TransmissionHigh
CVT judder and premature wear.
- Typically appears
- 70,000+ miles
- What to inspect
- Feel for shudder on acceleration; check fluid service history.
2016–2023 Nissan Maxima · common problems & known faults
The A36 Maxima is a sporty large sedan; the CVT and panoramic roof are the main checks.
Compiled & reviewed by the VehicleFaults Research Team · last reviewed July 2026
Quick answer
The most commonly reported faults on the 2016–2023 Nissan Maxima are CVT judder and premature wear, Engine temperature gauge creeping up whilst idling, or the air conditioning blowing warm air when stationary due to cooling fan motor failure and Clunking or popping noise from the front end when turning the steering wheel at low speeds due to worn strut bearings. 2 of the documented issues are rated high severity · inspect these first. Full inspection points, onset mileage and what to check are listed below.
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Build the inspection planReliability snapshot
Based on the documented faults on this page for the Nissan Maxima.
6.1/ 10
- Critical
- 0
- High
- 2
- Medium
- 1
- Low
- 5
Guidance only · reflects reported patterns, not a specific car's condition.
Nissan Maxima problems by year
Which faults an average example has usually reached depends on its age. Pick a model year for the faults that matter on that build.
Known faults to check
BodyLow
Panoramic sunroof rattles / leaks.
- Typically appears
- Age-related
- What to inspect
- Test the roof and inspect for water stains.
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Build the inspection planBrakesLow
Brake wear and pulsation.
- Typically appears
- 60,000+ miles
- What to inspect
- Feel for pulsation under braking.
ElectricalLow
Infotainment glitches.
- Typically appears
- Age-related
- What to inspect
- Test the touchscreen and Bluetooth.
SuspensionMedium
Clunking or popping noise from the front end when turning the steering wheel at low speeds due to worn strut bearings.
- Typically appears
- 40,000-70,000 miles
- What to inspect
- Turn the steering wheel lock-to-lock whilst stationary or rolling at a crawl. Listen for binding, popping, or clunking from the front strut towers.
Cooling SystemHigh
Engine temperature gauge creeping up whilst idling, or the air conditioning blowing warm air when stationary due to cooling fan motor failure.
- Typically appears
- 70,000-100,000 miles
- What to inspect
- Switch the air conditioning to maximum cold whilst the engine is idling. Open the bonnet and verify both radiator cooling fans are spinning vigorously.
Engine / EmissionsLow
Rough idle, extended cranking after filling the petrol tank, or illuminated engine management light caused by a faulty EVAP purge valve.
- Typically appears
- 50,000-80,000 miles
- What to inspect
- Start the engine from cold and observe the idle for hunting or stalling. Check the instrument cluster for an active engine management light.
Climate ControlLow
Rhythmic clicking noise from behind the fascia or unequal temperature distribution between driver and passenger vents due to blend door actuator failure.
- Typically appears
- 60,000-90,000 miles
- What to inspect
- Toggle the climate control from maximum heat to maximum cold on both zones. Listen for clicking and feel the vents to ensure the temperature changes accordingly.
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Build my inspection planFrequently asked questions
Is the Maxima reliable?
Comfortable and quick, but the CVT is the key long-term concern.
Does the Maxima have transmission issues?
CVT judder is possible; confirm fluid service and test thoroughly.
Is the VQ35 engine strong?
Yes — the 3.5L V6 is robust; the CVT is the weaker link.
Does the A36 Maxima require premium unleaded petrol?
Yes, Nissan strongly recommends using premium unleaded petrol for the 3.5-litre V6 engine. Running the vehicle on standard lower-octane fuel can lead to a noticeable reduction in performance, decreased fuel economy, and potential knocking under heavy load, as the engine management system retards the ignition timing to compensate.
Does the 3.5-litre V6 engine use a timing belt or a timing chain?
The VQ35DE engine fitted to this generation of Maxima utilises a heavy-duty steel timing chain rather than a rubber timing belt. This chain is designed to last the lifetime of the vehicle and does not require routine replacement, provided the engine receives regular oil and filter changes at the specified intervals.
Are there differences in suspension components across the trim levels?
Yes, the SR trim level features a bespoke, sport-tuned suspension setup with stiffer dampers, thicker anti-roll bars, and a chassis damper not found on other variants. Whilst this improves cornering stability, dealers should note that it results in a significantly firmer ride over rough road surfaces compared to softer trims.
Sources & further reading
Faults are compiled from documented recalls, technical bulletins, owner reports and mechanic sources, then reviewed for accuracy. This is guidance only · not a substitute for a professional inspection.
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