What are the most common Nissan Maxima problems?
According to Au7o's research across NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports, the 1997 Nissan Maxima has 4 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: 4-Speed Automatic Transmission Wear / Failure (RE4F04A), Crank/Cam Position Sensor Failure (No-Start, Random Stalling), Engine / Motor Mount Deterioration (Idle Vibration & Clunk). Of these, 2 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.
Is the Nissan Maxima reliable?
The 1997 Nissan Maxima has 4 known issues compiled from NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports. 2 issues are rated critical: 4-Speed Automatic Transmission Wear / Failure (RE4F04A) and Crank/Cam Position Sensor Failure (No-Start, Random Stalling). Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.
How much does it cost to fix common Nissan Maxima problems?
Repair costs for known Nissan Maxima issues range from $80 to $3,500, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, 4-Speed Automatic Transmission Wear / Failure (RE4F04A), typically costs $1,800-$3,500 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.
What is the 1995-1999 Nissan Maxima 4-Speed Automatic Transmission Wear / Failure (RE4F04A)?
The 4th-gen Maxima's 4-speed automatic (shared with the I30) is the drivetrain's known weak point. Neglected fluid-and-filter service lets debris and metal shards accumulate, leading to slipping, harsh or delayed engagement, failure to move in Drive, and eventual first-gear or fu… Repairs typically run $1,800-$3,500. Severity: high.
What is the 1995-1999 Nissan Maxima Crank/Cam Position Sensor Failure (No-Start, Random Stalling)?
The crank and cam position sensors are a well-documented weak point on the 4th-generation VQ30DE Maxima. Internal solder joints and the sensor's electronics degrade with heat and age, producing intermittent or lost signal. This is the same failure mode Nissan later formally recal… Repairs typically run $150-$450. Severity: high.
What is the 1990-1999 Nissan Maxima Engine / Motor Mount Deterioration (Idle Vibration & Clunk)?
The Maxima uses four engine/transmission mounts: front and rear on the center crossmember, a passenger-side engine mount, and a driver-side transmission mount. The rubber cracks and separates with age and heat; the front and rear crossmember mounts fail most often, transmitting t… Repairs typically run $300-$800. Severity: medium.
What is the 1995-1999 Nissan Maxima EGR Passage / EGR Temperature Sensor Tube Carbon Clogging (P0400)?
Nearly every high-mileage 4th-gen Maxima eventually sets a P0400 (EGR flow insufficient) code. The root cause is almost never the EGR valve itself; instead the small EGR pipe and the port where the EGR temperature sensor sits pack with carbon, so exhaust gas can no longer flow pa… Repairs typically run $80-$300. Severity: medium.
