How Many Miles Does a Nissan Maxima Last

The Nissan Maxima is known for its reliability and can last between 150,000 to 200,000 miles with proper care—some even exceed 250,000 miles. Regular maintenance, timely oil changes, and attentive driving habits are key to maximizing its lifespan.

Key Takeaways

• Average Lifespan: Most Nissan Maximas last between 150,000 and 200,000 miles, with well-maintained models reaching 250,000+ miles.
• Engine Durability: The VQ-series V6 engines are robust and long-lasting when serviced regularly and driven responsibly.
• Maintenance Matters: Following the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule drastically increases longevity and reduces repair costs.
• Transmission Care: The CVT (continuously variable transmission) in newer models requires timely fluid changes to avoid premature failure.
• Driving Habits Impact Mileage: Smooth acceleration, avoiding excessive idling, and highway driving help extend engine life.
• Common Issues to Watch: Early models may face CVT problems, while older Maximas can develop oil consumption or suspension wear.
• Resale Value & Longevity: High-mileage Maximas in good condition retain decent resale value due to their reputation for durability.

How Many Miles Does a Nissan Maxima Last?

So, you’re thinking about buying a Nissan Maxima—or maybe you already own one and are wondering how long it’ll last. That’s a smart question. After all, cars are a big investment, and you want to get the most miles out of your ride as possible. The good news? The Nissan Maxima has built a solid reputation over the years for being a dependable, long-lasting sedan. But just how many miles can you expect from this sleek, performance-oriented four-door?

On average, a well-maintained Nissan Maxima can last between 150,000 and 200,000 miles. That’s impressive for a midsize sedan, especially one that blends sporty handling with luxury features. But here’s the real kicker: some owners have reported their Maximas cruising past 250,000 miles with the original engine and transmission. Of course, hitting those high-mileage milestones doesn’t happen by accident. It takes consistent care, smart driving habits, and a little bit of luck. In this guide, we’ll dive deep into what makes the Maxima tick, how to keep it running strong, and what you can do to maximize its lifespan.

What Makes the Nissan Maxima So Durable?

The Nissan Maxima has been around since 1981, evolving from a compact performance car into a full-fledged luxury sedan. Over the decades, it’s earned a reputation for blending power, comfort, and reliability. But what exactly makes it so durable? Let’s break it down.

Engine Strength: The Heart of the Maxima

One of the biggest reasons the Maxima lasts so long is its engine. Most models from the early 2000s to the mid-2010s are powered by the VQ-series V6 engine, particularly the VQ35DE. This 3.5-liter V6 is known for its smooth power delivery, strong torque, and impressive longevity. It’s been used in everything from the Maxima to the Nissan 350Z and Infiniti G35, proving its reliability across multiple platforms.

The VQ35DE produces around 265 to 300 horsepower, depending on the model year, and it’s built with an aluminum block and heads, which reduces weight and improves heat dissipation. More importantly, it’s engineered with tight tolerances and high-quality internal components that can withstand years of use—provided they’re properly maintained.

Real-world examples back this up. Plenty of Maxima owners on forums like Reddit, CarTalk, and Nissan enthusiast sites have shared stories of their cars hitting 200,000+ miles with only routine maintenance. One owner on a Maxima forum reported driving his 2004 Maxima for over 280,000 miles before selling it—still running strong with the original engine.

Build Quality and Materials

Beyond the engine, the Maxima’s overall build quality contributes to its longevity. Nissan used durable materials in the chassis and suspension components, especially in models from the 2004–2015 era. The unibody construction is rigid, which helps reduce stress on components over time. Additionally, the Maxima’s suspension—featuring struts up front and a multi-link setup in the rear—is designed for both comfort and durability.

Of course, no car is perfect. Some older Maximas (especially 2000–2003 models) had issues with rust on the rear wheel wells and undercarriage, particularly in snowy climates where road salt is used. But with regular washing and undercoating, this can be minimized. Later models improved rust protection, making them even more resilient.

Transmission Reliability: CVT vs. Traditional Auto

Here’s where things get a bit tricky. Starting around 2009, Nissan began introducing continuously variable transmissions (CVTs) in the Maxima. While CVTs offer smoother acceleration and better fuel economy, they’ve been a point of concern for some owners.

Early CVTs in the Maxima (especially 2009–2013 models) were known to develop issues like hesitation, jerking, or even complete failure—sometimes before 100,000 miles. However, Nissan made significant improvements in later years. By 2016 and beyond, the CVT in the Maxima became much more reliable, especially when properly maintained.

