Install Chrome Extension Chrome Extension
Nissan · Mid-Size · 2016–2023 Custom Search

Nissan Maxima A36

Weaknesses, engine ratings and buying advice

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

Generations

Engine Overview

The Nissan Maxima A36 is available with one engine variant at 280 hp.

Maxima · Petrol· 300 PS
2016 2023
Stay Away! 12 weaknesses
Show all weaknesses →

The Nissan Maxima (Petrol, 300 PS) has the VQ35DE (3.5L) — rated: "Stay Away!", 12 known weaknesses.

Explore more

All Nissan models
Acura TLX UB2 Mid-Size (2021–2025)
BMW i4 G26 Mid-Size (2021–2026)
Kia K5 DL3 Mid-Size (2021–2024)
Lexus IS XE30-FL Mid-Size (2021–2025)
BMW 4er G22 Mid-Size (2020–2026)
Cadillac CT5 A47 Mid-Size (2020–2025)

Vehicle Weaknesses

WeaknessCost
✖CVT shudder and judder — TSB NTB17-039L

The Jatco CVT8 in the A36 Maxima develops shudder vibrations during acceleration, especially when the transmission is warm. Nissan TSB NTB17-039L addresses this with a valve body replacement and CVT fluid flush. Typically appears around 40,000–50,000 miles on untreated vehicles.

Symptoms: Vibration and shuddering between 25–55 mph; hesitation on take-off; lurch when shifting at mid-range RPM; CVT overheat warning in slow traffic
from 61,000 km
Ad CVT fluid Nissan NS-3 Maxima A36CVT8 valve body Nissan Maxima 2016Jatco CVT8 rebuild kit Maxima
 High
✖CVT failure — complete transmission breakdown

At higher mileage the CVT8 can fail completely. The transmission loses drive abruptly, often accompanied by overheating or internal rattling. A replacement CVT costs $3,000–$5,000 and does not permanently resolve the underlying design shortcomings.

Symptoms: Engine revs without vehicle acceleration; sudden loss of drive on the highway; transmission stuck in limp mode; burning smell from CVT fluid
from 85,000 km
Ad CVT8 replacement transmission Nissan Maxima A36Jatco RE0F10H CVT Maxima 2016CVT control module TCM Maxima A36
 High

Alternatives

Same Segment

Acura TLX UB2

Mid-Size (2021–2025)

Same Segment

BMW i4 G26

Mid-Size (2021–2026)

Same Segment

Kia K5 DL3

Mid-Size (2021–2024)

Same Segment

Lexus IS XE30-FL

Mid-Size (2021–2025)

Same Segment

BMW 4er G22

Mid-Size (2020–2026)

Same Segment

Cadillac CT5 A47

Mid-Size (2020–2025)

Known Problems and Issues

A total of 17 weaknesses have been documented for the Nissan Maxima A36 (2016–2023) — 12 engine-related and 5 vehicle-related. One problem engine: VQ35DE (3.5L). Typical issues affect Gearbox, Body, Electronics.

Maxima (VQ35DE, 2016–2023) — Stay Away!: Severe oil consumption from defective piston rings, Con rod bearing wear from oil starvation, Plastic timing chain guides fracture. Power: 300 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 A36 have? +
The Nissan Maxima A36 has 12 known engine weaknesses and 5 vehicle weaknesses.
What should I look for when buying a used Nissan Maxima A36? +
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 A36 engine is the most fun? +
The {code} ({displacement}) offers the most driving fun in the Nissan Maxima A36 — rated: "Decent". {description} Even more powerful than the predecessor, same CVT dilemma. The last generation has more driving dynamics but remains front-wheel drive.
Is the Nissan Maxima A36 worth buying used? +
Caution is advised with the Nissan Maxima A36 — 1 of 1 engine variants are rated 'Stay Away!'. The engine choice is crucial.
What horsepower variants are available for the Nissan Maxima A36? +
The Nissan Maxima A36 is available with engine variants from 280 to 280 hp. Petrol: VQ35DE (3.5L).

Last updated: February 2026 · All information without guarantee