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Nissan · Known Issues

2004 Nissan Maxima Problems: 6 Known Issues

2004 model year · NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports · Updated September 2026

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Issue summary

According to Au7o's research across NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports, the 2004 Nissan Maxima has 6 documented known issues, with 1 rated critical. The most serious is SkyView Fixed Glass Roof Spontaneous Breakage (2004 A34) ($700-$1,800 repair). Across all issues with published estimates, repair costs range from $50 to $2,000. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.

In This Article

  • Maxima Body/Panels1
  • Maxima Engine2
  • Maxima Suspension1
  • Maxima Exhaust1
  • Maxima Interior1
  • Recalls9
  • FAQ
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In This Article

  • Body/Panels1
  • Engine2
  • Suspension1
  • Exhaust1
  • Interior1
  • Recalls9
  • FAQ

All 6 Known Issues

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On the 2004 Nissan Maxima, the A34 Maxima offered the SkyView roof, a large fixed tempered glass panel over the rear cabin in addition to the front sunroof. NHTSA opened a defect investigation into 2004 Maxima SkyView roofs after reports of the glass breaking with no impact. The tempered glass on affected panels was not cooled properly after forming, leaving excessive internal stress in the panel; that residual stress can release later, shattering the panel spontaneously - sometimes while parked, sometimes at speed - and showering the rear seat with glass. Nissan issued a recall covering the affected 2004 build range.

Common Symptoms

  • Loud bang followed by glass falling into the rear seat
  • Rear roof glass shattered while parked
  • Spider-cracked fixed roof panel with no impact point
  • Glass fragments in rear seat and package tray

How to Fix

Check the VIN against Nissan's open recall list at nhtsa.gov/recalls; affected 2004 cars get the SkyView glass panel replaced free of charge by a Nissan dealer. Outside the recall population the only repair is replacement of the glass panel plus a full vacuum of the rear cabin, seat tracks and trunk to remove tempered glass fragments. Aftermarket panels are scarce, so a salvage panel bonded in with urethane is the usual route on older cars.

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Call to confirm they service Nissan vehicles and check your VIN, recall eligibility, parts availability, and appointment options.

Typical repair cost:$700 - $1,800

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Community Reported
High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Aug 2026

On the 2004-2015 Nissan Maxima VQ35DE, the VQ35DE engine in the 6th and 7th generation Maxima is prone to ignition coil failure. Coils typically fail one at a time, causing misfires on the affected cylinder. The rear bank (cylinders 1-3) coils fail more frequently due to heat soak from the firewall proximity. Coil failure is especially common after 60,000-80,000 miles and is one of the most reported Maxima issues.

This issue also affects: Infiniti FX35, Infiniti G35, Infiniti G37

Common Symptoms

  • Engine misfire and rough idle
  • Check engine light flashing
  • Loss of power and hesitation
  • Rough acceleration
  • Increased fuel consumption

How to Fix

Replace failed ignition coil(s). It is recommended to replace all 6 coils at the same time along with spark plugs to prevent repeat failures. OEM Nissan coils cost $40-60 each; quality aftermarket (Hitachi, Denso) $25-40 each. Total parts for all 6: $150-360. Labor: $150-300 (rear bank is harder to access). DIY-friendly on front bank.

What you need to fix it

Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.

  • Genuine Nissan 2004-2008 ignition coil 22448-8J11C

    Use only 2004-2008 Maxima and confirm VIN/supersession; sold individually.

    NissanPartsDeal
  • Genuine Nissan 2009-2014 ignition coil 22448-JA11C

    Use only 2009-2014 Maxima and confirm VIN/supersession; sold individually.

    NissanPartsDeal
  • Genuine Nissan spark plug 22401-5M014 / NGK PLFR4A-11

    Confirm VIN, production date, heat range and required quantity; do not substitute across every 2004-2008 car by year alone.

    NissanPartsDeal
  • Genuine Nissan spark plug 22401-ZE01B / NGK PLFR5A-11

    Confirm VIN, production date, heat range and unusual package quantity before ordering; engine requires six plugs, not ten.

