Owners filed 113 complaints about this vehicle with federal regulators, most often about the airbags. It has been recalled 6 times.
Avoid One of the Nissan Maxima years to avoid: an unusual share of fires, crashes and deaths for a car of its age. Which Nissan Maxima years to avoid →
When it fails
110000110,000 milesMedian miles at failure
41 complaints record an odometer reading. Failures cluster around 150,000–200,000 miles.
Most common 1998 Nissan Maxima problems
23 of the 113 complaints (20%) are about the airbags.
Component
Reports
Crashes
Fires
Injuries
Electrical System › Alternator/Generator/Regulator
9
0
7
0
Air Bags · airbags
8
3
0
3
Electrical System
7
0
0
0
Air Bags › Frontal · airbags
7
4
0
2
Tires
6
1
0
0
Unknown or Other
5
0
0
0
Service Brakes, Hydraulic › Antilock/Traction Control/Electronic Limited Slip · brakes
4
0
0
0
Air Bags › Side/Window · airbags
4
1
0
3
Air Bags › Frontal › Sensor/Control Module · airbags
Defect. DOPE, INC. IS RECALLING 42,540 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.
Risk. DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
Remedy. DOPE, INC. WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 28, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT DOPE, INC. AT 1-626-272-1798.
Defect. SABERSPORT IS RECALLING 16,270 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.
Risk. DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
Remedy. SABERSPORT WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 11, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SABERSPORT AT 1-909-598-7589.
Filed Aug 11, 20081,921 vehiclesK2 Motor Corporation
Defect. K2 MOTOR IS RECALLING 1,921 AFTERMARKET HEADLAMPS OF VARIOUS MODELS SOLD FOR USE ON THE ABOVE LISTED VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS ARE MISSING THE AMBER SIDE REFLEX REFLECTOR WHICH FAILS TO CONFORM WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT."
Risk. WITHOUT THE AMBER SIDE REFLEX REFLECTORS, THE LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY BE AFFECTED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
Remedy. K2 MOTOR WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND. THE RECALL BEGAN ON DECEMEBER 17, 2008. OWNERS MAY CONTACT K2 MOTOR AT 1-909-839-2992.
Filed May 24, 200627,176 vehiclesCk Motorsport, Inc.
Defect. CERTAIN CK MOTORSPORTS COMBINATION HEADLIGHTS, CLEAR CORNER, BUMPER, AND SIDE MARKER LIGHTS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON THE PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS THAT ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.
Risk. WITHOUT THE AMBER REFLECTORS, THE VEHICLE WILL BE POORLY ILLUMINATED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.
Remedy. CK MOTORSPORT WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE NONCOMPLIANT LAMPS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 1, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT CK MOTORSPORT AT 1-909-610-7211.
Filed Mar 23, 200661,944 vehiclesPro-A Motors, Inc.
Defect. CERTAIN PRO-A MOTORS CORNER LAMPS, TURN SIGNALS, AND HEADLIGHTS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS THAT ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.
Risk. WITHOUT THE AMBER REFLECTORS, THE VEHICLE WILL BE POORLY ILLUMINATED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.
Remedy. PRO-A MOTORS WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER TO REPURCHASE THE LAMPS. THE RECALL BEGAN ON APRIL 3, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT PRO-A MOTORS AT 323-838-2988.
Electrical System › Alternator/Generator/Regulator02V171000
Filed Jun 24, 2002161,000 vehiclesNissan North America, Inc.
Defect. ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES, ONE OF THE DIODES USED IN THE ALTERNATOR MAY HAVE BEEN DAMAGED WHEN BUILT. THIS CAN EVENTUALLY RESULT IN FAILURE OF THE DIODE AND AN ELECTRICAL SHORT WHICH COULD MELT THE PLASTIC HOUSING.
Risk. IF THE COMBUSTIBLE GAS EMITTED BY THE MELTING PLASTIC DOES NOT DISPERSE DUE TO AIR FLOW THROUGH THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT, IT COULD IGNITE AND IN TURN IGNITE THE FAN GUIDE IN THE ALTERNATOR.
Remedy. DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE ALTERNATOR. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN JULY 29, 2002. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT NISSAN AT 1-800-647-7261 OR INFINITI AT 1-800-662-6200.
All 6 campaigns on file, newest first.
What owners reported
Newest filings
Structure › Frame and Members
Filed Sep 7, 2021110,000 milesIL
The contact owns a 1998 Nissan Maxima. The contact stated while attempting to lift the vehicle onto a jack, the rocker panels started to cave in due to severe corrosion and rusting. The cause of the corrosion was not determined. The local dealer and manufacturer were not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 110,000.
