2016 Nissan Maxima Reliability ReportC+ grade · moderate risk · system-by-system breakdown
Quick Facts · 2016 Nissan Maxima
- The system most likely to surface first: continuously variable transmission (cvt) (critical severity).
- Has 8 NHTSA recalls on record — the most notable involves the service brakes, hydraulic:antilock/traction control/electronic limited slip.
- Scores 10 points below the strongest nearby year — the 2014 Nissan Maxima earns a 78.
Is the 2016 Nissan Maxima Worth Buying?
The 2016 Nissan Maxima offers a compelling blend of style, performance, and comfort, making it an attractive used car prospect. However, its Achilles' heel remains the Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT), which can be a ticking time bomb, preventing a higher reliability score. If you are prepared for potential significant transmission expenses, it can be a comfortable daily driver; otherwise, proceed with extreme caution.
The 2016 Maxima is an appealing, well-equipped sedan with a great engine, but its notorious CVT represents a significant long-term financial risk. If you find a meticulously maintained example with documented CVT service history and are prepared for potential future transmission expenses, it could be a stylish daily…
Best Model Years
2018-2020 (Later models had some CVT revisions, though fundamental design is similar.)
Years to Avoid
2016-2017 (Early in this generation, including the CVT cooler hose recall and infotainment issues)
Biggest Strengths
- Robust VQ35DE V6 engine
- Stylish and upscale interior design
- Comfortable and engaging driving dynamics
What Tends to Fail First on the 2016 Nissan Maxima
The systems that tend to fail first on the 2016 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 Jatco-supplied Xtronic CVT (JF017E) is prone to shuddering, slipping, overheating, and ultimately, catastrophic failure due to belt wear, valve body issues, or fluid breakdown. A recall for a CVT oil cooler hose detachment (NHTSA 16V…
Owners report issues with the infotainment system freezing, rebooting randomly, or connectivity problems. Other electrical gremlins can include battery drain, sensor malfunctions (e.g., crank position sensor), and erratic warning lights.
Premature wear of front lower control arm bushings and struts is common, leading to clunking noises, reduced ride comfort, and uneven tire wear. Tie rod ends can also develop play.
2016 Nissan Maxima Mileage Danger Zones
The mileage windows when the 2016 Nissan Maxima most commonly needs attention. Plan ahead, budget accordingly, and inspect before you cross each threshold.
Low Risk Zone
At this mileage, the car is still relatively new. Issues are typically minor electrical glitches, early tire wear, or needing its first major service. Keep an eye on initial CVT behavior for any signs of shudder.
Maintenance Zone
This mileage often requires significant preventative maintenance, including brake replacement, spark plugs, and crucially, the first (or second if done early) CVT fluid flush. This is where early CVT symptoms might begin to appear.
Elevated Risk Zone
The risk of CVT issues increases significantly here. Suspension components like struts and control arms may need replacement. Electrical sensors can also start to fail. A pre-purchase inspection is paramount for cars at this mileage.
High Risk Zone
This mileage is truly high risk for the CVT. If it hasn't failed yet, it's living on borrowed time. Major engine components might also require attention. Only consider if the CVT has been recently replaced or rebuilt, with documented proof.
2016 Nissan Maxima Ownership Cost Outlook
What it typically costs to keep the 2016 Nissan Maxima on the road. Full 5-year cost-of-ownership projection and major-failure-risk forecast are in the report.
Annual Maintenance
$450-650
Moderate Repairs
$600-1,800 occasionally (e.g., control arms, electrical module)
How Long Does the 2016 Nissan Maxima Last?
Given the significant CVT risk, I recommend a 2016 Maxima with under 60,000 miles, ensuring it has a full service history of CVT fluid changes, or one where the CVT has recently been replaced and comes with a warranty.
What 2016 Nissan Maxima Owners Actually Say
What Owners Love
- Potent VQ35DE V6 engine provides strong acceleration
- Stylish and distinctive 'four-door sports car' design
- Comfortable and upscale interior with quality materials
- Smooth ride quality for daily commuting and highway cruising
Common Frustrations
- CVT performance can feel uninspired, with 'rubber band' effect and drone
- Persistent anxiety over potential CVT failure and high repair costs
- Infotainment system can be buggy or slow to respond
- Back seat headroom can be tight for taller passengers due to sloping roofline
Who Should Buy the 2016 Nissan Maxima?
Best For
- Drivers prioritizing style, comfort, and V6 performance over ultimate long-term reliability
- Individuals with a shorter commute who won't rack up high mileage quickly
- Buyers who can afford a potential major repair and appreciate the Maxima's features
Not Ideal For
- Budget-conscious buyers who cannot afford a $4k-$7k transmission repair
- High-mileage drivers or those needing absolute peace of mind for daily commuting
How the 2016 Nissan Maxima Compares to Rivals
The Maxima offers a more 'sporty' feel than many of its rivals, but its Achilles' heel, the CVT, places it well below segment leaders like the Avalon and Accord in terms of long-term reliability and peace of mind.
More Reliable Than
- Chrysler 300 (earlier generations, for overall drivetrain consistency)
- Ford Taurus (for V6 engine reliability)
Comparable To
- Chevrolet Impala (for interior space and V6 power)
2016 Nissan Maxima Recall History
8 recalls on record from NHTSA. Check your VIN atnhtsa.gov to see if the repair was performed.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2015-2017 Nissan Murano, 2016-2017 Nissan Maxima, 2017-2018 Nissan Pathfinder, and 2017 Infiniti QX60 vehicles. The Anti-Lock Brake (ABS) actuator pumps may allow brake fluid to leak onto an internal circuit board.
AIR BAGS:SENSOR:OCCUPANT CLASSIFICATION
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain model year 2013-2015 Altima vehicles manufactured January 3, 2013, to July 29, 2013, 2015-2016 Rogue vehicles manufactured October 14, 2014, to August 12, 2016, and 2016 Maxima vehicles manufactured June 4, 2015, to August 19, 2015. An incorrect Occupant Classification System (OCS) Electronic Control Unit (ECU) may have been installed in the front passenger seat. The incorrect ECU and seat combination may misclassify the front passenger seat occupant.
What breaks on the 2016 Nissan Maxima?
Full reliability breakdown — engine, transmission, rust, electrical. With repair costs and mileage danger zones.
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Other Nissan Maxima Years to Consider
Compare KeepScores across nearby years of the Nissan Maxima. Click any year for its full report.
2016 Nissan Maxima Alternatives
Similar class, similar year range — ranked by KeepScore.
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Frequently Asked Questions
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