1994 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.

1994 Nissan Maxima

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Common 1994 Nissan Maxima problems

The Nissan Maxima, a reliable four-door sedan, has a few common problems that owners have reported. These issues can affect the vehicle's performance, safety, and overall ownership experience.

  • Ignition Coil Failure: Older Nissan Maxima models, including the 1994 model, are known to have ignition coil failure. This issue can cause the check engine light to turn on and may damage other coils due to sparks sending feedback through the wiring harness. The ignition coil should be replaced immediately to prevent further damage, which typically occurs around 130,000 miles and costs between $500 and $660, depending on labor and component pricing.
  • Power Steering Pump Leak: The 1994 Nissan Maxima is known for a power steering pump issue that may be difficult to diagnose. The most common symptoms include noisy and unstable steering caused by power steering pump leaks. The leaking fluid would drip on the lower control arm bushing, causing deterioration and failure. Overall vehicle control may be affected in extreme cases, so it’s best to get your car checked by a mechanic as soon as possible. This is a fairly common issue that happens around 120,000 miles and can cost between $400 and $1000 to repair.
  • Transmission Malfunction and Failure: Transmission problems are a common issue in the Nissan Maxima, with the 2004 model being the worst year for transmission-related issues. The most-reported problem is jerks when shifting, which can be costly to fix, with an average cost of $2,500 and typically occurring at around 107,000 miles.
  • Faulty Front-Seat Wire Harness: This issue is common in Nissan Maxima models, including the 1994 model. The front-seat wire harness may become faulty, causing problems with the seat's functionality. This issue can be costly to fix, with an average cost of around $1,100 and typically occurring at approximately 82,000 miles.

These common problems in the Nissan Maxima 1994 can affect the vehicle's performance, safety, and overall ownership experience. It's essential to address these issues promptly to maintain the vehicle's reliability and prevent further damage. Regular maintenance and inspections can help identify and address these problems early, ensuring a safe and enjoyable driving experience.

1994 Nissan Maxima engine

What is the common problem with Nissan Maxima?

A prevalent concern among Nissan Maxima owners is a leaking and low-pressure air conditioning (AC) hose, often causing the AC to blow warm air. This issue is notably frequent in 2001 and 2004-2012 models, typically surfacing around 87,000 miles.

What year Maxima has bad transmission?

What year did Nissan have transmission problems? Nissan has had various transmission problems over the years with its various models. Some of those that have been known to experience transmission issues include the 2004-2009 Nissan Murano, the 2004-2006 Nissan Maxima, and the 2005-2007 Nissan Pathfinder.

Is Nissan Maxima 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.

What is the fuel consumption of a 1994 Nissan Maxima?

Nissan Maxima 1994 Fuel consumption

The Nissan Maxima currently offers fuel consumption from 9.1 to 9.1L/100km. The Nissan Maxima is available with the following fuel type: ULP.

1994 Nissan Maxima car problems categorized by type of issue

After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Nissan Maxima problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:

  • Fuel system problems
  • Gasoline problems
  • Engine and engine cooling problems
  • Visibility problems
  • Power train problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 1994 Nissan Maxima vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

Latest 25 complaints 1994 Nissan Maxima

The NHTSA has received 102 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1994 Nissan Maxima. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 1994 Nissan Maxima vehicles.

