2020 Nissan Maxima VIN Check, Recalls & Reliability
The 2020 Nissan Maxima has good reliability. There are 1 recall and 21 owner complaints on file for the 2020 Nissan Maxima. Severity signals include 2 crash-related complaints. The most commonly reported problem areas are: Structure (4), Power Train (2), Forward Collision Avoidance (2).
Maxima reliability snapshot
74/100
Latest model-year reliability score
3.5/5
RepairPal rating (medium)
$540
Avg annual repair cost vs $590 category avg
#9/12
Ranking in fullsize cars · better than 25% of peers
Data sourced from Auto Reliability Index, aggregating NHTSA recalls, owner complaints, and RepairPal repair-cost records.
Used-car research
Research the Nissan Maxima before checking the VIN
Compare model years, recurring problems, safety campaigns and market value first. Then use the VIN to verify the history of the individual car.
Owner-reported problem categories from NHTSA complaint filings. Counts reflect complaints per category for the most-recent model year on file.
Structure4
Power Train2
Forward Collision Avoidance2
Latches Locks Linkages2
Air Bags2
Engine1
Pre-purchase inspection checklist for the 2020 Nissan Maxima
Hands-on checks distilled from real NHTSA complaint patterns and recall histories. Bring this list to a test drive or mechanic inspection.
☐Inspect windshield and A-pillar moldings for cracks or detachment
☐Test forward collision warning system for false activations
☐Check hood latch for secure closure and potential unlatching
☐Verify transmission operation for abnormal sounds or jerking
☐Test emergency braking system for unexpected activations
☐Inspect sunroof for signs of stress or potential shattering
☐Ensure all warning lights function correctly on startup
What owners reported
2020 Nissan Maxima owner complaints in detail
Owners have reported 2 crashes and 1 injury to NHTSA for the 2020 Nissan Maxima. These are unverified owner reports, not confirmed defect rates.
Owner complaints4
STRUCTURE
Owners of the 2020 Nissan Maxima report several structural issues, primarily involving the windshield, A-pillar molding, and grill clips. Multiple complaints describe windshields cracking without impact, suggesting stress fractures potentially related to the vehicle's frame. Additionally, some owners experience A-pillar moldings detaching in windy conditions, posing a risk to other drivers. There are also reports of front grill and quarter panel clips breaking, leading to loose body parts and a compromised front camera. These issues often occur at relatively low mileages, such as under 12,000 miles, and may have safety implications due to parts detaching while driving.
Owner complaints2
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
Owners of the 2020 Nissan Maxima report issues related to latches and locks, specifically involving the hood and gas cap door. One complaint describes the hood unexpectedly unlatching and striking the windshield while driving at highway speeds, with no warning lights activated, at approximately 84,214 miles. Another complaint mentions concerns about the gas cap door lock function. These issues suggest potential safety implications, particularly with the hood latch failure posing a risk of obstructed visibility and potential loss of vehicle control. Buyers should be aware of these reported problems, especially when considering vehicles with higher mileage.
Owner complaints2
SERVICE BRAKES
Owners of the 2020 Nissan Maxima report issues related to the braking system, specifically involving warning lights and a perceived loss of power. Common symptoms include the illumination of the Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) System, Slip indicator, Rear Automatic Braking warning lights, and the emergency park brake light. These issues often coincide with the vehicle acting as if it loses motive power. Complaints frequently occur at relatively low mileages, around 8,296 miles. While no crashes or fires are reported, the perceived loss of power and activation of multiple warning lights could imply potential safety concerns.
Owner complaints2
AIR BAGS
Owners report issues with the airbag system and collision sensor in the 2020 Nissan Maxima. Complaints frequently mention the vehicle's collision sensor system malfunctioning, causing unintended braking while reversing, which in one case led to a crash at approximately 25,000 miles. Another report describes the airbag deploying with excessive force during a low-speed collision, resulting in injury and damage to the windshield. These issues indicate potential safety implications, as they involve crashes and injuries. Buyers considering this model should be aware of these airbag and sensor-related problems.
