Nissan Titan research: recalls, reliability and buyer's guide
The Titan is a full-size pickup that always came with a V8. 2011-2015 trucks are older but simple; the second generation brought a 390-hp V8 (400 hp from 2020), the heavier-duty Titan XD with an available Cummins diesel through 2019, and standard Safety Shield 360 from 2020. Nissan ended the Titan after 2024, so used prices can be attractive.
Model years covered: 2011–2024. The Titan ended with the 2024 model year (production ended November 2024); there are no 2025 or 2026 Titans.
Last updated 2026-10-15.
Strengths
- Standard V8 power
- Strong 400 hp V8 2020 and later
- Capable pro 4x off road trim
- Titan xd diesel towing 2016 2019
- Standard safety shield 360 2020 and later
- Attractive used pricing
Things to know before you buy
- Fuel economy trails V6 and turbo rivals
- Fewer cab bed and engine choices than rivals
- Titan xd is a different capability class
- Diesel emissions systems need care
- Discontinued after 2024 may affect resale
- Recall status should be checked by VIN
Generations
Generation 1 (2004–2015)
The first-generation Titan used a 317-hp, 385 lb-ft 5.6L V8 and a 5-speed automatic in King Cab and Crew Cab form with 4x2 or 4x4, little changed through 2015.
Buyer takeaway: Affordable, simple V8 trucks; check for exhaust-manifold ticking, rust and towing wear.
Generation 2 (2016–2024)
The second generation launched as the 2016 Titan XD (Cummins diesel or 390-hp gas V8), added the half-ton for 2017 with a 7-speed, and was refreshed for 2020 with a 400-hp V8, 9-speed automatic and standard Safety Shield 360. The diesel ended after 2019 and production ended in November 2024.
Buyer takeaway: Choose 2020-2024 for the most power and standard safety tech; a 2016-2019 XD diesel suits heavy towing if well maintained.
Nissan Titan by model year
2024 Nissan Titan
The 2024 Titan is the last: Nissan ended production in November 2024 and did not replace it. It keeps the 400-hp 5.6L V8, 9-speed automatic and standard Safety Shield 360, rated about 17 mpg combined. Nissan dealers continue to provide parts and service, but resale values may soften for a discontinued truck.
- Engines: 5.6 liter V8 400 hp 413 lb ft
- Transmissions: 9 speed automatic
- Drivetrain: Rear wheel drive 4x2; Four wheel drive 4x4
- Body style: King cab; Crew cab; Titan xd crew cab
What changed:
- Final model year in the US
- Production ended november 2024
- Titan xd also ends
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact cab bed engine and drivetrain by VIN; Warranty status and in service date; 9 speed shift quality; Driver assistance sensors and cameras; Towing history and hitch wear; 4x4 transfer case operation if equipped; Rear axle and differential leaks; Frame and underbody rust; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Maintenance history.
2023 Nissan Titan
The 2023 Titan continues the 2020 refresh: a 400-hp, 413 lb-ft 5.6L V8, 9-speed automatic and rear- or four-wheel drive, rated about 18 mpg combined. Safety Shield 360 is standard, and the PRO-4X remains the off-road model. The heavier Titan XD uses the same gas V8. Confirm cab, trim and towing equipment by VIN.
- Engines: 5.6 liter V8 400 hp 413 lb ft
- Transmissions: 9 speed automatic
- Drivetrain: Rear wheel drive 4x2; Four wheel drive 4x4
- Body style: King cab; Crew cab; Titan xd crew cab
What changed:
- Largely carryover of the 2020 refresh
- Trim and package changes verify by VIN
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact cab bed engine and drivetrain by VIN; 9 speed shift quality; Driver assistance sensors and cameras; Towing history and hitch wear; 4x4 transfer case operation if equipped; Rear axle and differential leaks; Frame and underbody rust; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Maintenance history.