EngineFire
Filed Jan 20, 2015155,418 milesCA
I WISH TO RECEIVE REIMBURSEMENT FOR OUT-OF-POCKET COST OF REPAIR AND INSTALLATION OF NEW PARTS FOR THE VEHICLES ALTERNATOR HAVING CAUGHT ON FIRE. ON OR ABOUT NOVEMBER 24, 2014, MY REQUEST WAS SUBMITTED TO NISSAN OF NORTH PER NISSAN MANUFACTURERS RECALL INSTRUCTIONS. THE RECALL ISSUED IN 2001 WAS STILL OPEN ON THE VEHICLE BY VIN NUMBER. ALL PERTINENT DOCUMENTATION WAS PROVIDED BY FAX AND PHONE TO THE NISSAN SAFETY COMPLAINT UNIT. AS INSTRUCTED BY THE INVESTIGATING AGENT, THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE LOCAL NISSAN DEALERSHIP FOR INSPECTION AND REIMBURSEMENT. IT HAS BEEN FIVE WEEKS (SINCE DECEMBER 23, 2014) OF DELAY AND BROKEN PROMISES, AND I HAVE NOT YET RECEIVED REIMBURSEMENT. (THE VEHICLE FAILED TO START AND BEGAN TO SMOKE; AFTER BEING TOWED TO THE GARAGE, THE ALTERNATOR CAUGHT FIRE AS AN ATTEMPT WAS MADE TO START THE VEHICLE.) PLEASE PROVIDE REIMBURSEMENT OF REPAIR COSTS. *TR
Electrical System › Alternator/Generator/RegulatorFire
Filed Nov 5, 2014170,000 milesCA
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 NISSAN MAXIMA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 10 MPH, SMOKE STARTED TO EMIT FROM THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT. THE VEHICLE WAS MERGED OVER TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD WHERE THE CONTACT NOTICED THE PRESENCE OF FIRE COMING FROM THE ALTERNATOR. THE CONTACT WAS ABLE TO EXTINGUISH THE FIRE. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE CONTACT'S RESIDENCE. THE DEALER WAS CONTACTED AND INDICATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER: 02V171000 (ELECTRICAL SYSTEM). THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 170,000.
Unknown or Other
Filed Jun 13, 2014183,025 milesMN
I JUST PURCHASED A 1998 NISSAN MAXIMA, WENT TO CHANGE OUT THE FRONT BUMPER SKIN AND FENDERS AND AS I TOOK OFF THE BUMPER SKIN THE LOWER RADIATOR SUPPORT IS RUSTED BEYOND BELIEF AND ONLY ONE OF THE BOLTS ON THE CROSS MEMBER HOLDING UP THE WHOLE ENGINE/TRANS AND THAT ONE IS RUSTED TOO. THERE IS A BIG HOLE WHERE THE RUST IS AND ITS AFFECTING THE PERFORMANCE AND SAFETY AS WELL AS HANDLING OF THIS CAR. I'M ACTUALLY SURPRISED THE ENGINE AND TRANSMISSION HAVEN'T FALLEN OUT THE BOTTOM OF THE CAR ALREADY. THIS IS A PAIN TO FIX AND EXPENSIVE, I ALSO HAVE DONE LOTS OF RESEARCH ON THIS AND A WHOLE LOT OF THEM HAVE SAME ISSUE. WHAT CAN/ARE YOU GOING TO DO ABOUT THIS? *JS
Structure › Body
Filed Oct 30, 2013IA
I WOULD LIKE TO KNOW WHY NOTHING HAS BEEN DONE ABOUT NISSAN MAXIMA'S RUSTING AND DETERIORATING RADIATOR SUPPORT (LOWER TIE BAR) THAT HAS BEEN A PROBLEM FROM THE MID 90'S THREW TODAY'S CARS. THERE SHOULD BE A RECALL ON THIS ISSUE AND IT SHOULD EXTEND TO ALL CARS STILL BEING DRIVEN TODAY. I HAVE PUT A LOT OF MONEY INTO MY 98 NOT KNOWING OF THIS DEFECT. THE YEAR OF THE CAR HAS NOTHING TO DO WITH THIS PROBLEM, SINCE IT IS CONTINUING ON BRAND NEW CARS WITH AS LITTLE AS 50,000 MILES ON THEM. AS A TAX PAYING, CAR BUYER. I BELIEVE IF THEY ARE NOT WILLING TO FIX THESE ISSUES. THEN YOU NEED TO FORCE THEM TO DO THE RIGHT THING. *TR
Electrical System
Filed Aug 13, 2013185,000 milesFL
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 NISSAN MAXIMA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT HE ATTEMPTED TO ACTIVATE THE AIR CONDITIONER BUT IT WOULD NOT START. THE VEHICLE WAS INSPECTED BY AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC AND THEY STATED THAT THE A/C CONTROL UNIT NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 185,000.
Engine
Filed May 26, 2013196,345 milesMD
I FAILED STATE INSPECTION BECAUSE MY ENGINE CORE SUPPORT IS ROTTED. I AM NOT THE ONLY PERSON HERE WHO HAS COMPLAINED ABOUT THIS HAPPENING IN THIS MODEL CAR. *TR
Air BagsCrash1 injured
Filed Jan 17, 2013150,000 milesMO
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 NISSAN MAXIMA. THE CONTACT WAS TRAVELING 45 MPH AND TRAVELED OVER A PATCH OF ICE. THE VEHICLE THEN SPUN AROUND AND THE CONTACT LOST CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT ATTEMPTED TO APPLY THE BRAKES BUT THE VEHICLE DID NOT RESPOND. THE CONTACT CRASHED HEAD FIRST INTO AN UNKNOWN OBJECT AND THE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. THE CONTACT SUSTAINED A FRACTURED KNEE AND WAS TRANSPORTED TO THE HOSPITAL. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED. THE POLICE WERE PRESENT ON SCENE AND A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A SALVAGE YARD AND WAS NOT INSPECTED FOR THE AIR BAG FAILURE. IN ADDITION, THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE BRAKES WERE SERVICED TWO MONTHS PRIOR TO THE CRASH. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED WHO ADVISED THAT THERE WERE NO RECALLS AND OFFERED NO FURTHER ASSISTANCE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 150,000.
