Last updated: 2026-07-25

RELIABILITY SCORE: 74/100 (GOOD)

2020 Nissan Maxima Reliability Report

Name: 2020 Nissan Maxima
Brand: Nissan

The 2020 Nissan Maxima scores 74/100 ("Good"). With 1 recall and 21 owner complaints, reliability is acceptable but not class-leading.

Full Breakdown Compare Models

Recalls

Complaints

Complaint Rate

11.6per 10,000 sold

Est. Repair Cost

$540

Annual Fuel Cost

$3,100

Detailed Score Breakdown

Complaint Severity67/100

Component-weighted complaints normalized by sales volume

Repair Costs70/100

Independent repair cost ratings

Recall Impact88/100

Recall count weighted by severity

Issue Diversity80/100

Breadth of reported problem categories

The Verdict

Consider

Acceptable reliability — worth considering with a pre-purchase inspection.

Top Issues to Watch

STRUCTURE (4)
POWER TRAIN (2)
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE (2)

Generation & Refresh (US)

Refresh Year

2020 received a facelift for eighth generation update for the Eighth generation (A36).

Changes: Updated exterior styling, engine revisions..
Year 5 in this generation (2016–2023).
8th generation Maxima (US).

What this means for buyers

Refresh years bring updates but can also introduce new issues. Check early recall data before buying.

2016: Eighth generation (A36) Launch

Generation start — new platform.

2020: This Model Year (Refresh)

2020 received a facelift for eighth generation update for the Eighth generation (A36).

Should You Buy the 2020 Nissan Maxima?

At 74/100, the 2020 Nissan Maxima lands in "Good" territory — acceptable, but not class-leading. 2020 received a facelift for eighth generation update for the Eighth generation (A36).

Owners log 21 complaints on this model year — enough to suggest attention is needed, but no single failure mode dominates yet.

Get a pre-purchase inspection on any used example, with extra attention to structure (4). An extended warranty is worth pricing out.

Compared to the 2021 Nissan Maxima, which scored 3 points higher. See also the 2019 Nissan Maxima for an earlier comparison.

Pros

+Acceptable reliability score
+$50 cheaper to maintain than avg fullsize cars
+Infrequent unscheduled repairs
+Low major repair risk (15%)

Cons

−STRUCTURE: Windshield, A-pillar molding, and grill clips (4 complaints)
−LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES issues reported (2 complaints)

Compare 2020 Nissan Maxima With

2020 Chrysler 300

Reliability: 74/100

Good

2020 Dodge Charger

Reliability: 75/100

Good

2020 Subaru Legacy

Reliability: 67/100

Good

2020 Hyundai Sonata

Reliability: 62/100

Good

Common Problem Categories

Safety

LOW RISK

1 manufacturer recall issued

Other

HIGH RISK

STRUCTURE (4)
POWER TRAIN (2)

See detailed breakdown by component ↓

Recall Overview

recall on record

The 2020 Nissan Maxima carries 1 recall — a low count. Authorized dealers repair any open recall free of charge, regardless of warranty status.

NHTSA.gov →

Complaint Breakdown

11.6

per 10,000 sold

Segment avg: 17.8

LowAvgHigh

Moderate

Safety Incidents

Crashes

Fires

Injuries

Deaths

★★★★★

NHTSA 5/5 Stars

Data sourced from NHTSA complaint filings and manufacturer recall notices. Complaint narratives are owner-reported.

2020 Nissan Maxima Recall Details

1 recall has been issued for the 2020 Nissan Maxima. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.

20V5700002020-09-22

VISIBILITY

Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2020 Altima, Maxima and Leaf vehicles. The rear window glass may not remain properly secured to the vehicle.

Consequence

Rear window glass that separates from the vehicle can increase the risk of a crash.

Remedy

Nissan will notify owners, and dealers will replace the back window glass, free of charge. The recall began November 4, 2020. Owners may contact Nissan customer service at 1-800-867-7669. Nissan's number for this recall is PC752.

VIN History Report

Buying a used 2020 Nissan Maxima? Check its history first

Every 2020 Nissan Maxima has a different past. A VIN check reveals hidden accidents, title problems, odometer rollbacks, and open recalls that reliability scores can't show you.

Accidents
Open Recalls
Title History
Odometer Rollback

2020 Nissan Maxima NHTSA Safety Ratings

Overall Safety Rating

Crash Test Results by Configuration (expand)

Gas Powertrain

Driver: 5/5Passenger: 5/5

Rollover risk: 9.5%

Safety Technologies

Dynamic Head Restraints (Not Available)Head Restraint (Driver, Front Passenger, Rear Seat)Advanced Belt Feature (Standard)Adjustable Upper Belt Anchorage (Driver, Front Passenger)Seat Belt Reminder System (Driver, Front Passenger)Frontal Air Bag (Driver, Front Passenger)Curtain (Driver, Front Passenger, Rear Seat)Torso/Pelvis (Driver, Front Passenger, Rear Seat)Knee (Driver, Front Passenger)Additional Air Bags (None)Meets Side Air Bag Out-of-Position Requirements (Yes)LATCH Locations (Rear Seat)Safety Power Windows (Anti-Pinch) (Standard)Safety Power Windows (Anti-Pinch) locations (Driver, Front Passenger)

View full safety data on NHTSA.gov →

Nissan MaximaRepair Costs & Maintenance

Maintenance Rating

3.5

Based on NHTSA complaint patterns, recall severity, and publicly available cost benchmarks.

