2016 Nissan Maxima

The 2016 Nissan Maxima is a full-size sedan known for its sporty styling and comfortable ride. It comes equipped with a 3.5L V6 engine producing 300 horsepower and 261 lb-ft of torque, paired with an Xtronic CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission). Owners often praise the Maxima for its responsive engine, comfortable interior, and attractive design, while some common dislikes include the CVT transmission’s performance and some reported electronic issues.

Engine

3.5L V6 (VQ35DE)

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks may occur from the valve cover gaskets and oil pan gasket. Symptoms include visible oil leaks under the vehicle, a burning oil smell, and low oil levels.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ depending on the location of the leak.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Premature Spark Plug Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners report experiencing premature spark plug wear, leading to misfires, rough idling, and reduced fuel economy.
  • Solution: Replace the spark plugs according to the manufacturer’s recommended interval, or sooner if symptoms arise.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+ depending on labor rates and spark plug type.
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

Xtronic CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission)

• CVT Hesitation/Shuddering
  • Description/Symptoms: The CVT may exhibit hesitation upon acceleration or a shuddering sensation, particularly at lower speeds.
  • Solution: A software update or CVT fluid flush may alleviate the issue in some cases. In more severe cases, CVT replacement is required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+ for fluid flush and software update. $3,000 - $5,000+ for CVT replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found
• CVT Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have experienced complete CVT failure, resulting in a loss of power and the inability to drive the vehicle.
  • Solution: CVT replacement is necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Premature Strut/Shock Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Owners have reported premature failure of the struts and shocks, leading to a bouncy ride, poor handling, and excessive noise.
  • Solution: Replace the struts and shocks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+ per axle depending on the parts used and labor rates.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Navigation/Infotainment System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Problems with the navigation and infotainment system include screen freezing, system crashes, and unresponsive touch controls.
  • Solution: Software updates or replacement of the head unit may be required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+ for software updates. $500 - $1,500+ for head unit replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sensor Failures (ABS, TPMS, etc.)
  • Description/Symptoms: ABS, TPMS, or other sensors can fail, triggering warning lights on the dashboard.
  • Solution: Diagnose the faulty sensor and replace it.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400+ depending on the sensor and labor rates.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported issues with the battery draining prematurely, even when the vehicle is not in use. This is often caused by parasitic draw.
  • Solution: Diagnose the source of the parasitic draw and repair or replace the faulty component.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the source of the drain.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Sunroof Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Water leaks around the sunroof area, leading to wet carpets and potential damage to interior components.
  • Solution: Clean and reseal the sunroof drains and seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Seat Control Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Malfunctions of the power seat controls, resulting in the inability to adjust the seat position.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the faulty seat control module or motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2016 Nissan Maxima, while praised for its styling and performance, does have some potential problem areas. The most concerning issues revolve around the CVT transmission, which can experience hesitation, shuddering, and even complete failure, leading to substantial repair costs. Other common issues include electrical system glitches, oil leaks, and sunroof leaks. While some problems are relatively inexpensive to fix, CVT issues could result in unexpected high costs and should be a primary area of inspection when considering this vehicle.