Maxima (A34)
Engine Reliability Ratings
Nissan Maxima Unidentified Engine
View details
Complaint Breakdown
Known Issues
VQ35DE
3.5L 6-cylView details
Complaint Breakdown
Known Issues
Show 1 additional engine variant with limited data
VQ30
3.0L 6-cylView details
Complaint Breakdown
Known Issues
Vehicle-Level Issues
These issues affect the Nissan Maxima regardless of engine variant.
Recalls (5)
CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH AN 'INTELLIGENT KEY' FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 114, "THEFT PROTECTION." DURING AN INSPECTION OF SOME VEHICLES AT THE ASSEMBLY PLANT, IT WAS FOUND THAT THE STEERING WHEEL WAS LOCKED WITH THE IGNITION KNOB IN THE "OFF" POSITION BUT THE VEHICLE TRANSMISSION NOT BEING IN THE "PARK" POSITION.
ON CERTAIN VEHICLES, THE REAR SUBFRAME MAY HAVE BEEN MANUFACTURED INCORRECTLY, WHICH COULD RESULT IN A CRACK IN A BRACKET WHICH HOLDS PART OF THE REAR SUSPENSION.
CERTAIN VEHICLES FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 225, "CHILD RESTRAINT ANCHORAGE SYSTEMS." THE LOWER ANCHORAGE BRACKETS IN THE REAR SEATS DO NOT MEET THE LOCATION REQUIREMENT IN THIS STANDARD. THIS MAY CAUSE DIFFICULTY IN ATTACHING SOME CHILD SEATS TO THESE BRACKETS.
ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH THE DRIVER PREFERRED PACKAGE, THE WIRE HARNESS FROM THE DRIVER'S SEAT POWER LUMBAR SUPPORT SWITCH MAY BE ROUTED INCORRECTLY AND COULD BE PINCHED UNDER THE DRIVER SEAT.
ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH SKYVIEW ROOFS, THE GLASS FOR THE ROOF MAY NOT HAVE BEEN QUENCHED PROPERLY AFTER THE FORMING PROCESS, RESULTING IN TEMPER IMBALANCE.
All Generations
Alternatives in Full-Size Sedan
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common 2004-2008 Nissan Maxima problems?
The 2004-2008 Nissan Maxima has accumulated 3,134 NHTSA complaints. The most frequently reported problem areas are Transmission, Engine, Wheels & Tires. As with any used vehicle, an inspection before buying and a vehicle history report are recommended.
Which Nissan Maxima engine is most reliable?
The 2004-2008 Nissan Maxima was offered with 3 engine options. Based on NHTSA complaint data, the 3.5L 6-cyl has the lowest complaint density and is considered the most reliable choice for buyers.
Is the 2004-2008 Nissan Maxima a good used car?
The 2004-2008 Nissan Maxima can be a sound used car depending on trim, mileage, and maintenance history. With 3,134 total NHTSA complaints on record, prospective buyers should review the known problem areas and check for open recalls before buying.
How many NHTSA complaints does the 2004-2008 Nissan Maxima have?
The 2004-2008 Nissan Maxima has 3,134 complaints filed with NHTSA as of our latest data pull. Complaint counts reflect owner-reported issues and do not necessarily indicate defects or safety risks on their own.
What recalls affect the 2004-2008 Nissan Maxima?
There are 5 NHTSA recalls affecting some 2004-2008 Nissan Maxima vehicles. Recall status varies by VIN — check the NHTSA recall database at recalls.nhtsa.dot.gov with your specific VIN to confirm which campaigns apply.
What should I check before buying a used Nissan Maxima?
Before buying a used Nissan Maxima, verify all open recalls are completed via the NHTSA VIN lookup tool. Pay particular attention to Transmission, Engine, Wheels & Tires, which are the most commonly reported problem areas. Request maintenance records, have an independent mechanic inspect the vehicle, and run a vehicle history report to check for prior accidents or title issues.
Does the Maxima have NHTSA crash test ratings?
NHTSA has not published crash test ratings for the 2004-2008 Nissan Maxima. Not all vehicles are tested each year. For the latest NHTSA safety information, visit nhtsa.gov/ratings.
Data from NHTSA federal complaints database. 3,134 complaints analyzed. Data confidence: high. Last updated: 2026-05-23.