TransmissionMedium
7-speed automatic harsh shifts or shudder.
- Typically appears
- 70,000+ miles
- What to inspect
- Test-drive through shifts and check for shudder.
2016–2024 Nissan Titan · common problems & known faults
The Titan is a robust full-size pickup with a strong V8. It's dependable but check the transmission and known electrical points.
Compiled & reviewed by the VehicleFaults Research Team · last reviewed July 2026
Quick answer
The most commonly reported faults on the 2016–2024 Nissan Titan are Unexplained coolant loss, white smoke from the exhaust, or a sweet smell under the bonnet, 7-speed automatic harsh shifts or shudder and 5.6L V8 timing chain and cam sensor issues on some cars. 1 of the documented issues are rated high severity · inspect these first. Full inspection points, onset mileage and what to check are listed below.
Reliability snapshot
Based on the documented faults on this page for the Nissan Titan.
6.0/ 10
- Critical
- 0
- High
- 1
- Medium
- 4
- Low
- 3
Guidance only · reflects reported patterns, not a specific car's condition.
Nissan Titan problems by year
Which faults an average example has usually reached depends on its age. Pick a model year for the faults that matter on that build.
Known faults to check
ElectricalLow
Backup camera, sensor and infotainment faults.
- Typically appears
- Any
- What to inspect
- Test cameras, parking sensors and the head unit.
EngineMedium
5.6L V8 timing chain and cam sensor issues on some cars.
- Typically appears
- 90,000+ miles
- What to inspect
- Listen for rattle on cold start and scan for codes.
BrakesLow
Premature front brake wear when towing.
- Typically appears
- 50,000+ miles
- What to inspect
- Inspect pads and rotors, especially on ex-tow trucks.
Exhaust SystemMedium
Ticking noise from the engine bay on cold start that fades as the engine warms up.
- Typically appears
- 50,000-80,000 miles
- What to inspect
- Start the engine from cold with the bonnet open. Listen near the front wheel arches for a distinct metallic ticking or tapping sound before the exhaust heat expands and seals the manifold crack.
Engine Cooling (Cummins Diesel)High
Unexplained coolant loss, white smoke from the exhaust, or a sweet smell under the bonnet.
- Typically appears
- 40,000-70,000 miles
- What to inspect
- Check the coolant expansion tank level. Remove the oil filler cap to check for milky residue, and shine a torch on the EGR cooler housing at the top of the engine for dried coolant crust.
Climate ControlLow
Clicking or tapping noise from behind the dashboard, or failure to switch between hot and cold air.
- Typically appears
- 30,000-60,000 miles
- What to inspect
- Turn the ignition on, activate the climate control, and cycle the temperature from maximum cold to maximum heat. Listen for a repetitive plastic clicking sound from the passenger footwell area indicating a stripped blend door actuator.
DrivetrainMedium
Gear oil leaking onto the rear brake backplates or inner tyre sidewalls.
- Typically appears
- 60,000-100,000 miles
- What to inspect
- Shine a torch behind the rear alloy wheels to inspect the brake backplates and the ends of the rear axle casing for damp, dark oil stains or heavy dirt buildup indicating a failed axle seal.
Inspecting a Nissan Titan?
Get a full, tickable pre-purchase checklist for this exact car · what to look at, what it costs and how serious it is. Free preview, full report $9.
Check this exact carFrequently asked questions
Is the Nissan Titan reliable?
Yes — the V8 is durable, though the automatic and some electronics need checking.
Does the Titan have engine problems?
Mostly durable, but watch timing-chain rattle on high-mileage cars.
What should I check on a used Titan?
Transmission feel, tow wear, timing-chain noise and electronics.
Should I stock the 5.0L Cummins diesel over the 5.6L petrol V8?
The 5.0L Cummins V8 diesel, offered until 2019 in the XD, appeals to heavy towing buyers but suffers from complex emissions faults, including EGR and DPF failures. The 5.6L petrol V8 is generally less troublesome for forecourt stock, though it incurs higher fuel costs. Only stock the diesel with a full main dealer service history.
What is the difference between the standard Titan and the Titan XD for buyers?
The Titan XD is built on a heavier-duty chassis, offering increased payload and towing capacities compared to the standard half-ton model. It features upgraded suspension, a longer wheelbase, and heavier axles. However, it rides significantly harsher unladen, which you must warn prospective buyers about during test drives.
Did the 2020 facelift resolve the earlier transmission faults?
Yes, the 2020 facelift replaced the problematic 7-speed automatic gearbox with a much-improved 9-speed unit. This newer transmission provides smoother gear changes, better fuel economy, and significantly fewer reliability complaints. When sourcing stock, prioritising 2020 or newer models will drastically reduce your warranty claims regarding drivetrain shudder or harsh shifting.
Sources & further reading
Faults are compiled from documented recalls, technical bulletins, owner reports and mechanic sources, then reviewed for accuracy. This is guidance only · not a substitute for a professional inspection.