P0780 on Nissan Maxima
Shift Error
Methodology: Reviewed against the SAE J2012 generic DTC definition and NHTSA owner-complaint patterns, then scoped to Nissan Maxima context without treating complaints as confirmed diagnoses.
Sources: SAE/OBD-II definitions, manufacturer service information, and public reliability reports (including NHTSA where applicable).
- SAE J2012 Diagnostic Trouble Code Definitions — Generic diagnostic trouble code definition reference for P0780.
- NHTSA recalls, complaints, and manufacturer communications — Used to check public owner complaint context, recall status, and safety-related manufacturer communications by VIN or vehicle.
Limits: Guidance is informational and may not match every model-year or revision. Confirm with the official manual and diagnostics before replacing parts. For safety-critical or electrical work, use a qualified technician.
What P0780 Means on Your Nissan Maxima
P0780 is a diagnostic trouble code indicating: Shift Error. This code relates to the transmission system. The vehicle's computer detected a condition outside normal operating parameters and stored this code.
Real Nissan Maxima Owner Reports
Source: NHTSA Complaints Database
"When in low gears 1-2, 2-3 gears jerks. high rev then strong jerk. felt like gears slipped. car then became sluggish and would not power of 5mph. check engine light came on. had car checked code p0780 showed. shift malfunction. this seems to be on going with maxima 04-06."
"I would like to add to the growing number of concerned consumers that are experiencing the same problem that i'm having with my 2006 nissan maxima sl transmission. i purchased this vehicle in august 09. i currently have 64,000 miles and had the vehicle less than 2yrs."
All reports filed by vehicle owners directly with the U.S. Department of Transportation.
📊 Complaint Trend by Model Year
Common Causes on Nissan Maxima
Based on NHTSA complaint component analysis for this vehicle.
What To Do Next
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1
Check for recalls on YOUR VIN
Go to nhtsa.gov/recalls and enter your VIN. If your vehicle is covered, repairs are free.
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2
Get a proper diagnosis
A code alone doesn't tell you the exact failed part. A diagnostic at a shop ($50–$150) pinpoints the root cause before you spend money on parts.
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3
Compare repair quotes
Get 2–3 quotes. Dealer vs. independent shop prices often differ 30–50% for the same repair.