    NissanPartsDeal
  • Genuine Nissan 2009-2014 spark plug 22401-EW61C / NGK PLFR4A-11

    Use only after confirming 2009-2014 Maxima, VIN, installed plug and seller package quantity; engine requires six.

    NissanPartsDeal

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.

Typical repair cost:$150 - $600

Research This Issue

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Community Reported
High Confidence

On the 2000-2008 Nissan Maxima, the molded rubber gasket and the integral spark plug tube seals in the VQ valve covers harden and take a compression set. The rear (firewall-side) cover fails first because it runs hotter and is the hardest to access. Oil weeps down the back of the block and burns off on the exhaust - the classic hot-oil smell with no drip on the driveway - and oil fills the spark plug tubes, most often cylinder 5. Oil in the well soaks the coil boot, causing a misfire that is routinely misdiagnosed as a failed coil. On the later plastic covers the plug tube seals are molded into the cover and cannot be serviced separately.

This issue also affects: Infiniti FX35, Infiniti G35, Infiniti G37

Common Symptoms

  • Burning oil smell after driving with no puddle underneath
  • Oil pooled in spark plug tubes, usually cylinder 5
  • Misfire or rough idle traced to an oil-soaked coil boot
  • Oil residue down the back of the engine and on the bellhousing
  • Slowly dropping oil level

How to Fix

Replace both valve cover gaskets with genuine Nissan parts, clean the mating surfaces completely and use RTV only at the cam cap step joints. If oil has been sitting in the plug wells, replace the coil boots (or coils, if already breaking down) and the spark plugs. On the early aluminum-cover cars owners commonly swap to the revised 2004-and-up valve cover; on plastic-cover cars with worn tube seals the entire cover assembly must be replaced, not just the gasket. Also confirm the PCV valve is not stuck, since crankcase pressure blows out the fresh gasket.

Typical repair cost:$250 - $800

Research This Issue

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
Low ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Aug 2026

On the 2004-2008 Nissan Maxima, the 2004-2008 Nissan Maxima (6th generation, A34) develops power steering fluid leaks from the steering rack seals, high-pressure hoses, and pump seals. The rack and pinion seals deteriorate from heat cycling and age, causing fluid seepage that progressively worsens. As fluid level drops, the power steering pump whines, groans, and eventually fails from running dry. Leaking power steering fluid can contact hot exhaust components, creating a fire hazard. Loss of power assist makes the vehicle difficult to steer, especially at low speeds and during parking maneuvers.

Common Symptoms

  • Power steering fluid spots under vehicle
  • Whining or groaning noise when turning the steering wheel
  • Heavy or stiff steering, especially at low speeds
  • Power steering fluid level dropping between checks
  • Screeching noise from power steering pump
  • Burning fluid smell from under hood

How to Fix

What you need to fix it

Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.

  • CARDONE remanufactured hydraulic rack and pinion 26-3014

    Confirm VIN, ports, core and warranty before ordering.

    Advance Auto Parts
  • Genuine Nissan lower power-steering return hose 49725-8J000

    Confirm the highest wet point and VIN.

    NissanPartsDeal
  • Genuine Nissan power steering fluid 999MP-AG000P

    Verify service-manual capacity; this hydraulic system does not use later E-PSF.

    NissanParts.cc

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.

Typical repair cost:$300 - $1,500

Research This Issue

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
Medium Confidence

On the 2004-2018 Nissan Maxima VQ35DE, the Maxima VQ35DE is known for premature catalytic converter failure, particularly the Bank 1 (front) converter. Failure typically occurs between 80,000-120,000 miles. The catalyst substrate deteriorates, often triggered by oil consumption issues inherent to the VQ35DE, rich running conditions, or age. The pre-cat (close-coupled converter near the exhaust manifold) fails more often than the underbody converter due to extreme heat exposure.

This issue also affects: Infiniti FX35, Infiniti G35

Common Symptoms

  • Check engine light with P0420
  • Reduced acceleration power
  • Sulfur or rotten egg smell from exhaust
  • Failed emissions inspection
  • Slight rattling from under hood

How to Fix

Replace the failed catalytic converter. OEM replacements cost $800-1,500 per converter. CARB-compliant aftermarket converters are available for $300-600. Before replacing, check for oil consumption or other issues causing catalyst poisoning. If both banks show codes, a complete exhaust manifold/cat assembly may be more cost-effective.

