2012 Nissan Maxima: Power Train complaints
Owner-reported issue (NHTSA complaints, not a recall)
Symptoms
NHTSA has 18 owner complaints for the 2012 Nissan Maxima that list the power train component. Complaints are individual owner reports, not verified defects.
Examples:
- NHTSA complaint ODI #11670526 (filed 07/01/2025): “2012 nissan maxima with 94,000 miles began hesitating upon accelerating and jerking on [xxx]. vehicle diagnosed at don franklin nissan in glasgow, ky with bad transmission. transmission replaced. then on [xxx], while driving vehicle, a loud noise from front passenger tire, traction light come on,…”
- NHTSA complaint ODI #11437364 (filed 10/19/2021): “This cvt control variable transmission in these cars go out so fast. the cvt transmission went out at around 115,000. we replace it because we pressed the gas and no acceleration when stop light turned green. then missed the light then it accelerated late and almost got hit by on coming car. we ju…”
- NHTSA complaint ODI #11423254 (filed 07/02/2021): “The contact owns a 2012 nissan maxima. the contact stated while the vehicle was stationary at a traffic light while depressing the accelerator pedal, the vehicle started to hesitate. the contact stated that the check engine warning light was illuminated. the contact took the vehicle to the local dea…”
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 .