Nissan Maxima Common Problems and Solutions
AC Blowing Hot Air
Problem:
The aircon doesn't blow out cool air, only warm air.
Solution:
You likely have a leaking low-pressure AC hose, which is causing refrigerant loss. Check the AC system, especially around the hose crimp, which is the most common spot to leak. You may be able to reinsert the hose and then tighten it. If there are small holes or cracks, then glue will solve the problem. If the hose has become too damaged, then order a new one from us and install it easily.
Difficulty level
Car Won't Start
Problem:
The car isn't starting, and when you can get it to drive, it is very rough.
Solution:
Although there are a number of potential causes for your car to drive roughly or not start, on the Maxima, there's a good chance that it's nothing more than a worn-out crankshaft angle sensor. That sensor malfunction means the engine's timing is unregulated, but it's a simple fix. Find a new sensor from BreakerYard and replace the existing one, and your Maxima will return to normal.
Difficulty level
Crankshaft Sensor
Overheating Issues
Problem:
You are getting an overheating warning.
Solution:
A common weak spot on the Maxima is the thermostat, which can often become stuck closed. That leads to overheating conditions. The only option here is to browse our parts page for a replacement thermostat, which we always have in stock.
Difficulty level
Thermostat
Speedometer Reading Incorrectly
Problem:
The speedometer is giving you the wrong readout and may have stopped working entirely. You may also lose your cruise control function.
Solution:
This is a quick and inexpensive fix that you can easily do yourself. Order a new speed sensor from our parts page and replace the one that has worn out in your transmission housing. This will get the speedometer and the cruise control working again.
Difficulty level
Speed Sensor
AC Blowing Hot Air
Problem:
The aircon doesn't blow out cool air, only warm air.
Solution:
You likely have a leaking low-pressure AC hose, which is causing refrigerant loss. Check the AC system, especially around the hose crimp, which is the most common spot to leak. You may be able to reinsert the hose and then tighten it. If there are small holes or cracks, then glue will solve the problem. If the hose has become too damaged, then order a new one from us and install it easily.
Difficulty level
Car Won't Start
Problem:
The car isn't starting, and when you can get it to drive, it is very rough.
Solution:
Although there are a number of potential causes for your car to drive roughly or not start, on the Maxima, there's a good chance that it's nothing more than a worn-out crankshaft angle sensor. That sensor malfunction means the engine's timing is unregulated, but it's a simple fix. Find a new sensor from BreakerYard and replace the existing one, and your Maxima will return to normal.
Difficulty level
Crankshaft Sensor
Overheating Issues
Problem:
You are getting an overheating warning.
Solution:
A common weak spot on the Maxima is the thermostat, which can often become stuck closed. That leads to overheating conditions. The only option here is to browse our parts page for a replacement thermostat, which we always have in stock.
Difficulty level
Thermostat
Speedometer Reading Incorrectly
Problem:
The speedometer is giving you the wrong readout and may have stopped working entirely. You may also lose your cruise control function.
Solution:
This is a quick and inexpensive fix that you can easily do yourself. Order a new speed sensor from our parts page and replace the one that has worn out in your transmission housing. This will get the speedometer and the cruise control working again.
Difficulty level
Speed Sensor
Power steering failure
Problem:
The power steering pressure hose can fail, which will result in the power steering fluid leaking out.
Solution:
You will need to replace the power steering pressure hose to fix the problem.
Difficulty level
Power Steering Hoses
Front seat wear
Problem:
It is known on the Maxima for the front seats to wear down quickly at the sides. The exact cause of this problem is unknown.
Solution:
You can either just live with the problem, or you can get the seats re-covered to fix the problem. A Replacement seat can also be found with us.
Difficulty level
Idling problems
Problem:
If you have noticed that you are having irregular idling, where the engine is not remaining at constant revs as it should, then you most likely have a blocked MAF (Mass Air Flow) sensor.
Solution:
You can use some MAF sensor cleaner to fix the problem. If this does not sort the issue, it could be a number of different things, so you would be best to have a diagnostic check done to identify the exact cause.
Difficulty level
Mass Airflow Sensor
Lack of power when taking off
Problem:
If you have noticed that there is a lack of power when you are taking off, then it is most likely a problem with the throttle position sensor (TPS).
Solution:
Replacing the TPS should resolve the issue. Watch the video below to see how to change the TPS:
Difficulty level
Gearbox problems
Problem:
The Maxima is known for having problems with the gearbox. There are so many different issues, from changing gears to irregular revs.
Solution:
You are best taking it to a professional to diagnose what is causing the problem. The worst case scenario would be a new gearbox, which is not unusual. If you need a replacement gearbox, you are in the right place!
Difficulty level
Rough Braking
Problem:
Braking feels extremely rough, and the brake pedal may judder when applied.
Solution:
The brake discs on the Maxima are known to warp fairly regularly. Not only will you have to replace the warped discs with new ones from our parts list, but you will also have to check your brake pads as these too may have become too worn as a result of the discs. We have brake discs and pads for the Maxima available at all times and can deliver direct.
Difficulty level
Brake Disc
Rough Braking
Problem:
Braking feels extremely rough, and the brake pedal may judder when applied.
Solution:
The brake discs on the Maxima are known to warp fairly regularly. Not only will you have to replace the warped discs with new ones from our parts list, but you will also have to check your brake pads as these too may have become too worn as a result of the discs. We have brake discs and pads for the Maxima available at all times and can deliver direct.
Difficulty level
Brake Disc
