2018 Nissan Maxima
Introduction
The 2018 Nissan Maxima is a stylish and powerful midsize sedan. It is offered with two engine options: a 3.5-liter V6 producing 300 horsepower and 261 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged V6 producing 400 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are mated to a CVT transmission. The Maxima is praised for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and impressive performance. However, it is criticized for its lack of driver engagement and expensive optional features.
Engine
3.5-Liter V6
- Intake Valve Carbon Buildup Description/Symptoms: Reduced engine power, hesitation upon acceleration, increased fuel consumption Solution: Intake valve cleaning Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+ Recalls: None Found
3.0-Liter Twin-Turbocharged V6
- Turbocharger Wastegate Actuator Failure Description/Symptoms: Reduced boost pressure, loss of power, check engine light Solution: Replacement of turbocharger wastegate actuator Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+ Recalls: None Found
Transmission
CVT
- CVT Pulley Failure Description/Symptoms: Transmission slipping, hesitation upon acceleration, whining noises Solution: Replacement of CVT pulley Estimated Cost to Fix: $2000 - $3000+ Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Strut Mount Bearing Failure Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises from suspension, uneven tire wear Solution: Replacement of strut mount bearings Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+ Recalls: None Found
Electrical
Battery Drain Description/Symptoms: Battery discharge over time, difficulty starting the vehicle Solution: Battery replacement, diagnosis of electrical system Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ Recalls: None Found
Infotainment System Malfunction Description/Symptoms: Touchscreen not responding, audio issues, navigation problems Solution: Software update, replacement of infotainment system Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+ Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Headlight Condensation Description/Symptoms: Moisture buildup inside headlights Solution: Resealing of headlights Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+ Recalls: None Found
Interior
Sunroof Wind Noise Description/Symptoms: Excessive wind noise from sunroof Solution: Adjustment of sunroof mechanism Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ Recalls: None Found
Heater Core Leak Description/Symptoms: Sweet smell from cabin, fogging of windows, low coolant levels Solution: Replacement of heater core Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $2000+ Recalls: None Found
Summary
Overall, the 2018 Nissan Maxima is a reliable vehicle with several minor issues. The most common engine problem is intake valve carbon buildup, which can be addressed with regular maintenance. The CVT transmission has been reported to experience pulley failures, while the suspension is susceptible to strut mount bearing failure. Electrical issues such as battery drain and infotainment system malfunctions have also been reported. In the interior, sunroof wind noise and heater core leaks are common problems. These issues can be expensive to fix, so it is important to factor in the potential cost of repairs when considering this vehicle.