2020 Nissan Maxima Battery Replacement: Step-by-Step Guide

Here's your comprehensive guide to battery replacement for the 2020 Nissan Maxima. Dealing with electrical issues can be frustrating, and knowing how to diagnose and fix battery-related problems is crucial for keeping your vehicle running smoothly. As one owner shared, "That light went off on next crank bur still have the service light.Reset the whole control system, at battery, and will try her out today" — Roymg.

Symptoms

Several symptoms can indicate a problem with your 2020 Nissan Maxima's battery or electrical system. Keep an eye out for these issues, as they can point to a failing battery or related components.

One common symptom is the appearance of warning lights on your dashboard. These can include a service light, TCS OFF SLIP light, or even a battery light. A service light, in particular, can indicate a wide range of issues, but when coupled with other electrical symptoms, it could point to battery problems.

Another sign of a potential battery issue is unusual behavior from your car's electronics. Owners have reported instances of the radio resetting itself or exhibiting static. This can manifest as the radio reverting to default settings, such as the year 2020, or losing saved stations. According to one owner, "Last night when I started the car the radio was all static. This morning the radio was set all the way back to 2020, time, date etc..My husband had to reset everything" — robtroxel. This kind of electrical reset can be a telltale sign of a failing battery struggling to maintain a consistent voltage.

Other potential symptoms include difficulty starting the engine, dimming headlights, or issues with other electrical components like the wipers or heater. You might also experience your vehicle going into limp mode or shaking, although these could also be related to other issues. If you notice multiple electrical issues occurring simultaneously, it's definitely time to investigate your battery and charging system.

Most Likely Cause

Based on owner reports, a primary cause indirectly related to battery issues in the 2020 Nissan Maxima can be traced back to an intake leak. An intake leak can cause the engine to run lean, which can put additional strain on the electrical system, and the battery.

The engine control unit (ECU) attempts to compensate for the lean condition by adjusting fuel trims, which in turn can affect various sensors and systems connected to the electrical system. This can manifest as unusual electrical behavior or trigger warning lights on the dashboard. While an intake leak doesn't directly cause battery failure, the resulting strain and electrical imbalances can shorten the battery's lifespan and cause it to exhibit symptoms of failure.

An intake leak can also affect the idle speed and overall engine performance, potentially leading to the vehicle entering limp mode or experiencing unusual shaking. These symptoms, coupled with electrical issues, can make it difficult to diagnose the root cause of the problem. Therefore, it is crucial to consider the possibility of an intake leak when troubleshooting battery-related issues in your 2020 Nissan Maxima.

How to Diagnose

Diagnosing battery and related electrical issues in your 2020 Nissan Maxima involves a systematic approach to identify the root cause of the problem. Here's a step-by-step process to guide you:

1. Visual Inspection: Start by visually inspecting the battery terminals for corrosion or loose connections. Clean any corrosion with a battery terminal cleaner and ensure the connections are tight. Also, check the battery case for any signs of damage or swelling.

2. Voltage Test: Use a multimeter to measure the battery voltage. A fully charged battery should read around 12.6 volts. If the voltage is significantly lower (e.g., below 12 volts), the battery may be discharged or failing. As one owner reported, "After turning off the car, battery was giving my 13.1V." — maximanut2001. This reading suggests a healthy battery, but a lower voltage after sitting could indicate a problem.

• Tool Required: Multimeter

3. Load Test: A load test checks the battery's ability to deliver current under load. You can use a battery load tester to perform this test. If the battery voltage drops excessively during the load test, it indicates that the battery is unable to hold a charge and needs replacement. Many auto parts stores will perform a free battery load test for you.

• Tool Required: Battery load tester

4. Charging System Test: Check the charging system by measuring the voltage at the battery terminals while the engine is running. The voltage should be between 13.5 and 14.5 volts. If the voltage is outside this range, it indicates a problem with the alternator or voltage regulator. According to an owner, "After hooking it all back up, I got 14.48v at the battery on my voltmeter when running. I then turned on the lights, radio, hazards, heater fan and was still getting 14.2V at the battery." — maximanut2001. This owner's readings indicate a properly functioning charging system.

• Tool Required: Multimeter

5. Parasitic Draw Test: A parasitic draw test identifies if any electrical components are draining the battery while the car is turned off. Use a multimeter to measure the current draw from the battery with the engine off and all accessories turned off. A normal parasitic draw should be less than 50 milliamps. If the draw is higher, you'll need to isolate the circuit causing the excessive draw.

• Tool Required: Multimeter

6. Intake Leak Inspection: Since an intake leak can indirectly affect the battery, inspect the intake manifold, hoses, and gaskets for any signs of cracks or leaks. You can use a smoke machine or carburetor cleaner to identify vacuum leaks. Spray carburetor cleaner around the intake manifold while the engine is running. If the engine speed changes, it indicates a vacuum leak in that area.

• Tool Required: Smoke machine or carburetor cleaner

7. Check Error Codes: Use an OBD-II scanner to check for any error codes stored in the ECU. These codes can provide valuable clues about the underlying problem. Pay attention to any codes related to the engine, fuel system, or electrical system.

• Tool Required: OBD-II scanner

Step-by-Step Fix

Replacing the battery in your 2020 Nissan Maxima is a straightforward process you can do yourself. Here's a step-by-step guide:

1. Gather Your Tools: You'll need a wrench set, battery terminal cleaner, battery terminal protector, and a new battery.

2. Safety First: Disconnect the negative terminal first, then the positive terminal. This prevents accidental short circuits. Use a wrench to loosen the nuts on the battery terminals and carefully remove the terminals from the battery posts.

3. Remove Battery Hold-Down: Remove the battery hold-down clamp or strap that secures the battery in place. This may involve loosening bolts or releasing clips.

4. Remove the Old Battery: Carefully lift the old battery out of the tray. Be mindful of its weight and any potential acid spills.

5. Clean the Battery Tray and Terminals: Clean the battery tray and terminals to remove any corrosion or debris. Use a battery terminal cleaner to clean the terminals and a wire brush to clean the battery tray.

6. Install the New Battery: Place the new battery in the tray, ensuring it's oriented correctly. Secure the battery with the hold-down clamp or strap.

7. Connect the Battery Terminals: Connect the positive terminal first, then the negative terminal. Make sure the terminals are securely tightened.

8. Apply Terminal Protector: Apply battery terminal protector to prevent corrosion.

9. Test the Car: Start the car to ensure the new battery is working correctly. Check for any warning lights on the dashboard.

10. Reset Electronics: Some electronics, like the radio, may need to be reset after a battery replacement. As one owner reported, "I did just get a TCS OFF SLIP Light and service light that came on for the first time. That light went off on next crank bur still have the service light.Reset the whole control system, at battery, and will try her out today." — Roymg.

Parts and Tools Needed

• New Battery (Group Size 35 is a common fit for the 2020 Nissan Maxima)
• Wrench set (typically 10mm and 13mm)
• Battery terminal cleaner
• Battery terminal protector
• Gloves
• Safety glasses
• Optional: Battery load tester

Real Owner Costs

Replacing the battery in your 2020 Nissan Maxima can vary in cost depending on whether you choose to DIY or have it done professionally.

• DIY:

  • Battery: $100 - $250 (depending on brand and type)
  • Battery terminal cleaner and protector: $10 - $20
  • Total: $110 - $270

• Professional Installation:

  • Battery: $100 - $250
  • Labor: $50 - $150
  • Total: $150 - $400

Some owners have experienced premature battery failure, which can lead to additional costs. As one owner mentioned, "One lasted 8 months the other lasted 10 months. The third one was put on about a week ago from today and I went ahead and put a new o Reilly’s one on there (still under warranty just had to pay the difference)." — Goldpanda94. This owner's experience highlights the importance of checking the battery's warranty and considering factors that can affect battery life, such as excessive heat or cold, and parasitic draws.

Prevention

To prevent battery issues in your 2020 Nissan Maxima, consider the following:

• Regular Maintenance: Have your battery and charging system tested regularly, especially before the onset of extreme weather conditions.
• Minimize Short Trips: Short trips don't allow the alternator enough time to fully recharge the battery.
• Turn Off Accessories: Turn off headlights, air conditioning, and other accessories when the engine is off to avoid draining the battery.
• Avoid Excessive Heat Exposure: Park your car in the shade or in a garage to minimize heat exposure, which can shorten battery life.
• Check for Parasitic Draws: Address any parasitic draws promptly to prevent the battery from being drained while the car is off.
• Keep Terminals Clean: Clean the battery terminals regularly to prevent corrosion, which can impede electrical flow.

What Owners Say

Real experiences from NISSAN owners:

Owner Experiences

"One lasted 8 months the other lasted 10 months. The third one was put on about a week ago from today and I went ahead and put a new o Reilly’s one on there (still under warranty just had to pay the difference)." — Goldpanda94 (source)

"Hey sorry to hear you're experiencing the same thing. Some updates since then, I have confirmed power at the hid plug for low beams (battery voltage while running)." — feloniousengineering (source)

"Some updates since then, I have confirmed power at the hid plug for low beams (battery voltage while running). I don't believe the voltage changed prongs though when I switched to the high beams." — feloniousengineering (source)

Lessons Learned

⚠️ "That light went off on next crank bur still have the service light.Reset the whole control system, at battery, and will try her out today. I wonder, had both back wheel bearings replaced last fall." — Roymg (source)

⚠️ "After hooking it all back up, I got 14.48v at the battery on my voltmeter when running. I then turned on the lights, radio, hazards, heater fan and was still getting 14.2V at the battery." — maximanut2001 (source)

⚠️ "I then turned on the lights, radio, hazards, heater fan and was still getting 14.2V at the battery. After turning off the car, battery was giving my 13.1V." — maximanut2001 (source)

FAQ

Q: How long does it take to fix battery issues?

A: Replacing a battery is typically a quick job, taking about 15-30 minutes for a DIY replacement. Diagnosing other underlying electrical issues, like an intake leak or parasitic draw, could take longer, potentially a few hours.

Q: Can I drive with a failing battery?

A: While you might be able to drive with a failing battery temporarily, it's not recommended. A failing battery can cause your car to stall, leave you stranded, or damage other electrical components. It's best to address the issue as soon as possible.

Q: Is this a common issue on the 2020 Nissan Maxima?

A: Battery issues can occur on any vehicle, including the 2020 Nissan Maxima. Factors like driving habits, climate, and maintenance can all affect battery life. Premature battery failure can sometimes be traced back to other underlying issues, like parasitic draws or intake leaks.

Q: DIY vs mechanic - what's recommended?

A: Replacing a battery is a relatively straightforward DIY task for most owners. However, if you're uncomfortable working on your car or suspect there's a more complex underlying electrical issue, it's best to consult a professional mechanic. Diagnosing and repairing electrical problems can require specialized tools and knowledge.