Electrical System
Filed Oct 19, 2012239,900 milesMN
WHEN WE BOUGHT OUR NISSAN AT 96648 MILES, THERE WAS REMARKABLY LITTLE RUST UNDERNEATH. THE ALTERNATOR WENT OUT ON 10-12-12 AND WE HAD THE CAR TOWED TO A REPAIR SHOP. THEY REFUSED TO REPAIR IT AFTER FINDING THAT THE CORE SUPPORT FOR THE MOTOR IS RUSTED AND ROTTED OUT. FURTHER RESEARCH INDICATES THAT THIS ISSUE HAS OCCURRED IN THIS MODEL OF CAR FOR MANY YEARS. IF WE HAD KNOWN THAT THIS CAR WAS SO UNSAFE WE WOULD NEVER HAVE PURCHASED IT IN THE FIRST PLACE. TOYOTA HAD A SIMILAR PROBLEM WITH THEIR PICKUP TRUCKS AND THEY WERE BUYING BACK THE TRUCKS FOR LARGE SUMS OF MONEY. WHY ISN'T NISSAN DOING / BEING FORCED TO DO THE SAME? WE EXPECTED ANOTHER 50,000 MILES OUT OF THIS CAR AND NOW IT IS WORTHLESS. THERE ARE SO MANY COMPLAINTS ABOUT THIS ISSUE, THERE HAS TO BE A HUGE SAFETY CONCERN. A MAJOR STRUCTURAL COMPONENT SHOULD BE THE LAST THING TO CORRODE. *TR
Structure › Body
Filed Aug 18, 2012148,000 milesNY
ENGINE CORE SUPPORT ROTTED RUSTED AND SPLIT IN HALF. ENGINE AND RADIATOR COULD FALL OUT AND CAUSE CRASH. THIS IS A NYS VEHICLE. *TR
Electrical System
Filed Jul 27, 2011170,000 milesMS
I HAVE A 1998 NISSAN MAXIMA I NOW HAVE TO REPLACE ALL SIX COILS, MAF MASS AIRFLOW, ALL SPARK PLUGS AND WIRES, ALL THREE O2 SENSORS IT STALLS, RUNS ROUGH, AND CUTS OFF. NOW IT WILL NOT START. I HAVE READ NUMEROUS COMPLAINTS ABOUT THIS PROBLEM AND NOONE SEEMS TO WANT TO RESOLVE THE ISSUES THE CUSTOMERS ARE HAVING INCLUDING ME. SEEMS LIKE NISSAN NEEDS A RECALL ON THESE PARTS IT IS VERY DANGEROUS FOR THE CAR TO SHUT OFF IN THE MIDDLE OF TRAFFIC. *TR
Structure › Frame and Members
Filed Mar 28, 201185,000 milesIA
1998 NISSAN MAXIMA WITH RUSTED AND FRACTURED FRONT RADIATOR/ENGINE MOTOR MOUNT SUPPORT STRUT. THE ENGINE IS NOW UNSTABLE AND INCREASING RATTLING FROM BENEATH THE HOOD, ESPECIALLY ON BUMPY ROADS. THE CAR DOES NOT APPEAR SAFE TO DRIVE. THIS CAR WAS PURCHASED RELATIVELY RECENTLY AND THIS ISSUE WAS NOT APPARENT ON INSPECTION AT TIME OF PURCHASE. *TR
Air Bags › Frontal
Filed Nov 18, 2010145,000 milesMA
1998 NISSAN MAXIMA SE AIRBAG LIGHT IS FLASHING. COMPUER TELLS ME IT IS THE RT FRONT AIRBAG. *TR
Structure › Frame and Members
Filed Nov 15, 2010150,000 milesRI
FRONT OF FRAME AT ENGINE ROTTED OUT,MOTOR FALLING OUT OF CAR. *TR
Air Bags › Side/WindowCrash3 injured
Filed Oct 26, 201040,000 milesIL
WAS DRIVING A (BOUGHT NEW) 1998 NISSAN MAXIMA WITH OPTIONAL SIDE AIR BAGS ON LEATHER SEATS IN APR 2003. THE SIDE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY AFTER A SIDE IMPACT FROM LEFT TO RIGHT ON FRONT BUMPER AND LEFT FRONT WHEEL. THE CAR WAS TOTALED BY ACCIDENT. I SUFFER FROM NECK INJURY FROM HITTING THE DRIVER DOOR PILLAR (BY SEAT BELT ADJUSTER). HAD CERVICAL FUSION OF C4 & C5 IN THE NECK. NOW SUFFER A LIFETIME OF PAIN AND NUMBNESS. *TR
Air Bags › Side/Window
Filed Apr 22, 201075,263 milesNY
AFTER RECLINING MY SEAT, THE SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYSTEM WARNING LAMP STARTED TO BLINK AND HAS REMAINED BLINKING EVER SINCE. AFTER DIAGNOSING THE SIDE AIRBAG MODULE IN THE SEAT TO BE CAUSING THE PROBLEM. I FOUND A NISSAN TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN, NTB00-043, APPLYING TO ALL 1998-1999 NISSAN MAXIMA VEHICLES, WHICH STATES THAT THE SIDE AIRBAG MODULES FOR THE DRIVER AND PASSENGER FRONT SEATS ARE TO BE REPLACED WITH NEW UPDATED ONES THAT REPLACE THE SIDE AIRBAG MODULES AND THE SEAT-SUB HARNESS THAT THE MODULES CONNECT TO. THIS IS A MANUFACTURING