Nissan Maxima problems

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The Nissan Maxima is a car manufactured and marketed by Nissan and offered as Nissan's flagship sedan primarily in North America, the Middle East, South Korea, and China—and currently in its eighth generation. Having debuted for model year 1982 as the Datsun Maxima, it replaced the earlier Datsun 810. The name Maxima dates to the 1981 model year when Datsun marketed the upscale 810 as the 810 Maxima in North America. Like the 810, early versions of the Maxima had their origins in the Datsun/Nissan Bluebird. It is renamed to Nissan Maxima when the Datsun brand was phased out for the 1985 model year.

The Maxima was marketed as an upscale alternative to the Altima and prior to 1993, the Stanza, distinguished by features such as a premium interior and V6 engine. Most Maximas were built in Oppama, Japan, until North American assembly began in Smyrna, Tennessee for the 2004 model year.

For the US and Canada, Nissan ended production of the Maxima in July 2023.

Outside North America, the Maxima nameplate has also been applied to variants or trim levels of several other models.

photo of Nissan Maxima car production

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Nissan Maxima model years

nissan maxima 2022 photo
Maxima 2022
Nissan

5

0

24

3.5
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
nissan maxima 2021 photo
Maxima 2021
Nissan

3

0

16

3.8
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
nissan maxima 2020 photo
Maxima 2020
Nissan

17

1

26

3.1
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
nissan maxima 2019 photo
Maxima 2019
Nissan

11

1

25

3.7
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
nissan maxima 2018 photo
Maxima 2018
Nissan

30

2

34

3.7
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
nissan maxima 2017 photo
Maxima 2017
Nissan

87

4

29

3.5
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
nissan maxima 2016 photo
Maxima 2016
Nissan

125

8

32

3.1
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
nissan maxima 2015 photo
Maxima 2015
Nissan

1

0

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
nissan maxima 2014 photo
Maxima 2014
Nissan

91

0

20

3.8
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
nissan maxima 2013 photo
Maxima 2013
Nissan

61

0

28

3.4
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
nissan maxima 2012 photo
Maxima 2012
Nissan

105

0

20

3.1
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
nissan maxima 2011 photo
Maxima 2011
Nissan

105

0

33

2.6
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
nissan maxima 2010 photo
Maxima 2010
Nissan

275

1

31

3.5
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
nissan maxima 2009 photo
Maxima 2009
Nissan

336

1

30

2.8
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
nissan maxima 2008 photo
Maxima 2008
Nissan

78

0

30

3.3
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
nissan maxima 2007 photo
Maxima 2007
Nissan

129

1

31

2.9
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
nissan maxima 2006 photo
Maxima 2006
Nissan

576

2

33

2.5
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
nissan maxima 2005 photo
Maxima 2005
Nissan

947

2

30

3
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
nissan maxima 2004 photo
Maxima 2004
Nissan

1424

2

29

2.9
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
nissan maxima 2003 photo
Maxima 2003
Nissan

206

4

31

3
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
nissan maxima 2002 photo
Maxima 2002
Nissan

217

9

28

3.5
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
nissan maxima 2001 photo
Maxima 2001
Nissan

181

7

32

3.3
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
nissan maxima 2000 photo
Maxima 2000
Nissan

376

3

35

3
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
nissan maxima 1999 photo
Maxima 1999
Nissan

176

4

32

3.6
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
nissan maxima 1998 photo
Maxima 1998
Nissan

118

6

32

3.5
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
nissan maxima 1997 photo
Maxima 1997
Nissan

112

6

30

2.9
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
nissan maxima 1996 photo
Maxima 1996
Nissan

106

5

29

3.8
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
nissan maxima 1995 photo
Maxima 1995
Nissan

169

5

30

4.2
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
nissan maxima 1994 photo
Maxima 1994
Nissan

102

5

20

3
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
nissan maxima 1993 photo
Maxima 1993
Nissan

85

6

26

3
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
nissan maxima 1992 photo
Maxima 1992
Nissan

126

5

28

2.8
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
nissan maxima 1991 photo
Maxima 1991
Nissan

85

4

28

3.4
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
nissan maxima 1990 photo
Maxima 1990
Nissan

124

4

30

3.3
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
nissan maxima 1989 photo
Maxima 1989
Nissan

68

4

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
nissan maxima 1988 photo
Maxima 1988
Nissan

68

1

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
nissan maxima 1987 photo
Maxima 1987
Nissan