2022 Nissan Titan
The 2022 Titan continues the 2020 refresh: a 400-hp, 413 lb-ft 5.6L V8, 9-speed automatic and rear- or four-wheel drive, rated about 18 mpg combined. Safety Shield 360 is standard, and the PRO-4X remains the off-road model. The heavier Titan XD uses the same gas V8. Confirm cab, trim and towing equipment by VIN.
- Engines: 5.6 liter V8 400 hp 413 lb ft
- Transmissions: 9 speed automatic
- Drivetrain: Rear wheel drive 4x2; Four wheel drive 4x4
- Body style: King cab; Crew cab; Titan xd crew cab
What changed:
- Largely carryover of the 2020 refresh
- Trim and package changes verify by VIN
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact cab bed engine and drivetrain by VIN; 9 speed shift quality; Driver assistance sensors and cameras; Towing history and hitch wear; 4x4 transfer case operation if equipped; Rear axle and differential leaks; Frame and underbody rust; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Maintenance history.
2021 Nissan Titan
The 2021 Titan continues the 2020 refresh: a 400-hp, 413 lb-ft 5.6L V8, 9-speed automatic and rear- or four-wheel drive, rated about 18 mpg combined. Safety Shield 360 is standard, and the PRO-4X remains the off-road model. The heavier Titan XD uses the same gas V8. Confirm cab, trim and towing equipment by VIN.
- Engines: 5.6 liter V8 400 hp 413 lb ft
- Transmissions: 9 speed automatic
- Drivetrain: Rear wheel drive 4x2; Four wheel drive 4x4
- Body style: King cab; Crew cab; Titan xd crew cab
What changed:
- Largely carryover of the 2020 refresh
- Trim and package changes verify by VIN
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact cab bed engine and drivetrain by VIN; 9 speed shift quality; Driver assistance sensors and cameras; Towing history and hitch wear; 4x4 transfer case operation if equipped; Rear axle and differential leaks; Frame and underbody rust; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Maintenance history.
2020 Nissan Titan
The 2020 refresh raised the 5.6L V8 to 400 hp and 413 lb-ft and replaced the 7-speed with a 9-speed automatic (about 16/21 mpg 4x2). Nissan's Safety Shield 360, with automatic emergency braking, became standard, and styling and screens were updated. The Cummins diesel was dropped, so every 2020+ Titan and Titan XD uses the gas V8.
- Engines: 5.6 liter V8 400 hp 413 lb ft
- Transmissions: 9 speed automatic
- Drivetrain: Rear wheel drive 4x2; Four wheel drive 4x4
- Body style: King cab; Crew cab; Titan xd crew cab
What changed:
- V8 raised to 400 hp and 413 lb ft
- New 9 speed automatic
- Cummins diesel dropped
- Safety shield 360 standard
- Refreshed styling and larger touchscreen
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact cab bed engine and drivetrain by VIN; 9 speed shift quality; Driver assistance sensors and cameras; Towing history and hitch wear; 4x4 transfer case operation if equipped; Rear axle and differential leaks; Frame and underbody rust; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Maintenance history.
2019 Nissan Titan
The 2019 Titan continues with the 390-hp 5.6L V8 and 7-speed automatic in single, King and Crew Cab half-ton trucks, while the Titan XD offers the gas V8 or the 310-hp Cummins turbodiesel. 2019 is the last year of the Cummins diesel; the 2020 refresh adds power and a 9-speed automatic.
- Engines: 5.6 liter V8 390 hp 394 lb ft; 5.0 liter cummins turbodiesel V8 310 hp 555 lb ft xd only
- Transmissions: 7 speed automatic gas; 6 speed aisin automatic xd diesel
- Drivetrain: Rear wheel drive 4x2; Four wheel drive 4x4
- Body style: Single cab; King cab; Crew cab; Titan xd variants
What changed:
- Last year of the cummins diesel
- Last year before the 2020 refresh
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact cab bed engine and drivetrain by VIN; Cummins diesel DEF DPF and EGR operation if xd diesel; Diesel service records if xd diesel; Transmission shift quality; Towing history and hitch wear; 4x4 transfer case operation if equipped; Rear axle and differential leaks; Frame and underbody rust; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Maintenance history.
