The Nissan Maxima sedan has established itself as one of the most popular vehicles in the industry. The stylish looks, robust engine, and precise finish have made Maxima owners happy time and time again. Like any vehicle, however, the Maxima can experience mechanical problems. Let’s look at the more common Nissan Maxima repair problems and their associated costs. The Nissan factory warranty is 36 months/36,000 miles.
When your Nissan factory or extended warranty expires, an extended vehicle protection plan can help pay for your repairs. Sign up for a free quote now.
AC Failure
If your Maxima AC konks out, it’s most likely due to an AC pressure hose leak. A hose crimp connection commonly causes the leak, and this usually occurs around 85,000 miles.
The cost of pressure hose replacement is between $300 – $400, parts and labor included. If you replace the hose yourself, you might save around $100
Check Engine Light
This troublesome little light can come on for a variety of reasons, but in the Maxima, it’s often due to a failed ignition coil. The ignition coil helps transform the relatively low voltage of the battery into the thousands of volts required to start the car. Some vehicles also jerk or chug when accelerating due to ignition coil failure.
This problem is more common in Maximas with 140,000 miles or more. When you replace the ignition coil, you should consider changing the spark plugs as well. Total cost, including plugs, is around $400.
Oil Leak From Failed Seal
At around 110,00 miles, if you see oil leaking, there’s a good chance it’s a failed external seal on the engine oil cooler. You might see the leak near the front passenger wheel. Cost to repair, parts included, is around $250.
Bumping & Steering Problem
In some Nissan Maximas with over 120,000 miles, owners describe a knocking sound when driving over uneven surfaces or bumps. Steering may also become difficult with unusual noises heard when rotating the steering wheel.
These problems are caused by a power steering pump leak, and the pump should be replaced. The cost of repair can be up to $1,250, parts and labor.
Check Engine Light – Take 2
The second most common cause of this light coming on is due to a camshaft position sensor leaking oil. The car might stall and have problems accelerating as well. This breakdown is more common when the odometer hits 104,000 miles or more. Camshaft sensor replacement will cost you around $250.
When your Nissan factory or extended warranty expires, an extended vehicle protection plan can help pay for your repairs. Sign up for a free quote now.
As the leading provider, CARCHEX has collected years of repair claim data on thousands of vehicle makes and models. Specific types of Nissan Maxima repairs highlighted in this article are derived from data provided by RepairPal, a CARCHEX partner. Repair costs derived from both RepairPal, as well as CARCHEX based on actual repair related data for 2002-2014 vehicles.
