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Nissan Maxima: which year should you buy?

Across the 2011 to 2023 model years, the public record is strongest on the 2013 (98/100). Every year below is scored on its own NHTSA complaint and recall history. Pick the year, not just the nameplate.

Best years to target

2013 98 · 2012 94 · 2011 94 · 2020 93

Every model year, scored

Same math for every year (how we score). A neutral Unproven or Too New stamp means too few owner reports are on file to affirm the year, not that it’s clean.

202364/100
Unproven

1 complaints · 0 recalls

202264/100
Unproven

5 complaints · 0 recalls

202164/100
Unproven

3 complaints · 0 recalls

202093/100
Buy

21 complaints · 1 recalls

201992/100
Buy

18 complaints · 1 recalls

201864/100
Caution

36 complaints · 2 recalls · ⚠ park-it recall

201764/100
Caution

102 complaints · 4 recalls · ⚠ park-it recall

201664/100
Caution

142 complaints · 8 recalls · ⚠ park-it recall

201564/100
Unproven

1 complaints · 0 recalls

201492/100
Buy

95 complaints · 0 recalls

201398/100
Buybest year

62 complaints · 0 recalls

201294/100
Buy

107 complaints · 0 recalls

201194/100
Buy

106 complaints · 0 recalls

Zeroing in on the 2013?

The full year-by-year verdict is free. When you’re ready to inspect and negotiate one specific car, the Full Report turns the 2013 Nissan Maxima’s complaint breakdown and recall list into an inspection-ready, shareable PDF.

Recalls, complaint breakdown & inspection checklist, all in a shareable PDF

Cross-shopping a different nameplate? Compare the 2023 Nissan Maxima head-to-head →

The fine print: each year’s verdict is computed from public NHTSA complaint and recall records for the Nissan Maxima as a model, not for any individual car. A well-kept example of a weaker year can outlast a neglected strong one. Informational only, so always get a professional pre-purchase inspection.