2018 Nissan Titan
The 2018 Titan continues with the 390-hp 5.6L V8 and 7-speed automatic in single, King and Crew Cab half-ton trucks, while the Titan XD offers the gas V8 or the 310-hp Cummins turbodiesel. Confirm the cab, bed, engine and whether it is an XD by VIN.
- Engines: 5.6 liter V8 390 hp 394 lb ft; 5.0 liter cummins turbodiesel V8 310 hp 555 lb ft xd only
- Transmissions: 7 speed automatic gas; 6 speed aisin automatic xd diesel
- Drivetrain: Rear wheel drive 4x2; Four wheel drive 4x4
- Body style: Single cab; King cab; Crew cab; Titan xd variants
What changed:
- Largely carryover
- King cab and trim availability expands verify by VIN
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact cab bed engine and drivetrain by VIN; Cummins diesel DEF DPF and EGR operation if xd diesel; Diesel service records if xd diesel; Transmission shift quality; Towing history and hitch wear; 4x4 transfer case operation if equipped; Rear axle and differential leaks; Frame and underbody rust; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Maintenance history.
2017 Nissan Titan
The 2017 Titan is the first half-ton of the second generation, with a 390-hp, 394 lb-ft 5.6L V8 and a 7-speed automatic (about 15/21 mpg 4x2), plus single, King and Crew Cab bodies. The heavier Titan XD continues with the gas V8 or the 555 lb-ft Cummins diesel. New Titans came with a 5-year/100,000-mile warranty, now expired on most trucks.
- Engines: 5.6 liter V8 390 hp 394 lb ft; 5.0 liter cummins turbodiesel V8 310 hp 555 lb ft xd only
- Transmissions: 7 speed automatic gas; 6 speed aisin automatic xd diesel
- Drivetrain: Rear wheel drive 4x2; Four wheel drive 4x4
- Body style: Single cab; King cab; Crew cab; Titan xd variants
What changed:
- Half ton titan returns on the new platform
- Single cab crew cab and later king cab offered
- 390 hp endurance V8 standard
- 5 year 100000 mile bumper to bumper warranty on new trucks
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact cab bed engine and drivetrain by VIN; Cummins diesel DEF DPF and EGR operation if xd diesel; Diesel service records if xd diesel; Transmission shift quality; Towing history and hitch wear; 4x4 transfer case operation if equipped; Rear axle and differential leaks; Frame and underbody rust; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Maintenance history.
2016 Nissan Titan
The 2016 model year brought only the new Titan XD, a heavier-duty truck between half-ton and 3/4-ton pickups. It offered a 310-hp, 555 lb-ft 5.0L Cummins turbodiesel V8 or the new 390-hp 5.6L Endurance gas V8, in crew cab form. XD trucks are too heavy for EPA mpg ratings. Diesel trucks need their emissions systems and service history checked.
- Engines: 5.0 liter cummins turbodiesel V8 310 hp 555 lb ft xd; 5.6 liter V8 390 hp 394 lb ft xd
- Transmissions: 6 speed aisin automatic xd diesel; 7 speed automatic gas
- Drivetrain: Rear wheel drive 4x2; Four wheel drive 4x4
- Body style: Crew cab titan xd
What changed:
- All new second generation launched as titan xd
- Cummins 5.0 liter turbodiesel V8 offered
- New 390 hp endurance 5.6 liter V8
- No light duty half ton titan sold as a 2016
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact cab bed engine and drivetrain by VIN; Cummins diesel DEF DPF and EGR operation if xd diesel; Diesel service records if xd diesel; Transmission shift quality; Towing history and hitch wear; 4x4 transfer case operation if equipped; Rear axle and differential leaks; Frame and underbody rust; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Maintenance history.
2015 Nissan Titan
The 2015 Titan is the last of the long-running first generation, with the 317-hp 5.6L V8, 5-speed automatic and rear- or four-wheel drive in King Cab and Crew Cab form. It lacks the newer trucks' power, 7- or 9-speed transmission and safety tech, so it suits buyers who want a capable V8 pickup at a lower price. No light-duty 2016 Titan followed.
