2003 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.

2003 Nissan Maxima

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Common 2003 Nissan Maxima problems

The 2003 Nissan Maxima has been reported to have various issues based on complaints from owners of the vehicle. The following are some of the most common problems with the 2003 Nissan Maxima, based on the search results:

  • Reverse Lights Don't Work When Backing Up
    Some owners of the 2003 Nissan Maxima have reported that the reverse lights don't work when backing up. This issue has been reported by the owner of the vehicle in the forum post.
  • Check Engine Light Comes On and Off
    Some owners of the 2003 Nissan Maxima have reported that the check engine light comes on and off. This issue has been reported by the owner of the vehicle in the forum post.
  • Engine Ping Noise and Rattle
    Some owners of the 2003 Nissan Maxima have reported that the engine has a ping noise and a rattle. This issue has been reported by the owner of the vehicle in the forum post.
  • Excessive Oil Consumption
    Some owners of the 2003 Nissan Maxima have reported that the vehicle consumes excessive oil. This issue has been reported by the owner of the vehicle in the forum post.
  • Ticking Noise Coming from Engine
    Some owners of the 2003 Nissan Maxima have reported that there is a ticking noise coming from the engine. This issue has been reported by the owner of the vehicle in the forum post.

These issues are based on complaints from owners of the 2003 Nissan Maxima and should be taken into consideration when purchasing or maintaining this vehicle. It is recommended to consult with a certified mechanic for further information and advice on these issues.

2003 Nissan Maxima engine

What is the main problem with Nissan Maxima?

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 there any recalls for a 2003 Nissan Maxima?

(Nissan) is recalling certain model year 2002-2003 Nissan Maxima, Pathfinder and Infiniti I35 and QX4, as well as 2002-2004 Nissan Sentra and 2003 Infiniti FX vehicles, to address a safety defect in the passenger side frontal air bag which may produce excessive internal pressure causing the inflator to rupture upon ...

Does a 2003 Maxima have a timing belt or chain?

Mike V. No,This car has a timing chain and not a belt.

Is Nissan Maxima a good used car?

For more than 40 years, the Maxima has served as Nissan's flagship sedan (including when it first came to the U.S. as the Datsun Maxima). Over the decades, the car has served as the perfect bridge between mainstream affordability and upscale characteristics. And for many, it makes the ideal used car.

2003 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:

  • Engine and engine cooling problems
  • Engine problems
  • Air bags problems
  • Exterior lighting problems
  • Electrical system problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 2003 Nissan Maxima vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

Latest 25 complaints 2003 Nissan Maxima

The NHTSA has received 206 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2003 Nissan Maxima. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2003 Nissan Maxima vehicles.

2024-03-18

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2023-09-24
  • VIN: JN1DA31A03T
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: See attached document for complaint
2024-03-12

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-01-08
  • VIN: JN1DA31A03T
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: See attached document for complaint
2023-08-29

ENGINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2023-08-01
  • VIN: JN1DA31A03T
  • Components: ENGINE
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2003 Nissan Maxima. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the check engine warning light remained illuminated. Additionally, while driving approximately 20 MPH, the vehicle stalled. The vehicle was later towed to the residence. The cause of the failure was not yet determined. The local dealer and manufacturer were not contacted regarding the failure. The failure mileage was 225,000.
2021-08-24

STEERING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2021-08-16
  • VIN: JN1DA31A33T
  • Components: STEERING
  • Summary: The steering shimmies and pulls to the right. Power steering fluids are within there limits.
2021-06-09

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2019-04-01
  • VIN: JN1DA31A83T
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
  • Summary: Please fix your auto fill --- it just erased everything! Anyway, the engine cuts out while driving in traffic. The engine cuts out while waiting at a red light. The engine cuts out while turning. It's ALL random! The engine code shows P0340, Bank 1 and Bank2, and sometimes P0345. I have replaced the camshaft position sensors FIVE times!!!!! I have tried both Auto Zone and Hitachi, and neither of them solves the problem. I also paid to have the crankshaft sensor below replaced, and that didn't help. I am told that this problem has been posted online and it was recommended to only use OEM parts. This is very dangerous to lose power while in traffic, and then having to wait until the engine will restart, which eventually it does. This is an ongoing problem. PLEASE help!!!
2021-02-23

ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2021-02-23
  • VIN: JN1DA31A43T
  • Components: ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
  • Summary: AS I WAS DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY THE CAR JERKED AND FELT LIKE IT WAS LOSING ACCELERATION. THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT, TCS AND SLID LIGHT TURNED ON. I BEGAN TO FEEL SCARED I HAD MY CHILD, SISTER AND BROTHER IN THE VEHICLE. I PROCEED TO DRIVE HOME WITH CAUTION. ONCE I ARRIVED HOME, I TURNED THE VEHICLE OFF AND TRIED TO RESTART IT. THE CAR WOULD NOT START.
2020-11-09

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2020-11-09
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: 2003 NISSAN MAXIMA. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO AIRBAG SAFETY RECALL. CONSUMER STATED THAT THEY NO LONGER OWN THE VEHICLE. *LD *JS
2020-10-06

ENGINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2019-10-01
  • VIN: JN1DA31A13T
  • Components: ENGINE
  • Summary: WHEN DRIVING DOWN THE STREET IT JUST TURNED OFF. SAID IT WAS CRANK/ CAM POSITION SENSORS WELL CHANGED THEM AND PUT NEW THROTTLE BODY. AND NOW TO FIND THERE IS A RECALL HOWEVER MY VIN IS NOT PART OF IT. WELL IT SHOULD BE. AND BE FIXED. I HAVE BEEN TRYING TO FIX FOR 9 MONTHS. BEEN SITTING LONGER. FIRST HAD TO FIGURE OUT WHERE TO START.
2020-06-30

ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC) PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2020-06-29
  • VIN: JN1DA31A93T
  • Components: ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
  • Summary: THE CAR HAS STALLED WHEN STOPPED AND WHILE DRIVING. SLIP LIGHT AND TSP WARNING LIGHTS GO ON ALONG WITH SERVICE ENGINE. I NOTICED THE RECALL FROM 2003 WAS FOR SIMILAR PROBLEMS. HOWEVER I PUT IN MY VIN # AND I'M ASSUMING MY CAR DOES NOT APPLY. VERY VERY DANGEROUS. MY YOUNG DAUGHTER WAS DRIVING WHEN IT DIED. WOULD LIKE TO KNOW IF REPAIRS WOULD BE COVERED UNDER PREVIOUS RECALL.
2020-06-24

EXTERIOR LIGHTING,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2020-06-15
  • VIN: JN1DA31D43T
  • Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
  • Summary: IT HAS THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT ON, IT TAKES TIME TO START AND WHEN IT IS DRIVING IT TURNS OFF (BUT IT TURNS ON).IT GOES OFF ON FLAT SURFACES, AND WHEN YOU ARE ON A RISE THAT'S WHERE IT TAKES TO CATCH ON. *TR
2020-06-24

EXTERIOR LIGHTING,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2020-06-15
  • VIN: JN1DA31D43T
  • Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
  • Summary: IT HAS THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT ON, WHEN THE CAR IS UP, IT TAKES TIME TO START AND WHEN IT IS DRIVING IT SOMETIMES TURNS OFF, BUT IF THEY TURN IT ON AGAIN IF IT STARTS. *TR
2020-03-20

ENGINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2020-03-01
  • VIN: JN1DA31A63T
  • Components: ENGINE
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 NISSAN MAXIMA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE STALLED WHILE ATTEMPTING TO EXCEED 3,000 RPM. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE IDLING, THE VEHICLE STALLED WHILE STOPPED AT A TRAFFIC LIGHT. THE CONTACT SHIFTED THE TRANSMISSION TO NEUTRAL AND THE VEHICLE REMAINED ON. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC AND THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE VIN WAS SUBJECTED TO NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 03V455000 (ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING). THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 143,000.
2020-01-26

