Last updated: 2026-07-25

2022 Nissan Maxima
RELIABILITY SCORE: 77/100 (GOOD)

2022 Nissan Maxima Reliability Report

The 2022 Nissan Maxima scores 77/100 ("Good"). With 0 recalls and 5 owner complaints, reliability is acceptable but not class-leading.

Recalls

0

Complaints

5

Complaint Rate

7per 10,000 sold

Est. Repair Cost

$540

Annual Fuel Cost

$3,100

Detailed Score Breakdown

Complaint Severity70/100

Component-weighted complaints normalized by sales volume

Repair Costs70/100

Independent repair cost ratings

Recall Impact100/100

Recall count weighted by severity

Issue Diversity74/100

Breadth of reported problem categories

The Verdict

Consider

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

Top Issues to Watch

  • SERVICE BRAKES (1)
  • STRUCTURE (1)
  • EXTERIOR LIGHTING (1)

Generation & Refresh (US)

Post-Refresh

2022 is 2 years after the facelift for eighth generation refresh.

  • Year 7 in the Eighth generation (A36) (2016–2023).
  • Well-established in its generation — most early issues should be resolved.
  • 8th generation Maxima (US).

What this means for buyers

Post-refresh years tend to be among the most refined — updates have been applied and early kinks worked out.

2016: Eighth generation (A36) Launch

Generation start — new platform.

2020: Mid-Cycle Refresh

Updated features and styling tweaks.

2022: This Model Year

2022 is 2 years after the facelift for eighth generation refresh.

Should You Buy the 2022 Nissan Maxima?

At 77/100, the 2022 Nissan Maxima lands in "Good" territory — acceptable, but not class-leading. 2022 is 2 years after the facelift for eighth generation refresh.

Owners log 5 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 service brakes, hydraulic (1). An extended warranty is worth pricing out.

Compared to the 2023 Nissan Maxima, which scored the same. See also the 2021 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

  • SERVICE BRAKES (1)
  • STRUCTURE (1)

Compare 2022 Nissan Maxima With

Common Problem Categories

Other

HIGH RISK
  • SERVICE BRAKES (1)
  • STRUCTURE (1)

See detailed breakdown by component ↓

Recall Overview

0

recalls on record

No recalls are on record for the 2022 Nissan Maxima — uncommon, and a strong signal of manufacturing quality.

NHTSA.gov →

Complaint Breakdown

7

per 10,000 sold

Segment avg: 17.8

LowAvgHigh
Low

Safety Incidents

1

Crashes

1

Fires

2

Injuries

0

Deaths

NHTSA 5/5 Stars

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

VIN History Report

Buying a used 2022 Nissan Maxima? Check its history first

Every 2022 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.

Affiliate link — we may earn a commission at no cost to you. No VIN? Just hit “Check VIN” to look one up.

  • Accidents
  • Open Recalls
  • Title History
  • Odometer Rollback

2022 Nissan Maxima NHTSA Safety Ratings

Overall Safety Rating

Overall safety rating: 5 out of 5
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 (N/A)Meets Side Air Bag Out-of-Position Requirements (Yes)LATCH Locations (Rear Seat)Safety Power Windows (Anti-Pinch) (Not Available)Safety Power Windows (Anti-Pinch) locations (Not Available)
View full safety data on NHTSA.gov →

Nissan MaximaRepair Costs & Maintenance

Maintenance Rating

3.5Maintenance rating: 3.5 out of 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 2022 EPA label cycle.

Gas trims
TrimDriveTrans.CityHwyCombFuel Cost
Maxima 3.5L 6-cylFront-Wheel DriveAutomatic (AV-S7)203024$3,100

Used Buying Checklist

Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing a 2022 Nissan Maxima.

  • Inspect rear end for loose or disconnected parts

  • Check trunk for water leaks and mold

  • Test sunroof lining for drooping or detachment

  • Listen for air noise from windows or sunroof while driving

  • Verify proper function of brakes under hard braking

  • Check driver's side headlight alignment and beam pattern

2022 Nissan Maxima Common Problems by Component

5 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.

1
1
1
1
1
SERVICE BRAKES (1)STRUCTURE (1)UNKNOWN OR OTHER (1)EXTERIOR LIGHTING (1)ENGINE (1)

SERVICE BRAKES

1 complaintSafety-related
2022-06-30Crash reported2 injuries

The contact owned a 2022 Nissan Maxima. The contact stated that while her granddaughter was driving at 40 MPH and attempting to stop at a stop sign, with the brake pedal depressed all the way to the floorboard, the vehicle failed to stop. As a result, the driver swerved in an attempt to avoid a collision, side-swiping the vehicle ahead and colliding with 3 light poles before coasting to a complete stop on the shoulder of the roadway. The air bags did not deploy during the impact, resulting in the driver sustaining minor injuries. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was towed to a tow yard and deemed a total loss by the insurance company. A police report was filed. The contact's granddaughter sustained nondescript injuries to her head and knees but did not seek medical treatment. The contact also stated that, though she was made aware that the driver of the other vehicle had reported injuries, the injuries and treatment were unknown. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.

