Photo: Mr.choppers / CC BY-SA 3.0 / Wikimedia Commons
Nissan Maxima
Sedan · Gas · 19 versions · owner report
Ranked #2 of 5 used full-size cars on owner data, price and fuel economy
Every generation
Power
Combined, EPA 2023
What owners say
Our take, from owner reports
Sentiment is sharply divided by generation, with a clear consensus that reliability and owner satisfaction declined significantly after the early 2000s.
7 problems reported (2 very frequent, 3 recurrent, 2 isolated) · high confidence
Problems owners report
- Very frequentCatastrophic CVT failure
Premature failure often before 100,000 miles, characterized by slipping, jerking, loss of power, and high operating temperatures. Considered a severe safety risk.
- Very frequentCVT reliability concerns
General anxiety about long-term durability, transmission "whine," and expensive repair costs ($6,000+ for a rebuild).
- RecurrentJerky acceleration and shifting
Especially noted in 2016 and 2022 models, with stuttering during gear simulation and unresponsive throttle.
+ 4 more issuesShow fewer
- RecurrentElectrical/starting issues
Intermittent no-start conditions where accessories power on but the starter does not engage, potentially related to faulty sensors or corroded battery terminals.
- RecurrentCommon wear items at high mileage
Includes wheel bearings, motor mounts, CV axles, and alternator failures, typical for older vehicles.
- IsolatedHeadlight defect (dimming)
Likely related to a reflector off-gassing issue similar to a known Altima class action, affecting low-beam output.
- IsolatedInterior material quality decline
Noted as a drawback in later models compared to the solid feel of early 2000s vehicles.
The version owners recommend
Late 1990s to early 2000s models (specifically mentioned: 1998, 1999, 2002, 2003). These are consistently highlighted as the peak for reliability, build quality, and driving enjoyment. The 2004 model with a manual transmission is noted as a rare and desirable variant. For later generations, there is no consensus on a "best" version due to the pervasive CVT issue, though the Platinum trim is mentioned for its feature content.
Competitors to consider
Owners compare it most often with the Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Hyundai Sonata, Infiniti Q50/Q60 and Lexus ES/GS/IS.
Is the Maxima right for you?
Get an answer for your year, mileage and budget.
Full owner reportHide full owner report
Overall sentiment
Sentiment is sharply divided by generation, with a clear consensus that reliability and owner satisfaction declined significantly after the early 2000s. Owners of late 1990s and early 2000s models (e.g., 1998, 1999, 2002, 2003) report extremely high satisfaction, describing these vehicles as "amazing," "bulletproof," and capable of reaching very high mileages (260,000-300,000 miles) with only basic maintenance. These generations are frequently praised for their engaging drive, solid build quality, and low cost of ownership. In stark contrast, feedback on models from approximately 2013 onward is predominantly negative, centering on catastrophic and premature CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) failures, even with regular maintenance and at relatively low mileage (e.g., 55,000 miles). This issue is described as a severe safety hazard, with owners reporting sudden power loss in traffic. The CVT problem overshadows other attributes, leading to descriptions of later models as "awful" and generating significant distrust in the brand. Isolated positive remarks about the driving dynamics and interior of later models (e.g., 2017, 2019) exist but are heavily caveated by transmission reliability fears.
Positioning vs competitors
Positioned historically as a more powerful, sportier, and sometimes more luxurious alternative to mainstream midsize sedans like the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord. Early 2000s models are remembered as being "on par with Honda" in terms of reliability. For later generations, the primary differentiator becomes the 300 horsepower V6 engine, which is acknowledged as providing a more engaging and powerful driving experience compared to competitors like the Hyundai Sonata, which is described as "anemic" in comparison. However, this advantage is completely negated in owner discussions by the universally criticized CVT, which places the later Maxima far behind its rivals in terms of perceived reliability and long-term value. It is sometimes mentioned alongside entry-level luxury sedans (Infiniti, Lexus) for its feature set but is not considered a true competitor due to build quality and transmission concerns.
