2017 Nissan Maxima Reliability ReportKeepScore 78/100 · top failure points · buy or avoid
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.
The 2017 Nissan Maxima offers a captivating blend of V6 power, sharp styling, and a refined interior that makes it an attractive used vehicle. However, the Xtronic CVT remains a significant reliability wildcard, demanding vigilant maintenance and a potential budget for a costly replacement. If you can verify impecca…
Best Model Years
2018-2020 (some minor refinements to CVT, but fundamental design remains), 2009-2014 (prior generation, still with CVT considerations but different issues).
Years to Avoid
2007-2009 (earlier CVT iterations with significant problems), 2015-2017 (first few years of this generation, with prevalent CVT reports).
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 tend to fail first on the 2017 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 (CVT) is prone to internal bearing wear, valve body issues, and belt slippage, leading to shuddering, loss of power, and eventual complete failure. This is often exacerbated by neglected fluid changes.
Front struts, control arm bushings, and sway bar links can wear prematurely, leading to clunking noises, reduced ride quality, and uneven tire wear. This is typical for a performance-oriented sedan.
Owners report issues with the infotainment system freezing or lagging, occasional sensor failures (e.g., crank position sensor), and failing door lock actuators. These are generally nuisance items rather than catastrophic failures.
2017 Nissan Maxima Mileage Danger Zones
The mileage windows when the 2017 Nissan Maxima most commonly needs attention. Plan ahead, budget accordingly, and inspect before you cross each threshold.
Low Risk Zone
At this mileage, most issues are still covered by the factory warranty. Focus on verifying routine maintenance has been performed.
Maintenance Zone
This is a critical interval for major service, especially the CVT fluid change. Neglecting this dramatically increases future risk.
Elevated Risk Zone
The risk of CVT failure significantly increases. Other major components may also require attention outside of warranty.
High Risk Zone
Beyond 100k, any major component can fail. Budgeting for a potential CVT replacement becomes almost a certainty if not already replaced.
2017 Nissan Maxima Ownership Cost Outlook
What it typically costs to keep the 2017 Nissan Maxima on the road. Full 5-year cost-of-ownership projection and major-failure-risk forecast are in the report.
Annual Maintenance
$500-700
Moderate Repairs
$700-2,000 occasionally (suspension work, electrical fixes)
How Long Does the 2017 Nissan Maxima Last?
For maximum peace of mind, target models with less than 60,000 miles and a documented history of CVT fluid changes every 30,000 miles. Beyond 90,000 miles, the risk of transmission failure escalates significantly.
What 2017 Nissan Maxima Owners Actually Say
What Owners Love
- Potent VQ35DE V6 engine provides strong acceleration
- Upscale and comfortable interior with good material quality
- Distinctive, sporty exterior styling
- Comfortable ride quality for highway cruising
Common Frustrations
- Significant concerns over CVT longevity and expensive failure risk
- Rear passenger headroom can be limited for taller occupants
- Road and tire noise can be noticeable at highway speeds
- Infotainment system can be buggy or slow at times
Who Should Buy the 2017 Nissan Maxima?
Best For
- Drivers prioritizing V6 performance and bold styling over absolute long-term reliability
- Those who are diligent about proactive and meticulous vehicle maintenance, especially for the CVT
- Buyers looking for a comfortable and well-equipped highway cruiser
Not Ideal For
- Drivers seeking bulletproof long-term reliability without proactive maintenance
- Those on a very tight budget for unexpected major repairs
How the 2017 Nissan Maxima Compares to Rivals
The Maxima offers a sportier and more distinctive driving experience than many rivals, but its Xtronic CVT is often the primary differentiator in terms of long-term reliability compared to the more robust automatic transmissions found in its Japanese competitors.
More Reliable Than
- Chrysler 300 (pre-ZF 8-speed models)
- Ford Taurus (some model years)
Comparable To
- Chevrolet Impala
- Kia Cadenza
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.
Competing 2017s Worth a Look
Similar class, similar year range — ranked by KeepScore.
Relevant Products for Your 2017 Nissan Maxima
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Frequently Asked Questions
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