- Engines: 5.6 liter V8 317 hp 385 lb ft
- Transmissions: 5 speed automatic
- Drivetrain: Rear wheel drive 4x2; Four wheel drive 4x4
- Body style: King cab; Crew cab
What changed:
- Last year of the first generation
- Carryover powertrain
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact cab bed engine and drivetrain by VIN; Exhaust manifold ticking on cold start; 5 speed automatic shift quality; Towing history and hitch wear; 4x4 transfer case operation if equipped; Rear axle and differential leaks; Frame and underbody rust; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Maintenance history.
2014 Nissan Titan
The 2014 Titan is a late first-generation (2004-2015) half-ton pickup. Every truck uses a 317-hp, 385 lb-ft 5.6L V8 with a 5-speed automatic and rear- or four-wheel drive, rated roughly 13-14 mpg city and 18 highway. King Cab and Crew Cab bodies are offered, plus the off-road PRO-4X. It is an older, simpler truck; check towing wear, rust and exhaust-manifold ticking.
- Engines: 5.6 liter V8 317 hp 385 lb ft
- Transmissions: 5 speed automatic
- Drivetrain: Rear wheel drive 4x2; Four wheel drive 4x4
- Body style: King cab; Crew cab
What changed:
- Largely carryover of the 2004 design
- Flex fuel e85 capable on many trucks verify by VIN
- Trims s sv pro 4x and sl
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact cab bed engine and drivetrain by VIN; Exhaust manifold ticking on cold start; 5 speed automatic shift quality; Towing history and hitch wear; 4x4 transfer case operation if equipped; Rear axle and differential leaks; Frame and underbody rust; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Maintenance history.
2013 Nissan Titan
The 2013 Titan is a late first-generation (2004-2015) half-ton pickup. Every truck uses a 317-hp, 385 lb-ft 5.6L V8 with a 5-speed automatic and rear- or four-wheel drive, rated roughly 13-14 mpg city and 18 highway. King Cab and Crew Cab bodies are offered, plus the off-road PRO-4X. It is an older, simpler truck; check towing wear, rust and exhaust-manifold ticking.
- Engines: 5.6 liter V8 317 hp 385 lb ft
- Transmissions: 5 speed automatic
- Drivetrain: Rear wheel drive 4x2; Four wheel drive 4x4
- Body style: King cab; Crew cab
What changed:
- Largely carryover of the 2004 design
- Flex fuel e85 capable on many trucks verify by VIN
- Trims s sv pro 4x and sl
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact cab bed engine and drivetrain by VIN; Exhaust manifold ticking on cold start; 5 speed automatic shift quality; Towing history and hitch wear; 4x4 transfer case operation if equipped; Rear axle and differential leaks; Frame and underbody rust; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Maintenance history.
2012 Nissan Titan
The 2012 Titan is a late first-generation (2004-2015) half-ton pickup. Every truck uses a 317-hp, 385 lb-ft 5.6L V8 with a 5-speed automatic and rear- or four-wheel drive, rated roughly 13-14 mpg city and 18 highway. King Cab and Crew Cab bodies are offered, plus the off-road PRO-4X. It is an older, simpler truck; check towing wear, rust and exhaust-manifold ticking.
- Engines: 5.6 liter V8 317 hp 385 lb ft
- Transmissions: 5 speed automatic
- Drivetrain: Rear wheel drive 4x2; Four wheel drive 4x4
- Body style: King cab; Crew cab
What changed:
- Largely carryover of the 2004 design
- Flex fuel e85 capable on many trucks verify by VIN
- Trims s sv pro 4x and sl
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact cab bed engine and drivetrain by VIN; Exhaust manifold ticking on cold start; 5 speed automatic shift quality; Towing history and hitch wear; 4x4 transfer case operation if equipped; Rear axle and differential leaks; Frame and underbody rust; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Maintenance history.
