Nissan Maxima Engine Replacement in Phoenix
A V6-only sedan where the transmission deserves as much attention as the engine.
The Maxima has been Nissan's flagship sedan for decades, and every generation has used a V6 engine. The fifth-generation Maxima from 2004 to 2008 used the VQ35DE. The sixth-generation car from 2009 to 2015 continued with the VQ35DE, and the seventh-generation from 2016 to 2023 moved to the VQ35DD with direct injection. All are V6, but the generation determines the specific variant.
The defining feature of the Maxima engine conversation is the continuously variable transmission. CVT failure is common enough on the Maxima that it should be positively ruled out before anyone orders an engine, because the symptoms, loss of power, slipping, hesitation, are exactly what an owner would describe as engine trouble. A replacement engine behind a failing CVT is money spent twice.
The CVT is the variable to rule out first
Continuously variable transmission failure is common on the Maxima, and its symptoms, loss of power, slipping, hesitation, are exactly what an owner would describe as engine trouble. A replacement engine fitted behind a failing CVT does not fix the car, and the money is not recoverable.
On the engine side, the fifth and sixth generations used the VQ35DE while the seventh moved to the VQ35DD with direct injection. Those are different engines with different fuel systems. The generation and VIN settle which one you need.
Nissan Maxima engines by generation
Three generations, with the VQ35DE carrying most of the replacement market.
Where Nissan Maxima orders go wrong
- The VQ35DE and VQ35DD are different engines with different fuel delivery systems. The generation determines which one you need.
- Confirm the CVT is healthy before ordering an engine. This is the single most important step on this vehicle.
- Sixth-generation and seventh-generation Maximas use different VQ variants with different supporting hardware. The year and VIN settle which one.
None of this needs to be worked out on your own. The Engine Finder asks for the year, model and trim and does the identification from there. The engine code field is optional precisely because most people do not have it.
Check availability for your Nissan Maxima
Year, trim and ZIP is enough to start. If you have the VIN it removes the guesswork entirely.
Common questions
Is the Maxima engine the same as the Altima?
The V6 Maxima and the V6 Altima both use VQ35DE engines, but the applications differ in accessory layout and mounting. The Altima also offers a four-cylinder QR25DE option that the Maxima does not. Supply the VIN to confirm the correct Maxima-spec unit rather than assuming the Altima part will fit.
Should I replace the CVT at the same time?
If the CVT is showing symptoms, address it before or alongside the engine rather than after. CVT failure is common on the Maxima, and its symptoms overlap with engine trouble. A fresh engine behind a failing transmission does not fix the car, and the combined cost of both jobs should be weighed against the vehicle's value.
Related pages
- VQ35DE EngineNissan’s 3.5 V6 from the Altima, Murano, Maxima and 350Z.
- Nissan AltimaQR25DE or VQ35DE, and check the transmission first.
- Nissan MuranoAlways a VQ35DE, which makes the CVT the thing to check.
- Nissan EnginesNissan engine families, and why the transmission is checked first.
- Repair or Replace Your EngineWhether to spend anything at all, before deciding what to spend it on.
Find the right engine for your vehicle
Tell us the year, model and trim. We identify the engine your vehicle takes and come back with current availability and pricing.