188

1

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
nissan maxima 1986 photo
Maxima 1986
Nissan

67

2

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
nissan maxima 1985 photo
Maxima 1985
Nissan

61

2

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
nissan maxima 1984 photo
Maxima 1984
Nissan

40

0

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
nissan maxima 1983 photo
Maxima 1983
Nissan

5

0

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
nissan maxima 1982 photo
Maxima 1982
Nissan

4

0

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1

Common Nissan Maxima problems

Based on the complaints from owners of Nissan Maxima cars, several common problems have been reported:

  • Transmission Malfunction and Failure:
    • Owners have reported jerking when shifting, rough gear transitions, vehicle stalling, and slow acceleration, ultimately leading to total transmission failure. This problem is common in 2004-2006 Nissan Maxima models, typically occurring between 90,000 to over 100,000 miles. Some cases have been severe enough to render the cars undrivable, posing safety risks.
  • Ignition Coil Failure:
    • Failed ignition coils can trigger the check engine light, affecting the engine's performance. This issue is reported in late-model Nissan Maximas and can be a source of concern for owners. While not catastrophic, it can lead to performance issues and the need for timely repairs.
  • Power Steering Failure:
    • The power steering pressure hose can fail, resulting in power steering fluid leaks. This problem requires the replacement of the power steering pressure hose to resolve the issue.
  • Front Seat Wear:
    • Front seats in Nissan Maxima cars are known to wear down quickly at the sides, although the exact cause of this problem is unknown. Owners can choose to live with the issue or opt to have the seats re-covered or replaced to address the wear and tear.
  • Idling Problems:
    • Irregular idling, where the engine does not maintain constant revs, is often linked to a blocked Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensor. Cleaning the MAF sensor can help resolve this issue and restore proper engine performance.

These common problems reported by Nissan Maxima owners highlight key areas of concern that may impact the performance, safety, and comfort of the vehicle. Regular maintenance and prompt attention to these issues can help ensure the longevity and reliability of the Nissan Maxima.

Nissan Maxima

Is the Nissan Maxima a reliable car?

RepairPal gave the Nissan Maxima a 4.0 out of 5.0 reliability rating, ranking it 9th out of 32 car brands in the same category. The Nissan Maxima suffers from a few common problems, including a leaking and low-pressure air conditioning hose, transmission malfunction and failure, and a faulty front-seat wire harness.

Is 200,000 miles on a Nissan Maxima bad?

In terms of mileage and overall lifespan, you can expect somewhere between 200,000 and 300,000 miles of use from your Nissan Maxima assuming that it is well-maintained and kept in above-average condition.

Are there any problems with the Nissan Maxima?

Nissan Maxima Reliability Problems. Maxima owners have made 1,351 complaints over 31 model years. Using our PainRank™ system we've ranked it 22nd in overall reliability out of 26 Nissan models , with real transmission and engine concerns.

Why did Nissan discontinue the Maxima?

With many modern drivers preferring SUVs and crossovers to sedans, as well as the rise in popularity of electric vehicles, the automaker decided to scale back sedan production to other models, thereby discontinuing the Maxima.

Percentage distribution of complaints by Nissan Maxima years

We have researched Nissan problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Nissan Maxima cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Nissan Maxima model years:

Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Nissan Maxima model years.

Distribution of the number of complaints by Nissan Maxima years

We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:

Nissan Maxima car problems categorized by type of issue

After analysing all complaints related to Nissan Maxima , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:

  • Power train problems
  • Electrical system problems
  • Engine and engine cooling problems
  • Steering problems
  • Air bags problems

The graph below shows statistics for all Nissan Maxima vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Maxima model years

A total of 351 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.

Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Maxima model years

There were a total of 341 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.

Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Maxima model years

There were a total of 355 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.

Distribution of the number of complaints with deaths by Maxima model years

There were a total of 16 complaints that resulted in a death. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.

The NHTSA has received 7090 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Nissan Maxima . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Nissan Maxima vehicles.