Typical repair cost:$400 - $1,800

Research This Issue

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Community Reported
Medium Confidence

On the 2004-2008 Nissan Maxima, the 6th generation Maxima (A34) is notorious for dashboard cracking, warping, and bubbling. The dashboard material degrades from UV exposure and heat, developing cracks that spread across the surface and a sticky, melting texture. This issue affects the top surface of the dashboard visible through the windshield. The problem is worse in southern/hot climates but occurs nationwide. A class-action lawsuit resulted in some settlements.

Common Symptoms

  • Cracks appearing on dashboard surface
  • Sticky or melting dashboard texture
  • Dashboard warping or bubbling
  • Glare from cracked dashboard surface
  • Pieces of dashboard material flaking off

How to Fix

Dashboard cover or cap ($50-150) to cover cosmetic damage. Full dashboard replacement from Nissan ($1,200-2,000 parts + labor). Aftermarket dashboard replacements/overlays available ($200-400). Some owners have successfully used vinyl wrap to cover mild cracking ($100-200 professional installation).

What you need to fix it

Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.

  • Coverking velour dash cover CDCV17NS092

    Explicitly fits 2004-2006 Maxima. Select color and confirm all airbag, vent and sensor openings before installation.

    NAPA
  • Dash Designs velour dash cover 1833-0VVN

    Explicitly fits 2007-2008 Maxima. Confirm cutouts, color and airbag-safe installation.

    NAPA

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.

Typical repair cost:$50 - $2,000

Research This Issue

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
High Confidence
NHTSA Recalls9 recalls

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP

Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2015-2017 Nissan Murano, 2016-2017 Nissan Maxima, 2017-2018 Nissan Pathfinder, and 2017 Infiniti QX60 vehicles. The Anti-Lock Brake (ABS) actuator pumps may allow brake fluid to leak onto an internal circuit board.

Campaign #18V60100007/09/2018

AIR BAGS:SENSOR:OCCUPANT CLASSIFICATION

Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain model year 2013-2015 Altima vehicles manufactured January 3, 2013, to July 29, 2013, 2015-2016 Rogue vehicles manufactured October 14, 2014, to August 12, 2016, and 2016 Maxima vehicles manufactured June 4, 2015, to August 19, 2015. An incorrect Occupant Classification System (OCS) Electronic Control Unit (ECU) may have been installed in the front passenger seat. The incorrect ECU and seat combination may misclassify the front passenger seat occupant.

Campaign #16V91100019/12/2016

BACK OVER PREVENTION: SENSING SYSTEM: CAMERA

Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2018-2019 Nissan Altima, Armada, Frontier, Kicks, Leaf, Maxima, Murano, NV, NV200, Pathfinder, Rogue, Rogue Sport, Sentra, Titan, Titan Diesel, Versa Note and Versa Sedan vehicles, as well as Infiniti Q50, Q60, QX30 and QX80 vehicles. Additionally included are 2019 Nissan GT-R and Taxi and Infiniti QX50, QX60, Q70, Q70L vehicles. The back-up camera and display settings can be adjusted such that the rear view image is no longer visible and the system will retain that setting the next time the vehicle is placed in reverse. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 111, "Rear Visibility."

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Other Nissan Models

Nissan Rogue46Nissan Altima41Nissan Sentra32Nissan Frontier30Nissan Pathfinder24Nissan Murano22

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common Nissan Maxima problems?

According to Au7o's research across NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports, the 2004 Nissan Maxima has 6 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: SkyView Fixed Glass Roof Spontaneous Breakage (2004 A34), Power Steering Rack Seal Leak and Pump Failure, Ignition Coil Failure (VQ35DE). Of these, 1 is rated critical and should be addressed promptly.

Is the Nissan Maxima reliable?

The 2004 Nissan Maxima has 6 known issues compiled from NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports. 1 issue is rated critical: SkyView Fixed Glass Roof Spontaneous Breakage (2004 A34). Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.