2013-02-07

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2007-03-01
  • VIN: JN1EJ01F3RT
  • Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
  • Summary: SINCE I PURCHASED VEHICLE BACK IN 2007, THIS VEHICLE LEAKS GASOLINE WHEN FULL TANK IS FUELED. IT CREATES A LARGE PUDDLE OF FUEL IN THE REAR UNDER THE FUEL NECK FILL PIPE. IT TAKES ABOUT 20 MILES OF DRIVING FOR THE LEAK TO STOP. I HAD NEVER BEEN MADE AWARE OF THIS BEING A COMMON PROBLEM BY ANY SERVICE CENTER I HAVE TAKEN IT TO. MY HOUSEHOLD IS SAFETY CONSCIOUS WHEN IT COMES TO THE USE OF ANY FLAMMABLE ITEMS THAT COULD POSE A RISK OF FIRE WHEN THESE LEAKS OCCUR. I ALWAYS TRY NOT TO FILL THE TANK COMPLETELY BUT I ADMIT SOMETIMES I SIMPLY FORGET, ONLY REALIZING IT AFTER THE FUEL STATION GASOLINE HOSE STOPS ON ITS OWN. MY CONCERN HAS ALWAYS BEEN THAT WHILE DRIVING AND IS LEAKING, SOMEONE MAY THROW OUT THEIR WINDOW A CIGARETTE OR I MAY GO OVER SOMETHING THAT COULD TRIGGER A SPARK, CAUSING A FIRE/EXPLOSION. *TR
2010-06-23

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2010-06-18
  • VIN: JN1HJ01FXRT
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
  • Summary: VEHICLE: 1994 NISSAN MAXIMA (VIN# [XXX]) EVERY TIME I PUMP IN A FULL TANK OF FUEL AT THE GAS STATION, THE FUEL BEGINS TO LEAK AND CREATES A PUDDLE OF FUEL UNDERNEATH THE CAR. THE FUEL FILLER TUBE AND WHEEL HOUSING IS SIGNIFICANTLY CORRODED THAT HAS RESULTED IN A FUEL LEAK. IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, IT COULD RESULT IN A FIRE. ALSO, THE LEFT REAR SEAT BELT RETRACTOR IS MOUNTED TO THE WHEEL AND THE MOUNTING COULD FAIL IN A VEHICLE CRASH. I DISCOVERED NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER: 95V244000, WHICH WAS A RECALL ON THE 1994 NISSAN MAXIMA FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE: STORAGE TANK: TANK ASSEMBLY: FILLER PIPE AND CAP. A MIXTURE OF MUD AND SALT GOT TRAPPED BETWEEN THE FUEL FILLER TUBE AND WHEEL HOUSING THAT RESULTED IN CORROSION OF THE FUEL FILLER TUBE AND WHEEL HOUSING. THIS VEHICLE HAS BEEN GARAGED-KEPT AND ONLY HAS 140,000 MILES FOR A 16-YEAR-OLD VEHICLE. ON 6/18/2010, I BROUGHT THE CAR INTO ROSENTHAL NISSAN DEALER IN VIENNA, VA FOR REPAIR/REPLACEMENT, BUT AFTER CALLING NISSAN NORTH AMERICA, INC., I WAS TOLD THAT MY CAR DID NOT QUALIFY FOR THE RECALL AND I WOULD HAVE TO REPAIR/REPLACE IT AT MY OWN EXPENSE (FILE# [XXX]). THE RECALL WAS SPECIFIC FOR THE TYPE OF SAFETY DEFECT THAT I AM CURRENTLY EXPERIENCING ON THE SAME YEAR AND MAKE/MODEL VEHICLE, BUT NISSAN NORTH AMERICA, INC. REFUSES TO HEED NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER: 95V244000. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TR
2009-04-01

