Is the 2019 Nissan Maxima reliable?

It’s generally considered a solid, above-average full-size sedan when maintained well, with the biggest reliability discussions centered on long-term CVT performance and occasional electronics issues.

What are the most common 2019 Nissan Maxima problems?

The most reported issues include CVT hesitation/shudder, infotainment or Bluetooth glitches, brake vibration or faster wear, and interior rattles/squeaks.

Are 2019 Nissan Maxima maintenance costs expensive?

Costs are typically moderate for a V6 sedan—routine services like oil changes, brakes, tires, and fluids are straightforward, but transmission-related repairs can be costly if the CVT develops problems.

What are the best years to buy a Nissan Maxima?

Many shoppers prefer later years of the eighth generation (2016–2023) because the platform and features are modern, with 2019–2021 often viewed as a sweet spot for updated tech and strong value in the used market.

What should I check before buying a used 2019 Nissan Maxima?

Confirm clean maintenance records (especially CVT service), test for any shudder or delayed acceleration, verify infotainment and backup camera operation, inspect brake feel for pulsation, and check for abnormal interior rattles during a rough-road drive. For deeper details, get a complete owner’s guide with full specs, trim differences, and the recommended maintenance schedules to keep a 2019 Nissan Maxima running at its best.

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

2019 Nissan Maxima Reliability ReportC- grade · moderate risk · system-by-system breakdown

72/ 100

KeepScore

MODERATE RISK

Grade: C-

A stylish, powerful sedan whose main Achilles' heel is its potentially problematic CVT, demanding cautious ownership.

Full system breakdown + what I would do

Quick Facts · 2019 Nissan Maxima

The system most likely to surface first: xtronic cvt transmission (major severity).
Has 1 NHTSA recall on record — the most notable involves the back over prevention: sensing system: camera.
Scores 13 points below the strongest nearby year — the 2020 Nissan Maxima earns a 85.

Is the 2019 Nissan Maxima Worth Buying?

The 2019 Nissan Maxima offers a compelling blend of V6 performance and upscale comfort, but its long-term reliability is significantly overshadowed by concerns regarding the Xtronic CVT. While the engine is robust, potential transmission issues elevate the risk for used buyers, necessitating thorough pre-purchase scrutiny and diligent maintenance to avoid costly repairs.

Biggest Strengths

Robust and proven VQ35DE V6 engine
Comfortable and well-appointed interior
Engaging driving dynamics for a full-size sedan

What Tends to Fail First on the 2019 Nissan Maxima

The systems that break first on the 2019 Nissan Maxima. Mileage windows, repair costs, and fix-before-you-buy notes are in the full report.

Xtronic CVT Transmissionmajor

Infotainment/Electrical Systemmoderate

Front Suspension Componentsmoderate

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

2019 Nissan Maxima Recall History

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

BACK OVER PREVENTION: SENSING SYSTEM: CAMERA

Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2018-2019 Nissan Altima, Armada, Frontier, Kicks, Leaf, Maxima, Murano, NV, NV200, Pathfinder, Rogue, Rogue Sport, Sentra, Titan, Titan Diesel, Versa Note and Versa Sedan vehicles, as well as Infiniti Q50, Q60, QX30 and QX80 vehicles. Additionally included are 2019 Nissan GT-R and Taxi and Infiniti QX50, QX60, Q70, Q70L vehicles. The back-up camera and display settings can be adjusted such that the rear view image is no longer visible and the system will retain that setting the next time the vehicle is placed in reverse. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 111, "Rear Visibility."

What breaks on the 2019 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.

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

2019 Nissan Maxima Alternatives

Similar class, similar year range — ranked by KeepScore.

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Frequently Asked Questions

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