The key to CVT longevity? Regular fluid changes. Unlike traditional automatics, CVTs require specific fluid and more frequent changes—typically every 30,000 to 60,000 miles. Skipping these changes can lead to overheating and premature wear. If you’re buying a used Maxima with a CVT, check the service history to ensure the fluid has been changed on schedule.

Real-World Mileage Examples from Maxima Owners

Numbers are great, but real stories from real people make the data come alive. Let’s look at some actual examples of how long Nissan Maximas have lasted in the wild.

Case Study: The 280,000-Mile Maxima

One of the most impressive stories comes from a 2004 Maxima owner in Texas. He bought the car new and drove it for over 18 years, racking up more than 280,000 miles. The car still had the original engine and transmission, and the only major repairs were a timing belt replacement at 150,000 miles and a water pump swap at 220,000 miles. He credited the longevity to religious oil changes every 3,000 miles, using synthetic oil, and avoiding aggressive driving.

High-Mileage Daily Driver: 240,000 Miles and Counting

Another owner, this time in Colorado, has been driving her 2009 Maxima for over 14 years. It now has 240,000 miles and still serves as her daily commuter. She replaced the CVT fluid every 40,000 miles and had the radiator upgraded to prevent overheating. She also replaced the struts and control arms around 200,000 miles but says the engine still runs like new.

Fleet Use: Taxis and Rental Cars

Interestingly, the Maxima has seen use in taxi fleets and rental car companies, which is a strong indicator of durability. While not as common as the Toyota Camry or Honda Accord, some independent taxi operators have used Maximas for high-mileage service. One former taxi driver in New York reported putting over 300,000 miles on a 2006 Maxima before retiring it—proof that with the right care, these cars can go the distance.

How to Maximize Your Maxima’s Lifespan

So, you want your Maxima to last 200,000 miles or more? Great goal—and totally achievable. But it takes more than just hoping for the best. Here’s a practical, step-by-step guide to keeping your Maxima running strong for years to come.

Follow the Maintenance Schedule—Religiously

Nissan provides a detailed maintenance schedule in the owner’s manual, and sticking to it is the single most important thing you can do. This includes:

• Oil changes every 5,000 to 7,500 miles (or every 3,000 if you drive in severe conditions like stop-and-go traffic or extreme temperatures)
• Timing belt replacement every 60,000 to 100,000 miles (depending on model year—some use timing chains, which don’t need replacing)
• Transmission fluid changes every 30,000 to 60,000 miles (especially critical for CVT models)
• Coolant flushes every 60,000 to 100,000 miles
• Brake fluid replacement every 2–3 years

Skipping or delaying these services can lead to costly repairs down the road. For example, a failed timing belt can destroy the engine if it breaks while running. And old transmission fluid can cause slipping, overheating, and eventual failure.

Use Quality Fluids and Parts

Not all motor oil is created equal. For the Maxima’s V6 engine, it’s best to use full synthetic oil with the correct viscosity (usually 5W-30). Synthetic oil offers better protection, especially under high heat and load, and it lasts longer than conventional oil.

Similarly, use OEM (original equipment manufacturer) or high-quality aftermarket parts for repairs. Cheap alternators, water pumps, or suspension components may save you money upfront but can fail prematurely and cause secondary damage.

Drive Smart

How you drive has a huge impact on engine and transmission life. Avoid:

• Hard acceleration and braking—this puts extra stress on the engine, transmission, and brakes
• Excessive idling—modern engines don’t need long warm-up times; 30 seconds is plenty
• Towing heavy loads—the Maxima isn’t designed for towing, and doing so can overheat the transmission

Instead, practice smooth driving. Accelerate gently, coast to stops when possible, and avoid racing the engine when cold. Highway driving is actually easier on the engine than city driving because it maintains consistent RPMs and reduces stop-and-go wear.

Watch for Warning Signs

Your Maxima will often give you hints that something’s wrong before a major failure occurs. Pay attention to:

• Check Engine Light—don’t ignore it. Get it scanned at an auto parts store or mechanic
• Unusual noises—knocking, ticking, or whining can indicate engine or transmission issues
• Transmission slipping or jerking—especially common in CVT models if fluid is old
• Oil leaks—small leaks can turn into big problems if left unchecked

Addressing small issues early can prevent expensive repairs later. For example, replacing a leaking valve cover gasket for $200 now is much cheaper than rebuilding the engine later due to oil starvation.

