2017 Nissan Maxima

The 2017 Nissan Maxima is a full-size sedan known for its sporty styling and comfortable ride. It comes equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 300 horsepower and 261 lb-ft of torque, paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). Owners generally appreciate the Maxima’s powerful engine, comfortable seats, and user-friendly technology. Some common complaints include the CVT’s performance and reliability, as well as some reported issues with electrical components.

Engine

3.5L V6

• Timing Chain Tensioner Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noise upon startup, especially when cold. Can lead to engine damage if not addressed.
  • Solution: Replacement of the timing chain tensioner and potentially the timing chain.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Leaks from Valve Cover Gaskets
  • Description/Symptoms: Visible oil leaks around the valve covers, burning oil smell.
  • Solution: Replacement of the valve cover gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission)

• CVT Chain Slippage/Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Hesitation or jerking during acceleration, transmission slipping, whining noises, or complete transmission failure.
  • Solution: Replacement or rebuild of the CVT.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3500 - $6000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibrations at low speeds, especially during light acceleration. Can also present as a noticeable delay in acceleration.
  • Solution: Replacement of the torque converter, potentially along with a CVT fluid flush.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Premature Wear of Struts/Shocks
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, excessive body roll when cornering, clunking noises from the suspension.
  • Solution: Replacement of the affected struts or shocks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per strut/shock
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The battery drains overnight or within a few days of inactivity, leading to starting problems. Potential causes include a faulty alternator, parasitic drain from an electrical component, or a failing battery.
  • Solution: Diagnosing and repairing the source of the parasitic drain, replacing the alternator if it is not charging correctly, or replacing the battery if it is faulty.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the cause
  • Recalls: None Found
• Malfunctioning Infotainment System
  • Description/Symptoms: The touchscreen freezes, reboots unexpectedly, or has other glitches, making it difficult to use navigation, audio, and other features.
  • Solution: Software update, or replacement of the head unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1200+ depending on the severity
  • Recalls: None Found
• Blind Spot Monitoring System Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: The blind spot monitoring system gives false alerts or fails to detect vehicles in the blind spot.
  • Solution: Diagnosing and replacing the affected sensor(s) or module(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The AEB system activates unnecessarily or fails to activate when needed.
  • Solution: Recalibration or replacement of the AEB sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+
  • Recalls: 2017-2018 Nissan Maxima (D10E, D10F) Stop Sale Campaign AEB / FCW

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof not opening/closing properly, or getting stuck in the open position. Can be caused by a faulty motor, damaged tracks, or debris accumulation.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the sunroof motor, cleaning/lubricating the tracks, or replacing damaged components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary The 2017 Nissan Maxima, while appreciated for its performance and comfort, does have some potential issues to be aware of. The most significant concerns revolve around the CVT transmission, which can experience slippage or failure, leading to expensive repairs. Other issues such as timing chain problems, electrical malfunctions, and suspension wear can also contribute to overall ownership costs. Potential buyers should be diligent in checking for these common issues and obtaining a thorough pre-purchase inspection.