SAFETY DEFECT IN THE SIDE AIRBAG MODULE'S HARNESS. THE TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN STATES TO ROUTE THE NEW HARNESS EXACTLY AS THE OLD HARNESS WAS ROUTED, THEREFORE ELIMINATING THE POSSIBILITY OF THE HARNESS ROUTING IN THE SEAT BEING THE CAUSE OF THE PROBLEM. THE TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN STATES THAT THE SIDE AIRBAG MODULE INSTALLED ORIGINALLY IN THE VEHICLE CONSISTS OF A TWO PIECE HARNESS; THE AIRBAG CONTROL MODULE WITH A SHORT SECTION OF WIRE THAT CONNECTS INTO A SUB HARNESS THAT IS ROUTED THROUGH THE SEAT, WHERE IT IS CONNECTED TO THE SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYSTEM CIRCUIT. THE UPDATED SIDE AIRBAG MODULE ELIMINATES THE TWO-PIECE HARNESS SYSTEM, REPAIRING THE SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYSTEM FAULT AND THEREFORE ELIMINATING THE WARNING INDICATOR CONSTANTLY FLASHING. THIS REQUIRES THE REPLACEMENT OF THE SIDE AIRBAG MODULES, WHICH IS VERY COSTLY AND THIS ISSUE CREATES A MAJOR SAFETY ISSUE REGARDING THE FUNCTIONALITY OF THE SUPPLEMENTAL RESTR
Air Bags › Side/Window
Filed Mar 27, 201090,000 milesWA
I HAVE A 1998 NISSAN MAXIMA IN 2004 I WENT ON A TRIP HALF WAY DOWN WE STOP AT A BANK, AND WHEN WE GOT BACK IN THE CAR THE AIR BAG LIGHT DID NOT TURN OFF, BUT JUST KEPT BLINKING. UPON RETURNING I TOOK THE VEHICLE TO THE LOCAL DEALERSHIP AND THEY RESET THE LIGHT AND SAID THE PASSENGER SIDE AIR BAG SHOWED A FAULT (OPEN CIRCUIT). I DID NOT DO ANYTHING TO FIX IT AT THIS POINT. THE LIGHT CAME BACK ON AFTER A FEW MONTHS BUT I DID NOT TAKE THE CAR IN AGAIN TILL 2008 AND WANTED TO REPLACE THE PART THAT IS WHEN I FOUND OUT FROM THE SERVICE MANAGER THAT THERE IS A PROBLEM WITH THE SIDE AIRBAGS WITH THIS CERTAIN MODEL. IT WAS A CONNECTION PROBLEM WITH THE CONNECTORS SHE COULD IT A DESIGN PROBLEM. THE SOLUTION WAS THAT THE NEW AIR BAG HAD ONE CONNECTION INSTEAD OF TWO WHICH SOLVED THE PROBLEM. I DID NOT GET IT REPLACE, BECAUSE I FELT THAT IT IS A RECALL ISSUE IF THEY KNEW THAT IT WAS A POOR DESIGN AND I BELIEVE THAT IT SHOULD BE CHANGED OUT AT NO CHARGE ESPECIALLY BEINGING A SAFETY RESTRAINT ISSUE. I ALSO HAD A RECORD THAT CAME WITH THE CAR THAT THE DRIVER SIDE AIR BAG HAD BEEN REPLACE NOT TO LONG AFTER I PURCHASED THE VEHICLE
Electrical System
Filed Mar 17, 2010177,055 milesOH
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 NISSAN MAXIMA. THE CONTACT WAS DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 30 MPH, WHEN THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON. THE CONTACT STATED THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN FOR AN OIL CHANGE, FIGURING THAT WOULD REMEDY THE VEHICLE DEFECT, BUT TO NO AVAIL. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER FOR DIAGNOSTIC AND REPAIR. THE DEALER STATED THAT OWNER OF THE VEHICLE WOULD HAVE TO PAY FOR REPAIRS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT EVEN THOUGH THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT WAS OUT AFTER REPAIR, THE VEHICLE STILL DEFECTIVE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 177,055. THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 177,106. UPDATED 5/6/10 *CN UPDATED 07/09/10.*JB
Air Bags › Frontal › Sensor/Control Module
Filed Jan 6, 200940,278 milesOH