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2020-01-17
  • Number Of Injuries: 1
  • Crash: 1
  • VIN: JN1DA31A83T
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: THE AIRBAGS DEPLOYED WITHOUT BEING IN AN ACCIDENT
2019-10-02

UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2019-10-01
  • VIN: JN1DA31A23T
  • Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: CAR STALLS AT LIGHTS AND JUST STOPS RUNNING WHILE DRIVING DOWN THE STREET. THE STALLING PROBLEM HAS BEEN GOING ON FOR YEARS BUT THE CAR STALLING WHILE DRIVING DOWN THE ROAD IS FAIRLY NEW. STALLS AT LIGFHTS, STALLS WHILE IN MOTION
2019-07-31

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2014-09-26
  • VIN: JN1DA31A43T
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: TAKATA RECALL-RECEIVED A RECALL NOTICE IN THE MAIL FROM NISSAN ABOUT A RECALL ON MY 2003 MAXIMA PASSENGER SIDE AIR BAGS (NHTSA RECALL 14V-361). SCHEDULED AN APPOINTMENT FOR SEPT.26, 2014 @ 3PM TO HAVE WORK DONE. DROPPED VEHICLE OFF ON THE MORNING OF SEPT 26, 2014 BECAUSE I HAD TO LEAVE TOWN BEFORE THE TIME OF APPT. I PICKED MY VEHICLE UP LATER THAT DAY FROM THE DEALER. ON APRIL 15, 2016, I WAS AT WORK ON LUNCH BREAK IN OUR PARKING LOT AND I NOTICED A LIGHT ON MY DASHBOARD ON. I TOOK MY MAXIMA TO THE DEALER TO HAVE LIGHT CHECKED TO FIND OUT IT WAS ABOUT MY AIRBAG. RECEIVED AN ESTIMATE OF WHAT NEEDED TO BE DONE, TOTAL OF WORK NEEDED $1385 PLUS $90 I HAD TO PAY FOR THE DIAGNOSTICS DONE. THE ESTIMATE WAS FOR THE EXACT SAME WORK THAT WAS SUPPOSE TO HAVE BEEN COMPLETED IN SEPT. 2014. I FINALLY HAD MY MECHANIC FIX THE EXACT SAME PROBLEM THAT THE DEALERSHIP WAS SUPPOSE HAD FIXED AND I HAVE NOT HAD AN ISSUE SINCE.
2019-07-09

ENGINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2019-07-08
  • VIN: JN1DA31A43T
  • Components: ENGINE
  • Summary: THE VEHICLE HAS TWICE LOST POWER AND ENGINE DIED WHILE MOVING DOWN THE STREET. THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT WAS ON AFTER THIS INCIDENT AND SHOWED CODE P0345: CAMSHAFT POSITION SENSOR A (BANK 2). THIS VEHICLE DOES NOT SHOW UP ON THE R3022 CRANKSHAFT/CAMSHAFT SENSOR RECALL. HOWEVER, THE VEHICLE WAS MANUFACTURED 06/2002 AND THE RECALL DATES INCLUDE FROM 02/2001 TO 07/2002. THIS VEHICLE HAS 91,694 MILES ON IT AND THUS SHOULD NOT BE EXHIBITING THIS PROBLEM FROM NORMAL WEAR AND TEAR. THIS IS A VERY SERIOUS PROBLEM AND COULD CAUSE A CRASH IN THE FUTURE.
2019-04-14

ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC),ENGINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2019-04-14
  • VIN: JN1DA31A13T
  • Components: ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC),ENGINE
  • Summary: CAMSHAFT POSITION SENSOR FAILED
2019-02-21