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,SEAT BELTS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2008-11-01
  • VIN: JN1HJ01C6RT
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,SEAT BELTS
  • Summary: MY MAXIMA HAS A PLASTIC SHROUD AROUND THE FUEL FILLER NECK, PRESUMABLY TO PROTECT IT FROM ROAD DEBRIS, ROCKS, ETC, BLASTING THE FILLER NECK. UNFORTUNATELY, THE SHROUD TRAPS FINE DIRT AND MOISTURE. THIS INCLUDES WINTER ROAD SALT. WHEN I REMOVED THE SHROUD, MASSIVE AMOUNTS OF FINE SAND & DIRT FELL TO THE GROUND. WHEN I CLEANED OUT WHAT WAS STUCK UP INSIDE THE REAR QUARTER PANEL AREA, I SWEPT UP 3 FULL DUSTPANS. IT WAS CLOSE TO 10LBS OF CRAP. THE FILLER NECK WAS BADLY RUSTED. THE REAR QUARTER PANEL WAS RUSTED BADLY. WHEN I STARTED TO DISMANTLE, I WENT TO REMOVE SEATBELT BOLT. I WAS SHOCKED TO FIND THE ENTIRE AREA WHERE THE SEATBELT ATTACHED WAS BEHIND FILLER NECK AND COMPLETELY RUSTED OUT. THE SHEET METAL TWISTED APART EASILY AND WOULD NOT HAVE PROTECTED THE LEFT REAR PASSENGER IN A 5 MPH COLLISION. IT WOULD HAVE JUST TORE AWAY. YEARS AGO MY '86 HONDA PRELUDE HAD A RUSTY FILLER NECK. I REMOVED IT AND WENT TO BUY THE PART, AND WAS TOLD THERE WAS A RECALL ON IT. IT WAS CONSIDERED A SAFETY ISSUE. WHEN I ASKED NISSAN A FEW MONTHS AGO, THERE WAS NO RECALL FOR THIS SERIOUS SAFETY ISSUE (ON 2 ISSUES: STRONG FUEL ODORS AND NO SEATBELT PROTECTION). I FIND THAT UNACCEPTABLE, ESPECIALLY NOW THAT I CAN SEE THE FLAWED DESIGN. I HAVE ALSO SEEN MANY OTHER NISSAN OWNERS WITH SIMILAR COMPLAINTS FOR NISSAN AXXESS AND NISSAN MURANO ( AND I HAVEN'T EVEN SEARCHED OR LOOKED FOR THESE COMPLAINTS). ALSO, I HAVE BEEN INVESTIGATING AUTO MVAS FOR 25 YEARS. *TR
2008-01-31

TIRES PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2007-12-06
  • Components: TIRES
  • Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1994 NISSAN MAXIMA. THE VEHICLE HAS COOPER TRENDSETTER SE, SIZE P206/65R15 (NA) TIRES. THE CONTACT STATED THAT SHE SAW A DEFECTIVE TREND IN SEVERAL COOPER TIRES THAT SHE PURCHASED. SHE BOUGHT FOUR TIRES INITIALLY IN AUGUST OF 2006. THE CONTACT RETURNED ONE TIRE ON DECEMBER 6, 2007 BECAUSE IT WAS DEFECTIVE. THE FAILURE WAS NOTICED WHILE DRIVING 55 MPH. THE DEALER AND MANUFACTURER HAVE NOT BEEN NOTIFIED. THE VIN, PURCHASE DATE, TRANSMISSION TYPE, NUMBER OF CYLINDERS, ENGINE SIZE, AND POWERTRAIN WERE UNKNOWN. THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 178,000 AND FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 176,307.
2008-01-14

TIRES PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2008-01-14
  • VIN: 1N4BA41E94C
  • Components: TIRES
  • Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1994 NISSAN MAXIMA. THE VEHICLE HAS GOODYEAR EAGLE RS-A, SIZE P245/45R18 TIRES. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE FRONT DRIVER SIDE TIRE HAD A CRACKED SIDEWALL. GOODYEAR WAS NOTIFIED. THERE WAS A BUY BACK PROGRAM ON THIS TIRE THAT EXPIRED ON DECEMBER 31, 2007. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGES WERE 43,000.
2005-10-27

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2005-09-29
  • VIN: JN1HJ01F1RT
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
  • Summary: THERE WAS A FAULTY FUEL LINE IN CONSUMERS 1994 NISSAN MAXIMA. *TS THE VEHICLE OVERHEATED. THE DEALER REPLACED THE RADIATOR CAP AND TEMPERATURE SENSOR. *JB
2005-06-30

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2005-06-20
  • VIN: JN1EJ01F6RT
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
  • Summary: FUEL TANK LEAKS DURING FILL-UPS AND IF CAR IS POSITIONED ON AN INCLINE.
2005-06-20