Common Problems and How to Avoid Them

No car is perfect, and the Maxima has a few known issues—especially depending on the model year. Being aware of these can help you catch problems early and extend your car’s life.

CVT Transmission Issues (2009–2013)

As mentioned earlier, early CVTs in the Maxima were prone to failure. Symptoms include hesitation during acceleration, a “rubber band” feeling, or a loud whining noise. The fix? Regular fluid changes and avoiding aggressive driving. If you’re buying a used Maxima from this era, have the transmission inspected by a specialist.

Oil Consumption (2004–2008 Models)

Some 2004–2008 Maximas with the VQ35DE engine were known to burn oil—sometimes a quart every 1,000 miles. This isn’t necessarily a death sentence, but it requires vigilance. Check your oil level every time you fill up gas, and top it off as needed. If consumption exceeds a quart per 1,000 miles, have the engine checked for worn piston rings or valve seals.

Suspension Wear (High-Mileage Models)

As the Maxima ages, suspension components like struts, control arms, and bushings wear out. This leads to a rougher ride, poor handling, and uneven tire wear. Replacing these parts isn’t cheap—expect $800–$1,500 for a full suspension refresh—but it’s essential for safety and comfort.

Electrical Gremlins (2016+ Models)

Newer Maximas (2016 and later) have more advanced electronics, which can sometimes lead to glitches. Issues like infotainment system freezes, backup camera failures, or sensor malfunctions have been reported. Most are fixed with software updates from the dealer, so keep your car’s software current.

Is a High-Mileage Maxima Worth Buying?

Let’s say you’re shopping for a used Maxima and find one with 180,000 miles. Should you buy it? It depends—but it’s not automatically a bad idea.

A well-documented service history is your best friend. Look for records of oil changes, timing belt replacements, and transmission service. If the previous owner followed the maintenance schedule, that high-mileage Maxima could still have plenty of life left.

Also, consider the model year. A 2015 Maxima with 180,000 miles and full service records is likely a better bet than a 2005 model with unknown history—even if the older car has fewer miles. Newer models have better technology, safety features, and improved reliability.

Finally, get a pre-purchase inspection (PPI) from a trusted mechanic. They’ll check the engine, transmission, suspension, and electronics for hidden issues. It might cost $100–$150, but it could save you thousands in repairs.

Conclusion: The Maxima Can Go the Distance

So, how many miles does a Nissan Maxima last? The answer is clear: with proper care, it can easily reach 150,000 to 200,000 miles, and many go well beyond that. The Maxima’s strong V6 engine, solid build quality, and sporty appeal make it a standout in the midsize sedan category—not just for performance, but for longevity.

But remember, longevity isn’t just about the car—it’s about how you treat it. Regular maintenance, quality fluids, smart driving habits, and timely repairs are what separate the 200,000-mile Maximas from the ones that give up at 100,000. If you’re willing to put in the effort, your Maxima can be a reliable companion for years to come.

Whether you’re driving a 2004 model with 250,000 miles or a 2020 with 50,000, the principles are the same: take care of it, and it’ll take care of you. So go ahead—hit the road with confidence. Your Maxima has miles to go.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many miles can a Nissan Maxima last with proper maintenance?

With proper maintenance, a Nissan Maxima can last between 150,000 and 200,000 miles. Some well-cared-for models have even surpassed 250,000 miles with the original engine and transmission.

What is the most reliable year for the Nissan Maxima?

The 2004–2008 and 2016–2020 model years are often considered the most reliable. These years feature durable V6 engines and fewer reported issues compared to early CVT models (2009–2013).

Do Nissan Maximas have transmission problems?

Early CVT models (2009–2013) had reported transmission issues like hesitation and failure. Later models improved significantly, especially with regular fluid changes every 30,000 to 60,000 miles.

How often should I change the oil in my Nissan Maxima?

For most driving conditions, change the oil every 5,000 to 7,500 miles. If you drive in severe conditions (stop-and-go traffic, extreme temperatures), consider changing it every 3,000 miles.

Can a Nissan Maxima reach 300,000 miles?

While rare, it’s possible. A few owners have reported driving their Maximas past 280,000 miles, and with meticulous care, reaching 300,000 miles isn’t out of the question.

Is the Nissan Maxima expensive to maintain?

The Maxima is moderately priced to maintain. Routine services are affordable, but repairs like suspension work or CVT replacements can be costly if neglected. Regular maintenance helps avoid major expenses.