Latest 25 complaints

Nissan Maxima 2014
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-10-09
  • Date Complaint: 2024-10-16
  • Number Of Injuries: 1
  • Crash: 1
  • VIN: 1N4AA5AP3EC
  • Components: POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
  • Summary: While pulling into a parking space, I heard my engine racing. Immediately, I felt the car lurch forward. To avoid misapplying my foot to the gas pedal, I withdrew both my feet to the floor, next to the seat. The car continued forward at a fast rate. The car stopped going forward after it struck s building. However, the tires kept spinning, especially the front left tire. The engine ran briefly, until it stopped spontaneously. A few days previously, while driving at about 40 miles per hour on level ground, I felt the gas pedal to be unresponsive. Then it quickly reengaged. I mentioned this to my husband and he suggested that there may have been an air bubble in the fuel line. I don't know if the two events are related. Also, possibly related, I stopped using cruise control, because the car would surge and lapse during use. My insurance company is pursuing spontaneous acceleration. I visited my primary care physician the afternoon of the accident and was diagnosed with whiplash.
Nissan Maxima 2018
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-09-12
  • Date Complaint: 2024-09-12
  • Components: WHEELS
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2018 Nissan Maxima. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the contact started losing control of the vehicle. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed and determined that the lug nuts needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The dealer was contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 40,000. The VIN was not available.
Nissan Maxima 2016
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-08-10
  • Date Complaint: 2024-09-07
  • VIN: 1N4AA6AP6GC
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
  • Summary: No matter what speed you’re going it puts itself in false neutral. Abs , traction control comes on battery light flashes. No power steering and will not accelerate. Have almost been ran into and ran over. There is no warning when this happens and not yet find a service department or garage that can fix the problem. Very dangerous especially for a new driver, I bought this car for my daughter. This has happened more than once and now we do not drive the car due to it not being safe. New battery and alternator checks good. Has been scanned for codes several times.
Nissan Maxima 2020
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-08-19
  • Date Complaint: 2024-08-31
  • VIN: 1N4AA6EV9LC
  • Components: FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
  • Summary: Forward collision warning turns on about 20 seconds after the car starts. There was no accident or obstructions to the sensors, this apperas to just be equipment failure on a car with only 30k miles on it.
Nissan Maxima 2017
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-07-15
  • Date Complaint: 2024-08-26
  • VIN: 1N4AA6AP5HC
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: Airbag warning light stays on at the dashboard. Passenger air bag light indicates airbag is off when someone is actually in the seat. This is incorrect.
Nissan Maxima 2012
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-08-06
  • Date Complaint: 2024-08-20
  • VIN: 1N4AA5AP9CC
  • Components: STRUCTURE
  • Summary: Since 2018 to present day. I been having difficulties with the visibility from my front windshield at sunny days. The dashboard has this sticky substance that make the dashboard really shinny, and reflect the sun light on the windshield, blocking the view and make it hard to see the road and vehicles. I had to use sunglasses to block this issue, but in some cases this will not improved and can make it worst. I had couple of near miss, and I have to stop driving my car at times to avoid this issue.
Nissan Maxima 2016
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-08-12
  • Date Complaint: 2024-08-15
  • VIN: 1N4AA6AP1GC
  • Components: POWER TRAIN,ENGINE
  • Summary: This is third time this has happened. I already filled out one, but they have already replaced my altenator. My car worked fine for about a month, and then it did the same thing where I can't excelarate and the car limps at 1 MPH till it eventually shuts off and will not start up. If you jump the car it will work again, but not for long until it does the same thing. On the Nissan Forums alot of people are talking about this same issue, but nothing is being done and the only fix is to find an OEM altenator, but Nissan doesn't make one anymore. This is really starting to become a huge problem.
Nissan Maxima 2016
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-07-08
  • Date Complaint: 2024-07-17
  • VIN: 1N4AA6APXGC
