Ignition Coil Guide for the 1995-2002 Nissan Maxima
Diagnose and fix your Maxima's V6 misfire by choosing the right ignition coil.
- Your 1995-2002 Maxima has six individual ignition coils; a failure in one will cause a misfire.
- Hitachi is the original OEM supplier; choosing Hitachi, NGK, or Delphi aftermarket coils is a reliable choice.
- If a rear coil fails, replace all three rear coils and all six spark plugs at once to avoid repeated, costly labor.
- Be certain of your model year and engine (VQ30DE vs. VQ35DE in 2002) as the coils are different.
Understanding Ignition Coil Failure in Your Maxima
Ignition coils are a very common failure point on the 1995-2002 Nissan Maxima. When a coil goes bad, the cylinder it's responsible for can no longer fire properly, leading to an engine misfire. This will cause the engine to run rough, lose power, and will almost always turn on the Check Engine Light. 🎬 Watch this video to learn more about bad ignition coil symptoms. You may see generic misfire codes like P0300 (random misfire) or cylinder-specific codes like P0301, P0302, etc., which point to the exact cylinder that is failing. Some Maxima owners may also encounter the Nissan-specific P1320 code, which points directly to a fault in the ignition system and is frequently caused by a failing coil.
A Note on 2002 Models
The 2002 model year was a transition year for the Maxima. Some early 2002 models still used the VQ30DE engine, while later models introduced the VQ35DE engine. These engines use different ignition coils. It is critical to verify your engine type or visually match your old coil before ordering to ensure you get the correct part.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Ignition Coil
When replacing ignition coils, quality matters. Cheap, unbranded coils are known to fail quickly and may not even solve issues like the P1320 code. For a car like the Maxima, it's best to choose a reputable brand.
Tier 1: OEM-Quality Brands
These brands are often the original equipment manufacturer for Nissan or are known for producing parts that meet or exceed OEM standards. They are the most reliable choice for longevity.
- Hitachi: Widely regarded as the original OEM supplier for Nissan ignition coils. Choosing Hitachi is the closest you can get to buying a genuine part without the dealer price tag.
- NGK: A top-tier brand famous for spark plugs, their ignition components are also held in high regard for quality and reliability.
- Delphi: A major OE manufacturer that produces high-quality ignition coils designed to meet vehicle-specific requirements.
Tier 2: Reputable Aftermarket Brands
These brands offer a good balance of price and quality, making them a solid choice for most repairs.
- Spectra Premium
- Standard Motor Products (SMP)
- WAI Global
- Walker Products
Tier 3: Economy Brands
While offering the lowest price, these brands can be a gamble in terms of quality and lifespan. They may be suitable for a budget repair, but failure rates can be higher.
- DriveWire
- Skyward
- Global Parts
Pro Tip: Replace in Sets?
The three ignition coils on the rear cylinder bank are difficult to access, requiring removal of the intake manifold. 🎬 See how to replace rear coils and the intake gasket. If one of these rear coils fails, it is highly recommended to replace all three rear coils and all six spark plugs at the same time. This prevents you from having to pay for the same difficult labor again if another rear coil fails soon after.
Cost of Replacing a Nissan Maxima Ignition Coil
| Category | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Ignition Coil (Single) | $29.40 - $217.70 |
| New OEM Ignition Coil (Single) | $90 - $120 |
| Shop Labor (Single Front Coil) | $70 - $102 |
| Shop Labor (All Six Coils) | $450 - $700+ |
Frequently Asked Questions
How many ignition coils does my 1995-2002 Maxima have?
Your Maxima V6 engine has six ignition coils, one for each cylinder.
Can I replace just one bad ignition coil?
Yes, you can replace only the failed coil. However, if a coil on the hard-to-reach rear bank fails, it's wise to replace all three rear coils at once to save on future labor costs. Many owners also choose to replace them all at once if the vehicle has high mileage, as the others may fail soon.
What happens if I don't replace a bad coil?
Driving with a bad coil can cause more damage. Unburned fuel from the misfiring cylinder can get into the exhaust and damage the catalytic converter, which is a much more expensive repair. It also causes poor fuel economy, rough running, and potential stalling.
Is replacing an ignition coil a DIY job?
For the three front coils, yes. They are easily accessible on top of the engine and require basic tools. The three rear coils are much more difficult and require removing the upper intake manifold, which is a more advanced job.
🎬 Follow this step-by-step guide to replace your Maxima ignition coils.Why did my new coil not fix the misfire?
If a new coil doesn't solve the problem, the issue could be a bad spark plug, a clogged fuel injector, or a problem with the wiring going to the coil. A common diagnostic step is to swap the new coil with one from a working cylinder. If the misfire code stays on the original cylinder, the coil is not the issue.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 22448-2Y000 22448-2Y001 22448-31U01 22448-31U11 22448-8J115 22448-8J11C
This vehicle uses a coil-on-plug (COP) ignition system with six individual coils. There are different coil designs for the front and rear banks, and different part numbers for the 1995-1999, 2000-2001, and 2002 model years.
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The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
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