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2016 Nissan Maxima problems

A 2016 Nissan Maxima is now 10 years old, so an average example has covered around 135,000 miles. This is the first model year of the generation · early-build cars carry the highest share of teething faults and the most recall activity, so check the service history for completed recall work. Check the state safety inspection and service history alongside the documented faults below, which are sorted by whether a 2016 car has usually reached the mileage where they appear.

Compiled & reviewed by the VehicleFaults Research Team

Quick answer

The 2016 Nissan Maxima is 10 years old, so an average example has covered roughly 135,000 miles. At that mileage 6 of the documented faults are already due, so check those first.

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Faults a 2016 example has usually reached

Documented onset mileage is at or below the ~135k miles an average 2016 car has covered.

TransmissionHigh

CVT judder and premature wear.

Typically appears
70,000+ miles
What to inspect
Feel for shudder on acceleration; check fluid service history.
BrakesLow

Brake wear and pulsation.

Typically appears
60,000+ miles
What to inspect
Feel for pulsation under braking.
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.

Faults that appear at any mileage

Age, electronics and build-related issues that are not mileage-driven.

BodyLow

Panoramic sunroof rattles / leaks.

Typically appears
Age-related
What to inspect
Test the roof and inspect for water stains.
ElectricalLow

Infotainment glitches.

Typically appears
Age-related
What to inspect
Test the touchscreen and Bluetooth.

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Nissan Maxima · frequently 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.

Other Maxima model years

202320212018

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