2018 Nissan Maxima

The 2018 Nissan Maxima is a full-size sedan known for its sporty handling and stylish design. It comes standard with a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 300 horsepower and 261 lb-ft of torque, paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). Many owners appreciate the Maxima’s comfortable ride, spacious interior, and user-friendly technology. However, some common complaints include issues with the CVT transmission, electrical problems, and some interior component failures.

Engine

3.5L V6

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks can develop from various locations, including the valve cover gaskets, oil pan gasket, and rear main seal. Symptoms include visible oil drips under the car, a burning oil smell, and low oil levels.
  • Solution: Replacing the affected gasket or seal.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $1,000+, depending on the location of the leak and the labor involved.
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission)

• CVT Failure/Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: The CVT transmission is prone to failure. Symptoms include shuddering during acceleration, slipping, erratic shifting, and a whining noise. Can result in complete transmission failure.
  • Solution: Replacing the CVT transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,500 - $5,000+ for a new or rebuilt CVT transmission.
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

No Issues Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Premature battery drain, requiring frequent jump starts or battery replacements. This can sometimes be caused by a parasitic draw from an electrical component that is not shutting off properly when the car is off.
  • Solution: Diagnosing and repairing the source of the parasitic draw, which may involve replacing a faulty sensor, module, or relay.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+, depending on the complexity of the diagnosis and the cost of the replacement part.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Navigation/Infotainment System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The navigation and infotainment system can experience glitches, freezing, or complete failure.
  • Solution: Software update or replacement of the head unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100-$1,500+, depending on the severity and if the unit needs to be replaced.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) System Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: The Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) system may malfunction and apply the brakes unexpectedly or not engage when needed. This can be triggered by sensor issues or software glitches.
  • Solution: Recalibration or replacement of the AEB sensors or a software update.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+, depending on the required repair.
  • Recalls: #PC687. Nissan is recalling certain model year 2017-2018 Nissan Maxima vehicles. The Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) system may automatically apply the brakes for more than one second without driver input or without detecting a preceding vehicle.

Interior

• Seat Heater Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Seat heaters may fail to function properly or stop working altogether.
  • Solution: Replacing the seat heater element or the control module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+, depending on the part that needs replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2018 Nissan Maxima has some notable issues, particularly with the CVT transmission, which can be expensive to repair or replace. Electrical issues and some interior component failures are also common complaints. While the engine itself is generally reliable, potential oil leaks should be monitored. The AEB system malfunction presents a safety concern and is addressed by a recall. Overall, potential buyers should be aware of these issues and consider having the vehicle inspected before purchase, with particular attention paid to the transmission’s condition. The CVT transmission is the most severe issue, and the cost to fix this can be $3,500 - $5,000+.