Est. Annual Maintenance

$540

vs $590 avg for fullsize cars

vs $652 avg for all vehicles

Repair Frequency

0.3

unscheduled repair visits per year

Severe Repair Probability

15%

chance of a major repair

Annual Cost Comparison

Maxima

$540

Category Avg

$590

All Vehicles

$652

Category-level averages derived from publicly available industry reports (AAA, CarMD). Model-level estimates produced by Auto Reliability Index.

MPG & Annual Running Costs

Gas

24 MPG

Running cost: $3,650/yr

Fuel + repair

20 city / 30 hwy MPG

Running cost includes EPA fuel-cost estimate and independent repair-cost data (repair cost estimated at model level). Excludes routine maintenance, depreciation, and insurance. Data as of 2020 EPA label cycle.

Gas trims

Trim	Drive	Trans.	City	Hwy	Comb	Fuel Cost
Maxima 3.5L 6-cyl	Front-Wheel Drive	Automatic (AV-S7)	20	30	24	$3,100

Used Buying Checklist

Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing a 2020 Nissan Maxima.

Inspect windshield and A-pillar moldings for cracks or detachment
Test forward collision warning system for false activations
Check hood latch for secure closure and potential unlatching
Verify transmission operation for abnormal sounds or jerking
Test emergency braking system for unexpected activations
Inspect sunroof for signs of stress or potential shattering
Ensure all warning lights function correctly on startup

2020 Nissan Maxima Common Problems by Component

21 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.

STRUCTURE (4)POWER TRAIN (2)FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE (2)LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES (2)AIR BAGS (2)SERVICE BRAKES (2)ENGINE (1)STEERING (1)Other (5)

STRUCTURE

4 complaints

Owners of the 2020 Nissan Maxima report several structural issues, primarily involving the windshield, A-pillar molding, and grill clips. Multiple complaints describe windshields cracking without impact, suggesting stress fractures potentially related to the vehicle's frame. Additionally, some owners experience A-pillar moldings detaching in windy conditions, posing a risk to other drivers. There are also reports of front grill and quarter panel clips breaking, leading to loose body parts and a compromised front camera. These issues often occur at relatively low mileages, such as under 12,000 miles, and may have safety implications due to parts detaching while driving.

4 complaints total

POWER TRAIN

2 complaints

Owners of the 2020 Nissan Maxima report issues related to the transmission, with symptoms including abnormal engine sounds, jerking, and stalling. One complaint describes the vehicle stalling in the middle of the road, requiring police assistance to manage traffic, and notes that the transmission failure occurred at approximately 106,000 miles. Another report mentions a transmission failure without additional context. Safety implications include the potential for the vehicle to stall unexpectedly, which could lead to traffic disruptions. Buyers should be aware that these issues may arise at higher mileage, and they may need to consider the condition of the transmission when evaluating a used 2020 Maxima.

2 complaints total

FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE

2 complaints

Owners of the 2020 Nissan Maxima report issues with the forward collision avoidance system, specifically with the forward collision warning light activating unexpectedly. Complaints frequently mention that the warning light turns on shortly after the vehicle starts, with no apparent obstruction or accident to trigger the alert. This issue is noted in vehicles with approximately 30,000 miles. While no crashes or safety incidents are reported, the persistent warning lights may indicate a malfunction that could affect the system's reliability. Used car buyers should be aware of these potential electronic anomalies when considering this model.

2 complaints total

LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES (2 complaints)

LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES

2 complaints

Owners of the 2020 Nissan Maxima report issues related to latches and locks, specifically involving the hood and gas cap door. One complaint describes the hood unexpectedly unlatching and striking the windshield while driving at highway speeds, with no warning lights activated, at approximately 84,214 miles. Another complaint mentions concerns about the gas cap door lock function. These issues suggest potential safety implications, particularly with the hood latch failure posing a risk of obstructed visibility and potential loss of vehicle control. Buyers should be aware of these reported problems, especially when considering vehicles with higher mileage.

2 complaints total

AIR BAGS (2 complaints)

AIR BAGS

2 complaintsSafety-related

Owners report issues with the airbag system and collision sensor in the 2020 Nissan Maxima. Complaints frequently mention the vehicle's collision sensor system malfunctioning, causing unintended braking while reversing, which in one case led to a crash at approximately 25,000 miles. Another report describes the airbag deploying with excessive force during a low-speed collision, resulting in injury and damage to the windshield. These issues indicate potential safety implications, as they involve crashes and injuries. Buyers considering this model should be aware of these airbag and sensor-related problems.