POWER TRAIN,EQUIPMENT PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2004-02-18
  • VIN: JN1HJ01F6RT
  • Components: POWER TRAIN,EQUIPMENT
  • Summary: MY TRANSMISSION WENT OUT IN 2003 I GOT IT REBUILT IT WENT OUT AGAIN IN 2004 EVERY PERSON I KNOW OWN A 1991-1994 NISSAN MAXIMA HAS THESE PROBLEMS AND I DONT THINK ITS RIGHT.SO THERE SHOULD BE A RECALL ON THE CARS TRANSMISSION.
2005-05-31

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,VISIBILITY PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2004-06-01
  • VIN: JN1EJ01F6RT
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,VISIBILITY
  • Summary: DT: FOR THE PAST YEAR SMELLED GAS. BEEN TOOK TO DEALER FOR THIS PROBLEM SEVERAL TIMES. DONE REPAIRS TO HOSES,EXHAUST, ETC. LATER DISCOVERED THIS WAS AN ISSUE WITH THE FUEL INJECTION. SYSTEM. WHEN AIR CONDITIONER WAS ON HIGH THE SMELL WAS EVIDENT. ALSO, THIS WAS PRESENT IN THE MORNING WHEN THE CAR WAS STARTED FOR THE FIRST 5 MINUTES. TOOK TO SERVICE DEALER, AND FOUND NO LEAKS, BUT DID PERFORM SMOKE TEST AND NUMEROUS INSPECTIONS, BUT WAS UNABLE TO LOCATE THIS PROBLEM. ALSO, IS WAS PRESENT WHEN IS DEFROST WAS TURNED ON. GAS SMELL IWASSTRONGER WHEN ACCELERATING ABOUT 25 MPH OR SO IN STOP OR GO TRAFFIC. *AK
2005-03-14

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,WHEELS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2003-01-17
  • VIN: JN1HJ01F6RT
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,WHEELS
  • Summary: CONSUMER TOOK THE VEHICLE TO DEALER FOR RECALLS 95V244000 AND 94V194000 REPAIRS CONCERNING WHEELS AND THE FUEL FILLER. CONSUMER WAS CHARGED FOR THE LABOR, AND THE REPAIRS ON THE WHEELS WAS NOT PERFORMED. *AK THE VEHICLE HAD A FUEL LEAK UNDER THE INTAKE MANIFOLD. A BROKE VACUUM LINE CAUSED THE VEHICLE TO IDLE POORLY. THE VEHICLE'S WATER PUMP WAS REPLACED. *NM
2004-09-27

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2004-08-25
  • VIN: JN1HJ01F6RT
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
  • Summary: NHTSA RECALL 95V244000 CONCERNING FUEL TANK ASSEMBLY PIPE FILLER NECK. VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER FOR THE RECALL. HOWEVER, DEALER CHARGED CONSUMER $1,700.00 FOR RECALL REPAIRS. *AK
2004-05-26

VISIBILITY PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2004-05-11
  • VIN: PLEASE PROV
  • Components: VISIBILITY
  • Summary: WHILE DRIVING 60 MPH, THE SUNROOF EXPLODED. THE DEALERSHIP MECHANIC REPAIRED THE PROBLEM ONCE, BUT THE PROBLEM RECURRED. PLEASE PROVIDE ANY ADDITIONAL INFORMATION. *NM
2003-10-29