How much does it cost to fix common Nissan Maxima problems?

Repair costs for known Nissan Maxima issues range from $50 to $2,000, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, SkyView Fixed Glass Roof Spontaneous Breakage (2004 A34), typically costs $700-$1,800 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.

What is the 2004 Nissan Maxima SkyView Fixed Glass Roof Spontaneous Breakage (2004 A34)?

The A34 Maxima offered the SkyView roof, a large fixed tempered glass panel over the rear cabin in addition to the front sunroof. NHTSA opened a defect investigation into 2004 Maxima SkyView roofs after reports of the glass breaking with no impact. The tempered glass on affected… Repairs typically run $700-$1,800. Severity: high.

What is the 2004-2008 Nissan Maxima Power Steering Rack Seal Leak and Pump Failure?

The 2004-2008 Nissan Maxima (6th generation, A34) develops power steering fluid leaks from the steering rack seals, high-pressure hoses, and pump seals. The rack and pinion seals deteriorate from heat cycling and age, causing fluid seepage that progressively worsens. As fluid lev… Repairs typically run $300-$1,500. Severity: medium.

Content on this page was compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, owner reports, and public automotive data. While we strive for accuracy, this information may contain errors. Always verify repair procedures and specifications with your vehicle's service manual or a qualified mechanic.

Data compiled from NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, automotive forums, and AI-assisted research. No aggregated owner-report counts available for this vehicle yet.

Campaign #19V65400012/09/2019

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP

Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2015-2018 Nissan Murano, 2016-2018 Nissan Maxima, and 2017-2019 Nissan Pathfinder and Infiniti QX60 vehicles. These vehicles were previously recalled and unrepaired, or inspected and determined to not need a repair, under recall number 18V-601. In addition, this recall expands the previous population. The Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) actuator pumps may allow brake fluid to leak onto an internal circuit board.

Campaign #19V80700008/11/2019

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP

Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain model year 2016 Murano vehicles manufactured December 17, 2015, to February 11, 2016, and 2016 Maxima vehicles manufactured November 25, 2015, to February 12, 2016 and equipped with an antilock braking system (ABS) and Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC). The ABS actuator may have a damaged O-ring that may result in a lack of brake fluid pressure.

Campaign #16V19300007/04/2016

+ 4 more recalls. Check all on NHTSA.gov

Enter your VIN at NHTSA.gov to check recalls specific to your vehicle.

What is the 2004-2015 Nissan Maxima Ignition Coil Failure (VQ35DE)?

The VQ35DE engine in the 6th and 7th generation Maxima is prone to ignition coil failure. Coils typically fail one at a time, causing misfires on the affected cylinder. The rear bank (cylinders 1-3) coils fail more frequently due to heat soak from the firewall proximity. Coil fai… Repairs typically run $150-$600. Severity: medium.

What is the 2000-2008 Nissan Maxima Valve Cover Gasket and Spark Plug Tube Seal Leak (Oil in Plug Wells, Rear Bank)?

The molded rubber gasket and the integral spark plug tube seals in the VQ valve covers harden and take a compression set. The rear (firewall-side) cover fails first because it runs hotter and is the hardest to access. Oil weeps down the back of the block and burns off on the exha… Repairs typically run $250-$800. Severity: medium.

What is the 2004-2018 Nissan Maxima Catalytic Converter Premature Failure (Bank 1)?

The Maxima VQ35DE is known for premature catalytic converter failure, particularly the Bank 1 (front) converter. Failure typically occurs between 80,000-120,000 miles. The catalyst substrate deteriorates, often triggered by oil consumption issues inherent to the VQ35DE, rich runn… Repairs typically run $400-$1,800. Severity: medium.

What is the 2004-2008 Nissan Maxima Dashboard Cracking and Bubbling?

The 6th generation Maxima (A34) is notorious for dashboard cracking, warping, and bubbling. The dashboard material degrades from UV exposure and heat, developing cracks that spread across the surface and a sticky, melting texture. This issue affects the top surface of the dashboa… Repairs typically run $50-$2,000. Severity: low.