Is the 2004 Nissan Maxima reliable?

It can be reliable with consistent maintenance, especially regular oil service and quick attention to misfires, but higher-mileage examples may need suspension and emissions-related repairs.

What are the most common 2004 Nissan Maxima problems?

Frequent issues include ignition coil misfires, oil leaks from gaskets, worn front suspension components causing clunks, and catalytic converter or oxygen sensor-related check engine lights.

Are maintenance costs high for a 2004 Maxima?

Routine maintenance is generally reasonable for a V6 sedan, but costs can rise if misfires damage catalytic converters or if multiple suspension components need replacement at higher mileage.

What are the best years to buy for this generation of Maxima?

Many shoppers target well-maintained examples from the later part of the generation, including 2004, because updates and prior-year fixes can improve the ownership experience—service history matters more than the exact year.

What should I check before buying a used 2004 Nissan Maxima?

Scan for stored engine codes, verify smooth idle and acceleration (no misfires), look for oil leaks and low oil level, listen for front-end clunks on a test drive, and confirm maintenance records for oil changes, plugs, and cooling system service. For a smarter purchase and easier ownership, get a complete owner’s guide with full specs, trim details, and the recommended maintenance schedules for the 2004 Nissan Maxima.

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Reliability AnalysisBased on known issue patterns, repair cost data, and ownership trends · How we score

2004 Nissan Maxima Reliability ReportCommon Problems, Repair Costs & Expert Verdict

68/ 100

MODERATE RISK

Grade: C+

A powerful and stylish sedan severely undermined by a highly unreliable transmission, making it a gamble.

Full system breakdown + what I would do

Should You Buy the 2004 Nissan Maxima?

The 2004 Nissan Maxima offers a powerful V6 engine and a comfortable interior, but its Achilles' heel is the continuously variable transmission (CVT). If you're willing to accept the significant risk and potential cost associated with the CVT, this car can deliver a premium driving experience for less; otherwise, proceed with extreme caution and a robust emergency fund.

Biggest Strengths

Potent VQ35DE V6 engine performance
Comfortable and spacious interior for its class
Sophisticated exterior styling still holds up

Top Risk Areas

The systems that break first on the 2004 Nissan Maxima. Mileage windows, repair costs, and fix-before-you-buy notes are in the full report.

Xtronic CVT Transmissioncritical

Engine Variable Timing Systemmoderate

Electrical Systemmoderate

Typical mileage, cost ranges, and the exact what-to-check list are in the full report.

NHTSA Recalls

2 recalls on record from NHTSA. Check your VIN atnhtsa.gov to see if the repair was performed.

SEATS:FRONT ASSEMBLY:POWER ADJUST

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.

VISIBILITY:SUN/MOON ROOF ASSEMBLY

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.

What breaks on the 2004 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.

All Nissan Maxima years ranked →Nissan Maxima years to avoid →Nissan Maxima common problems →

If You're Considering This, Also Look At

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Frequently Asked Questions

Full Report