Recommended configurations
For early models (pre-2007): Any well-maintained example. For later CVT-equipped models (approx. 2007+): Aggressive, regular transmission fluid service is strongly emphasized, with specific recommendations to drain and fill fluid, change the external filter, and clean the pan more frequently than the manufacturer's schedule (e.g., every 30,000 miles). A pre-purchase inspection focusing exclusively on transmission health is considered mandatory. An extended powertrain warranty that explicitly covers the CVT is repeatedly suggested. Some owners recommend seeking models with a lifetime powertrain warranty from the selling dealer.
General recommendations
Recommended for buyers seeking a used, high-mileage sedan if focusing exclusively on the 1998-2003 generation, where they represent exceptional value and durability. Suitable for enthusiasts who appreciate a powerful V6 in a sedan body and are willing to perform meticulous, preventative transmission maintenance. NOT recommended for anyone seeking a low-maintenance, reliable vehicle from the 2013-2022 model years without a comprehensive warranty. Absolutely avoid any model with an unknown service history, particularly regarding CVT fluid changes. Before purchasing any post-2007 model, budget for immediate transmission service and verify the vehicle's inclusion or exclusion from relevant class action lawsuits. Test drives must include highway merging and sustained acceleration to check for transmission slippage, jerking, or high temperatures.
Remarks
The owner experience is defined by a stark generational divide linked directly to the adoption and refinement of the JATCO CVT transmission. While Nissan's VQ V6 engine is consistently praised for its power and reliability, the transmission it is paired with from the mid-2000s onward is the single point of failure that dominates all discourse. A specific class action lawsuit regarding CVT failures for 2015-2018 Maxima models is directly referenced, indicating widespread, acknowledged problems. Community feedback suggests the JF017E CVT used in the Maxima and Murano may be somewhat more robust than the units in 4-cylinder Nissans, but failure rates remain unacceptably high per owner reports. Analysis based on owner discussions spanning models from 1998 to 2022.
Generation by generation
Owner insights per generation and US complaint/recall records (NHTSA).
Complaints and recalls by model yearWorst year: 2006. Years to avoid: 2016, 2009, 2006, 2005, 2004, 2003, 2002, 2001, 2000Source: NHTSA (US)Show table
Each year graded against the model's other years: Year Score. See all Nissan Maxima years to avoid
| Year | Complaints | Recalls | Most-reported area |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | 1 | 0 | electrical system |
| 2022 | 5 | 0 | unknown or other |
| 2021 | 3 | 0 | engine and engine cooling |
| 2020 | 22 | 1 | service brakes |
| 2019 | 18 | 1 | unknown or other |
| 2018 | 36 | 2 | unknown or other |
| 2017 | 104 | 4 | unknown or other |
| 2016 | 142 | 8 | power train |
| 2015 | 1 | 0 | air bags |
| 2014 | 96 | 0 | air bags |
| 2013 | 62 | 0 | power train |
| 2012 | 107 | 0 | air bags |
| 2011 | 106 | 0 | air bags |
| 2010 | 275 | 1 | steering |
Complaint counts come from owner reports filed with the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Higher-selling years naturally accumulate more complaints.
Recall notices69 on record · Source: NHTSA (US)Show recalls
2020 · visibility:glass, side/rearcampaign 20V570000
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2020 Altima, Maxima and Leaf vehicles. The rear window glass may not remain properly secured to the vehicle.
2019 · back over prevention: sensing system: cameracampaign 19V654000
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2018-2019 Nissan Altima, Armada, Frontier, Kicks, Leaf, Maxima, Murano, NV, NV200, Pathfinder, Rogue, Rogue Sport, Sentra, Titan, Titan Diesel, Versa Note and Versa Sedan vehicles, as well as Infiniti Q50, Q60, QX30 and QX80 vehicles. Additionally included are 2019 Nissan GT-R and Taxi and Infiniti QX50, QX60, Q70, Q70L vehicles. The back-up camera and display settings can be adjusted such that the rear view image is no longer visible and the system will retain that setting the next time the vehicle is placed in reverse. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 111, "Rear Visibility."