  • Components: POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2016 Nissan Maxima. The contact stated that while the vehicle was stopped, the vehicle failed to accelerate while the accelerator pedal was depressed. The ABS warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer where it was diagnosed; however, the cause of the failure was not yet determined. The vehicle was taken to another local dealer, Alpine Nissan of Denver (2400 W 104th Ave, Denver, CO 80234) where it was diagnosed and determined that the alternator had stopped routing electricity after overheating. The contact was advised by the local dealer that the transmission needed to be replaced and related to failure to Technical Service Bulletin: NTB17-039P (Transmission Judder); which was related to the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 57,800.
Nissan Maxima 2011
  • Date Of Incident: 2023-11-20
  • Date Complaint: 2024-07-15
  • VIN: 1N4AA5AP5BC
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: Airbag warning came on. I took to dealership for diagnostic. There was malfunction with the passenger airbag. Seat coushin needed to be replaced so the “normal” wear and tear airbag would no longer be an issue. Nissan stated this is not a safety concern and all expenses were out of pocket.
Nissan Maxima 2011
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-06-27
  • Date Complaint: 2024-06-29
  • VIN: 1N4AA5AP5BC
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: The transmission is slipping it’s a cvt and they’re known for being the worst transmissions. I was entering the highway on a on ramp and I could no longer accelerate past 55 I was near flooring it and you can hear the engine working but the rpm’s are all over the odometer going from 3k-6.5k over and over. The problem has not been diagnosed professionally. The vehicle has not been inspected professionally.There were no lights on the dash when this began happening and nothing occurred that led up to that situation it was just a normal drive for me and now this happens every other day.
Nissan Maxima 2016
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-03-14
  • Date Complaint: 2024-06-27
  • VIN: 1N4AA6AP9GC
  • Components: STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: 2016 nissan, noticed while stuck in traffic on highway on rainy day the vehicle seemed to want to loose power and battery light was coming on. I was able to exit highway an make it home. Later that night while at laundry mat headed to get food the car wouldn't accelerate eventually died an wouldn't start. Next day go to get it towed yet started no problem acceleration was fine alternator voltage was normal range. Few weeks later battery was dead which I have replaced. Alternator voltage still reads normal. I get about 20 minutes driving and battery light pops on eventually soon power steering and traction control goes out then car will die. If leave it few hrs 2-4hr an come back is fine. But can't drive 20min before it is a problem again. Has caused serious finacial strain and still paying for vehicle close to loosing employment it dies everyday then I have to pay for ride home and to go back to get it later. Have gotting stuck in intersection car just stops working. People have almost crashed into me because i cant get it off the road. Electrical or software computer problem somewhere.
Nissan Maxima 2016
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-06-20
  • Date Complaint: 2024-06-24
  • VIN: 1N4AA6AP3GC
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES
  • Summary: [XXX] this is the exact problem, I couldn't explain it any better. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Nissan Maxima 2022
  • Date Of Incident: 2022-06-30
  • Date Complaint: 2024-06-21
  • Number Of Injuries: 2
  • Crash: 1
  • VIN: 1N4AA6EV3NC
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
  • Summary: The contact owned a 2022 Nissan Maxima. The contact stated that while her granddaughter was driving at 40 MPH and attempting to stop at a stop sign, with the brake pedal depressed all the way to the floorboard, the vehicle failed to stop. As a result, the driver swerved in an attempt to avoid a collision, side-swiping the vehicle ahead and colliding with 3 light poles before coasting to a complete stop on the shoulder of the roadway. The air bags did not deploy during the impact, resulting in the driver sustaining minor injuries. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was towed to a tow yard and deemed a total loss by the insurance company. A police report was filed. The contact's granddaughter sustained nondescript injuries to her head and knees but did not seek medical treatment. The contact also stated that, though she was made aware that the driver of the other vehicle had reported injuries, the injuries and treatment were unknown. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.
Nissan Maxima 2016
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-06-17
  • Date Complaint: 2024-06-17
  • VIN: 1N4AA6AP1GC
  • Components: POWER TRAIN,ENGINE
  • Summary: Alternator loses power and car doesn’t accelerate. Vehicle shuts down and will not start after. When running diagnostics after everything shows fine and after a jump car works again and reads fine. Happens again after driving for 40+ mins
Nissan Maxima 2014
  • Date Of Incident: 2022-08-18
  • Date Complaint: 2024-06-16
  • VIN: 1N4AA5AP6EC
  • Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
  • Summary: The dim lights on the vehicle are very dim, the fog lights are brighter than the dim lights. I’ve replaced the bulbs and headlights and neither fixed the issue. You can barely see in front of the car with the dim lights. It’s very unsafe to drive at night.

