What's Wrong with the 5th Generation (2000–2003) Maxima?

Front 3/4 view of a Nissan Maxima

Maxima owners have made 97 complaints about the 2000–2003 model years. Using our PainRank™ system we've ranked it 26th out of 54 Nissan generations in overall reliability, with some engine and electrical concerns.

Compare With Other Maxima Generations

Common 2000-2003 Nissan Maxima Problems

Some of the worst issues 5th generation Maxima owners have to deal with.

What Owners Complain About

Sometimes it helps just to tally up the complaints and see where the biggest stacks are. Use this information to learn about troublespots or to run for the hills.

Worst Issues

What Breaks the Most

Years to Avoid

5th Generation (2000–2003) Maxima Key Numbers

  1. 4 model years

    Grouping all models by their year can reveal some baddies.

  2. 97 complaints

    Running tally of owner grievances filed to CarComplaints.com.

  3. 26th in reliability

    Overall reliability rank out of 54 eligible generations.