Is the Nissan Maxima Reliable?
2000–2023 defect & recall-risk analysis from citable NHTSA data.
The score ranks this model's recall intensity against other sedans — plus systemic-defect concentration and any open federal investigations. It measures defect and recall risk, not long-term mechanical durability, and is deliberately not skewed by how many were sold.
Reliability Score
Own a Nissan Maxima? Check your specific VIN for a full history report.
Nissan Maxima Reliability by Year
| Model Year | Recalls | Complaints | Injuries | Deaths | Reliability Score | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | — | — | — | — | Not enough data | |
| 2022 | 0 | 4 | 2 | — | 100 | Excellent |
| 2021 | 0 | 1 | — | — | 100 | Excellent |
| 2020 | 1 | 17 | 7 | — | 90 | Excellent |
| 2019 | 0 | 17 | 3 | — | 98 | Excellent |
| 2018 | 0 | 25 | 2 | — | 94 | Excellent |
| 2017 | 2 | 79 | 4 | — | 78 | Good |
| 2016 | 6 | 110 | 6 | — | 78 | Good |
| 2015 | 0 | 2 | 4 | — | 100 | Excellent |
| 2014 | 0 | 68 | 5 | — | 78 | Good |
Reliability scores are proprietary to VinCheckEngine and incorporate multiple weighted safety signals.
How the Maxima Compares to Similar Vehicles
The Maxima scores 21 points above the average sedan — a strong result.
Known Nissan Maxima Reliability Issues
The following components appear most frequently in owner complaints filed with NHTSA:
Based on 323 owner complaints across recent model years.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Nissan Maxima reliable?+
The Nissan Maxima scores 93/100 on our reliability index — rated "Excellent." Across 10 recently analyzed model years, it accumulated 9 recall campaigns and 323 owner complaints in the NHTSA database.
What year Maxima is most reliable?+
Among the years analyzed, the 2022 Maxima achieved the highest reliability score of 100/100 with 0 recalls and 4 complaints.
How many miles does a Maxima last?+
With consistent maintenance, most Nissan Maxima owners report 150,000 to 200,000+ miles of service life. Checking the VIN of any specific used Maxima will reveal its actual mileage history and any title events.
More Nissan Maxima Research
Check a Specific Nissan Maxima VIN
Model-level reliability scores show general trends. A VIN-specific report reveals the exact history of any individual vehicle — accidents, odometer records, auction events, and open recalls.
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