What are the most common problems with the 2016 Nissan Maxima?

The 2016 Maxima received top safety ratings across all NHTSA crash tests.

How many recalls does the 2016 Nissan Maxima have?

The 2016 Nissan Maxima currently has 8 recalls on file. Review the full recall report to see affected components and available remedies.

Is the 2016 Nissan Maxima a good buy used?

Verdict: Proceed with caution. The 2016 Maxima received top safety ratings across all NHTSA crash tests. Expect combined fuel economy of 25 MPG, suitable for its class. Multiple critical recalls, particularly for the ABS system, require verification of completion. The ABS system is a key area for pre-purchase inspection due to potential fluid leaks. Despite a lack of consumer complaints, the high recall count suggests potential underlying issues. Always verify service history, open recalls, and maintenance records before purchasing.

What maintenance costs should I expect for the 2016 Nissan Maxima?

Refer to the maintenance cost guide for interval schedules, DIY difficulty ratings, and typical repair cost ranges for the 2016 Nissan Maxima.

2016 Nissan Maxima Report

Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Updated Jun 15, 2026Ethan Miller8 Critical Recalls

Overall Score

Our Verdict

Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

The 2016 Maxima received top safety ratings across all NHTSA crash tests.
Expect combined fuel economy of 25 MPG, suitable for its class.
Multiple critical recalls, particularly for the ABS system, require verification of completion.
The ABS system is a key area for pre-purchase inspection due to potential fluid leaks.

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Overview

2016 Nissan Maxima

The 2016 Nissan Maxima, often marketed as a four-door sports sedan, offers a compelling blend of performance and comfort for its class. It features a robust 3.5-liter V6 engine paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and front-wheel drive. Safety scores are stellar, with perfect marks across the board from NHTSA. However, potential buyers should be aware of a significant number of recalls, especially those related to the braking system, which warrant careful consideration and inspection.

Critical Failure Risk

Multiple recalls address issues with the ABS actuator pump, including potential leaks and warning lights. This is a critical safety system failure.

Early detection can help you avoid a $1,000-$2,500 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Recall Campaigns8

Service Bulletins159

Campaign counts apply to this model year, not your VIN's repair status. Check your VIN with NHTSA.

Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

No primary complaint themes found.

Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency

Combined

MPG

City

MPG

Highway

MPG

Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

Practicality

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Drivers seeking a comfortable and stylish sedan with a powerful V6 engine.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Buyers seeking a vehicle with a flawless reliability record.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2016 Nissan Maxima Reliability Analysis

Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type: Premium
Transmission: Automatic (AV-S7)
Drivetrain: Front-Wheel Drive
Body Style: Sedan
EPA Combined MPG: 25

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Most Common Issues

1. ABS Actuator Pump Failure

Most reported

Usage data observed

2. Occupant Classification System Malfunction

Usage data observed

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection

Est. shop cost: $75 - $125

5,000 mi

Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist

Complete maintenance schedule (4 service intervals)

Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context

Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it

Full specs and trim-level context

8 recall campaign details & remedy notes

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FAQ

Is the 2016 Nissan Maxima reliable?

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2016 Nissan Maxima is 7.6/10. Reliability score is 7.6/10. NHTSA recalls: 8. Owner complaints: 0.

How practical is the 2016 Nissan Maxima for daily use?

Practicality score is 5.0/10. EPA combined economy is 25 MPG.

What is the overall score for the 2016 Nissan Maxima?

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2016 Nissan Maxima is 7.4/10. Overall score is 7.4/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 7.8/10. Practicality 5.0/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2016 Nissan Maxima?

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection at 5,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $400 - $700. Repair prediction highlight: ABS Actuator Assembly (typical at 75,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $1,000 • Max: $2,500).

What engine is in the 2016 Nissan Maxima?

Engine specs list 6 • 3.5.

What transmission does the 2016 Nissan Maxima use?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 Nissan Maxima, transmission is Automatic (AV-S7). The paired drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive.

Does the 2016 Maxima require Premium gas?

Manufacturer fuel recommendation: Premium.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2016 Nissan Maxima?

EPA combined estimate is 25 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2016 Nissan Maxima?

1 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Tire Pressure Monitoring System.

What body style is the 2016 Nissan Maxima?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 Nissan Maxima, body style is sedan.

What drivetrain does the 2016 Nissan Maxima use?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 Nissan Maxima, drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (AV-S7).

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2016 Nissan Maxima?

NHTSA ratings: Overall 5/5 • Frontal 5/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 5/5.

Are there open safety recalls on the 2016 Nissan Maxima?

This model year has 8 official safety campaigns listed.