2008 Nissan Maxima

2008 Nissan Maxima

The 2008 Nissan Maxima is a midsize sedan known for its sporty performance, spacious interior, and comfortable ride. It comes with a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 255 horsepower and 248 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission. It received favorable reviews for its handling, acceleration, and cabin comfort, but was criticized for its subpar fuel economy and firm ride.

Engine

• 3.5L V6
  • Intake manifold warping: Intake manifold gaskets fail, causing coolant and oil leaks, loss of power, and overheating.
    • Solution: Replace intake manifold gaskets.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,200 - $2,000+
  • Valvetrain noise: Timing chain tensioners fail, causing a rattling noise during startup and acceleration.
    • Solution: Replace timing chain tensioners.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $700 - $1,200+
  • Oil consumption: Piston rings wear prematurely, causing excessive oil consumption.
    • Solution: Replace piston rings, if possible. In some cases, engine replacement may be necessary.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000+
  • Throttle position sensor (TPS) failure: TPS fails, affecting throttle response and engine performance.
    • Solution: Replace throttle position sensor.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400
• 3.7L V6 (later models)
  • No Issues Found

Transmission

• 5-speed Automatic
  • Shift solenoid failure: Shift solenoids fail, causing erratic shifting, slipping, and hesitation.
    • Solution: Replace shift solenoids.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $700 - $1,200+
  • Torque converter shudder: Torque converter clutch fails, causing shuddering during acceleration and gear changes.
    • Solution: Replace torque converter.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
• CVT (later models)
  • CVT belt failure: CVT belt stretches or breaks, causing slipping and loss of power.
    • Solution: Replace CVT belt and other affected components.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000+

Suspension

• Strut mounts: Strut mount bearings fail, causing rattling noises and impaired handling.
  • Solution: Replace strut mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1,200+
• Ball joints: Ball joints wear out, causing clunking noises and impaired steering.
  • Solution: Replace ball joints.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+

Electrical

• Alternator failure: Alternator fails, affecting battery charging and electrical system performance.
  • Solution: Replace alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1,200+
• Starter failure: Starter fails, preventing the engine from starting.
  • Solution: Replace starter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+

Exterior

• Trunk lid corrosion: Trunk lid rusts from the inside out, causing premature failure.
  • Solution: Replace trunk lid.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,200 - $2,000+

Interior

• Sunroof wind noise: Sunroof seals fail, causing wind noise and water leaks.
  • Solution: Replace sunroof seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
• Navigation system failure: GPS navigation system malfunctions, causing loss of functionality.
  • Solution: Update navigation software or replace the unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,200+

Recall Information:

• NHTSA Campaign Number: 08V220000: Airbag Control Unit Software Update
• NHTSA Campaign Number: 10V197000: Fuel Pump Protection Relay
• NHTSA Campaign Number: 12V173000: Electric Power Steering (EPS) Rack Assembly Replacement

Summary

The 2008 Nissan Maxima has a few notable issues, particularly with its engine, transmission, and electrical system. The severity of the issues varies, with some requiring costly repairs. However, the vehicle’s overall reliability is average compared to similar midsize sedans. Fuel economy is also a concern, as the Maxima tends to consume more gas than rivals.