should avoid in this generation. 2018-2021, 2023, and 2024 are the best Nissan Titan years of the generation.
The Best Years: 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2023, 2024
With few reported issues and good ratings from platforms like J.D. Power, I strongly recommend 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2023, and 2024 as the best Nissan Titan years worth purchasing.
Nissan Titan trucks of these model years boasted an improved 5.6-liter V8 Endurance engine, producing 390 hp and paired with a seven-speed automatic transmission.
This configuration delivered a slightly enhanced fuel economy estimated at 15 city/21 highway mpg.
Trim options included the Platinum Reserve, its leather-appointed seats and wood-toned finishes, and the PRO-4X with its off-road tuning.
These model years introduced the Nissan Safety Shield 360, which included features like automatic emergency braking, blind-spot warning, and rear cross-traffic alert.
The Neutral Years: 2022
The 2022 Titan, while still a formidable vehicle, received mixed feedback.
The same powertrain was retained, and features like the 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system and the Fender premium audio system stood out.
However, some users pointed out the slightly reduced towing capacity compared to its predecessors and competitors.
The Worst Years: 2017
The second-generation Nissan Titan’s launch year – 2017, faced some teething problems.
The most notable 2017 Nissan Titan problems were engine issues leading to leaks and occasional stalls and electrical problems leading to battery drains.
The truck, however, was praised for its cabin quality and driving dynamics. However, the frequency of these initial hitches meant the 2017 model couldn’t quite compete with its subsequent iterations regarding reliability.
See NHTSA 2017 Nissan Titan recalls and complaints.
Nissan Titan Resale Values
Below is a comprehensive graph showcasing the average resale values of Nissan Titan over the years.
Conclusion
Now, it becomes clear that 2009-2015 and 2018-2024 stand out as the best Nissan Titan years that are solid contenders for purchase.
It’s also clear that 2004, 2005, and 2006 are the most problematic years of the Nissan Titan, so avoid them like the plague.
Which Nissan Titan model year are you now considering, and why?
Share your thoughts in the comments below!
