Last updated: 2026-07-25
Nissan Maxima Reliability by Year
The Nissan Maxima averages 76/100 across 6 model years, rated good.
Nissan Maxima Reliability Overview
The Nissan Maxima, covering model years 2018 to 2023, holds an average reliability score of 76 out of 100, indicating a generally good reliability standing. Common issues reported by owners include electrical system failures, forward collision avoidance problems, and structural concerns, particularly in the 2018 and 2020 models. With an estimated annual repair cost of $540, slightly below the full-size car average, the Maxima may appeal to those prioritizing moderate maintenance expenses, though potential buyers should be aware of the specific problem areas noted in earlier model years.
Current generation: 8th gen (2016–2023), facelifted 2020.
Best & Worst Nissan Maxima Years
Comprehensive reliability analysis based on NHTSA data, owner complaints, and historical performance.
Best Nissan Maxima Years to Buy
Based on reliability index scoreThe best Nissan Maxima year is 2023 with a reliability score of 77/100, rated good. Other strong picks include 2022 (77/100) and 2021 (77/100).
Nissan Maxima Years to Avoid
No Nissan Maxima years are statistical outliers in our data.
All model years score consistently well. The Nissan Maxima maintains one of the highest industry standards for long-term durability across its entire production span.
Nissan Maxima Reliability Score Trend
Nissan Maxima reliability has remained consistent across model years, averaging 76/100.
Scores 0–100. Higher is better.
| Year | Score | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| 2018 | 72/100 | Good |
| 2019 | 76/100 | Good |
| 2020 | 74/100 | Good |
| 2021 | 77/100 | Good |
| 2022 | 77/100 | Good |
| 2023 | 77/100 | Good |
Year-by-Year Reliability
2023 Nissan Maxima
0 recalls · 1 complaints
The 2023 Nissan Maxima has good reliability. There are 0 recalls and 1 owner complaint on file for the 2023 Nissan Maxima. The most commonly reported problem areas are: Electrical System (1).
2022 Nissan Maxima
0 recalls · 5 complaints
The 2022 Nissan Maxima has good reliability. There are 0 recalls and 5 owner complaints on file for the 2022 Nissan Maxima. Severity signals include 1 crash-related complaint and 1 fire-related complaint. The most commonly reported problem areas are: Service Brakes, Hydraulic (1), Structure (1), Unknown Or Other (1).
2021 Nissan Maxima
0 recalls · 3 complaints
The 2021 Nissan Maxima has good reliability. There are 0 recalls and 3 owner complaints on file for the 2021 Nissan Maxima. The most commonly reported problem areas are: Engine And Engine Cooling (1), Structure (1), Electrical System (1).
2020 Nissan Maxima
1 recalls · 21 complaints
The 2020 Nissan Maxima has good reliability. There are 1 recall and 21 owner complaints on file for the 2020 Nissan Maxima. Severity signals include 2 crash-related complaints. The most commonly reported problem areas are: Structure (4), Power Train (2), Forward Collision Avoidance (2).
2019 Nissan Maxima
1 recalls · 18 complaints
The 2019 Nissan Maxima has good reliability. There are 1 recall and 18 owner complaints on file for the 2019 Nissan Maxima. Severity signals include 2 crash-related complaints. The most commonly reported problem areas are: Unknown Or Other (5), Electrical System (2), Power Train (2).
2018 Nissan Maxima
2 recalls · 36 complaints
The 2018 Nissan Maxima has good reliability. There are 2 recalls and 36 owner complaints on file for the 2018 Nissan Maxima. Severity signals include 1 crash-related complaint and 1 fire-related complaint. The most commonly reported problem areas are: Unknown Or Other (7), Electrical System (5), Forward Collision Avoidance (5).
Found Your Nissan Maxima? Check Its History
Every Nissan Maxima has a different past. Before you buy, a VIN check reveals hidden accidents, title problems, and open recalls.
- Accidents
- Open Recalls
- Title History
- Odometer Rollback
Nissan Maxima Repair Costs
Reliability Rating
3.5/5
Annual Repair Cost
$540
Repair Frequency
0.3/yr
Major Repair Risk
15%
$50 below the fullsize cars average of $590/yr.
Ranked #9 of 12 among fullsize cars.
Nissan Maxima Years to Avoid
See which model years have the most problems
Most Reliable Nissan Models
Compare all Nissan models by reliability
Compare Nissan Maxima With Similar Sedans
The Nissan Maxima competes with other full-size sedans such as Buick Lacrosse, Chrysler 300, and Dodge Charger.
Buick Lacrosse reliability
2 years tracked · 18 complaints
Chrysler 300 reliability
6 years tracked · 248 complaints
Dodge Charger reliability
9 years tracked · 369 complaints
Subaru Legacy reliability
8 years tracked · 455 complaints
Hyundai Sonata reliability
9 years tracked · 1050 complaints
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is the Nissan Maxima reliable?
- The Nissan Maxima has good reliability with an average score of 76/100. Some model years are stronger than others — check individual years before buying.
- What is the best year for the Nissan Maxima?
- The best year for the Nissan Maxima is 2023 with a reliability score of 77/100, rated good. It has 0 recalls and 1 owner complaints on record. See full 2023 Nissan Maximaanalysis →
- What are the Nissan Maxima years to avoid?
- No Nissan Maxima years in our database are statistical outliers — all tracked model years score consistently within the model average. See full years-to-avoid analysis →
- How much does it cost to maintain a Nissan Maxima?
- The Nissan Maxima has an estimated annual repair cost of $540, which is $50 below the fullsize cars average of $590. This includes both scheduled maintenance and unscheduled repairs based on independent repair data.
How We Calculate Reliability Scores
Auto Reliability Index scores are calculated on a 0–100 scale using a weighted formula that combines multiple public data sources. Each factor is weighted based on its predictive value for real-world ownership experience.
Key Ranking Factors
Complaint Severity
NHTSA owner complaints weighted by component category (e.g., powertrain, safety systems, electronics, cosmetic) — safety-critical issues carry more weight than cosmetic ones. Adjusted for sales volume so high-volume models aren't unfairly penalized.
Repair Costs
Independent reliability ratings based on repair frequency, average repair costs, and severity of typical repairs for each model.
Recall Impact
Number of NHTSA recalls weighted by severity. “Stop driving” and fire-risk recalls are penalized more heavily than minor software or labeling recalls.
Issue Diversity
Measures how many major vehicle systems (engine, transmission, electrical, braking, etc.) have recorded complaints. A vehicle with issues spread across many systems may indicate systemic quality issues.
Scores are grouped into four tiers:
- 80–100: Excellent— Top-tier reliability, minimal issues
- 60–79: Good— Reliable with some minor concerns
- 40–59: Mixed— Notable issues, research before buying
- 0–39: Risky— Significant problems, proceed with caution
Data is sourced from NHTSA recall records, owner complaint filings, and independent repair databases. Scores are recalculated as new data becomes available. While the weighting model is proprietary, all underlying data sources are public and traceable.
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