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 NISSAN MAXIMA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE AIR BAG SENSOR WARNING INDICATOR CONTINUED TO ILLUMINATE ON THE INSTRUMENT PANEL. THE AIR BAG MODULE ASSEMBLY WAS REPLACED UNDER WARRANTY. ON A SEPARATE OCCASION, THE AIR BAG WARNING INDICATOR FLASHED ON THE INSTRUMENT PANEL. THE DEALER PERFORMED A DIAGNOSTIC AND RECOMMENDED REPLACING THE PASSENGER SIDE AIR BAG MODULE AGAIN AT AN ESTIMATED COST OF $709. IN THE EVENT OF A CRASH, THE AIR BAGS WOULD NOT DEPLOY. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 40,278 AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 82,000. UPDATED 2/17/09 *CN UPDATED 02/19/09. *JB
Electrical System
Filed Sep 4, 2008120,000 milesFL
MY CAR IS A NISSAN MAXIMA 1998, IT HAS 120K MILES ON IT. THIS IS MY ONLY MEAN OF TRANSPORTATION; RECENTLY THE CAR JUST WON'T START. I HAVE TO KEEP TRYING SEVERAL TIMES UNTIL IT STARTS. I RECENTLY REPLACED THE 'STARTER' BUT THE PROBLEM STILL HAPPENS. I HAVE BEEN READING DIFFERENT INTERNET FORUMS THERE IS A LOT OF PEOPLE COMPLAINING ABOUT THIS KIND OF PROBLEMS, THE DEALERS CHARGE ABOUT $1,000.00 TO REPLACE THE IGNITION COILS. THIS SINCE TO BE THE SOURCE OF THE PROBLEM, I DO NOT HAVE THIS MONEY. I THINK BECAUSE ON BEHAVE OF ALL PEOPLE HAVING TO DEAL WITH THIS PROBLEM, THERE SHOULD BE A RECALL ON THIS CARS. *TR
Steering › Rack and Pinion
Filed Aug 22, 2008VA
1988 NISSAN MAXIMA AUTO PART FAILURE. CONSUMER STATES THAT THE RACK AND PINION WENT BAD DUE TO THE INTERNAL SEALS LEAKING FLUID OUT OF THE RUBBER BOOTS AIR BLEED HOLES THAT DID NOT HAVE PROPER INSERTS IN THEM TO CONNECT TO THE HOSE LINE. THE FAILURE OCCURRED WITHIN ONE WEEK OF INSTALLATION. *NJ THE CONSUMER BELIEVED THE RACK AND PINION WAS DEFECTIVE. HOWEVER THE MECHANIC STATED THE FAILURE WAS DUE TO BAD INSTALLATION. *JB
Air Bags › Frontal
Filed Aug 6, 2008110,000 milesOH
AIRBAG LIGHT STARTING FLASHING ON MY 1998 NISSAN MAXIMA GLE. DON'T KNOW IF THIS IS SERIOUS, DEALER WAS ABOUT $500 FOR A CHIP TO REPLACE. THIS IS THE SECOND 1998 NISSAN MAXIMA THAT THIS IS HAPPENING TO. *TR
Exterior Lighting › Brake Lights › Switch
Filed Apr 3, 2008130,000 milesMA
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 NISSAN MAXIMA. THE REAR TAIL LIGHTS STAY ON CONTINUALLY, WHEN SHE TURNS ON THE HEADLIGHTS THE THIRD BRAKE LIGHT TURNS ON AND STAYS ON, WHICH MADE HER VEHICLE APPEAR AS THOUGH IT WAS STOPPING. DURING DAY LIGHT HOURS WHEN SHE PRESSES THE BRAKE THE SIDE LIGHTS TURN ON AND THE RADIO LIGHT DIMS. THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 138,000, AND THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 130,000. THE PURCHASE DATE WAS NOT AVAILABLE.
Engine and Engine Cooling › EngineFire
Filed Sep 4, 200769,000 milesNY
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 NISSAN MAXIMA. WHILE DRIVING 25 MPH, THE CONTACT NOTICED SMOKE RISING FROM UNDER THE HOOD OF THE VEHICLE. HE SHUT THE VEHICLE OFF WHEN HE ARRIVED HOME AND IT FAILED TO RESTART. HE INSPECTED THE VEHICLE AND DETERMINED THAT THE ALTERNATOR FAILED. THE MANUFACTURER STATED THAT HIS VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER 02V171000 (ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:ALTERNATOR/GENERATOR/REGULATOR). THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGES WERE 69,000.
Suspension
Filed Aug 13, 2007144,000 milesAL
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 NISSAN MAXIMA. THE CONTACT STRUCK A POTHOLE WHILE DRIVING 35 MPH. THE POTHOLE CAUSED HIS VEHICLE TO BECOME OUT OF ALIGNMENT AND RESULTED IN A BENT CV JOINT AXLE. THE VEHICLE HAS NOT YET BEEN INSPECTED. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGES WERE 144,000.
