Nissan brand mark

Is the 2016–2023 Nissan Maxima reliable?

Scored from 8 documented faults · reviewed by the VehicleFaults Research Team

Quick answer

6.1/ 10
Mixed

On our documented-fault scoring the Nissan Maxima rates 6.1 out of 10 · mixed. We hold 8 known faults for it and 2 are rated high severity, so the risk is real but contained. The weak points cluster around transmission, body and brakes. A well-serviced example with evidence for the big-ticket items is usually a safe buy; the score describes the model, not the specific car in front of you.

Verdict · Negotiate · budget for the known faults

What the score is built from

Critical
0
High
2
Medium
1
Low
5

Weak points cluster around transmission, body, brakes, electrical.

Two faults free · full checklist for this exact Nissan Maxima for $9.

Check this car

The faults that decide it

TransmissionHigh

CVT judder and premature wear.

Typically appears
70,000+ miles
What to inspect
Feel for shudder on acceleration; check fluid service history.
Typical repair
Significant repair · £400–£1,400
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.
Typical repair
Cooling component replacement · £220–£750
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.
Typical repair
Suspension refresh (per axle) · £250–£1,100
BodyLow

Panoramic sunroof rattles / leaks.

Typically appears
Age-related
What to inspect
Test the roof and inspect for water stains.
Typical repair
Water-ingress trace & seal · £150–£800
BrakesLow

Brake wear and pulsation.

Typically appears
60,000+ miles
What to inspect
Feel for pulsation under braking.
Typical repair
Brakes (discs, pads, caliper) · £200–£800

Costs are indicative UK independent-garage bands for budgeting and negotiation · never a quote.

Inspecting a Nissan Maxima?

See two faults free, then get the full tickable checklist for this exact car · what to look at, what it costs and how serious it is. Full report $9.

Check this exact car