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2018-02-14
  • Number Of Injuries: 2
  • Number Of Deaths: 1
  • Crash: 1
  • VIN: JN1DA31A43T
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: TL* TAKATA RECALL. THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 NISSAN MAXIMA. THE CONTACT EXITED A PARKING AREA TO ENTER A HIGH TRAFFIC LOCATION. WHILE THE CONTACT WAS TRAVELING STRAIGHT AT 45 MPH, ANOTHER VEHICLE DRIVING AT A HIGH RATE OF SPEED CRASHED INTO THE FRONT PASSENGER SIDE OF THE CONTACT'S VEHICLE. NONE OF THE AIR BAGS DEPLOYED. A GRAY SUBSTANCE EMITTED INSIDE THE VEHICLE. THE DRIVER SUSTAINED MINOR WHIPLASH. THE FRONT PASSENGER EXPERIENCED HEAD TRAUMA AND INTERNAL INJURIES, WHICH RESULTED IN THE FATALITY OF HER UNBORN CHILD. A POLICE REPORT WAS NOT FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS SOLD TO A SALVAGE YARD. MELLOY NISSAN (7707 LOMAS BLVD NE, ALBUQUERQUE, NM 87110, (505) 545-6420) WAS NOTIFIED OF THE CRASH. THE VEHICLE WAS EXTENSIVELY DAMAGED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE AND INVESTIGATED THE NON-DEPLOYMENT, BUT INDICATED THAT THERE WAS NO AIR BAG FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS NOT AVAILABLE. *DT *DT*JB *BF CONSUMER STATED DUE TO THE DEFECTIVE AIRBAG CONSUMER GOT INTO A CAR ACCIDENT THAT LED TO THE DEATH OF THE CONSUMER'S UNBORN BABY.*JB
2018-11-26

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2018-11-01
  • VIN: JN1DA31A33T
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 NISSAN MAXIMA. WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS STATIONARY, ALL OF THE DOORS IMMEDIATELY LOCKED WITHOUT BEING PROMPTED BY THE KEY FOBIK. THE CONTACT HAD TO GET THE POLICE TO UNLOCK THE DOORS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE KEY FOBIK BECAME INOPERATIVE ON SEVERAL OCCASIONS AFTER EXITING THE VEHICLE. AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND STATED THAT THE BODY CONTROL MODULE WAS FAULTY AND NEEDED TO BE REPROGRAMMED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. A DEALER AND THE MANUFACTURER WERE NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 168,000.
2018-11-08

ENGINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2018-11-08
  • VIN: JN1DA31AX3T
  • Components: ENGINE
  • Summary: CAR WON'T START. IT TURNS ON AND IT CRANKS BUT IT DOESN'T START
2018-10-31

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2018-10-24
  • VIN: JN1DA31A43T
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: TAKATA RECALL. ON 10/24/18 I HAD THE PASSENGER SIDE AIRBAG FIXED AT THE OXNARD TEAM NISSAN SHOP. I ASKED ABOUT THE DRIVER SIDE AIRBAG, AND THEY SAID THE ONLY ONE TO BE TAKEN CARE OF WAS THE PASSENGER SIDE FOR MY CAR MODEL, IS THIS TRUE? MY CONCERN IS, AS FAR AS I KNOW, THE INJURIES AND DEATHS HAVE BEEN CAUSED BY THE DRIVER SIDE AIRBAG. CAN YOU CLARIFY THIS FOR MY PEACE OF MIND. THANKS A LOT!
2018-09-21

UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2018-09-21
  • VIN: JN1DA31A63T
  • Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: THE SUBFRAME AND THE RADIATOR SUPPORT BRACKET ARE RUSTED OUT. ENGINE AND RADIATOR READY TO COME DOWN.
2018-08-29

ENGINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2018-08-28
  • VIN: JN1DA31A93T
  • Components: ENGINE
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 NISSAN MAXIMA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WOULD NOT START AND ALL THE WARNING INDICATORS ILLUMINATED ON THE INSTRUMENT PANEL. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE FAILURE OCCURRED EVERY DAY FOR THE PAST SIX MONTHS. THE DEALER (INGRAM PARK NISSAN, 6990 NORTHWEST LOOP 410, SAN ANTONIO, TX 78238) WAS CONTACTED BY PHONE, BUT THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN IN FOR DIAGNOSTIC TESTING. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 124,432.
2018-08-21