2018 · back over prevention: sensing system: cameracampaign 19V654000
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2018-2019 Nissan Altima, Armada, Frontier, Kicks, Leaf, Maxima, Murano, NV, NV200, Pathfinder, Rogue, Rogue Sport, Sentra, Titan, Titan Diesel, Versa Note and Versa Sedan vehicles, as well as Infiniti Q50, Q60, QX30 and QX80 vehicles. Additionally included are 2019 Nissan GT-R and Taxi and Infiniti QX50, QX60, Q70, Q70L vehicles. The back-up camera and display settings can be adjusted such that the rear view image is no longer visible and the system will retain that setting the next time the vehicle is placed in reverse. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 111, "Rear Visibility."
2018 · service brakes, hydraulic:antilock/traction control/electronic limited slipcampaign 19V807000
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2015-2018 Nissan Murano, 2016-2018 Nissan Maxima, and 2017-2019 Nissan Pathfinder and Infiniti QX60 vehicles. These vehicles were previously recalled and unrepaired, or inspected and determined to not need a repair, under recall number 18V-601. In addition, this recall expands the previous population. The Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) actuator pumps may allow brake fluid to leak onto an internal circuit board.
2017 · service brakes, hydraulic:antilock/traction control/electronic limited slipcampaign 18V601000
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2015-2017 Nissan Murano, 2016-2017 Nissan Maxima, 2017-2018 Nissan Pathfinder, and 2017 Infiniti QX60 vehicles. The Anti-Lock Brake (ABS) actuator pumps may allow brake fluid to leak onto an internal circuit board.
2017 · service brakes, hydraulic:antilock/traction control/electronic limited slipcampaign 16V636000
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain model year 2016-2017 Nissan Maxima vehicles manufactured February 10, 2015, to August 19, 2016 and equipped with Intelligent Cruise Control, 2015-2017 Murano vehicles manufactured August 22, 2014, to August 19, 2016 and equipped with Intelligent Cruise Control, and 2015-2016 Murano Hybrid vehicles manufactured August 22, 2014, to July 19, 2016. The affected vehicles have Anti-Lock Brake (ABS) actuator pumps that may allow brake fluid to leak onto an internal electrical circuit board.
2017 · air bags:sensor:occupant classificationcampaign 16V244000
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain model year 2016-2017 Nissan Maxima, 2013-2016 Nissan Altima, NV200, LEAF, Sentra, and Pathfinder, 2014-2016 Nissan NV200 Taxi, Infiniti QX60, QX60 Hybrid, and Q50 Hybrid, 2014-2017 Nissan Rogue and Infiniti Q50, 2015-2016 Nissan Murano, Murano Hybrid, and Chevrolet City Express, 2014-2015 Nissan Pathfinder Hybrid, and 2013 Infiniti JX35 vehicles. In these vehicles, the front seat passenger Occupant Classification System (OCS) may incorrectly classify an adult passenger as a child or classify the seat as empty despite it being occupied. As a result, the passenger frontal air bag may be turned off and not deploy in the event of a crash.
2017 · service brakes, hydraulic:antilock/traction control/electronic limited slipcampaign 19V807000
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2015-2018 Nissan Murano, 2016-2018 Nissan Maxima, and 2017-2019 Nissan Pathfinder and Infiniti QX60 vehicles. These vehicles were previously recalled and unrepaired, or inspected and determined to not need a repair, under recall number 18V-601. In addition, this recall expands the previous population. The Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) actuator pumps may allow brake fluid to leak onto an internal circuit board.
