MotorCaliberNHTSA Safety Index
NHTSA crash test of the 2020 Nissan Maxima

NHTSA // CRASH-TESTED

2020 Nissan Maxima

Federal crash-test performance, recalls, and complaints, scored into one NHTSA Safety Index.

1Recalls
21Complaints
0Investigations
ABOUT THE NISSAN MAXIMA

The Nissan Maxima is a front-wheel-drive full-size sedan aimed at buyers who want a sportier, more driver-focused alternative to mainstream family cars. Marketed as a "four-door sports car," it occupies a shrinking but still loyal segment, appealing to adults who prioritize a confident driving feel and a well-appointed cabin without stepping into luxury-brand pricing.

VERDICT

The 2020 Nissan Maxima earns an NHTSA Safety Index of 98 out of 100, an exceptional result driven by its federal crash-test stars and its recall record. Its 5-star rollover rating stands out for families and child-seat buyers. It has 1 recall on record, reflected in the score.

WHO IT IS FOR
  • families prioritizing rollover safety
  • new and teen drivers who want standard crash-avoidance tech
  • urban drivers exposed to side-impact risk
WHAT REVIEWERS SAY

Reviewers generally praise the Maxima for its engaging driving character, upscale interior feel, and strong powertrain, positioning it as a sporty standout in a segment dominated by more conservative choices. Most note that the aging platform and limited cargo practicality are tradeoffs buyers accept in exchange for the model's distinctive personality and refined road presence.

NCAP // CRASH TESTCrash-test breakdown

Overall
Frontal
Side
Rollover
Rollover risk 9.5%

Source: NHTSA NCAP, VehicleId 14495

Index breakdown

Crash protection70/70
Avoidance tech10/10
Defect record17.75/20
Forward collision warning: StandardLane departure warning: StandardStability control: Standard

NCAP // CRASH IMAGESCrash-test images

Crash-test images are US federal government works (NHTSA / NCAP), public domain.

NHTSA // RECALLSRecall record

VISIBILITY:GLASS, SIDE/REAR20V570000

Risk: 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.

Reported 2020-09-22

NHTSA // COMPLAINTSOwner complaints

21 owner complaints on file. These are unverified allegations reported to NHTSA.

2reported crash
0reported fire
1reported injuries
0reported deaths
Most-reported systemsForward Collision Avoidance 4Structure 4Service Brakes 3Power Train 2Electrical System 2Unknown Or Other 2

Other Maxima years

Rivals in Sedan (2020)

Last verified 2026-07-02. Sources: NHTSA SafetyRatings (VehicleId 14495), recallsByVehicle, complaintsByVehicle for Nissan Maxima 2020. Class rank 6 of 105 in Sedan 2020. Methodology · Disclosure