Well in the UK its called a diff carrier in the US is referred to as a third member (why?). Its the big bit that carries the differential and sticks out the back of the front axle where the driveshaft attaches. Sorry if that sounds a bit patronising. On Track/Kicks they are made of ally and can break. On GV V6s they are made of steel. I don't even know what a Maxima is, some sort of car/truck obviously, lol.