2010 Nissan Maxima

Introduction: The 2010 Nissan Maxima is a midsize sedan offered with two engine options: a 3.5L V6 and a 3.7L V6. Both engines are paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). The V6 engines produce 290 horsepower and 261 lb-ft of torque and 332 horsepower and 270 lb-ft of torque, respectively. The Maxima is known for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and sporty handling. However, it has also been reported to have several issues, which are detailed below.

Engine 3.5L V6

• Intake manifold gasket failure: The intake manifold gasket can fail, causing a vacuum leak and loss of power. The symptoms include a rough idle, hesitation during acceleration, and decreased fuel economy. The solution is to replace the intake manifold gasket. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000
• Valve cover gasket leak: The valve cover gasket can leak oil, which can cause a burning smell and smoke under the hood. The solution is to replace the valve cover gasket. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
• Timing chain tensioner failure: The timing chain tensioner can fail, causing the timing chain to skip and potentially damage the engine. The symptoms include a rattling noise from the engine and a loss of power. The solution is to replace the timing chain tensioner and timing chain. Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $2000
• Knock sensor failure: The knock sensor can fail, causing the engine to run poorly and potentially damage the engine. The symptoms include a knocking noise from the engine and a loss of power. The solution is to replace the knock sensor. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400

3.7L V6

• No major issues found

Transmission CVT

• Slipping: The CVT can slip, causing a loss of power and poor acceleration. The symptoms include a shuddering or slipping sensation during acceleration. The solution is to replace the CVT. Estimated Cost to Fix: $2500 - $4000
• Jerking: The CVT can jerk or hesitate during shifting. The symptoms include a sudden lurch or hesitation when shifting gears. The solution is to reprogram the CVT or replace it if necessary. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000
• Whining noise: The CVT can make a whining noise during operation. The symptoms include a high-pitched whining noise coming from the transmission. The solution is to replace the CVT fluid or the CVT itself. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000

Suspension

• Strut failure: The struts can fail, causing a loss of ride quality and handling. The symptoms include a bumpy ride, poor handling, and excessive body roll. The solution is to replace the struts. Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800 per strut
• Shock absorber failure: The shock absorbers can fail, causing a loss of ride quality and handling. The symptoms include a bouncy ride and poor handling. The solution is to replace the shock absorbers. Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600 per shock absorber
• Sway bar link failure: The sway bar links can fail, causing a clunking noise and poor handling. The symptoms include a clunking noise when going over bumps and poor handling. The solution is to replace the sway bar links. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200 per sway bar link

Electrical

• Battery failure: The battery can fail, causing the vehicle to not start or lose power while driving. The symptoms include a dead battery or a loss of power while driving. The solution is to replace the battery. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
• Alternator failure: The alternator can fail, causing the battery to not charge and the vehicle to lose power. The symptoms include a flickering or dim headlights, a dead battery, or a loss of power while driving. The solution is to replace the alternator. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800
• Starter failure: The starter can fail, causing the vehicle to not start. The symptoms include a clicking noise when trying to start the vehicle or no response when turning the key. The solution is to replace the starter. Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600

Exterior

• Rust on body panels: The body panels can rust, especially in areas that are exposed to salt or moisture. The symptoms include rust spots or corrosion on the body panels. The solution is to repair or replace the affected body panels. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+
• Cracked headlights: The headlights can crack or become cloudy, reducing visibility at night. The symptoms include dim or cracked headlights. The solution is to replace the headlights. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400 per headlight

Interior

• Window switch failure: The window switches can fail, causing the windows to not work properly. The symptoms include windows that do not open or close properly. The solution is to replace the window switch. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200 per window switch
• Climate control failure: The climate control system can fail, causing the air conditioning or heating to not work properly. The symptoms include a loss of air conditioning or heating, or the system not blowing air. The solution is to repair or replace the climate control system. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+

Summary: The 2010 Nissan Maxima is a reliable and comfortable sedan with a few reported issues. The most common issues are related to the engine, transmission, and suspension, which can be costly to repair. Overall, the Maxima is a good choice for those looking for a spacious and sporty sedan, but it is important to be aware of the potential issues before purchasing.