In the fullsize sedan class, the Nissan Maxima has been a consistent proposition since it was first introduced in 1990. In over two decades, the Japanese proposition has carved a niche for itself with its ergonomic yet opulent setup, comfortable seats, and likable ride quality. The standard V6 engine is bliss and with precise handling capabilities, the 2011 Maxima nails the brief of being a family-hauler and more. It is practically priced and belongs to a culture of reliable offerings which allows it bestows a dependable performance. In the current iteration, it has 98 complaints registered to its name, none of which seem to have a widespread impact. There are no investigations and the vehicle is yet to be recalled by the brand. What are the problems with Nissan’s flagship option and how does it compare against the likes of the Acura TL, the Toyota Avalon, and the Honda Accord.
2011 Nissan Maxima User Complaints and Problems
Safety Complaints
- Faltering Occupant Detection System: In the 2011 Nissan Maxima common problems list, buyers have reported the passenger airbag remaining disabled. This happens due to the Occupant Detection System failing to identify a passenger in the front seat, which interferes with the normal operation of the airbag. It results in the airbag warning light remaining illuminated and qualifies as a safety concern because of its implications.
Mechanical Complaints
- Failure of the transmission unit: The 2011 Nissan Maxima transmission failure has been a recurring concern. In the current iteration, buyers have reported the vehicle slipping out of gears and making abnormal noises when gears are changed. Upon diagnosis, it has been confirmed that the transmission fails prematurely, which can also result in the vehicle stalling inadvertently, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Problem with the Mass Airflow Sensor: The Mass Airflow Sensor that regulates the delivery of the fuel mass to the engine has been reported failing in several models from Nissan, including the 2011 Maxima. In the current iteration, it results in the check engine warning light illuminating and increases the risk of the vehicle stalling unexpectedly.
Structural Complaints
- Melting dashboard: In the Nissan Maxima problems list, the dashboard of the fullsize sedan has been reported melting due to high temperatures. As a result, the sticky black coating slides downward and allows sunlight to reflect off of it. It results in the driver’s visibility getting restricted and can increase the risk of a crash.
- Explosion of the sunroof: In a handful of cases, buyers of the 2011 Maxima have reported the sunroof exploding without any impact or incidence. As a result, the glass pane shatters, which causes the glass fragments to fly outward and into the cabin. This has resulted in injuries to the occupants.
2011 Nissan Maxima Recalls
There are no recalls for the 2011 Nissan Maxima yet.
Should you buy the 2011 Nissan Maxima?
Compared to its sales figures of 60,000 units, the 2011 Nissan Maxima’s complaints and problems do not seem to be concerning. In the truest sense, the fullsize sedan is a reliable proposition that does not trouble the buyers with its frequent visits to the dealership. Additionally, with no recalls, buyers can be assured that none of the problems experienced will have a worrying effect on the vehicle. So, from a reliability standpoint, the Japanese option makes for a sensible choice. Its dependability clubbed with its adequate comfort levels, opulent interior setup, and easy-going ride quality, the Maxima emerges as a formidable vehicle that deserves your attention.
