2018 Nissan Maxima Safety Report
2018 Nissan Maxima: High crash test ratings, but significant complaints about collision avoidance system and fire risk recall.
AI Safety Analysis for the 2018 Nissan Maxima
Reliability Score
The 2018 Nissan Maxima receives a reliability score of 65 out of 100 based on analysis of NHTSA complaint data, recall history, crash reports, and safety ratings. This indicates average reliability — some notable concerns exist that prospective buyers should be aware of.
Known Issues for the 2018 Nissan Maxima
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2018 Nissan Maxima:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Forward Collision Avoidance System Malfunction The 'Front Radar Obstruction Unavailable' message frequently appears, disabling adaptive cruise control and causing inappropriate automatic emergency braking, even without obstructions. This is a significant safety concern. |
High | Common | unknown miles |
| Brake Fluid Leak (Recall) A recall addresses a potential brake fluid leak on the circuit board, which can lead to an electrical short and increase the risk of fire. Owners were advised to pull over if the ABS light illuminates. |
High | Occasional | unknown miles |
| Back-Up Camera Failure (Recall) A recall was issued for a software error that can prevent the back-up camera display from showing an image, increasing the risk of a crash when reversing. |
Medium | Occasional | unknown miles |
| Panoramic Sunroof Explosion Several complaints describe panoramic sunroofs spontaneously exploding while driving, posing a safety hazard from shattered glass. |
Medium | Rare | unknown miles |
| Cvt Transmission Issues Complaints mention the vehicle shaking during acceleration, improper gear shifting, and RPM fluctuations, indicating potential CVT transmission problems. |
High | Occasional | 39000-60000 miles |
| Electrical System Malfunctions Issues reported include intermittently dim instrument panels and power door functions failing, requiring entry from the passenger side. |
Medium | Occasional | unknown miles |
Common Problems Reported by Owners
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2018 Nissan Maxima:
Frequent 'unavailable front radar obstruction' warnings and inappropriate automatic emergency braking activations.
Includes issues related to the brake fluid leak recall and sudden, unintended braking.
Covers various issues not fitting specific categories, such as sunroof explosions and general mechanical failures.
Problems with instrument panel dimming and power door failures.
Includes issues like back-up camera malfunctions, some related to the recall.
Complaints related to loss of vehicle control and steering issues.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2018 Nissan Maxima
Is the 2018 Nissan Maxima safe?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2018 Nissan Maxima received a 5-star overall safety rating, indicating strong crash test performance. However, there are 35 owner complaints, including 1 crash, 1 fire, and 1 injury, and two safety recalls. The most concerning issues are related to the Forward Collision Avoidance system's malfunctions and a recall for a potential brake fluid leak that could lead to fire.
What are common problems with the 2018 Nissan Maxima?
The most reported issues for the 2018 Nissan Maxima are related to the Forward Collision Avoidance system (11% of top complaints), Service Brakes (11%), and general 'UNKNOWN OR OTHER' issues (11%) which include sunroof explosions and mechanical failures. Electrical system problems (9%) and visibility/wiper issues (6%), including the back-up camera recall, are also frequently cited.
Are there any recalls for the 2018 Nissan Maxima?
Yes, the 2018 Nissan Maxima has two recalls. One addresses a potential brake fluid leak that could cause an electrical short and fire risk. The other recall is for a software error affecting the back-up camera display, which could increase the risk of a crash.
How does the 2018 Nissan Maxima perform in crash tests?
The 2018 Nissan Maxima performed very well in NHTSA crash tests, earning a 5-star overall safety rating. It received 5 stars for side impact and rollover resistance, and 4 stars for frontal impact.
Are there issues with the automatic emergency braking system?
Yes, there are multiple complaints regarding the automatic emergency braking (AEB) system. Owners report frequent 'unavailable front radar obstruction' warnings and the system inappropriately activating, causing the vehicle to brake without an actual obstruction, which is a significant safety concern.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: Despite strong crash test ratings, potential buyers should be aware of the significant complaints regarding the Forward Collision Avoidance system and the critical brake fluid leak recall; ensure all recalls are addressed and thoroughly test the AEB system during a pre-purchase inspection.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2018 Nissan Maxima
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2018 Nissan Maxima. The data includes 35 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 2 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 1 reported crashes, 1 fire incidents, 1 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.
The NHTSA has assigned the 2018 Nissan Maxima an overall safety rating of 5 out of 5 stars, with a frontal crash rating of 4 stars, a side crash rating of 5 stars, and a rollover rating of 5 stars. These ratings are determined through controlled crash testing conducted by the NHTSA.
All data presented in this report is sourced from public NHTSA databases. Our AI analysis identifies patterns across complaint narratives, correlates them with recall history, and produces the safety assessment above. This analysis is updated as new complaints and recalls are filed with the NHTSA.
Consumers are encouraged to report vehicle safety problems to the NHTSA at nhtsa.gov. If your vehicle is subject to a recall, contact your dealer to schedule the free repair.