Cost of ownership is a significant consideration for many consumers looking to purchase a used vehicle. If you’ve had your eye on a Nissan Titan, you may be wondering what kind of repair or maintenance issues you can expect. We took a closer look at ownership history and consumer complaints to uncover the one, most expensive repair bill you may want to avoid with a used Nissan Titan.

Nissan Titan over the years

The first Nissan Titan hit the truck stage in 2004. Nissan was hoping to bring an alternative to the mid-size pickup segment, and Titan caught everyone’s attention. Critics and consumers alike loved Titan’s truck capability, roomy and fresh interior, and all those features.

It was a surprise finalist for the North American Truck of the Year in its inaugural year. It was also named Most Significant Vehicle of the Year by Edmunds in 2004.

Common issues for Titan owners

Owners of 2008 Nissan Titans reported a few transmission and suspension complications. For the 2004 model year, consumers complained of rear differential failures around the 95,000-mile mark.

We also discovered axle seal leak complaints from owners of the 2006 Nissan Titan. Despite these reported concerns, according to CarComplaints.com, there is one model year and reported issue that is deemed the absolute worst.

The worst reported Nissan Titan problem

Considering the sporadic nature of reported concerns over the years, most of the complaints are few and far between. The 2004 model Titan shows the most number of complaints, in terms of volume. However, the 2005 Nissan Titan is ranked the worst year overall.

CarComplaints.com compiles information based on the number of recorded complaints, but also considers recalls, NHTSA notices, costs of repairs, and average mileage of the vehicle when the problems surface.

The rear axle failure for the 2005 Nissan Titan presents the worst-case scenario. Often occurring around 78,000-miles, and seemingly unprovoked, this failure was severe, resulted in leaks, and proved to be costly.

Costs to fix this problem

Getting the rear axle fixed on a 2005 Titan will be costly and averages around $3,100. For some Titan owners, the failures occurred beyond their warranty coverage, so these were out of pocket repair costs. For the similar axle issues in 2004, costs were around $2,900 and for 2006 axle issues, $2,600.

Recalls for this problem year

If the used Nissan Titan you’re considering doesn’t appear to have rear axle issues, you may also want to inquire about past recalls. There were six recalls issued for this 2005 Titan, and most can present potential safety hazards if failures occur when you’re behind the wheel.

There are a few recalls that you may need to know. These recalls range from malfunctioning fuel gauges to trailer brake control failure. Make sure you check any truck you’re interested in to be sure it had all the proper recalls.

What’s new for Nissan Titan in 2020?

Titan has some fresh additions and redesigns for 2020. If you’re considering a new model year, definitely take a closer look. Reviews are praising Titan for its refinement, safety tech, power under the hood, all neatly packaged in a unique style, true to Nissan. In short, it’s offering more of what matters to consumers, without compromising what counts.

The Nissan Titan is an overall healthy pickup contender and performer. Most consumers have problem-free ownership. However, if you’re considering one of the years mentioned above or the 2005 model year specifically, you’ll want to inquire about past issues or rear axle repairs.

Be mindful, too, of any potential recalls that have yet to be serviced on your used Titan. Buying used is a smart way to invest in a truck. Be even smarter by knowing what potential problems may arise with your purchase too.