2011 Nissan Maxima: Power Train complaints
Owner-reported issue (NHTSA complaints, not a recall)
Symptoms
NHTSA has 22 owner complaints for the 2011 Nissan Maxima that list the power train component. Complaints are individual owner reports, not verified defects.
Examples:
- NHTSA complaint ODI #11597730 (filed 06/29/2024): “The transmission is slipping it’s a cvt and they’re known for being the worst transmissions. i was entering the highway on a on ramp and i could no longer accelerate past 55 i was near flooring it and you can hear the engine working but the rpm’s are all over the odometer going from 3k-6.5k over and…”
- NHTSA complaint ODI #11520699 (filed 05/05/2023): “Cvt transmission jerking , engine is always idling hard sometimes wants to even shut off , accelerating sometimes takes a lil while to respond , rack and pinion assembly faulty i would like for nissan to fix my car or get a lump sum check for all faulty errors these cars have…”
- NHTSA complaint ODI #11501538 (filed 01/12/2023): “Hi i bought car nissan maxima 2011 transmission not working well when i driving i stopped at the traffic after that car does not move forward…”
Likely causes
These complaints do not establish a single root cause; read the examples above and get a diagnosis.
Fix, in plain English
No single fix is established by these reports. Check your VIN for open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls, ask a dealer about technical service bulletins (TSBs) or extended warranty coverage, then have the system diagnosed.
DIY difficulty: Pro
Diagnosis needs a scan tool; repair or replacement needs a lift, transmission jack and the manufacturer's fluid fill/relearn procedure. (Our assessment.)
Cost
No sourced cost range for this issue. Get a written quote after diagnosis.
Typical parts (search links, no affiliate codes)
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Sources
Page last updated .