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2003-10-27
  • VIN: JN1HJ01F3RT
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: 1994 NISSAN MAXIMA HAS 138,000 MILES. ALTERNATOR HAS BEEN REPLACED TWICE WITHIN THE PAST 2 MONTHS. WHEN DRIVING, THE DIGITAL READOUT ON THE CAR CLOCK BEGINS TO FADE. THEN THE RADIO CUTS ON AND OFF. THEN, ALL LIGHTS ON THE DASH ARE LOST, THE AIR BAG LIGHT COMES ON, AND THE CAR DIES. AFTER BEING TOWED, THE BATTERY WAS RECHARGED, THE ALTERNATOR SHOWED IT WAS CHARGING THE BATTERY, AND THE CAR CRANKED AND RAN FINE. IT WILL RUN FINE FOR A DAY OR TWO, THEN IT TOTALLY CUTS OFF WHEN IT IS BEING DRIVEN. TO MAKE THINGS MORE INTERESTING, THE PASSENGER FRONT DOOR WINDOW WILL GO DOWN WHEN THE CAR IS FIRST STARTED, BUT WILL NOT GO UP UNTIL THE CAR IS DRIVEN FOR ABOUT 20-30 MINUTES. INDIVIDUAL TAIL LIGHTS ARE OUT AT TIMES, BUT IT IS NEVER THE SAME BULB AT ANY TIME AND THE BULB IS NOT BAD.*AK
2003-10-29

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2003-08-01
  • VIN: JN1HJ01F3RT
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER
  • Summary: 1994 NISSAN MAXIMA HAS A STRONG ODOR OF GASOLINE WHEN STARTED IN THE MORNINGS. USUALLY, BUT NOT ALWAYS, ODOR GOES AWAY AFTER 20-30 MINUTES OF DRIVING. THIS IS A RANDOM PROBLEM, AND APPEARS TO BE WORSE IN COOLER WEATHER BUT HAS OCCURRED IN WARM WEATHER. STRENGTH OF THE ODOR VARIES DAY BY DAY. THE CAR HAS BEEN CHECKED FOR FAULTY FUEL INJECTORS, THE HOSING HAS BEEN CHECKED, THE FUEL FILTER CHANGED. THERE ARE NO "CLEAN SPOTS" INDICATING GAS LEAKAGE ON AN OLD DIRTIER ENGINE. ODOR IS SO STRONG AT TIMES THAT THE CAR HAS TO BE PARKED OUTSIDE THE GARAGE AT HOME FOR FEAR THAT A SPARK FROM THE HOT WATER HEATER WILL IGNITE THE FUMES. ALSO, FIRE FROM ENGINE HEAT IS A CONCERN AS IS DRIVING THE CAR AND HAVING ANOTHER MOTORIST TOSS OUT A CIGARETTE BUTT. I'VE BEEN TOLD THAT 95 MODELS HAD A DEVICE INSTALLED IN THE FUEL LINE BECAUSE OF THIS PROBLEM.*AK
2003-02-14

SEATS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2001-05-23
  • Components: SEATS
  • Summary: THE FRONT SEAT FAILED.*DT *JB
2002-06-28

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2002-06-02
  • VIN: JN1HJ01F6RT
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
  • Summary: BRAKE LINE CORRODED, CONSUMER FOUND OUT ABOUT CORRODED BRAKE LINE WHILE DRIVING. CONTACTED DEALER WHO WAS NOT WILLING TO DO ANYTHING.*AKTHE DEALER ESTIMATED DAMAGES AT 1500 DOLLARS. THE BRAKE LINE AND THREE GAS LINES (FUEL, RETURN AND SEND) NEEDED REPLACING DUE TO CORROSION. THE BRAKE LINE LEAKS AT THE POINT UNDER THE LEFT FRONT DOOR. CORROSION COULD BE DUE TO ROAD SALT. *JG
2002-04-03

EQUIPMENT PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • VIN: JN1HJ01F1RT
  • Components: EQUIPMENT
  • Summary: BOSE RADIO/CD/TAPE PLAYER FAILS PARTICULARLY IN COLD WEATHER/NOW ONLY WORKS INTERMITTENTLY. *AK
2002-01-11

POWER TRAIN PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2002-01-10
  • VIN: JN1HJ01F3RP
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: WHILE DRIVING UP A HILL BETWEEN 45 AND 55 MPH TRANSMISSION WILL START VIBRATING. CONSUMER HAD TAKEN VEHICLE TO MECHANIC, AND HE SAID THAT NOISE AND VIBRATION WAS DUE TO SHIFTING GEAR. PLEASE PROVIDE MORE INFORMATION.*AK
2001-09-26

