Technical Specs

• Body: 4-door midsize sedan (FWD)
• Engine: 3.5L V6 (300 hp / 261 lb-ft)
• Transmission: Xtronic CVT
• Fuel economy (EPA): ~22 mpg city / 30 mpg highway
• Curb weight: ~3,500 lb
• Suspension: Independent (front/rear)

Performance

• 0–60 mph: ~5.7 seconds
• Smooth, torque-rich acceleration from the V6
• Steering tuned for sport-sedan feel
• Cabin quietness is a strong point at highway speeds

1. CVT shudder or slipping
   – Symptoms: Hesitation, RPM flare, judder on acceleration
   – Root Cause: CVT belt/pulley wear, overheated fluid
   – Fix: Scan TCM, inspect fluid condition, software update or CVT replacement if severe
   – Cost to Fix: $250–$450 (service) / $3,500–$5,500 (replacement)
2. Engine overheating
   – Symptoms: Rising temp gauge, coolant smell
   – Root Cause: Failing radiator, thermostat, or water pump
   – Fix: Pressure test, replace failed cooling component, bleed system
   – Cost to Fix: $300–$900
3. Oil consumption
   – Symptoms: Low oil between services, blue smoke on start
   – Root Cause: Worn piston rings or valve seals (VQ35)
   – Fix: Monitor consumption; engine repair if excessive
   – Cost to Fix: $0–$400 (monitoring) / $3,000–$6,000 (engine work)
4. Timing chain noise
   – Symptoms: Rattle on cold start
   – Root Cause: Stretched chain or worn tensioner
   – Fix: Replace timing chain components
   – Cost to Fix: $1,200–$2,500
5. Brake rotor warping
   – Symptoms: Steering wheel shake while braking
   – Root Cause: Heat buildup on heavy front end
   – Fix: Replace rotors and pads as a set
   – Cost to Fix: $350–$800
6. Suspension bushing wear
   – Symptoms: Clunks over bumps, uneven tire wear
   – Root Cause: Aging rubber bushings
   – Fix: Replace worn control arm bushings
   – Cost to Fix: $500–$1,200
7. Exhaust flex pipe leak
   – Symptoms: Loud exhaust, ticking noise
   – Root Cause: Metal fatigue at flex joint
   – Fix: Replace flex pipe or exhaust section
   – Cost to Fix: $300–$900
8. Motor mount failure
   – Symptoms: Vibration at idle, clunk on gear change
   – Root Cause: Hydraulic mount wear
   – Fix: Replace failed mount(s)
   – Cost to Fix: $400–$900
9. Power steering noise
   – Symptoms: Whining when turning
   – Root Cause: Low or contaminated fluid (electric-assist systems still use fluid components)
   – Fix: Fluid service or component replacement
   – Cost to Fix: $150–$800
10. Thermostat stuck open
    – Symptoms: Poor heater output, P0128 code
    – Root Cause: Thermostat failure
    – Fix: Replace thermostat
    – Cost to Fix: $250–$600

1. Infotainment screen freezing
   – Symptoms: Touchscreen unresponsive
   – Root Cause: Software bugs, memory faults
   – Fix: Software update or head unit replacement
   – Cost to Fix: $0–$1,200
2. Battery drain
   – Symptoms: Dead battery overnight
   – Root Cause: Parasitic draw from modules
   – Fix: Draw test, update or replace faulty module
   – Cost to Fix: $150–$600
3. ABS/VDC warning lights
   – Symptoms: ABS or traction control disabled
   – Root Cause: Wheel speed sensor failure
   – Fix: Replace faulty sensor
   – Cost to Fix: $200–$450
4. Power window failure
   – Symptoms: Window stuck or slow
   – Root Cause: Regulator motor wear
   – Fix: Replace window regulator
   – Cost to Fix: $250–$600
5. Keyless entry issues
   – Symptoms: Door won’t unlock remotely
   – Root Cause: Weak fob battery or antenna fault
   – Fix: Replace fob battery or antenna module
   – Cost to Fix: $10–$350
6. Backup camera failure
   – Symptoms: Blank or flickering image
   – Root Cause: Camera module or wiring issue
   – Fix: Replace camera or repair wiring
   – Cost to Fix: $300–$900
7. HVAC control malfunction
   – Symptoms: Incorrect vent temperature
   – Root Cause: Blend door actuator failure
   – Fix: Replace actuator and recalibrate system
   – Cost to Fix: $250–$700
8. TPMS warning light
   – Symptoms: Tire pressure light stays on
   – Root Cause: Sensor battery depletion
   – Fix: Replace TPMS sensor(s)
   – Cost to Fix: $60–$120 per wheel
9. Audio system distortion
   – Symptoms: Crackling or no sound
   – Root Cause: Amplifier overheating or wiring fault
   – Fix: Repair wiring or replace amplifier
   – Cost to Fix: $300–$1,000
10. Airbag warning light
    – Symptoms: SRS light illuminated
    – Root Cause: Clock spring or seat sensor issue
    – Fix: Diagnose SRS circuit; replace faulty component
    – Cost to Fix: $250–$1,200

Top 10 Recalls, Advisories & TSB Highlights

ECM (Engine Control Module)

TCM (Transmission Control Module)

ABS / ESC

SRS Airbag System

Body Control / CAN

1. What engine does the 2016 Maxima have? It comes with a 3.5L V6 engine producing 300 horsepower and 261 lb-ft of torque, paired with a CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission). It’s front-wheel drive only.

2. What are the available trim levels? The 2016 Maxima offers five trims: S, SV, SL, SR, and Platinum. Each adds features like leather seats, navigation, premium audio, and advanced safety tech.

3. What’s the fuel economy? EPA estimates are 22 mpg city / 30 mpg highway / 25 mpg combined, which is solid for a V6 sedan.

4. Is it reliable? The 2016 Maxima has mixed reliability ratings. It’s known for CVT transmission issues in Nissan’s lineup, though the Maxima’s transmission tends to be more robust than smaller Nissan models.

5. What safety features are included? Standard features include stability control, traction control, and multiple airbags. Higher trims offer blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, forward collision warning, and automatic emergency braking.

6. How much cargo and passenger space is there? It seats 5 adults comfortably with 14.3 cubic feet of trunk space. Rear legroom is 35 inches, making it spacious for a midsize sedan.

7. What’s the typical price range for a used 2016 Maxima? Depending on mileage, condition, and trim, expect to pay roughly $12,000–$18,000 in today’s used market.

8. Are parts and maintenance expensive? Maintenance costs are moderate for the class. Parts are generally affordable, though CVT repairs (if needed) can be costly.

9. What are common problems to watch for? Watch for CVT transmission issues (shuddering, hesitation), premature brake wear, and infotainment glitches.

10. Is it good for long-distance driving? Yes, the Maxima is comfortable for highway cruising with supportive seats, low noise levels, and good power for passing.

The 2016 Maxima offers strong performance and upscale styling at a competitive price point. However, potential CVT concerns make a pre-purchase inspection and verification of maintenance history essential. If you’re considering one, have a trusted mechanic inspect the transmission carefully.