What are the most common Nissan Maxima problems?
According to Au7o's research across NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports, the 2008 Nissan Maxima has 6 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: Occupant Classification System Sensor Mat Failure (Passenger Airbag Disabled), Power Steering Rack Seal Leak and Pump Failure, Valve Cover Gasket and Spark Plug Tube Seal Leak (Oil in Plug Wells, Rear Bank). Of these, 1 is rated critical and should be addressed promptly.
Is the Nissan Maxima reliable?
The 2008 Nissan Maxima has 6 known issues compiled from NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports. 1 issue is rated critical: Occupant Classification System Sensor Mat Failure (Passenger Airbag Disabled). 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 $50 to $2,000, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, Occupant Classification System Sensor Mat Failure (Passenger Airbag Disabled), typically costs $150-$1,400 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.
What is the 2007-2018 Nissan Maxima Occupant Classification System Sensor Mat Failure (Passenger Airbag Disabled)?
The passenger seat cushion contains an Occupant Classification System pressure sensor mat and control unit that decide whether the front passenger airbag is armed. The mat's bladder or its pressure sensor drifts out of calibration as the seat foam wears, and the connectors under… Repairs typically run $150-$1,400. Severity: high.
What is the 2004-2008 Nissan Maxima Power Steering Rack Seal Leak and Pump Failure?
The 2004-2008 Nissan Maxima (6th generation, A34) develops power steering fluid leaks from the steering rack seals, high-pressure hoses, and pump seals. The rack and pinion seals deteriorate from heat cycling and age, causing fluid seepage that progressively worsens. As fluid lev… Repairs typically run $300-$1,500. Severity: medium.
What is the 2000-2008 Nissan Maxima Valve Cover Gasket and Spark Plug Tube Seal Leak (Oil in Plug Wells, Rear Bank)?
The molded rubber gasket and the integral spark plug tube seals in the VQ valve covers harden and take a compression set. The rear (firewall-side) cover fails first because it runs hotter and is the hardest to access. Oil weeps down the back of the block and burns off on the exha… Repairs typically run $250-$800. Severity: medium.
What is the 2004-2015 Nissan Maxima Ignition Coil Failure (VQ35DE)?
The VQ35DE engine in the 6th and 7th generation Maxima is prone to ignition coil failure. Coils typically fail one at a time, causing misfires on the affected cylinder. The rear bank (cylinders 1-3) coils fail more frequently due to heat soak from the firewall proximity. Coil fai… Repairs typically run $150-$600. Severity: medium.
What is the 2004-2018 Nissan Maxima Catalytic Converter Premature Failure (Bank 1)?
The Maxima VQ35DE is known for premature catalytic converter failure, particularly the Bank 1 (front) converter. Failure typically occurs between 80,000-120,000 miles. The catalyst substrate deteriorates, often triggered by oil consumption issues inherent to the VQ35DE, rich runn… Repairs typically run $400-$1,800. Severity: medium.
What is the 2004-2008 Nissan Maxima Dashboard Cracking and Bubbling?
The 6th generation Maxima (A34) is notorious for dashboard cracking, warping, and bubbling. The dashboard material degrades from UV exposure and heat, developing cracks that spread across the surface and a sticky, melting texture. This issue affects the top surface of the dashboa… Repairs typically run $50-$2,000. Severity: low.
