2012 Nissan Maxima

The 2012 Nissan Maxima is a mid-size sedan known for its sporty handling and upscale interior. It comes equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 290 horsepower and 261 lb-ft of torque, paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). People appreciate the Maxima for its comfortable ride, stylish design, and powerful engine. Common complaints include issues with the CVT transmission, electrical problems, and some interior trim concerns.

Engine

3.5L VQ35DE V6

• Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported excessive oil consumption, requiring frequent top-offs between oil changes. This can lead to engine damage if not monitored.
  • Solution: Regularly check oil levels and consider using a heavier weight oil. In severe cases, engine repairs or replacement might be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200-$500 (for minor repairs), $3,000-$6,000+ (for engine replacement).
  • Recalls: None Found
• Timing Chain Tensioner Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noise upon startup, especially when cold. Can eventually lead to timing chain failure and significant engine damage.
  • Solution: Replace the timing chain tensioner and possibly the timing chain itself.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission)

• Transmission Slipping/Jerking
  • Description/Symptoms: The CVT transmission can exhibit slipping, jerking, or hesitation during acceleration. Some owners report complete transmission failure.
  • Solution: In some cases, a CVT fluid change can alleviate minor issues. However, more severe problems often require a full transmission replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500 (CVT fluid change), $3,000 - $5,000+ (CVT replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Body Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Hesitation, rough shifting, or failure to shift properly. Often caused by worn or damaged valve body components.
  • Solution: Replacing or rebuilding the valve body can resolve the issue.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut Mount Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or knocking noise coming from the front suspension, especially when going over bumps. Worn strut mounts can affect handling and tire wear.
  • Solution: Replace the strut mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: The battery drains overnight or within a few days of being parked. This can be caused by a parasitic draw from a faulty component.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the source of the parasitic draw.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ (depending on the source of the drain)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Dimming headlights, warning lights on the dashboard, and difficulty starting the engine.
  • Solution: Replace the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

No Issues Found

Interior

• Navigation System Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The navigation system may freeze, become unresponsive, or display incorrect information.
  • Solution: Software update or replacement of the navigation unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300 (Software update), $500 - $1,500+ (Navigation Unit Replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

The 2012 Nissan Maxima can be a desirable car, but potential buyers should be aware of common issues. The most concerning problems revolve around the CVT transmission, which can be costly to repair or replace. Oil consumption and electrical issues are also notable. While some issues are relatively inexpensive to fix, others can be quite severe. Potential buyers should carefully inspect the car and get a pre-purchase inspection from a qualified mechanic.