Electrical System › Ignition
Filed May 4, 2007CO
MY 1998 NISSAN MAXIMA HAS BEEN MISFIRING. IT TURNS OUT THAT I HAVE BAD IGNITION COILS. THIS IS A PROBLEM THAT SHOULDN'T BE HAPPENING, ESPECIALLY AT 80K MILES. IT'S ESPECIALLY FRUSTRATING BECAUSE THIS IS A VERY COSTLY PROBLEM. I DID SOME RESEARCH, AND THIS IS AN EXTREMELY TYPICAL PROBLEM FOR THIS MODEL. JUDGING BY THE FREQUENCY OF COMPLAINTS ON THIS ISSUE THERE SHOULD WITHOUT A DOUBT BE A RECALL. *JB
Electrical System › Alternator/Generator/RegulatorFire
Filed Dec 11, 2006125,996 milesFL
ON 30 NOVEMBER 2006 I STARTED THE CAR WHICH THEN QUIT RUNNING AND STARTED SMOKING FROM UNDER THE HOOD. I COULD SEE THE ALTERNATOR WAS BURNING SO I PULLED THE BATTERY CABLE TO STOP THE FIRE. DAMAGE AFFECTED THE ALTERNATOR, ELECTRICAL CONNECTOR AND SOME WIRING. I DISCOVERED THERE WAS A RECALL FOR DEFECTIVE ALTERNATORS ON THIS VEHICLE. MY ALTERNATOR FAILURE APPEARS TO BE THE SAME AS THE FAILURES COVERED BY THE NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID 02V171000 DATED JUNE 24, 2002. I CONTACTED NISSAN ON DECEMBER 1, 2006 WHO STATED MY VIN WAS WITHIN THE RANGE OF VEHICLES FOR THIS RECALL AND THEY WOULD CONTACT THE DEALER AFTER FURTHER RESEARCH. I CONTACTED THE DEALER WHO STATED IT APPEARED THE VEHICLE SHOULD BE COVERED BY THE RECALL BUT COULD NOT PROCEED UNTIL AUTHORIZATION FROM NISSAN. ON 8 DECEMBER, 2006,AFTER 7 DAYS, NISSAN CONTACTED ME AND STATED MY VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED IN THE RECALL AND REFUSED TO FIX THE DEFECTIVE ALTERNATOR. NISSAN COULD NOT EXPLAIN HOW MY VIN WAS WITHIN THE RANGE OF VEHICLES AFFECTED BY THE RECALL BUT MY PARTICULAR VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED. I HAD THE VEHICLE REPAIRED AT MY EXPENSE AND HAD TO TURN-IN THE DEFECTIVE ALTERNATOR AS A CORE SO THE DEFECTIVE ALTERNATOR IS NOT AVAILABLE FOR INSPECTION. IT APPEARS THE RANGE OF DEFECTIVE ALTERNATORS IS LARGER THAN NISSAN IS WILLING TO ACCEPT RESPONSIBILITY. THIS IS A SAFETY DEFECT THAT NEEDS TO BE ADDRESSED AND NISSAN HELD ACCOUNTABLE. THE DAMAGE COULD HAVE BEEN MUCH WORSE. *NM
Electrical System › Alternator/Generator/RegulatorFire
Filed Apr 17, 2006113,000 milesCT
DT*: THE CONTACT STATED THE ALTERNATOR CAUGHT ON FIRE. THERE IS AN NHTSA RECALL, # 02V171000 REGARDING THE ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: ALTERNATOR/GENERATOR/REGULATOR. THE VEHICLE HAS THE SAME PROBLEMS AS INDICATED IN THE RECALL; HOWEVER IT IS NOT INCLUDED IN THE RECALL DUE TO THE VIN. *AK
Electrical System › Alternator/Generator/RegulatorFire
Filed Mar 20, 2006NY
ON THURSDAY, MARCH 16, 2006 AT APPROXIMATELY 10:15AM I WENT OUT TO MY DRIVEWAY AND STARTED MY 1998 NISSAN MAXIMA. UPON STARTING THERE WAS A TERRIBLE GRINDING NOISE. I TURNED THE CAR OFF AND RESTATED IT AT WHICH TIME THE CAR BEGAN SMOKING. I DROVE THE CAR DIRECTLY TO MY INDEPENDENT SERVICE STATION (APPROXIMATELY 1/4 MILE ) FOR THEM TO CHECK THE VEHICLE. UPON OPENING THE HOOD, WE OBSERVED FIRE, WHICH WAS EXTINGUISHED. FURTHER OBSERVATION CONFIRMED THAT THE ALTERNATOR HAD CAUGHT FIRE AND THE SERVICE STATION MADE THE REPAIRS. THE OLD PARTS ARE AVAILABLE FOR INSPECTION. AS THERE IS A RECALL ON SOME 1998 NISSAN MAXIMA'S FOR THIS PROBLEM I CAN'T UNDERSTAND WHY THIS MATTER IS BEING TAKEN SO LIGHTLY. THE NEXT TIME THIS OCCURS, THE RESULTS COULD BE TRAGIC. *NM
Suspension › Multiple Axle
Filed Mar 13, 200671,000 milesTX
DT*: THE CONTACT STATED THE FRONT AXLE IS ABOUT TO BREAK. THERE IS A LOUD CLANKING NOISE COMING FROM THE FRONT OF THE VEHICLE. THE DEALER DETERMINED THE AXLE WOULD HAVE TO REPLACED. NO REPAIRS HAVE BEEN MADE TO THE VEHICLE.