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • VIN: JN1HJ01F3RT
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
  • Summary: THE BOLTS ON EXHAUST MANIFOLD FROM ENGINE ARE BREAKING OFF, CONSUMER STATES IT IS DUE TO POOR DESIGN OF EXHAUST SYSTEM FROM ENGINE, THE EXHAUST PIPE IS PULLING ON MANIFOLD OFF ENGINE.*JB
2001-09-26

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • VIN: JN1HJ01F3RT
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
  • Summary: THE BOLTS ON EXHAUST MANIFOLD FROM ENGINE ARE BREAKING OFF, CONSUMER STATES IT IS DUE TO POOR DESIGN OF EXHAUST SYSTEM FROM ENGINE, THE EXHAUST PIPE IS PULLING ON MANIFOLD OFF ENGINE.*JB
2001-08-26

VISIBILITY PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1999-06-21
  • VIN: JN1HJ01FXRT
  • Components: VISIBILITY
  • Summary: POWER WINDOW REGULATOR FAILED. HAD TO REPLACE EVERY ONE OF THE 4 WINDOWS. *AK
2001-07-09

POWER TRAIN PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2001-07-06
  • VIN: JN1EJ01F3RT
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION HOLDING 1ST GEAR UNTIL 5000-6000 RPMS. RIDES FINE AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS. DEALER DIAGNOSED PROBLEM WITH TRANSMISSION REQUIRING REPLACEMENT, INCLUDING NEW RADIATOR & LABOR AT A COST OF $3,600. DEALER FAILED TO MENTION THE TSBS ASSOCIATED WITH TRANSMISSION PROBLEMS. PERHAPS, ADDRESSING THE ISSUES OUTLINED IN THE TSB WOULD MITIGATE THE PROBLEM I.E., A/T SOLENOID REPLACEMENT PROCEDURE. NISSAN POWERTRAIN WARRANTY IS 5 YEAR OR 60K. AUTO HAS 52K ORIGINAL HIGHWAY MILES. CONTACTED THE MANUFACTURE TO REQUEST LIBERAL INTERPRETATION OF WARRANTY POLICY IN LIGHT OF THE LOW MILEAGE. *AK
2001-05-17

VISIBILITY,EQUIPMENT PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2001-04-15
  • VIN: JN1HJ01F7RT
  • Components: VISIBILITY,EQUIPMENT
  • Summary: POWER WINDOW - REGULATOR ARM BROKE, HEATER & A/C - CABIN FAN ONLY RUNS ON HIGH SPEED
2001-03-17

SEATS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1994-10-01
  • Number Of Injuries: 1
  • Crash: 1
  • Components: SEATS
  • Summary: OFFSET FRONTAL COLLISION OCCURRED WITH MANUAL SEAT ADJUSTMENT THAT FAILED TO ENGAGE CAUSING SEAT AND DRIVER TOGO 6 TO 18" FORWARD IN CRASH THAT SHOULD HAVE RESULTED IN NO INJURY. INJURY TO RIGHT FOOT AND ANKLE. *AK
2001-03-13

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
  • Summary: CRANKSHAFT INTAKE MAKES A CLICKING NOISE WHEN DRIVING. FASTER VEHICLE GOES NOISE GETS LOUDER. *AK

1994 Nissan Maxima recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 5 recalls for different components of the 1994 Nissan Maxima.

