Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2010 Nissan Maxima
The 2010 Nissan Maxima has numerous steering complaints and one suspension recall. Electrical issues are also noted frequently. With 275 NHTSA complaints and one recall, be cautious about steering and investigate potential electrical or suspension failures.
NHTSA data on file today
The 2010 Nissan Maxima has 1 NHTSA recall campaign and 275 owner complaints on file as of . Recall data is refreshed daily from NHTSA.
Recall campaigns on file
- NHTSA #09V358000 SUSPENSION/STRUT INSULATOR CRACKING NHTSA notice
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Steering 158 complaints
- Electrical System 79 complaints
- Suspension 29 complaints
- Unknown or Other 24 complaints
- Engine 20 complaints
- Air Bags 15 complaints
Of the 275 complaints on file, 7 report a crash and 2 a fire; across all 275 complaints, owners report 11 injuries (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).
Known issues to inspect
Steering problems reported
How to check: Test steering feel and listen for odd noises
Front strut insulator may crack
How to check: Check front suspension components for visible cracks
Frequent electrical system issues
How to check: Operate all electronic functions
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Listen for unusual engine noises or vibrations
Red flag: Loud knocking sound
- 02
First minute idling
What to check: Check for dashboard warning lights
Red flag: Persistent warning lights
- 03
City driving
What to check: Ensure stable steering with no rattling
Red flag: Loose or vibrating steering wheel
- 04
Highway acceleration
What to check: Smooth acceleration without hesitation
Red flag: Car hesitates or loses power
- 05
Hard braking
What to check: Brake responsiveness and noise check
Red flag: Unresponsive or screeching brakes
- 06
Overall handling
What to check: Evaluate for abnormal suspension noises
Red flag: Persistent clunking sounds
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Have any recalls been performed?
- Are there any steering issues?
- Have electrical problems been fixed?
- Any suspension components replaced?
- Service history documentation available?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Vehicle's full service history
- Proof of completed recalls
- Title and registration papers
- Accident history report
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2010 Nissan Maxima at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
Looking at a specific 2010 Nissan Maxima? Check the actual car
This checklist covers the model. From your free try.vin dashboard you can go further — paste the seller's listing for a deal score, or drop their photos for an AI condition report.