STRUCTURE

1 complaint
2023-02-10

On February 10, 2023 I purchased a 2022 Nissan Maxima with a little over 19,000 miles on it. Which has a warranty for up to 104,000 miles. Currently at a little over 25,000 miles. Maybe a week later I noticed a noise coming from the rear, so I informed the Finance Manager, Paul. He then goes on to tell me that he's going to schedule a service appointment. The day I went to Barnes Crossing of Starkville they kept saying they didn't see anything or didn't know what was going on. So the finance manager scheduled an appointment with Nissan. When I get there is when I find out the rear end of the car has a lot of parts not connected. As the man at Nissan stated, it's a mess. Which he also took pictures of and sent them to me. Which I sent the pictures to the Finance Manager, Paul. He asks how much is the broken parts, which I had no clue due to it would have to go to a body shop. He mentioned that he would look for another Maxima, that he could trade me out. My complaints about this car startedHe mentioned I would have to take it was going to take a body repair shop. I then inform Barnes Crossing of Starkville. I was told by the finance manager the he would find a body repair shop but never did. Then because there's this strong odor in the car, I tried to get it clean cover it with air fresheners and still the smell is strong. So one day I go in the truck and pull everything out and to my surprise it's full of water. Which I have picture, not only is it full of water looks like mold spots, etc. I tried to clean it and some of the spots would not go. I informed him of this still he was saying they was going to find me another car, still no car. The trunk of the car is steady getting full of water. Nothing is being done, I reached back out and was told I'll have to do the whole process over again because a credit report is only good for 30 days. Which I've been complaining about this car a week after I received it.Mold and water keep appearing I’m sick

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

1 complaint
2022-12-11

Panoramic sunroof lining started to droop and hang on the back portion of the panoramic roof blocking my view before the car reached 2,000 miles. Dealership refuses to fix stating they would have a Nissan representative look at it and make the repair stating the cost would be over 3,000 dollars. After bringing my vehicle I’m twice and leaving at the dealership for over a week, it was never looked at and I was told to pick it back up and would be contacted once they speak to Nissan. After dozens of calls and no returned calls with my questions, my car now has 7900 miles and I am stuck with the fabric rolled up and taped to keep from blocking by view. This was done by the dealership prior to me picking up my car from Them. The back seat has the sun and glare constantly in the car due to me not being able to block the light. I’m Still fighting this issue with them. Nissan consumer affairs will not return my calls after the representative left me a message stating I could call them back anytime with any concerns or questions even though my several messages asked that a Nissan engineer or representative inspect my car. My dealership stated, prior to promising me Nissan would look at it, said that someone’s head or a heavy box could have put a dent in the framing around the sun roof from the inside of my car even though no one but my 73 year old mother has sat in the back seat ONE time. I don’t know what else to do to have this taken care of. My brand new car should not have a 3,000 issue I should have to cover the costs for. The steering wheel also rattles when driving and you can hear air flow coming through the back seat area from a window or the sunroof. I also mentioned the air noise issue to Nissan with no return call regarding this.

EXTERIOR LIGHTING (1 complaints)

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

1 complaint
2023-02-13

The contact owns a 2022 Nissan Maxima. The contact stated that while operating the vehicle at night with the headlights illuminated, the driver’s side light beam had a dark shaded spot in the illuminated light field and the light field was directed approximately 35 degrees to the left creating both visibility hazard for the driver and a blinding hazard for oncoming traffic. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer who replaced the driver side headlight assembly, but the failure persisted. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 2,700.

ENGINE (1 complaints)

ENGINE

1 complaintSafety-related
2022-11-02Fire reported

I'm investigating a fire in this vehicle. The owner was driving and noticed a smell of rubber or electrical burning. He parked the car and noticed a small amount of smoke from the passenger side of the hood area. It was dark out and he opened the hood and went to get a flashlight. he went about 100 yards to his truck and looked back and the engine compartment was on fire. The owner states the car has around 8000 miles on it and he has recently had an odor of something burning but finding nothing when investigating that. He states the vehicle has run fine and the last commute was approximately 5 miles before the fire. The car was a total loss because of the fire it was completely consumed. I am the fire marshal for this jurisdiction.

When Do 2022 Nissan Maxima Problems Start?

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

0–8,000 milesSunroof lining issues
8,000 milesEngine fire risk

Best & Worst Nissan Maxima Years

Comprehensive reliability analysis based on NHTSA data, owner complaints, and historical performance.

Best Nissan Maxima Years to Buy

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
77
Good

2023

0Recalls
1Complaints
77
Good

2022

(Current Model)

0Recalls
5Complaints
77
Good

2021

0Recalls
3Complaints

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. Current year highlighted.

Nissan Maxima reliability scores by year
YearScoreRating
201872/100Good
201976/100Good
202074/100Good
202177/100Good
202277/100Good
202377/100Good

Nissan Maxima Reliability Compared to Other Years

Reliability scores compared across model years
YearScorevs Prior YearRatingRecallsComplaints
202377/1000Good01
2022(selected)77/1000Good05
202177/100+3Good03
202074/100-2Good121
201976/100+4Good118
201872/100Good236

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the 2022 Nissan Maxima reliable?
The 2022 Nissan Maxima has a "Good" reliability rating with a score of 77/100. It is reasonably reliable with 0 recalls and 5 owner complaints, though some issues have been reported.
What are the most common problems with the 2022 Nissan Maxima?
The most commonly reported problems with the 2022 Nissan Maxima include: SERVICE BRAKES (1 complaints), STRUCTURE (1 complaints), UNKNOWN OR OTHER (1 complaints), EXTERIOR LIGHTING (1 complaints), ENGINE (1 complaints). These issues were identified from owner complaints analyzed by Auto Reliability Index.
How many recalls does the 2022 Nissan Maxima have?
The 2022 Nissan Maxima has no recalls on record, which is a positive indicator.
Is the 2022 Nissan Maxima expensive to maintain?
The 2022 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 77/100, some repairs may be needed, but overall ownership costs are manageable.

Don’t buy a 2022 Nissan Maxima without checking its VIN first — hidden accidents, title issues, and open recalls could cost you thousands.

Affiliate link — we may earn a commission at no cost to you.

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

1

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.

2

Repair Costs

Independent reliability ratings based on repair frequency, average repair costs, and severity of typical repairs for each model.

3

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.

4

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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