2 complaints total2 crashes1 injury

SERVICE BRAKES (2 complaints)

SERVICE BRAKES

2 complaints

Owners of the 2020 Nissan Maxima report issues related to the braking system, specifically involving warning lights and a perceived loss of power. Common symptoms include the illumination of the Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) System, Slip indicator, Rear Automatic Braking warning lights, and the emergency park brake light. These issues often coincide with the vehicle acting as if it loses motive power. Complaints frequently occur at relatively low mileages, around 8,296 miles. While no crashes or fires are reported, the perceived loss of power and activation of multiple warning lights could imply potential safety concerns.

2 complaints total

ENGINE (1 complaints)

ENGINE

1 complaint

2026-05-22

2020 Nissan Maxima SR is experiencing CVT transmission issues that appear substantially similar to the defects described in the Nissan CVT Martinez Class Action involving prior Nissan model years.

STEERING (1 complaints)

STEERING

1 complaint

2025-02-11

Nissan dealership said the front control arms are cracking and recommended having them replaced.

UNKNOWN OR OTHER (1 complaints)

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

1 complaint

2024-04-22

The sunroof inexplicably blew out while driving on a 3-lane interstate normally taken to work every day in the morning, windows were up. This movable portion of the sunroof is part of the panoramic sun roof. The sun shade was open, it is normally left open. Some small pieces of the glass fell onto me and seats but most was sucked up and away from the car. Thankfully, no glass hit me in the face and no cars were around me. I have rear cam footage of the glass flying out behind the car. Front footage shows nothing hit the car, no one was near enough to suspect otherwise. A picture is attached of what is left.

LANE DEPARTURE (1 complaints)

LANE DEPARTURE

1 complaint

2024-03-28

When I start driving, sometimes I randomly see Key System Error and DAS Malfunction. All other warnings such as emergency brake, traction control, blind spot detection light up. Engine RPM meter keeps going to 0 and back and forth (see video in the link below). When this happens, driver assistance features like forward collision warning, blind spot warning and lane departure warning stops working. Sometimes, I cannot turn off the engine by pressing the Stop Engine button. I have to hold the button for about 5 seconds to stop the engine. Sometimes there's a Chasis Control System error (Attached a picture from last year). This started happening about a year ago and has occurred at least a dozen times so far. I have taken this to different dealerships, and none have been able to identify the issue. I haven't had any accidents on collisions on this vehicle. Please see link below for a video of the behavior. You can see different warnings coming on and off in the video. [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

When Do 2020 Nissan Maxima Problems Start?

Based on owner complaint patterns, here's when common issues tend to appear.

3,000–8,000 milesService brakes warning lights

30,000 milesForward collision warning activation

106,000 milesTransmission failures

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 score

The 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).

Top Pick

Good

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.

See full Nissan Maxima years-to-avoid analysis

Nissan Maxima Reliability Score Trend

Nissan Maxima reliability has remained consistent across model years, averaging 76/100.

Scores 0–100. Higher is better. Current year highlighted.

Nissan Maxima reliability scores by year
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

Nissan Maxima Reliability Compared to Other Years

Reliability scores compared across model years
Year	Score	vs Prior Year	Rating	Recalls	Complaints
2023	77/100	0	Good	0	1
2022	77/100	0	Good	0	5
2021	77/100	+3	Good	0	3
2020(selected)	74/100	-2	Good	1	21
2019	76/100	+4	Good	1	18
2018	72/100	—	Good	2	36

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the 2020 Nissan Maxima reliable?

The 2020 Nissan Maxima has a "Good" reliability rating with a score of 74/100. It is reasonably reliable with 1 recall and 21 owner complaints, though some issues have been reported.

What are the most common problems with the 2020 Nissan Maxima?

The most commonly reported problems with the 2020 Nissan Maxima include: STRUCTURE (4 complaints), POWER TRAIN (2 complaints), FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE (2 complaints), LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES (2 complaints), AIR BAGS (2 complaints). These issues were identified from owner complaints analyzed by Auto Reliability Index.

How many recalls does the 2020 Nissan Maxima have?

The 2020 Nissan Maxima has 1 recall on record. Recalls are safety or compliance fixes issued by the manufacturer and repaired at no cost at authorized dealerships.

Is the 2020 Nissan Maxima expensive to maintain?

The 2020 Nissan Maxima has estimated annual repair costs of $540/year, which is $50 less than the fullsize cars average of $590. With a reliability score of 74/100, some repairs may be needed, but overall ownership costs are manageable.

Don’t buy a 2020 Nissan Maxima without checking its VIN first — hidden accidents, title issues, and open recalls could cost you thousands.

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Look Up a VIN →

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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