Nissan Maxima reliability: common problems by model year
Across 3 model years, the Nissan Maxima has 1,663 owner-filed NHTSA complaints and 12 recalls on record. The most-reported areas are power train and tires. 2004 drew the most complaints (1,425), 2019 the fewest (18).
3
Model years tracked
1,663
Owner complaints
12
Recalls
220
Median per year
Source: NHTSA complaints and recalls filed for Nissan Maxima vehicles (US, public record). Typical used asking price $13,498–$23,885.
Which Maxima years have the most problems?
Complaint volume by model year. Raw NHTSA totals, not adjusted for sales volume or time on the road, so older and higher-selling years accumulate more. Every year links to its full breakdown.
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 satisfacti
Catastrophic 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. Frequency: very frequent (2013+ models).
CVT reliability concerns: General anxiety about long-term durability, transmission "whine," and expensive repair costs ($6,000+ for a rebuild). Frequency: very frequent.
Jerky acceleration and shifting: Especially noted in 2016 and 2022 models, with stuttering during gear simulation and unresponsive throttle. Frequency: recurrent.
Electrical/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. Frequency: recurrent (mentioned for 2016 model).
Headlight defect (dimming): Likely related to a reflector off-gassing issue similar to a known Altima class action, affecting low-beam output. Frequency: isolated.
Owner insights cover all generations of the Maxima. Individual model years are broken down above.