One problem related to gas recirculation valve (egr valve) has been reported for the 1996 Nissan Maxima. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
: the contact stated the check engine light illuminates after 55-60 trips to an independent mechanic. In addition to the check engine light illuminating the engine made a pinging noise when accelerating. On one occasion,the mechanic cleaned the coils. The independent repair shop suggested replacing the egr valve, but the contact declined because the state would not allow the installation of a used egr valve. The codes were cleared several times in order to get the light to go off. The check engine light always comes back on. Sometimes it came on within 30 minutes of being repaired.