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2018-08-01
  • VIN: JN1DA31A93T
  • Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE
  • Summary: I HAVE EXPERIENCED PROBLEMS CRANKING THE CAR, I PURCHASED A NEW BATTERY AND BATTERY TERMINALS. THIS APPEARED TO QUICK FIX IT BUT SOON AFTER THE SPEEDOMETER STOPPED WORKING AND THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON. SOON AFTER FOLLOWED TCS CONTROL AND ABS LIGHT CAME ON. I TOOK IT TO A MECHANIC AND THE DIAGNOSIS INVOLVED A PROBLEM WITH THE CAMSHAFT POSITION SENSORS AND CRANKSHAFT POSITION SENSORS. I PURCHASED A BOOK ABOUT THE CAR AND READ THAT MY MAKE AND MODEL HAD A RECALL. AFTER DOUBLE CHECKING ONLINE ABOUT THE RECALL I NOTICED IT APPEARED TO BE THE EXACT SAME PROBLEM. CONVINCED, I WENT TO MY LOCAL NISSAN DEALERSHIP TO HAVE THEM CHECK HOWEVER IT WAS EXPLAINED TO ME THAT MY VIN NUMBER WAS NOT RECALLED. I WANT TO HAVE MY VIN NUMBER PLACED ON THE NHTSA RECALL LIST SO THAT I MAY HAVE MY VEHICLE REPAIRED. IF THIS IS NOT POSSIBLE PLEASE ADVISE FURTHER. THANK YOU.
2018-08-11

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2018-07-31
  • VIN: JN1DA31A03T
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: I NO THERE WAS A VOLUNTEER RECALL ON A COUPLE DIFFERENT PARTS OF THIS CAR , YET LOOKING AT THE VIN NUMBER DOESNT SHOW A RECALL NOW. I BOUGHT MY 5TH GEN MAXIMA AND SINCE THEN IVE HAD TO REPLACE THE CAMSHAFT SENSORS IN IT NOW 3 TIMES AN EVEN GOTTEN NEW CONNECTORS INSTALLED TO FIX THE PROBLEM. IVE HAD MY CAR JUST SUDDENLY DIE IN TRAFFIC AS IM DRIVING OR SOON AS YOU TRY TO ACCELORATE IT DIES AND IS HARD TO RESTART.. ITS FRUSTRATING TO LOVE THE CAR AND CANT EVER SEEM TO GET IT RIGHT., IT ALWAYS SEEMS TO HAVE A PROBLEM. I MONITOR NISSAN'S WEBSITE TO SEE IF THEY HAVE ANY TSB'S WHEN I HAVE AN ISSUSE AN NORMALLY I FIND THERES SOMETHING FROM FEW YEARS BACK THAT HAD A RECALL FOR IT.

2003 Nissan Maxima recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 4 recalls for different components of the 2003 Nissan Maxima.

