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Nissan · Mid-Size · 2009–2014 Custom Search

Nissan Maxima A35

Weaknesses, engine ratings and buying advice

★★★★★
1.0 / 5.0 · Based on 1 engine variants

Generations

Engine Overview

The Nissan Maxima A35 is available with one engine variant at 280 hp.

Maxima · Petrol· 294 PS
2009 2014
Stay Away! 12 weaknesses
Show all weaknesses →

The Nissan Maxima (Petrol, 294 PS) has the VQ35DE (3.5L) — rated: "Stay Away!", 12 known weaknesses.

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Vehicle Weaknesses

WeaknessCost
✖Front strut insulator cracking (Recall 09V358)

Front strut insulators can crack and in extreme cases let the strut separate from the body, causing sudden loss of control. NHTSA recall 09V358000 covers 2009-2010.

Symptoms: Popping noises when steering, violent steering wheel shake, feeling of front-end instability.
from 60,000 km
Ad 54320-9N00A front strut mount Maximastrut upper mount bearing A35
 Medium

Alternatives

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Audi RS4 B8

Mid-Size (2012–2015)

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Audi S6 C7

Mid-Size (2012–2018)

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Audi S7 4G

Mid-Size (2012–2018)

Same Segment

BMW 3er F30

Mid-Size (2012–2019)

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Hyundai Azera HG

Mid-Size (2012–2017)

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Mazda 6 GJ

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Known Problems and Issues

A total of 19 weaknesses have been documented for the Nissan Maxima A35 (2009–2014) — 12 engine-related and 7 vehicle-related. One problem engine: VQ35DE (3.5L). Typical issues affect Suspension, Electronics, Body, Gearbox.

Maxima (VQ35DE, 2009–2014) — Stay Away!: Severe oil consumption from defective piston rings, Con rod bearing wear from oil starvation, Plastic timing chain guides fracture. Power: 294 PS.

What to watch out for with the Nissan Maxima? See the detailed listing of all engine and vehicle weaknesses in the sections above.

Frequently Asked Questions

What problems and weaknesses does the Nissan Maxima A35 have? +
The Nissan Maxima A35 has 12 known engine weaknesses and 7 vehicle weaknesses.
What should I look for when buying a used Nissan Maxima A35? +
faq.watch_a_avoid
Which engine is recommended? +
None of the available engines are rated 'Good Choice'. Stay away! The most fun to drive is the VQ35DE (3.5L). Problem engine: VQ35DE (3.5L) — stay away!
Which Nissan Maxima A35 engine is the most fun? +
The {code} ({displacement}) offers the most driving fun in the Nissan Maxima A35 — rated: "Decent". {description} Strong VQ35 with 294 hp, but the CVT filters out the fun. Comfortable and quick, but not a sports car.
Is the Nissan Maxima A35 worth buying used? +
Caution is advised with the Nissan Maxima A35 — 1 of 1 engine variants are rated 'Stay Away!'. The engine choice is crucial.
What horsepower variants are available for the Nissan Maxima A35? +
The Nissan Maxima A35 is available with engine variants from 280 to 280 hp. Petrol: VQ35DE (3.5L).

Last updated: February 2026 · All information without guarantee