Latest 5 recalls Nissan Maxima

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 108 recalls for different components of the Nissan Maxima.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.

  • Model: Nissan Maxima 2001
  • Report Received Date: 2022-08-09
  • Manufacturer: Nissan North America, Inc.
  • Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
  • Summary: Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain air bag inflator replacement service parts that may have been installed as part of a theft or collision repair. The parts include certain passenger-side air bag inflators designed to fit Infiniti 2002-2003 QX4, 2006-2010 M35 and M45; Nissan 2001-2003 Maxima, 2002-2006 Sentra, and both driver and passenger-side inflators designed to fit 2007-2012 Versa Sedan and Versa Hatchback vehicles. Please see Nissan's recall report for the specific part numbers. These replacement inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, temperature and temperature cycling.
  • Consequence: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
  • Remedy: Dealers will inspect and replace the inflators as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed September 14, 2022. Owners may contact Nissan's customer service at 1-800-867-7669.
  • Model: Nissan Maxima 2002
  • Report Received Date: 2022-08-09
  • Manufacturer: Nissan North America, Inc.
  • Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
  • Summary: Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain air bag inflator replacement service parts that may have been installed as part of a theft or collision repair. The parts include certain passenger-side air bag inflators designed to fit Infiniti 2002-2003 QX4, 2006-2010 M35 and M45; Nissan 2001-2003 Maxima, 2002-2006 Sentra, and both driver and passenger-side inflators designed to fit 2007-2012 Versa Sedan and Versa Hatchback vehicles. Please see Nissan's recall report for the specific part numbers. These replacement inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, temperature and temperature cycling.
  • Consequence: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
  • Remedy: Dealers will inspect and replace the inflators as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed September 14, 2022. Owners may contact Nissan's customer service at 1-800-867-7669.
  • Model: Nissan Maxima 2003
  • Report Received Date: 2022-08-09
  • Manufacturer: Nissan North America, Inc.
  • Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
  • Summary: Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain air bag inflator replacement service parts that may have been installed as part of a theft or collision repair. The parts include certain passenger-side air bag inflators designed to fit Infiniti 2002-2003 QX4, 2006-2010 M35 and M45; Nissan 2001-2003 Maxima, 2002-2006 Sentra, and both driver and passenger-side inflators designed to fit 2007-2012 Versa Sedan and Versa Hatchback vehicles. Please see Nissan's recall report for the specific part numbers. These replacement inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, temperature and temperature cycling.
  • Consequence: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
  • Remedy: Dealers will inspect and replace the inflators as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed September 14, 2022. Owners may contact Nissan's customer service at 1-800-867-7669.
  • Model: Nissan Maxima 2020
  • Report Received Date: 2020-09-22
  • Manufacturer: Nissan North America, Inc.
  • Components: VISIBILITY:GLASS, SIDE/REAR
  • Summary: 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.
  • Consequence: Rear window glass that separates from the vehicle can increase the risk of a crash.
  • Remedy: Nissan will notify owners, and dealers will replace the back window glass, free of charge. The recall began November 4, 2020. Owners may contact Nissan customer service at 1-800-867-7669. Nissan's number for this recall is PC752.
  • Model: Nissan Maxima 2002
  • Report Received Date: 2020-01-09
  • Manufacturer: Nissan North America, Inc.
  • Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
  • Summary: Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2001-2003 Maxima, 2002-2006 Sentra, 2002-2004 Pathfinder, 2007-2011 Versa Sedan and Versa Hatchback, 2001-2004 Infiniti I30 and I35, 2002-2003 Inifiniti QX4, 2003-2008 Infiniti FX35 and FX45 and 2006-2010 M35 and M45 vehicles. The vehicles are equipped with non-desiccated, frontal passenger air bag inflators containing phase stabilized ammonium nitrate (PSAN) propellant that were used as interim remedy parts for previous Takata recalls. These inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, high temperatures, and high temperature cycling.
  • Consequence: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
  • Remedy: Nissan will notify owners, and dealers will replace the front passenger air bag inflators with alternate desiccated inflators, free of charge. The recall began February 12, 2020. Owners may contact Nissan customer service at 888-737-9511 or Infiniti customer service at 888-810-3715.

Latest negative Nissan Maxima car reviews

  1. Parker Larson 2025-03-23

    Vehicle year: 1993

    After purchasing my car, I had to replace the exhaust manifold, window actuator, struts, ball joints, and rebuild the transmission. Although the car rides rough, even on new tires, it is still functional. Additionally, the radio display is currently not working. Lastly, accessing the trunk can be done with a screwdriver and a hammer. Despite these issues, I am confident in the car's overall performance and reliability.

  2. Weldon Abernathy 2025-03-23

    Vehicle year: 1997

    The 1997 Maxima SE could benefit from some suspension tinkering to improve its performance with the 16' tires. The ride quality and handling could be more assuring, especially on the interstate. Overall, with some adjustments, this car has the potential to perform at a higher level.