Air Bags
Filed Feb 18, 2006IL
RECALL-NISSAN MAXIMA ALTERNATOR ,1998 .OPEN RECALL,DOES NOT NEED TO BE ORIGINAL OWNER. BEFORE I WAS INFORMED OF RECALL ALTERNATOR STOPPED WORKING (ON HIGHWAY GOING 55 LUCKY TO BE ALIVE)! AFTER REPAIRS WERE MADE,CAR CAME OUT OF REPAIR SHOP WITH AIR BAG LIGHT BLINKING. TOOK CAR TO NISSAN. AFTER PAYING $100.00,THEY INFORMED ME SIDE AIR BAGS WERE FAULTY AND THEY'RE NOT SURE IF FRONT AIR BAGS WILL WORK PROPERLY. AFTER I WAS INFORMED OF RECALL I BROUGHT CAR BACK TO NISSAN,THEY REPLACED NEW ALTERNATOR WITH ANOTHER NEW ALTERNATOR AND PAID ME FOR THE FIRST ALTERNATOR. MY CLAIM IS THAT THE FAULTY ALTERNATOR UNDER A RECALL NOTICE CAUSED MY AIR BAGS TO STOP WORKING. NISSAN HAS INFORMED ME IT'S POSSIBLE WE WILL LOOK INTO IT. HAVE NOT HEARD ANYTHING FROM NISSAN. THEY DID INFORM ME IT WOULD COST $1,200.00 TO FIX. SO NOW MY SON IS DRIVING THE CAR WITHOUT KNOWING ONE WAY OR THE OTHER IF THE AIR BAGS WILL WORK. NISSANS NOT SURE IF FRONTS WILL WORK! NISSAN NEEDS TO REPLACE AIR BAGS AT THERE COST. THERE PRODUCT CAUSED THE PROBLEM. *NM
Electrical System › Alternator/Generator/RegulatorFire
Filed Dec 15, 2005103,000 milesKS
DT: THE CONTACT STATED WHILE PULLING OUT OF THE DRIVEWAY THE ALTERNATOR CAUGHT ON FIRE, AND THE FIRE WAS IMMEDIATELY EXTINGUISHED. THE VEHICLE HAS NOT BEEN TAKEN TO DEALERSHIP YET FOR INSPECTION. THE ALTERNATOR WAS REPLACED PRIOR TO THIS INCIDENT UNDER NHTSA RECALL 02V171000 .THE MANUFACTURER HAS AGREED TO FIX THE VEHICLE UNDER THE RECALL. THE REPAIRS HAVE NOT MADE. *AK
SuspensionFire
Filed Oct 25, 200564,336 milesRI
DT: THERE IS A RECALL FOR THE ALTERNATOR, HOWEVER, NISSAN STATED THIS VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED IN THE RECALL DUE TO VIN. THE CONSUMER STARTED THE VEHICLE AND COULD HEAR A SOUND AND VIEWED SMOKE COMING FROM UNDER THE HOOD. THE CONSUMER OPENED THE HOOD AND SAW FIRE IN MIDDLE OF THE ALTERNATOR. THIS HAPPENED ON AUGUST 15, 2005. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. THE CONSUMER KEPT THE BAD ALTERNATOR. *AK RECALL CAMPAIGN# 02V171000. THE CONSUMER REQUESTED REIMBURSEMENT FOR THE REPLACEMENT OF THE ALTERNATOR. THERE WAS ALSO A VIBRATION IN THE STEERING WHEEL WHILE DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY. *SC
Air Bags › Frontal › Sensor/Control Module
Filed Aug 17, 200560,500 milesCA
AIR BAG LSENSON LIGHT BLINKS IN FRON PANEL. DEALER NOTE AFTER CHECK: RAN ECC TEST WITH CONSULT FOUND DTC RIGHT FRONT SEAT AIRBAG MODULE OPEN.CHECK NISSAN ASSIST FOUND TSB TNB00-043.IT WILL NEED TO REPLACE RH SIDE AIRBAG.ALSO LONG HARNESS. *AK
Air Bags › Frontal › Sensor/Control Module
Filed Dec 13, 2004WA
FAILURE OF AIRBAG MODULES. TAKEN TO DEALER DENIED COVERAGE TO FIX UNDER EXTENDED WARRANTY, ALSO EMAILED NISSAN CORPORATION TO REQUEST HELP. NOTHING WAS DONE. *AK
Electrical System › Alternator/Generator/RegulatorFire
Filed Dec 3, 2004MA
VEHICLE CAUGHT ON FIRE. RECALL 02V171000 WAS ISSUED. CONSUMER WAS TOLD THAT HIS VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED IN THE RECALL DUE TO VIN. *AK WHEN THE CONSUMER STARTED THE VEHICLE HE NOTICED SMOKE COMING FROM THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT. AS THE HOOD WAS OPENED FIRE WAS SEEN BURNING INSIDE THE ALTERNATOR. AFTER TESTING THE ALTERNATOR RESULTS CONFIRMED THAT THE MALFUNTION TO BE IDENTICAL WITH THE BASIS OF THE RECALL CAMPAIGN. THE DEALER REPLACED THE FAULTYALTERNATOR WITH A NEW ONE. *TC
TiresCrash
Filed Oct 25, 200478,282 milesFL
ACCIDENT OCCURRING ON 8/29/2004 DUE TO B. F. GOODRICH TIRE, P225/55TR17 BLOWING OUT ON THE HIGHWAY.*AK
Power Train › Automatic Transmission › Torque Converter
Filed Apr 18, 2004107,957 milesGA
NO DESCRIPTION. *JB
Vehicle Speed ControlCrash1 killed
Filed Mar 12, 200498,000 milesPA
VEHICLE CAME TO A STOP AND SUDDENLY ACCELERATED. VEHICLE CROSSED THE INTERSECTION AND HIT TWO RESIDENTIAL WALLS, WENT THROUGH A LAWN, AND HIT A LAMP POST. THE IMPACT FROM THE LAMP POST CAUSED THE VEHICLE TO TURN OVER ON ITS SIDE. THE DRIVER DIED ON IMPACT. *AK
