If you're looking to sharpen up your car's profile, a 2017 nissan maxima rear spoiler is arguably the most effective mod you can install for the price. Let's be real, the eighth-generation Maxima is already a pretty striking car. Nissan calls it a "four-door sports car," and while that might be a bit of a marketing stretch, the aggressive lines and the "floating roof" design definitely set it apart from your average mid-size sedan. But without that extra piece on the trunk, the rear end can sometimes look a little unfinished, like it's missing its signature.
Adding a spoiler isn't just about aerodynamics—though that's a nice bonus if you're actually hitting track speeds—it's mostly about the attitude. It changes the silhouette of the car from "commuter" to "sporty" in about thirty minutes of work. Whether you're going for that clean factory look or something a bit more "aftermarket aggressive," there are a few things you should know before you start drilling holes or peeling off adhesive tape.
Choosing the Style That Fits Your Vibe
Not all spoilers are created equal. Depending on what look you're going for, you've got a few distinct paths you can take. Most people tend to gravitate toward one of three styles for their 2017 Maxima.
The OEM Factory Style
This is the "safe" bet, but safe doesn't mean boring. The factory-style 2017 nissan maxima rear spoiler is designed to look like it came right off the assembly line. It's usually a low-profile wing that follows the curve of the trunk perfectly. If you have the SR trim or the Midnight Edition, you probably already have something like this, but for those with the S, SV, or SL trims, it's a massive upgrade. It's subtle, it doesn't scream for attention, but it makes the car look significantly more "expensive."
The Duckbill Spoiler
If you spend any time on car forums or Instagram, you've seen these. A duckbill spoiler sits flush against the trunk and kicks up at a sharp angle at the trailing edge. It's a bit more aggressive than the factory wing. It gives the Maxima a much wider, more planted look from the back. It's great if you've already lowered your car a bit or added some aftermarket wheels. It's that "tuner" look that still manages to stay classy.
The Roof Spoiler
This one is a bit different. Instead of going on the trunk, it sits at the very top of the rear window. Some people like to run these on their own, but they actually look best when paired with a trunk spoiler. It helps bridge that gap between the roofline and the rear of the car, emphasizing that "floating roof" design that Nissan is so proud of.
Materials Matter More Than You Think
When you're shopping around, you'll see a huge range in prices. Usually, that comes down to what the spoiler is made of. Don't just grab the cheapest one you find on a random site without checking the specs.
ABS Plastic is the industry standard for a reason. It's tough, it handles heat well (which is important since it's sitting in the sun all day), and it's relatively lightweight. Most factory spoilers are made of ABS. It takes paint really well, so if you're trying to color-match your car, this is what you want.
Carbon Fiber is the "holy grail" for a lot of guys. It looks incredible, especially on lighter-colored cars like Pearl White or Silver. However, it's pricey. If you go this route, make sure it has a high-quality UV-resistant clear coat. There's nothing worse than a beautiful carbon fiber spoiler turning yellow or cloudy after six months because the sun cooked it.
The Big Question: To Drill or Not to Drill?
This is where most people start to get a little nervous. Installing a 2017 nissan maxima rear spoiler usually involves one of two methods: automotive-grade 3M tape or actual bolts.
Honestly, for the smaller lip spoilers or duckbills, 3M VHB (Very High Bond) tape is usually more than enough. If you prep the surface correctly—and I mean really clean it with isopropyl alcohol and maybe use a primer—that thing isn't going anywhere. It can withstand car washes, high speeds, and rain without a problem.
However, if you're going for a larger wing-style spoiler, you're probably going to have to drill. I know, the idea of taking a power drill to your trunk is terrifying. But if you want that extra security, it's the way to go. Most kits come with a template. You lay the template down, mark your spots, and just go for it. Just make sure you use some touch-up paint or a rust inhibitor on the bare metal edges of the holes you just made before you bolt the spoiler down.
Getting the Color Right
Unless you're going for a blacked-out "Midnight" look or carbon fiber, you're probably going to want to match the spoiler to your car's paint. For the 2017 Maxima, Nissan had some specific colors that can be tricky to match if you're just buying a "generic" painted part.
Colors like Coulis Red or Deep Blue Pearl have a lot of depth to them. If you buy a pre-painted spoiler, make sure the seller is using the actual Nissan paint codes (like KH3 for Black or QAB for White). If you're unsure, you can usually find your paint code on the sticker inside the driver's side door jamb. Getting it professionally painted at a local body shop is always an option too, and it usually ensures the best match, especially since paint can fade slightly over the years.
Why Bother With an Upgrade?
You might be wondering if it's really worth the effort. At the end of the day, it's your car, but a spoiler does a lot for the "shelf life" of the design. The 2017 Maxima is starting to get a little older now, and adding small touches like this keeps it looking modern.
It's also one of those mods that actually helps with resale value if done right. Most buyers like the look of a spoiler, and if it's a clean, factory-style install, it makes the car look like a higher trim level than it actually is. It's a small investment that pays off in how much you enjoy looking at your car every time you walk up to it in a parking lot.
A Few Tips for a Smooth Install
If you've decided to DIY this, here are a few "pro-tips" I've learned the hard way. First, don't do the install in the cold. If you're using adhesive tape, it needs a bit of warmth to really bond. If it's winter, do it in a heated garage or use a hair dryer to warm up the trunk surface and the tape itself.
Second, have a friend help you. Trying to line up a six-foot-long piece of plastic on a curved trunk by yourself is a recipe for a crooked spoiler. You get one shot with that 3M tape; once it touches, it's stuck. Have someone hold one end while you line up the other.
Lastly, don't forget about the third brake light. Some 2017 nissan maxima rear spoiler options come with an integrated LED light. If yours does, you'll have to do a little bit of simple wiring to tap into your existing brake light harness. It's usually just two wires, but it's something to keep in mind if you aren't comfortable with basic electronics.
Wrapping It Up
At the end of the day, picking out a 2017 nissan maxima rear spoiler is about making the car yours. Whether you want that sleek, "is that a factory option?" look or something that stands out a bit more, it's one of the best ways to spend your mod money. It changes the whole vibe of the car's rear end, making it look faster, lower, and just generally cooler. Just take your time with the install, double-check your paint codes, and enjoy the new look. Your Maxima will thank you for it.