Is it common to have transmission issues in a 2011 Nissan Maxima?

They're computer controlled with solenoids , it may be something simple , your experience may differ

Your Maxima has an Xtronic continuously variable transmission (CVT)..... CVTs are somewhat troublesome and require greater maintenance than other forms of automatic transmissions, and Nissan's CVTs are notorious for problems when not serviced to meet their needs. And those needs are greater than those mentioned in the owners manual, which is 30 thousand miles for spirited driving. You should change fluid at no more than that and do it religiously..... If not done, Nissan CVRTs will develop major problems soon.

CVT transmission so your going to have problems for sure. They just are not hearty enough for cars, they should have been left in snowmobiles and scooters.