Owners of the 2020 Nissan Maxima report issues related to the transmission, with symptoms including abnormal engine sounds, jerking, and stalling. One complaint describes the vehicle stalling in the middle of the road, requiring police assistance to manage traffic, and notes that the transmission failure occurred at approximately 106,000 miles. Another report mentions a transmission failure without additional context. Safety implications include the potential for the vehicle to stall unexpectedly, which could lead to traffic disruptions. Buyers should be aware that these issues may arise at higher mileage, and they may need to consider the condition of the transmission when evaluating a used 2020 Maxima.
Owner complaints2
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
Owners of the 2020 Nissan Maxima report issues with the forward collision avoidance system, specifically with the forward collision warning light activating unexpectedly. Complaints frequently mention that the warning light turns on shortly after the vehicle starts, with no apparent obstruction or accident to trigger the alert. This issue is noted in vehicles with approximately 30,000 miles. While no crashes or safety incidents are reported, the persistent warning lights may indicate a malfunction that could affect the system's reliability. Used car buyers should be aware of these potential electronic anomalies when considering this model.
2020 Maxima recalls (1)
Every NHTSA safety recall logged against the 2020 Maxima. A VIN check confirms whether any recall remains unrepaired on a specific vehicle.
VISIBILITYNHTSA 20V570000Sep 22, 2020
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2020 Altima, Maxima and Leaf vehicles. The rear window glass may not remain properly secured to the vehicle.
Consequence: Rear window glass that separates from the vehicle can increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Nissan will notify owners, and dealers will replace the back window glass, free of charge. The recall began November 4, 2020. Owners may contact Nissan customer service at 1-800-867-7669. Nissan's number for this recall is PC752.
Used-market value
2020 Nissan Maxima resale snapshot
$29,500median asking price from 13 listings
Listing benchmarks establish a market range; trim, mileage, condition, title history and prior damage determine what one vehicle is worth.
The 2020 Nissan Maxima scores slightly above the segment average, indicating moderate reliability. With a score of 74, it suggests a mixed performance that leans towards solid, yet not exceptional, dependability. The single recall points to a limited number of manufacturer-identified issues, which is a positive indicator.
Complaints are relatively low and distributed across various categories, with no single area showing significant concentration. This spread suggests that while issues exist, they are not pervasive in any one component. The facelift year may contribute to these varied concerns as updates can sometimes introduce new challenges.
Overall, the 2020 Maxima presents a moderate reliability profile with a balanced risk level for potential buyers.
What you get in a 2020 Nissan Maxima report
✓Available title brand history
✓Odometer readings & rollback detection
✓Accident & damage records
✓Auction sales with photos
✓Open safety recalls
✓Theft & stolen vehicle check
Check a 2020 Nissan Maxima now
Confirm exact options, recall completion, accident history, and odometer accuracy in minutes.
2020 Nissan Maxima — Frequently asked questions
Is the 2020 Nissan Maxima reliable?
The 2020 Nissan Maxima scores slightly above the segment average, indicating moderate reliability. With a score of 74, it suggests a mixed performance that leans towards solid, yet not exceptional, dependability. The single recall points to a limited number of manufacturer-identified issues, which is a positive indicator.
How many recalls does the 2020 Nissan Maxima have?
1 NHTSA safety recall has been issued for the 2020 Nissan Maxima. A VIN check confirms whether any remain unrepaired on a specific vehicle.
What are the most common 2020 Nissan Maxima problems?
The most-reported 2020 Nissan Maxima problem areas are: Structure (4), Power Train (2), Forward Collision Avoidance (2).
Should I run a VIN check on a 2020 Nissan Maxima?
Yes. A VIN report verifies title brands, odometer history, accident records, and recall completion on a specific 2020 Nissan Maxima, complementing the model-year reliability data on this page.