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.
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.
2015-05-15
  • Manufacturer: Nissan North America, Inc.
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain model year 2001-2003 Nissan Maxima, 2002-2004 Pathfinder, 2002-2006 Sentra, 2002-2003 Infiniti QX4 and I35, 2003 FX35 and FX45, and 2001 I30 vehicles. Upon deployment of the passenger side frontal air bag, excessive internal pressure may cause the inflator to rupture.
  • Consequence: In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passenger's frontal air bag, the inflator could rupture with metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants potentially resulting in serious injury or death.
  • Remedy: Nissan will notify owners, and dealers will replace the passenger air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began on June 15, 2015. Owners may contact Nissan customer service at 1-800-647-7261. Note: On December 18, 2015 Nissan informed NHTSA of an amendment of this recall to remove 2004-2005 Infiniti FX35 and FX45 vehicles.
2003-11-17
  • Manufacturer: NISSAN NORTH AMERICA, INC.
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
  • Summary: ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES, THE CIRCUIT BOARD FOR THE CRANK POSITION SENSOR OR CAM POSITION SENSOR MAY HAVE AN IMPROPER SOLDER JOINT DUE TO SOLDER DEFORMATION CAUSED BY HEAT STRESS ACCELERATED BY THE EXISTENCE OF FLUX RESIDUE DURING THE SOLDERING PROCESS.
  • Consequence: THIS COULD CAUSE THE "SERVICE ENGINE SOON" WARNING LIGHT TO COME ON, CREATE A NO START CONDITION, CAUSE REDUCED ENGINE POWER, OR CAUSE THE ENGINE TO STOP RUNNING WITHOUT WARNING DURING VEHICLE OPERATION, WHICH COULD RESULT IN A CRASH.
  • Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE CRANK POSITION SENSORS. CAMSHAFT POSITION SENSOR(S), AND IN SOME CASES, THE VARIABLE TIMING CONTROL SENSOR(S). VEHICLES INVOLVED IN A PREVIOUS RECALL CAMPAIGN, 01V357, ARE ALSO INCLUDED IN THIS NEW CAMPAIGN. THE REPLACEMENT SENSORS USED IN THAT CAMPAIGN ARE ALSO AFFECTED. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN ON DECEMBER 22, 2003. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT NISSAN AT 1-800-647-7261 OR INFINITI AT 1-800-662-6200.

Negative 2003 Nissan Maxima car reviews

  1. Leopold Botsford 2024-11-23

    Although my experience with this car was disappointing, I learned a lot from it. During its early months, I encountered some issues with the brake, electrical system, and ignition. While some of the repairs were not covered under warranty, the car spent some time in the shop. When I took the car in at 4000 miles to complain about the power windows making noise, I was told that all cars are unique. Despite these challenges, I recently sold the car and purchased an Acura TL, which I am very happy with. If you are looking for a car with both power and quality, I highly recommend Acura.

  2. Santino Romaguera 2024-09-16

    If you're considering buying the Maxima, I wanted to give you a heads up about the Zenon headlights. Unfortunately, they've become a popular target for thieves. I've had my car for six months and my headlights have been stolen six times. It's a costly repair, with each headlight costing $750.00 and $350.00 for labor. Just something to keep in mind as you make your decision. Despite this issue, the Maxima is a great car and you'll definitely enjoy driving it!

  3. Emery Auer 2024-09-11

    I recently purchased a Nissan vehicle and enjoyed driving it for the first three days. However, on the fourth day, I was disappointed to find that my HID headlights were missing. After reporting the incident to the police, I discovered that this is a recurring issue with Nissan's design. Unfortunately, the lights are easy to remove and the car horn can be disconnected by pulling a wire from the front grill. It's frustrating to encounter these problems, and I hope Nissan can address them soon. Additionally, I was surprised to learn that the cost of replacing the bulbs at the Nissan Parts and Service station is over $4,000, with each bulb costing $750.

  4. Jerald Ebert 2024-07-17

    If you're considering a performance sedan, this might not be the best option for you. Although it's not terrible, the interior build quality didn't meet my expectations after owning it for 2.5 years. Additionally, the car's power is not very useful if it can't get to the road. Despite my tire choices, I experienced traction loss not only in the winter but also during the summer on wet roads. Even a slightly wet road can cause traction loss, especially during take-off. Furthermore, the car developed a harsh ride despite not handling all that well.

  5. Myles Gottlieb 2024-06-28

    Hey there! I hope you're doing well. I just wanted to let you know that I've noticed a few issues with the car since May 2019. There seems to be some problems with the transmission and the engine is making quite a bit of noise. I found out that there's an oil leak and the transmission is slipping. Unfortunately, it doesn't seem like the previous owner maintained it very well. I don't think I'll be keeping it for much longer.

