2021 Nissan Maxima
The 2021 Nissan Maxima is a full-size sedan known for its sporty handling and upscale interior. 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). While drivers often praise the Maxima for its comfortable ride, responsive engine, and user-friendly technology, some common complaints revolve around the CVT transmission, electronic issues, and certain interior components.
Engine
3.5L V6
- Oil Leaks
- Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks can develop from various locations including the valve cover gaskets, oil pan gasket, or rear main seal. Symptoms include visible oil spots under the car, the smell of burning oil, and low oil levels.
- Solution: Replacing the leaking gaskets or seals.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+ depending on location and severity.
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission)
- CVT Failure
- Description/Symptoms: The CVT can experience issues like shuddering, slipping, hesitation during acceleration, and in some cases, complete failure. Warning lights such as the “Check Engine” light or transmission-specific lights may illuminate. This is one of the most prevalent complaints with the 2021 Maxima.
- Solution: In some cases, a software update or fluid change might resolve minor issues. However, more severe cases often require CVT replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,500 - $5,000+ for replacement.
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Infotainment System Issues
- Description/Symptoms: The infotainment system can experience glitches, freezing, screen blackouts, Bluetooth connectivity problems, and unresponsive touch screen controls.
- Solution: Software updates can sometimes resolve these issues. In severe cases, replacement of the infotainment unit may be necessary.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,500+ depending on the solution
- Recalls: None Found
- Sensor Malfunctions (e.g., Blind Spot Monitoring, Parking Sensors)
- Description/Symptoms: Faulty sensors can lead to inaccurate or non-existent warnings from safety systems like blind spot monitoring or parking sensors. This can create safety concerns.
- Solution: Diagnosis to identify the faulty sensor and replacement of the affected unit.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ per sensor, including labor.
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Dashboard Cracking
- Description/Symptoms: Cracks can develop on the dashboard surface, particularly in hot climates.
- Solution: Replacing the dashboard or using a dashboard cover.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $1,500+ depending on the solution
- Recalls: None Found
- Rattling Noises
- Description/Symptoms: Rattling noises from various interior panels can occur, particularly in the door panels or dashboard.
- Solution: Locating and securing the loose panels or components causing the rattle.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400+ depending on the solution
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Sunroof Problems
- Description/Symptoms: The sunroof can malfunction, sticking when opening or closing, failing to close completely, or making excessive noise.
- Solution: Cleaning and lubricating the sunroof tracks, repairing or replacing faulty motors or switches, or in some cases, replacing the entire sunroof assembly.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+ depending on the problem
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2021 Nissan Maxima offers a comfortable and engaging driving experience but is not without its issues. The most significant and potentially costly issue is related to the CVT transmission, which can experience failures requiring expensive replacements. Electrical glitches with the infotainment system and sensor malfunctions can also be frustrating. Interior and exterior issues, while less severe, can detract from the overall ownership experience. While some problems can be addressed with relatively inexpensive fixes, CVT failure represents a significant potential expense that prospective buyers should be aware of.