2009-05-11
  • Manufacturer: DOPE, INC.
  • Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS
  • Summary: DOPE, INC. IS RECALLING 42,540 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.
  • Consequence: DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
  • Remedy: DOPE, INC. WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 28, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT DOPE, INC. AT 1-626-272-1798.
2009-04-07
  • Manufacturer: SABERSPORT
  • Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
  • Summary: SABERSPORT IS RECALLING 16,270 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.
  • Consequence: DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
  • Remedy: SABERSPORT WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 11, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SABERSPORT AT 1-909-598-7589.
2006-03-23
  • Manufacturer: PRO-A MOTORS, INC.
  • Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
  • Summary: CERTAIN PRO-A MOTORS CORNER LAMPS, TURN SIGNALS, AND HEADLIGHTS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS THAT ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.
  • Consequence: WITHOUT THE AMBER REFLECTORS, THE VEHICLE WILL BE POORLY ILLUMINATED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.
  • Remedy: PRO-A MOTORS WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER TO REPURCHASE THE LAMPS. THE RECALL BEGAN ON APRIL 3, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT PRO-A MOTORS AT 323-838-2988.
1995-12-15
  • Manufacturer: NISSAN NORTH AMERICA, INC.
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY:FILLER PIPE AND CAP
  • Summary: IT IS POSSIBLE FOR A MIXTURE OF MUD AND SALT TO GET TRAPPED BETWEEN THE FUEL FILLER TUBE AND WHEEL HOUSING. THE TRAPPED MUD AND SALT CAN RESULT IN CORROSION OF THE FUEL FILLER TUBE AND THE WHEEL HOUSING.
  • Consequence: SIGNIFICANT CORROSION OF THE FUEL FILLER TUBE MAY RESULT IN FUEL LEAKS WHICH IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE COULD RESULT IN A FIRE. IN ADDITION, THE LEFT REAR SEAT BELT RETRACTOR IS MOUNTED TO THE WHEEL HOUSING AND IN THE EVENT OF SIGNIFICANT CORROSION, AND THE MOUNTING COULD FAIL IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
  • Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT THESE VEHICLES AND CORRECTIVE ACTION WILL BE TAKEN DEPENDING UPON THE EXTENT OF THE CORROSION.
1994-10-05
  • Manufacturer: NISSAN NORTH AMERICA, INC.
  • Components: WHEELS
  • Summary: THE ALUMINUM WHEELS WERE CLEAR COATED SEVERAL TIMES TO PROTECT THE METAL FINISH. SOME EXCESSIVE COATING CAN LEAVE THE WHEEL NUTS AN EXCESSIVE DISTANCE FROM THE WHEEL HUB WHEN TIGHTENED, ALLOWING THEM TO LOOSEN OVER TIME.
  • Consequence: THIS CAN CAUSE THE HUB BOLTS TO BREAK AND RESULT IN THE WHEEL SEPARATING FROM THE VEHICLE AND A POSSIBLE ACCIDENT.
  • Remedy: DEALERS WILL REMOVE THE CLEAR PLASTIC COATING FROM THE BRAKE ROTOR MATING SURFACE ON THE BACK OF EACH WHEEL AND FROM THE WHEEL NUT MATING SURFACES. THE WHEELS WILL BE REINSTALLED AND THE WHEEL NUTS TIGHTENED. WHEELS, HUB BOLTS, AND NUTS WILL BE REPLACED IF NECESSARY.

Negative 1994 Nissan Maxima car reviews

  1. Rudy Welch 2024-08-25

    After test driving the Maxima two years ago, I realized it was the car for me. It has a beautiful dark green exterior with beige leather and every option imaginable. The Maxima has proven to be a reliable and high-quality car that I would recommend to anyone. It's also a lot of fun to drive, with great acceleration and handling. I have only had to make minor repairs, such as fixing the antenna and passenger-side power window.

Positive 1994 Nissan Maxima car reviews

  1. Devonte Greenholt 2024-11-21

    The car has been a reliable companion for the past 7 years. I only had to replace the exhaust system due to rust, which cost me $300. The paint still looks as good as new, the engine runs quietly and smoothly, and the mileage is great. I now drive about 500 miles a week on trips, and the car has never let me down. I am very pleased with it.

