Is the 2017 Nissan Maxima reliable?

Overall reliability is typically considered good for a V6 full-size sedan, especially with consistent maintenance, but the CVT and infotainment complaints are the main factors to watch.

What are the most common 2017 Nissan Maxima problems?

Frequent owner-reported issues include CVT shudder/hesitation, Bluetooth or infotainment glitches, suspension/steering noises, and occasional interior wear or minor electrical warnings.

Are 2017 Nissan Maxima maintenance costs expensive?

Costs are usually moderate for the class; routine items are straightforward, but budgeting for CVT fluid service and higher-cost tire replacement (often 19-inch) is smart.

What are the best years to buy for the Nissan Maxima?

Many shoppers focus on later 8th-generation years due to feature refinements, but the best choice depends on service history; a well-maintained example is often a better buy than a newer one with poor records.

What should I check before buying a used 2017 Nissan Maxima?

Confirm complete service records (especially CVT fluid service), scan for stored transmission or engine codes, test all infotainment functions, inspect tires for uneven wear, and take an extended test drive to check for CVT shudder or hesitation. Get a complete owner’s guide for the 2017 Nissan Maxima with full specs, trim details, and a mileage-based maintenance schedule to help you buy smarter and keep it running strong.

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

2017 Nissan Maxima Reliability ReportKeepScore 78/100 · top failure points · buy or avoid

78/ 100

KeepScore

MODERATE RISK

Grade: B-

A powerful and stylish sedan, but proceed with caution due to the high-risk transmission.

Full system breakdown + what I would do

Quick Facts · 2017 Nissan Maxima

Outscores the 2015 Nissan Maxima by 10 points — one of the stronger nearby years to consider.
The system most likely to surface first: xtronic cvt transmission (critical severity).
Has 4 NHTSA recalls on record — the most notable involves the service brakes, hydraulic:antilock/traction control/electronic limited slip.

2017 Nissan Maxima: Buy or Avoid?

The 2017 Nissan Maxima presents an attractive package of V6 power and upscale styling, making it a compelling option in the used market. However, its long-term viability is critically tied to the health of its Xtronic CVT, which is a known weak point that demands careful inspection and meticulous maintenance.

Biggest Strengths

Robust VQ35DE V6 engine
Comfortable and well-appointed interior
Distinctive styling and strong performance

2017 Nissan Maxima — Known Trouble Spots

The systems that break first on the 2017 Nissan Maxima. Mileage windows, repair costs, and fix-before-you-buy notes are in the full report.

Xtronic CVT Transmissioncritical

Suspension Componentsmoderate

Electrical & Infotainmentminor

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

Safety Recalls on the 2017 Nissan Maxima

4 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.

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP

Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain model year 2016-2017 Nissan Maxima vehicles manufactured February 10, 2015, to August 19, 2016 and equipped with Intelligent Cruise Control, 2015-2017 Murano vehicles manufactured August 22, 2014, to August 19, 2016 and equipped with Intelligent Cruise Control, and 2015-2016 Murano Hybrid vehicles manufactured August 22, 2014, to July 19, 2016. The affected vehicles have Anti-Lock Brake (ABS) actuator pumps that may allow brake fluid to leak onto an internal electrical circuit board.

What breaks on the 2017 Nissan Maxima?

Full reliability breakdown — engine, transmission, rust, electrical. With repair costs and mileage danger zones.

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Nissan Maxima — Year-by-Year Comparison

Compare KeepScores 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 →

Competing 2017s Worth a Look

Similar class, similar year range — ranked by KeepScore.

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Frequently Asked Questions

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