2002 Nissan Maxima Reliability ReportCommon Problems, Repair Costs & Expert Verdict
Should You Buy the 2002 Nissan Maxima?
The 2002 Nissan Maxima delivers impressive performance and comfort for its age, but its long-term reliability is a calculated gamble. While the VQ engine is powerful, specific powertrain weaknesses, notably the automatic transmission and potential oil consumption, demand careful scrutiny. Proceed with caution and a comprehensive pre-purchase inspection to uncover its true condition.
Biggest Strengths
- Potent VQ35DE V6 engine performance
- Comfortable and spacious interior
- Engaging driving dynamics for a FWD sedan
Top Risk Areas
The systems that break first on the 2002 Nissan Maxima. Mileage windows, repair costs, and fix-before-you-buy notes are in the full report.
NHTSA Recalls
9 recalls on record from NHTSA. Check your VIN atnhtsa.gov to see if the repair was performed.
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2001-2003 Maxima, 2002-2006 Sentra, 2002-2004 Pathfinder, 2007-2011 Versa Sedan and Versa Hatchback, 2001-2004 Infiniti I30 and I35, 2002-2003 Inifiniti QX4, 2003-2008 Infiniti FX35 and FX45 and 2006-2010 M35 and M45 vehicles. The vehicles are equipped with non-desiccated, frontal passenger air bag inflators containing phase stabilized ammonium nitrate (PSAN) propellant that were used as interim remedy parts for previous Takata recalls. These inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, high temperatures, and high temperature cycling.
AIR BAGS
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain model year 2001-2003 Nissan Maxima, 2002-2004 Pathfinder, 2002-2006 Sentra, 2002-2003 Infiniti QX4 and I35, 2003 FX35 and FX45, and 2001 I30 vehicles. Upon deployment of the passenger side frontal air bag, excessive internal pressure may cause the inflator to rupture.
What breaks on the 2002 Nissan Maxima?
Full reliability breakdown — engine, transmission, rust, electrical. With repair costs and mileage danger zones.
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Nissan Maxima by Year
Compare reliability scores across nearby years of the Nissan Maxima. Click any year for its full report.
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Relevant Products for Your 2002 Nissan Maxima
Parts and accessories matched to your 2002 Nissan Maxima
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Frequently Asked Questions
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