  2. Barry Cummings 2024-11-09

    After 8 years, I finally had to part with my car. Unfortunately, the engine had reached the end of its life. When I bought the car, it had only 35,000 miles on it. After driving it for nearly 200,000 miles myself, I can confidently say that this second-hand car was fantastic! With proper maintenance, everything still worked perfectly. Although I did have some minor problems, they were nothing that would make me second-guess buying another Maxima. And that's exactly what I did - I purchased a 2002 Max SE 6spd man. While the interior of my '94 Max was quieter with less road noise, I still highly recommend this car to anyone who can find one that was well taken care of. It would make a great second car for a high school or college student. Thanks for reading about my gold '94 Max!

  3. Constantin Lang 2024-10-16

    This is a great vehicle, especially for first-time drivers. I'm glad to hear that you've had no problems with it and that you plan on staying with Nissan for a long time.

  4. Dwight Stokes 2024-09-14

    The car was completely loaded. Even with its SOHC 160hp engine, this car still rocks, even with 150,000 miles on it. The trick is to maintain the vehicle properly. If you don't do anything else, make sure to change the oil every 3000 miles and get the engine flushed at least once a year to get rid of carbon deposits. Also, remember to get the timing belt changed between every 60 and 80,000 miles. While the dealer recommends using 87 octane, I've found that using SUNCO 93 OCTANE makes a big difference. Gas quality matters, even with 150,000 miles on the car. I've even been able to reach 130mph!

  5. Amir Upton 2024-08-08

    I'm so glad to hear that you had a great experience with your '94 Maxima! It sounds like it was a reliable and enjoyable car to drive. It's impressive that you were able to put 16,000 miles on it over four years with minimal maintenance costs. While it may not have been the most memorable car you've owned, it certainly sounds like it served you well.

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Additional sources

More sources of information about 1994 Nissan Maxima problems:

1994 Nissan Maxima Problems and Complaints - 7 Issues
1994 Nissan Maxima Problems and Complaints - 7 Issues
https://repairpal.com/1994-nissan-maxima/problems

Top 1994 Nissan Maxima Problems · Idle Speed Control Motor May Fail and Damage ECU · Engine performance problems due to crankshaft position sensor failure.

problems with just aquired 92 maxima - Maxima Forums
problems with just aquired 92 maxima - Maxima Forums
https://maxima.org/forums/3rd-generation-maxima-1989-1994/166915-problems-just-aquired-92-maxima.html

Jun 30, 2003 ... 3rd Generation Maxima (1989-1994) - problems with just aquired 92 maxima - Hello maxima gurus, Im new here so go easy.

Q&A: 1994 Nissan Maxima Engine - Check Engine Light On
Q&A: 1994 Nissan Maxima Engine - Check Engine Light On
https://www.justanswer.com/car/1jphb-1994-nissan-maxima-check-engine-light-on.html

Nov 6, 2008 ... Both are very common and can cause you vehicle to loose power along with many other drive ability issues. First look for cracks or rips or ...

94 Transmission Problem? - Maxima Forums
94 Transmission Problem? - Maxima Forums
https://maxima.org/forums/3rd-generation-maxima-1989-1994/679658-94-transmission-problem.html

Jul 19, 2014 ... ... Generation Maxima (1989-1994) - 94 Transmission Problem ... Is it common for transmission axle seals to leak? ... Nissan maxima SL questions. Does ...

3rd Generation (1989-1994) Maxima Problems
3rd Generation (1989-1994) Maxima Problems
http://www.nissanproblems.com/models/maxima/generations/3/

The 3rd generation Maxima (1989-1994) ranks 12th in reliability out of 54 generations. There are 48 complaints mostly about engine problems.

Other years of Nissan Maxima

nissan maxima 1995 photo
Maxima 1995
Nissan

169

5

29

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nissan maxima 1996 photo
Maxima 1996
Nissan

106

5

26

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nissan maxima 1997 photo
Maxima 1997
Nissan

112

6

22

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  • 1
nissan maxima 1998 photo
Maxima 1998
Nissan

118

6

27

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nissan maxima 1999 photo
Maxima 1999
Nissan

176

4

27

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  • 1
nissan maxima 2000 photo
Maxima 2000
Nissan

376

3

29

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  • 1

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