The 1996 Nissan Maxima, designated by the A32 chassis code, represents Nissan's flagship sedan of its era, celebrated for its potent VG30E 3.0-liter SOHC V6 engine and marketed with the distinctive tagline "The 4-Door Sports Car." This model aimed to blend luxury with performance, offering a refined driving experience that competed with established vehicles in the premium mid-size segment. Key features included available leather upholstery, premium audio systems, and a comfortable interior, all contributing to its reputation for quality engineering and reliability. The Maxima's design and capabilities positioned it as a strong contender, emphasizing a smooth ride and sophisticated styling.
This comprehensive service and repair manual provides in-depth, factory-level technical information for the 1996 Nissan Maxima, covering both GLE and GXE trim levels. It details procedures for all major vehicle systems, including the engine, transmission, drivetrain, suspension, steering, brakes, and electrical systems. The manual encompasses routine maintenance, scheduled servicing, troubleshooting, diagnostic procedures, component removal and installation, and repair processes. Its scope is designed to assist owners, mechanics, and technicians in maintaining and repairing the vehicle effectively, ensuring optimal performance and longevity.
Trim Levels Covered:
GLE, GXE
Market Position:
The 1996 Nissan Maxima (A32 chassis) was positioned as Nissan's flagship sedan, offering a blend of luxury, performance, and reliability. It competed against established players in the mid-size and near-luxury segments.
Competitive Analysis:
Competitors included vehicles such as the Toyota Avalon, Lexus ES 300, Honda Accord, and Ford Taurus. The Maxima distinguished itself with its potent V6 engine and front-wheel-drive platform, often marketed with the tagline 'The 4-Door Sports Car.'
Key Features:
V6 engine, available leather upholstery, premium audio systems, smooth ride, comfortable interior, refined styling.
Coverage Areas:
Comprehensive service and repair for the 1996 Nissan Maxima
Page Count:
Not explicitly stated, but implied to be comprehensive (factory-derived information)
Manual Type:
Service and Repair Manual Software (Online Access)
Format:
Online Software (Web Browser Accessible)
Systems Covered:
Engine, Transmission (Automatic & Manual), Drivetrain, Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Electrical System, HVAC, Body & Interior, Fuel System, Exhaust System, Cooling System, Ignition System, Emissions Control, Lubrication System, Wiring Diagrams
Procedures Included:
Routine Maintenance, Scheduled Servicing, Troubleshooting, Diagnostic Procedures, Component Removal and Installation, Repair Procedures, Component Adjustments, Electrical Troubleshooting, Wiring Harness Repair, Body Panel Repair, Interior Trim Replacement, HVAC System Servicing, Brake System Overhaul, Suspension Component Replacement, Engine Tune-up and Rebuild, Transmission Service and Overhaul
Technical Depth:
In-depth, factory-level technical information covering diagnostics, repair, and overhaul procedures for all major vehicle systems. Suitable for both DIY enthusiasts and professional mechanics.
File Format:
Web-based access, compatible with PC, laptop, smartphone, tablet via web browser
Print Quality:
N/A (Online Access)
Binding Type:
N/A (Online Access)
Paper Type:
N/A (Online Access)
Engine Displacement:
3.0 Liters (2960 cc)
Engine Configuration:
SOHC V6
Bore X Stroke:
87.0 mm x 83.0 mm
Horsepower:
190 hp @ 5600 rpm (approximate)
Torque:
205 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (approximate)
Fuel System:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Ignition System:
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS)
Coolant Type:
Nissan Genuine Long Life Coolant (Blue) or equivalent silicate-free OAT coolant
Oil Type:
API SG or SH, SAE 5W-30
Oil Capacity With Filter:
4.2 US quarts (4.0 Liters)
Standard Transmission:
4-speed Automatic Transmission (RL4F03A)
Optional Transmission:
5-speed Manual Transmission (RS5F50A)
Transmission Features Auto:
Electronically controlled, overdrive
Transmission Fluid Type:
Nissan Genuine ATF Matic J or equivalent Dexron III
Transmission Capacity Auto
Transmission Capacity Auto:
3.0 US quarts (2.8 Liters) for torque converter replacement, 6.8 US quarts (6.4 Liters) total
Transmission Capacity Manual
Transmission Capacity Manual:
2.2 US quarts (2.1 Liters)
Transmission Fluid Manual
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 (or SAE 80W-90)
Length:
191.3 inches (4859 mm)
Width:
70.5 inches (1791 mm)
Height:
54.7 inches (1390 mm)
Wheelbase:
106.3 inches (2700 mm)
Curb Weight Gxe:
3,330 lbs (1510 kg)
Curb Weight Gle:
3,380 lbs (1533 kg)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvw:
4,470 lbs (2027 kg)
Trunk Volume:
15.1 cubic feet (428 Liters)
NHTSA Frontal Crash Rating:
4-star (Driver), 4-star (Passenger) - as per contemporary NHTSA testing
Active Features:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Passive Features:
Driver and front passenger airbags, front seatbelt pretensioners, side-impact door beams
Front Brakes:
Ventilated Disc
Standard Wheel Size:
15-inch
Optional Wheel Size:
16-inch (GLE)
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
5x114.3 mm (5x4.5 inches)
Standard Tire Size:
P205/65R15
Infotainment Features:
Optional premium Bose sound system with CD player and cassette deck, automatic climate control, power windows, power locks, cruise control.
Driver Assistance Features:
ABS (Anti-lock Braking System)
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles (6,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (under normal driving conditions)
Tire Rotation Interval:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 12 months
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 24 months
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km)
Power Steering Fluid Type:
Nissan Genuine Power Steering Fluid or Dexron II/III ATF
Coolant Capacity:
Approximately 8.2 US quarts (7.8 Liters)
Common Issues:
Head gasket leaks (though less common than some other VQ/VG engines), transmission issues (especially with older automatic transmissions if not maintained), power window motor failure, idle air control (IAC) valve issues, exhaust manifold cracks, radiator leaks.
Oil Filter Part Number Example:
Nissan 15208-01M01 or Fram PH2 (verify for specific application)
Air Filter Part Number Example:
Nissan 16546-30P00 or Fram CA3768 (verify for specific application)
Brand Heritage:
Nissan, formerly Datsun, has a long history of producing reliable and innovative vehicles, known for its performance-oriented models and commitment to automotive engineering.
Model Evolution:
The 1996 Maxima belongs to the third generation (A32) of the Maxima, which debuted for the 1995 model year. This generation marked a significant redesign, moving to a platform shared with the Infiniti I30, and adopting a more luxurious and refined character while retaining its performance heritage.
Production Location:
Oppama Plant, Japan
Production Years For A32 Chassis:
1994-1999
Recognitions:
Often praised by automotive journalists for its strong V6 engine and comfortable ride in its class during its production run. While specific 'awards' for the 1996 model year might not be readily documented, it was generally considered a strong contender in the premium mid-size sedan market.
