2007 Nissan Maxima Reliability ReportC+ grade · moderate risk · system-by-system breakdown
Quick Facts · 2007 Nissan Maxima
- The system most likely to surface first: xtronic cvt transmission (critical severity).
- Has 1 NHTSA recall on record — the most notable involves the steering:column locking:anti-theft device.
- Scores 10 points below the strongest nearby year — the 2005 Nissan Maxima earns a 78.
Is the 2007 Nissan Maxima Worth Buying?
The 2007 Nissan Maxima, despite its powerful VQ35 engine, is primarily hampered by its notoriously unreliable Xtronic CVT transmission. While the comfortable interior and engaging driving dynamics are appealing, potential buyers must proceed with extreme caution and budget for significant repair costs, as a catastrophic CVT failure is a common and expensive reality.
While the 2007 Nissan Maxima offers a lot of car for the money in terms of performance and comfort, its Achilles' heel is the highly problematic CVT. Only consider this vehicle if you have a documented history of CVT replacement or meticulous service, and crucially, a dedicated repair fund ready for the inevitable t…
Best Model Years
For Maxima, 2009+ models (improved CVT design) or earlier generations with traditional automatics. For this specific generation, none are truly 'best' due to the CVT.
Years to Avoid
2004-2008 for Maximas with the Xtronic CVT due to widespread transmission issues.
Biggest Strengths
- Robust VQ35DE V6 engine (when paired with a good transmission)
- Spacious and comfortable interior with good features for its era
- Strong acceleration and handling for a large sedan
What Tends to Fail First on the 2007 Nissan Maxima
The systems that tend to fail first on the 2007 Nissan Maxima, with the typical mileage window when each becomes a concern. Detailed repair-cost ranges and exact what-to-check inspection notes are in the full report.
The continuously variable transmission is prone to internal bearing failure, valve body issues, and fluid degradation, leading to jerking, slipping, whining noises, and eventual complete failure. Often requires full replacement.
Power steering pumps are known to fail, resulting in loud whining noises, loss of assist, and fluid leaks. Hoses and racks can also develop leaks over time.
Common issues include failing TPMS sensors, window regulator motors, dashboard light failures, and occasional crankshaft/camshaft position sensor malfunctions causing rough idling or no-start conditions.
2007 Nissan Maxima Mileage Danger Zones
The mileage windows when the 2007 Nissan Maxima most commonly needs attention. Plan ahead, budget accordingly, and inspect before you cross each threshold.
Low Risk Zone
At this mileage, the Maxima should be performing optimally, assuming basic fluid changes were completed. The primary focus is preventative maintenance to extend CVT life.
Maintenance Zone
This mileage marks a critical point for the CVT, where dedicated fluid service becomes paramount. Power steering pump issues may also begin to surface.
Elevated Risk Zone
The risk of major CVT failure dramatically increases here. Expect more widespread wear on suspension components and potential for electrical system glitches.
High Risk Zone
Beyond this point, a CVT replacement is highly probable if it hasn't already occurred. The vehicle will likely require significant investment in wear-and-tear items to remain reliable.
2007 Nissan Maxima Ownership Cost Outlook
What it typically costs to keep the 2007 Nissan Maxima on the road. Full 5-year cost-of-ownership projection and major-failure-risk forecast are in the report.
Annual Maintenance
$500-800
Moderate Repairs
$500-1,500 occasionally (power steering, suspension)
How Long Does the 2007 Nissan Maxima Last?
For a 2007 Maxima, aim for the lowest mileage possible (below 80,000 miles) with extensive CVT service records. Anything over 100,000 miles without a documented CVT replacement should be approached with extreme skepticism and a substantial repair budget.
What 2007 Nissan Maxima Owners Actually Say
What Owners Love
- Strong and smooth VQ35 V6 engine performance
- Luxurious and comfortable interior for its class and price point
- Distinctive styling and aggressive appearance that holds up well
- Ample passenger and trunk space for a sedan
Common Frustrations
- Frustrating and expensive CVT transmission failures
- Poor fuel economy for a sedan of its size
- Noticeable dashboard cracking in many vehicles
- Power steering pump noise and leaks are common annoyances
Who Should Buy the 2007 Nissan Maxima?
Best For
- Experienced DIY mechanics willing to tackle major repairs.
- Buyers seeking a powerful V6 sedan on a very tight initial budget (but with a large repair reserve).
- Someone who needs a comfortable, spacious daily driver for a few years and is prepared to move on.
Not Ideal For
- Buyers seeking long-term, trouble-free ownership.
- Families relying on absolute reliability for daily commuting.
How the 2007 Nissan Maxima Compares to Rivals
While the Maxima offers a more 'sporty' driving experience than many of its competitors, its infamous CVT reliability issues place it significantly behind stalwarts like the Camry and Accord in terms of long-term dependability.
More Reliable Than
- 2007 Chrysler 300 (V6 models)
- 2007 Ford Taurus
- 2007 Mitsubishi Galant
Comparable To
- 2007 Hyundai Azera
- 2007 Kia Amanti
2007 Nissan Maxima Recall History
1 recall on record from NHTSA. Check your VIN atnhtsa.gov to see if the repair was performed.
STEERING:COLUMN LOCKING:ANTI-THEFT DEVICE
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.
What breaks on the 2007 Nissan Maxima?
Full reliability breakdown — engine, transmission, rust, electrical. With repair costs and mileage danger zones.
OwnerKeep Passport · $499 · one-time
Just bought a 2007 Nissan Maxima? Keep it that way.
Snap a receipt — AI logs it. Build an OwnerScore. Sell with a buyer-ready Passport dossier.
Other Nissan Maxima Years to Consider
Compare KeepScores across nearby years of the Nissan Maxima. Click any year for its full report.
2007 Nissan Maxima Alternatives
Similar class, similar year range — ranked by KeepScore.
Relevant Products for Your 2007 Nissan Maxima
Parts and accessories matched to your 2007 Nissan Maxima
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Frequently Asked Questions
Related Comparisons
Just bought a 2007 Nissan Maxima? Keep it that way.
OwnerKeep Passport turns your Nissan Maxima's care history into a luxury digital vault — AI-logged receipts, an OwnerScore that pays at resale, and a buyer-ready dossier in one tap.
- AI receipt OCR — snap and log
- Fuel & mileage tracker
- Tri-Score OwnerScore
- One-tap resale dossier PDF
Recommended Reading for the Nissan Maxima
How Long Does a Nissan Altima Last? (Real Owner Data)
Wondering how many miles a Nissan Altima truly lasts? Our article reveals its real lifespan with compelling data directly from genuine owners.
Nissan Altima Common Problems and Repair Costs
Before you head to the mechanic, understand all common Nissan Altima problems, like transmission issues, and what their real repair costs are.
Nissan Altima Years to Avoid (Worst to Best Ranked)
Uncover the definitive ranking of Nissan Altima model years, revealing which to avoid and the best options for reliability, performance, and value.