2007 Nissan Maxima

2007 Nissan Maxima

Overview

The 2007 Nissan Maxima, often praised for its sporty driving dynamics and comfortable interior, generally presents a solid reliability record for its model year. While no vehicle is entirely without potential concerns, the Maxima tends to avoid widespread, catastrophic failures. Owners can expect a dependable experience, provided regular maintenance is performed. Key areas to be aware of, though not universally problematic, include certain transmission behaviors and some electrical components. Overall, the Maxima offers a good balance of performance and practicality, with a reliability profile that aligns with expectations for a premium sedan of its era.

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Engine

3.5L V6 (VQ35DE)

Oil Leaks (Valve Covers/Gaskets)

• Symptoms: Visible oil stains under the engine, burning oil smell, low oil level.
• Solution: Replacement of valve cover gaskets or other related seals.
• Cost: $300 - $600

Timing Chain Wear

• Symptoms: Rattling noise from the front of the engine, especially on startup; check engine light.
• Solution: Replacement of timing chain, tensioners, and guides.
• Cost: $800 - $1500

Transmission

CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission)

Hesitation/Jerking

• Symptoms: Transmission feels jerky or hesitates during acceleration or gear changes.
• Solution: Software update, fluid flush and replacement, or in severe cases, transmission replacement.
• Cost: $400 - $1000 (for service/repair), $3000 - $5000 (for replacement)

Overheating

• Symptoms: Transmission warning light, burning smell, sluggish performance.
• Solution: Transmission fluid cooler flush or replacement, transmission fluid change.
• Cost: $300 - $700

5-Speed Automatic (RE5R05A)

Harsh Shifting

• Symptoms: Noticeable clunking or harshness during gear changes.
• Solution: Transmission fluid flush and filter replacement, solenoid replacement, or transmission control module (TCM) reset.
• Cost: $300 - $800

Suspension

Standard Chassis

Worn Control Arm Bushings

• Symptoms: Clunking noises over bumps, vague steering feel, uneven tire wear.
• Solution: Replacement of control arm bushings or the entire control arm assembly.
• Cost: $400 - $700

Strut Mount Bearing Failure

• Symptoms: Popping or creaking noise when turning the steering wheel, especially at low speeds.
• Solution: Replacement of strut mount bearings.
• Cost: $200 - $400

Electrical

Body Control Module (BCM)

Intermittent Electrical Gremlins

• Symptoms: Various electrical components malfunctioning (e.g., power windows, locks, interior lights), warning lights appearing randomly.
• Solution: Diagnosis and potential reprogramming or replacement of the BCM.
• Cost: $500 - $1000

Window Regulators

Power Window Failure

• Symptoms: Power windows stop working or operate slowly.
• Solution: Replacement of the window regulator motor or assembly.
• Cost: $200 - $400

Exterior

Standard Body

No Major Issues

• Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
• Solution: No widespread issues reported.
• Cost: N/A

Interior

Standard Cabin

HVAC Blower Motor Resistor Failure

• Symptoms: HVAC fan only works on the highest setting, or not at all.
• Solution: Replacement of the blower motor resistor.
• Cost: $100 - $250

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Summary Verdict

The 2007 Nissan Maxima is a generally reliable vehicle, with its V6 engine being a strong point. The primary concerns tend to revolve around the CVT transmission, which can exhibit issues like hesitation or overheating, and some electrical components such as the Body Control Module and window regulators. Suspension components like control arm bushings can also wear over time. While these issues are documented, they are not necessarily universal, and many owners report trouble-free ownership. Proactive maintenance, especially concerning transmission fluid, can help mitigate potential problems. Overall, it’s a dependable choice for a sporty sedan, but potential buyers should be aware of these specific areas.