Positive 2003 Nissan Maxima car reviews

  1. Trey Feest 2025-01-03

    I sold Nissans for a few years and, based on my cumulative knowledge and personal interest, I found that this car perfectly fit my needs. It's definitely a 'driver's car' - you can turn corners pretty fast, only realizing it after you see your passengers grabbing for stationary objects in your car. I have the SE (sports edition) and the tires are a little wide (sporty), which could make driving in the snow and around corners a bit challenging. However, the gas mileage on the original paperwork says 20/26, but I have been as high as 32 mpg on highways during mountain driving, which speaks to the car's power and refinement. Every fault that I can possibly muster has a reason that the car was made the way it is - a sport-sedan.

  2. Otis Hodkiewicz 2024-11-13

    I've been wanting to get a Maxima ever since I read a review about the fantastic engine it has several years ago. I have not been disappointed. The powerplant in this car seems to be frustrated at my holding it back while it wants to burn rubber like a maniac. I bought practically the base model, but it has great standard features.

  3. Celestino Conn 2024-09-25

    I bought my 2003 SE a week ago and I absolutely love it so far! I got the base SE with a sunroof, floor mats, cargo mat, and splash guards. It had everything else that I wanted standard. In my opinion, this car is the best in its class for power and options. I considered the 2003 Accord, but then the pictures came out and I was left wondering what Honda was thinking. I know I made a good choice. I preferred the Maxima over the Accord, Camry, and Passat.

  4. Boyd Romaguera 2024-09-25

    Super car. I'm glad to hear that you're enjoying it! I owned a Pontiac Grand Am prior to this vehicle. Nissan may have earned my business for every car I buy from here on.

  5. Buford Jast 2024-09-22

    I wasn't sure whether to wait for the new Honda Accord or get the Maxima, but after the test drive, the choice was clear. Additionally, the exterior of the Maxima was much more appealing than the Honda, and it was also more spacious. Although the ride can get rough sometimes in the SE, overall, I am very happy with my decision.

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Additional sources

More sources of information about 2003 Nissan Maxima problems:

2003 nissan maxima issues - Maxima Forums
2003 nissan maxima issues - Maxima Forums
https://maxima.org/forums/5th-generation-maxima-2000-2003/699512-2003-nissan-maxima-issues.html

Oct 9, 2017 ... 2003 nissan maxima issues ... ISSUES: moonroof opens by itself at times. reverse lights don't work when backing up. check engine light came on and ...

2003 Nissan Maxima Problems and Complaints - 12 Issues
2003 Nissan Maxima Problems and Complaints - 12 Issues
https://repairpal.com/2003-nissan-maxima/problems

Top 2003 Nissan Maxima Problems · Camshaft Sensors Leaking Oil Into Connector · Leaking power steering pump can cause noise/steering problems · Timing Chain ...

How are Nissan maximas? I found a deal for an 03 Nissan maxima ...
How are Nissan maximas? I found a deal for an 03 Nissan maxima ...
https://www.reddit.com/r/mechanic/comments/ikx2aq/how_are_nissan_maximas_i_found_a_deal_for_an_03/

Sep 2, 2020 ... Some nissan engines have issues with burning oil. I've seen a lot of them roll into the shop with no oil on the dipstick even when they are ...

5th Generation (2000-2003) Maxima Problems
5th Generation (2000-2003) Maxima Problems
http://www.nissanproblems.com/models/maxima/generations/5/

Common 2000-2003 Nissan Maxima Problems · Nissan Vehicles with Recalled Takata Airbags. Parts supplier, Takata, manufactured defective, shrapnel-hurling airbag ...

common maxima problems | Nissan Forum
common maxima problems | Nissan Forum
https://www.nissanforums.com/threads/common-maxima-problems.28223/

Jul 9, 2003 ... i am in the market for a 1995-1999 maxima. i was wondering what kind of problems should i be lookin for in these cars?

Other years of Nissan Maxima

nissan maxima 2004 photo
Maxima 2004
Nissan

1424

2

23

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

947

2

26

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

576

2

26

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

129

1

25

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

78

0

24

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

336

1

25

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1

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