Electrical System › Alternator/Generator/RegulatorFire
Filed Mar 7, 2004135,000 milesCT
1998 NISSAN MAXIMA , VIN # [XXX] . I CHECK THE RECALL VIN # ON THIS VEHICLE AND IT WAS NOT IN THE RANGE OF #'S. BUT MY ALTERNATOR STARTED ON FIRE IN MY DRIVEWAY WHEN I STARTED IT UP THAT NIGHT. IT DID EVERYTHING THE RECALL STATED IT WOULD. I AM CALLING THE DEALER TOMORROW TO SEE IF ITS COVERED. *JB UPDATED 07/26/2012 *JS INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Air Bags › Side/Window
Filed Mar 2, 200452,300 milesNM
THE ABS DASH-OARD WARNING LIGHT BEGAN FLASHING. I TOOK IT TO THE NISSAN DEALERSHIP IN SANTA FE NM. THEY TOLD ME THAT A PROBLEM EXISTED IN THE DRIVER-SIDE AIR BAG MODULE, AND THAT REPLACING THE MODULE WOULD BE NECESSARY, AND THAT THE DRIVER-SIDE AIR BAG MAY OR MAY NOT WORK IN THE EVENT OF AN ACCIDENT. APPROXIMATE COST, $300, PLUS $72/HOUR LABOR.*AK
Service Brakes, Hydraulic › Foundation Components › Disc › Rotor
Filed Feb 28, 20047,500 milesNC
BRAKES FAILED TO HOLD AND SMOKE CAME FROM REAR BRAKES. AT APPROX 7500 MILES, VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO DEALERSHIP TO INVESTIGATE GRINDING AND SQEALING BRAKE SOUNDS.THE ROTORS WERE RESURFACED. CARS WAS TAKEN BACK ON TWO MORE OCCASIONS TO REPORT BRAKE SOUNDS. DEALERSHIP COULD REPRODUCE SOUNDS DURING TEST DRIVE AND SAID THE BRAKES WERE FINE. THE LAST INCIDENT WITH THE LOCK UP AND SMOKE, VEHICLE WITH APPROX.44,000 MILES WAS DIAGNOSED AS NEEDING BRAKE RELINE AND REAR BRAKE CABLES AT A COST OF $400 PLUS. THE PROBLEM OF TOO MUCH BRAKE PEDAL WAS SAID TO BE THE NORM. BRAKE PEDAL TRAVEL WAS NEVER THIS MUCH WHEN VEHICLE WAS PURCHASED.*AK
Air Bags
Filed Jan 15, 2004110,000 milesUN
THIS IS THE THIRD TIME THE AIRBAG MODULE HAS BEEN REPLACED.THE FIRST TWO TIMES WERE UNDER WARRANTY AND WERE DEFECTS, NOW THAT I AM AT 110000 KM I AM TOLD IT IS NOT A DEFECT AND I HAVE TO PAY FOR IT. THIS CAR HAS NEVER BEEN IN AN ACCIDENT THEREFORE HOW IS IT THAT THE AIRBAG MODULES KEEP HAVING A PROBLEM?
Tires
Filed Nov 19, 2003KY
PROBLEMS WITH BIG O TIRES.*MR THE VEHICLES TIRES EXPERIENCED AN IRREGULAR WEAR PATTERN. *NLM
Power Train › Automatic Transmission › Torque Converter
Filed Jul 14, 200356,500 milesVA
I OWN A 1998 NISSAN MAXIMA SE THE TRANSMISSION AND THE TORQUE CONVERTER MUST HAVE BEEN DEFECTIVE FROM THE MANUFACTURER BECAUSE WHEN I PURCHASED THE CAR THE REVIEWS ON THE CAR HAD STATED THAT THE POWERTRAIN SHIFTING WAS HARD AND ROUGH.SINCE I HAD THE CAR IT HAS BEEN DOING JUST THAT . IT SHIFTS SO HARD SOMETIMES FROM A STOP THAT I FEEL THAT ITS NOT GOING TO GO INTO GEAR.ITS NOT DRIVEN HARD AT ALL, SO COULD SOMEONE LOOK INTO THIS MATTER. MY CHECK ENGINE LIGHT IS ON NOW FROM MY TORQUE CONVERTER CIRCUIT BEING INTERMITTENED.I WOULD GREATLY APPRECIATE IT VERY MUCH, THANKS. *AK
Engine and Engine Cooling › Exhaust System › Emission Control
Filed Jun 24, 200335,302 milesPA
CHECK ENGINE LIGHT ON. REQUIRED A NEW GAS SENSOR AND OXYGEN SENSOR. *JB
Engine and Engine Cooling › Exhaust System › Emission Control
Filed Jun 24, 200347,700 milesPA
CHECK ENGINE LIGHT ON. REQUIRED REPLACEMENT OF GAS SENSOR, OXYGEN SENSOR AND FUEL RECOVERY VALVE ASSEMBLY. *JB
Seat Belts › Rear/Other
Filed Jun 4, 2003OK
CONSUMER'S SON WRAPPED THE SEAT BELT AROUND HIS WAIST, THE SEAT BELT TIGHTENED AND HAD TO BE CUT OFF. *AK
Complaints 1-50 of 113, newest first, reproduced as filed.
Complaint counts track how many cars were sold and how long they have been on the road as much as they track quality. A common model from 2013 has had a decade to accumulate reports; a rare one from last year has not. The signal worth weighing is in the severity columns, in whether the same component keeps appearing, and in whether the manufacturer eventually opened a recall for it.
Recall repairs are free for as long as the recall stands. Check whether a specific car still has open work at NHTSA's VIN lookup.
Most recent recall on file: May 11, 2009. Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation.