Ford Taurus vs Nissan Maxima
The Nissan Maxima is more fuel-efficient at 21 MPG combined, against 20 MPG for the Ford Taurus. At EPA assumptions that is about $150 less in fuel per year. (Comparison uses each model's most efficient version.)
Side by side
| Ford Taurus | Nissan Maxima | |
|---|---|---|
| Complaints (NHTSA) | 1,005 | 1,152 |
| Most reported problem | Cruise control | Drivetrain & axles |
| Crashes and fires | 62 and 13 | 32 and 17 |
| Typical mileage at complaint | 90,000 miles | 86,000 miles |
| Recalls | 0 | 2 |
| Fuel economy, combined | 20 MPG | 21 MPG |
| City and highway | 18 and 25 | 18 and 27 |
| Yearly fuel cost (EPA) | $3,350 | $3,200 |
What the numbers say
NHTSA has 1,005 complaints for the Ford Taurus and 1,152 for the Nissan Maxima. Complaint counts depend heavily on how many of each vehicle were sold, so a higher count does not by itself mean a less reliable car.
Safety recalls on file: 0 for the Ford Taurus, 2 for the Nissan Maxima.