2011 Nissan Titan
The 2011 Titan is a late first-generation (2004-2015) half-ton pickup. Every truck uses a 317-hp, 385 lb-ft 5.6L V8 with a 5-speed automatic and rear- or four-wheel drive, rated roughly 13-14 mpg city and 18 highway. King Cab and Crew Cab bodies are offered, plus the off-road PRO-4X. It is an older, simpler truck; check towing wear, rust and exhaust-manifold ticking.
- Engines: 5.6 liter V8 317 hp 385 lb ft
- Transmissions: 5 speed automatic
- Drivetrain: Rear wheel drive 4x2; Four wheel drive 4x4
- Body style: King cab; Crew cab
What changed:
- Largely carryover of the 2004 design
- Flex fuel e85 capable on many trucks verify by VIN
- Trims s sv pro 4x and sl
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact cab bed engine and drivetrain by VIN; Exhaust manifold ticking on cold start; 5 speed automatic shift quality; Towing history and hitch wear; 4x4 transfer case operation if equipped; Rear axle and differential leaks; Frame and underbody rust; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Maintenance history.
Known issues and what to check
- Titan XD Cummins Diesel Service and Emissions Systems (2016–2019)
The 2016-2019 Titan XD's 5.0L Cummins turbodiesel uses a diesel particulate filter, EGR and diesel exhaust fluid (DEF). These systems need correct maintenance and can be costly to repair, and the engine was sold in relatively low numbers. Removed or modified emissions equipment is illegal and can block registration.
What to do: Have a diesel-qualified shop inspect a Titan XD diesel and confirm emissions equipment is intact. - First-Generation Exhaust Manifold Ticking (2011–2015)
Owners of first-generation 5.6L Titans commonly report a ticking noise on cold start from cracked exhaust manifolds or broken manifold studs. It is a known repair rather than a certain failure.
What to do: Listen to the engine from a cold start before buying a 2011-2015 Titan. - Towing and Work-Truck Wear (2011–2024)
Many Titans have towed trailers or done work. Heavy use wears brakes, suspension, rear axle seals, transmission fluid and 4x4 components faster.
What to do: Have a pre-purchase inspection on any truck that has towed regularly. - 7-Speed and 9-Speed Automatic Shift Quality (2016–2024)
Second-generation Titans use a 7-speed (2016-2019 gas) or 9-speed (2020-2024) automatic. Some owners report harsh or delayed shifts that may be improved by software updates. A thorough road test is the best check.
What to do: Road test carefully and ask a Nissan dealer whether transmission updates apply to the VIN. - Ownership After Discontinuation (2016–2024)
Nissan ended Titan production in November 2024. Dealers continue to service the truck and supply parts, but resale values may be lower than for Ford, Chevrolet, GMC, Ram or Toyota pickups.
What to do: Factor long-term resale value into the purchase price. - Titan vs. Titan XD and Engine Disambiguation (2011–2024)
The Titan is a half-ton pickup; the Titan XD (2016-2024) is a heavier-duty version with a longer frame and higher ratings, offered with a Cummins diesel through 2019. Engines: 317-hp 5.6L (2011-2015), 390-hp 5.6L (2016-2019) and 400-hp 5.6L (2020-2024). There was no half-ton 2016 Titan.
What to do: Confirm whether it is a Titan or Titan XD, and the engine, cab and bed, before comparing.
Recalls
Recall applicability varies by model year, cab, engine, equipment and VIN. Check the VIN for open recalls and completed remedies.
Similar vehicles to consider
- Ford F-150
- Chevrolet Silverado 1500
- Ram 1500
- Toyota Tundra
- GMC Sierra 1500
- Ram 2500
- Nissan Frontier
Questions this guide answers
- What generation is this Nissan Titan?
- Is this a Titan or a Titan XD?
- What engine does this Titan have?
- Which Titan years had the Cummins diesel?
- What changed in the 2017 and 2020 Titan?
- What fuel economy does the Titan get?
- Why was the Titan discontinued, and can I still get parts?
- What should I inspect on a used Titan?
- What recalls should I check by VIN?
- What similar trucks should I consider?