2016 · service brakes, hydraulic:antilock/traction control/electronic limited slipcampaign 18V601000
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2015-2017 Nissan Murano, 2016-2017 Nissan Maxima, 2017-2018 Nissan Pathfinder, and 2017 Infiniti QX60 vehicles. The Anti-Lock Brake (ABS) actuator pumps may allow brake fluid to leak onto an internal circuit board.
2016 · air bags:sensor:occupant classificationcampaign 16V911000
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain model year 2013-2015 Altima vehicles manufactured January 3, 2013, to July 29, 2013, 2015-2016 Rogue vehicles manufactured October 14, 2014, to August 12, 2016, and 2016 Maxima vehicles manufactured June 4, 2015, to August 19, 2015. An incorrect Occupant Classification System (OCS) Electronic Control Unit (ECU) may have been installed in the front passenger seat. The incorrect ECU and seat combination may misclassify the front passenger seat occupant.
2016 · service brakes, hydraulic:antilock/traction control/electronic limited slipcampaign 16V636000
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain model year 2016-2017 Nissan Maxima vehicles manufactured February 10, 2015, to August 19, 2016 and equipped with Intelligent Cruise Control, 2015-2017 Murano vehicles manufactured August 22, 2014, to August 19, 2016 and equipped with Intelligent Cruise Control, and 2015-2016 Murano Hybrid vehicles manufactured August 22, 2014, to July 19, 2016. The affected vehicles have Anti-Lock Brake (ABS) actuator pumps that may allow brake fluid to leak onto an internal electrical circuit board.
2016 · service brakes, hydraulic:antilock/traction control/electronic limited slipcampaign 16V193000
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain model year 2016 Murano vehicles manufactured December 17, 2015, to February 11, 2016, and 2016 Maxima vehicles manufactured November 25, 2015, to February 12, 2016 and equipped with an antilock braking system (ABS) and Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC). The ABS actuator may have a damaged O-ring that may result in a lack of brake fluid pressure.
2016 · service brakes, hydraulic:foundation components:disc:calipercampaign 15V733000
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain model year 2015 Altima and 2016 Maxima vehicles manufactured October 6, 2015, to October 7, 2015. The affected vehicles have front brake calipers whose mounting bolts may not be properly tightened.
2016 · fuel system, gasolinecampaign 15V486000
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) notified the agency on July 31, 2015, that they are recalling certain model year 2016 Nissan Maxima vehicles manufactured February 10, 2015, to August 18, 2015. On October 14, 2015, Nissan expanded the recall to cover an additional 41,388 vehicles, including certain model year 2013-2015 Altima 3.5 vehicles equipped with a V6 engine manufactured March 30, 2012, to August 18, 2015 as well as the vehicles covered by the July 31, 2015 notification. In the affected vehicles, due to an improperly installed o-ring that may not have been seated correctly at the time of assembly, fuel may leak during a crash from the area where the fuel sending unit attaches to the fuel tank.
2016 · air bags:sensor:occupant classificationcampaign 16V244000
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain model year 2016-2017 Nissan Maxima, 2013-2016 Nissan Altima, NV200, LEAF, Sentra, and Pathfinder, 2014-2016 Nissan NV200 Taxi, Infiniti QX60, QX60 Hybrid, and Q50 Hybrid, 2014-2017 Nissan Rogue and Infiniti Q50, 2015-2016 Nissan Murano, Murano Hybrid, and Chevrolet City Express, 2014-2015 Nissan Pathfinder Hybrid, and 2013 Infiniti JX35 vehicles. In these vehicles, the front seat passenger Occupant Classification System (OCS) may incorrectly classify an adult passenger as a child or classify the seat as empty despite it being occupied. As a result, the passenger frontal air bag may be turned off and not deploy in the event of a crash.
54 older recalls not shown. Check nhtsa.gov with your VIN for the full history.
Specifications
Enthusiast code: A36
3.5 V6
3.5L 6-cylinder · 300 hp · FWD · automatic (CVT)
Built 2019–2026