GradeNissan Maxima Reliability Grade
Excellent reliability
Grade a specific Nissan Maxima
Reliability changes from year to year. Pick a model year to see its grade, then add mileage and price to get a deal score and estimated miles remaining.
The Nissan Maxima earns an A- overall reliability grade from GradeMyCar, with an A for its engine and a B for its transmission. It ranks 2nd of 11 midsize cars we grade. The transmission (B) is the weaker of its two major components, so ask for transmission service records and pay close attention to shifting on a test drive. Grades are based on 479 owner complaints filed with NHTSA for the 2013-2020 model years, adjusted for how many were sold.
Nissan Maxima reliability by year
Overall grade for each model year, from owner complaints filed with NHTSA. Tap a year to see its full grade.
Best years: 2008, 2018, 2019 and 2020
Years to avoid: 2000 (stalling / loss of power) and 2004–2006 (transmission slipping / rough shifting)
How long does the Nissan Maxima last?
A rough estimate for the model across all years, not measured for each model year.
Nissan Maxima vs. other midsize cars
| Model | Engine | Trans. | Overall |
|---|---|---|---|
| Toyota Camry | A | A- | A |
| Mazda Mazda6 | A- | A- | A- |
| Volkswagen Passat | B | A | A- |
| Nissan Maxima | A | B | A- |
| Nissan Altima | A | B | B+ |
| Honda Accord | B- | B+ | B- |
| Chrysler 200 | C+ | C+ | B- |
| Chevrolet Malibu | C+ | C | C+ |
| Kia Optima | F | C+ | C- |
| Hyundai Sonata | F | C | D |
| Ford Fusion | D | F | D |
Own a Nissan Maxima?
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Rate your MaximaNissan Maxima reliability FAQ
Is the Nissan Maxima reliable?
Excellent reliability. The Nissan Maxima earns an A- overall reliability grade from GradeMyCar, with an A for its engine and a B for its transmission. It ranks 2nd of 11 midsize cars we grade. The transmission (B) is the weaker of its two major components, so ask for transmission service records and pay close attention to shifting on a test drive. Grades are based on 479 owner complaints filed with NHTSA for the 2013-2020 model years, adjusted for how many were sold.
How many miles will a Nissan Maxima last?
We estimate a well-maintained Nissan Maxima lasts around 190,000 miles. That's a rough figure for the model across all years, not measured for each model year, so check the grade for the year you're looking at.
What are the best years for the Nissan Maxima?
Based on NHTSA owner complaints, the most reliable Nissan Maxima model years are 2008, 2018, 2019 and 2020.
What Nissan Maxima years should I avoid?
Based on NHTSA owner complaints, the Nissan Maxima years to be most careful with are 2000, 2004, 2005 and 2006. The 2004 grades an F overall (engine D, transmission F), and its top engine/transmission problem is transmission slipping / rough shifting. The 2000 grades a D overall (engine D, transmission C+), and its top engine/transmission problem is stalling / loss of power.
Is the Nissan Maxima transmission reliable?
GradeMyCar grades the Nissan Maxima transmission a B (above-average reliability). Reliability varies by model year, so grade the specific year you're looking at.
Is the Nissan Maxima engine reliable?
GradeMyCar grades the Nissan Maxima engine an A (excellent reliability).