  3. Levi Funk 2025-03-23

    Vehicle year: 2004

    The 04 Nissan Maxima can be described as okay, but unfortunately, Nissan's customer service and reliability are terrible. It seems that Nissan does not value their customers, as they have received over 600 reviews on faulty transmissions and have yet to issue a recall, despite being aware of the issue. My Maxima has just over 121,000 miles and the transmission has failed. There is a jerking feeling when braking, as if gears are getting stuck, and sometimes acceleration has the same issue, making it even scarier because you have no control over the car. It is quite terrifying, and Nissan believes that we should pay them over $3,000 to replace THEIR ISSUE. I have contacted Nissan several times for help, but I either cannot get through to them or they tell me they cannot help. I have reported the issue to BBB, as many others have, and should continue to do. I am outraged by the issue and poor accommodations and services on behalf of Nissan. Several lawsuits have been filed, but there has been no outcome. If you or someone you know has this issue, be sure to file a complaint with Nissan [contact information removed] to help us get answers! It is unacceptable from such a large company. Please do not buy an 04-06 Nissan Maxima, as they are known for having horrible transmissions.

  4. Dayne West 2025-03-23

    Vehicle year: 2006

    This is my second Maxima. I owned an '02 SE for over four years, but this one surpasses it in terms of features, comfort, and performance. However, there are some areas where it falls short in comparison. The build quality of the interior is not up to par and feels quite cheap. It's clear that Nissan was cutting corners in this regard. Additionally, I've had some issues with the exterior finish. Unfortunately, due to the squeaks and rattles, I'm planning on trading it in for an '07 Acura TL after only one year of ownership.

  5. Michael Kuhic 2025-03-19

    Vehicle year: 2011

    I currently have 14,000 miles on my Maxima SV Premium Edition and unfortunately, I have experienced some issues with the car. From day one, there has been a bad rattle in the headliner above the back seat, although it has improved slightly recently. Additionally, the front hood rubber seal keeps popping out of its space, and there is a creaking noise coming from the dash/windshield area. Last week, the car went into a lockup mode and had to be towed to the dealer, where the whole computer system had to be rebooted. Now, I have noticed two more rattles in the upper dash and climate control area. Although I have only owned two Nissans, including the Altima which I loved, I am disappointed with the satisfaction ratio. I have owned plenty of Toyotas and Hondas with no rattles or issues even above 100k miles.

Latest positive Nissan Maxima car reviews

  1. Gregory Kshlerin 2025-03-29

    Vehicle year: 2018

    For a car that's a step below a Mercedes and BMW, this one has it all. It's definitely worth the money, and the exterior design is up-to-date and futuristic-looking.

  2. Donnell Raynor 2025-03-28

    Vehicle year: 2001

    Original review 02-14-2003. Hi there! I wanted to share my experience with my Nissan car. It has been a very good car, and I have put 64,000 miles on it so far. I did want to mention that I dropped my comfort rating from 9 to 8 because I have grown a bit tired of the firm ride. Additionally, our economy rating has gone from 9 to 8 because we are now averaging 24 mpg, down from 27 mpg in the first 3 years. Lastly, I wanted to mention that I have noticed some peeling paint, which has caused me to lower my quality rating from 10 to 9. I was wondering if anyone else has experienced this issue? Unfortunately, I washed the car this week and noticed that paint is coming off the hood in quarter-sized pieces - NOT GOOD! I hope Nissan will stand behind their cars and address this issue. Thank you for reading!

  3. Laron Koelpin 2025-03-28

    Vehicle year: 2001

    Excellent acceleration, very nice and comfortable interior, and fun to drive. Overall, this is a well-made car that is very dependable and gets good miles per gallon of gas.

  4. Cleve Rutherford 2025-03-27

    Vehicle year: 2003

    No complaints except for the typical radio problems. Other than that, I absolutely love this car! I've owned a few Nissan cars and trucks, and this one is by far the best. I got my first Maxima, an '03 SE with 174,000 miles, and it still feels like a new car. I love it! And, not to mention, I only paid $1,800 for it. Best deal ever!

  5. Elliott Boehm 2025-03-27

    Vehicle year: 2006

    Hello everyone! If you're experiencing issues with your transmission, there's good news - the fix is affordable and easy to do yourself! You can find a shifter kit on eBay for around $65 and there are plenty of helpful YouTube videos that will guide you through the process of fixing the 3 solenoids. With just a little bit of mechanical knowledge, you can have your car running smoothly again in no time. It's important to note that this issue can be caused by not changing your transmission fluids regularly. I hope this information is helpful to you!

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