Faults:

Transmission @ 102000.

Basic consumables (brakes, hoses, battery, etc.)

General Comments:

Overall, I am generally happy with this car. I experienced a complete transmission failure at 102K miles, but since the car was a "hand-me-down" and didn't cost me anything, I chalked this one up to actually paying for the car. I read many of the reviews, and haven't seen anyone else complaining of tranny problems. I couldn't spring for a complete tranny rebuild, so I opted for having a used tranny installed. ($900 vs. $2200). Was just looking for any input from people who own this car and have had similar tranny failure, or if anyone has ever had a bad experience with a professionally installed used tranny.

Faults:

I had to replace several bolts in the exhaust system where the exhaust attached to the engine. They broke and had caused an exhaust leak which was audible. The leak caused the car to fail a state inspection.

I have replaced one window slide (track) for the rear driver's side window.

I had to replace the CV shafts at 210,000 miles as they were making clicking sounds.

The knob which changes the air temperature from hot to cold broke at about 50,000 miles. I use a small screwdriver to change from hot to cold.

I replaced the lower ball joints at about 195,000 miles as they were worn out and had excessive play.

I have replaced both front wheel bearings as they were worn out and making sounds.

I replaced (my friend did it actually) two little components for the back brakes which make them actuate (sorry that I don't know the name of them) at about 236,000 miles.

I have replaced normal things like belts, timing belt, battery, brakes, tires, windshield (two weeks ago for the first time), water pump (180,000 miles because I had the timing belt changed and not because it was defective), spark plugs, wires, and operating fluids.

General Comments:

At almost 240,000 miles, I think its well past due to change the springs and struts.

I am on track to put 300,000 miles on it by the Summer of 2006. I hope it goes to 500,000 miles. We shall see.

Faults:

I have the same timing chain problem with my 92 SE. Every time I accelerate, it makes an annoying sound. It's not so loud when it's cold outside. My power locks don't work, or rather they work when they want to. I lock the doors come back later and there open???!!! Cruise control dosen't work either. What needs to be changed? Fuse, cable, a connector? Does anyone else have any of these problems? I don't hate the car, but she's got her issues.

General Comments:

Fast car, but timing chain oh so annoying!

Cabin missing cup holders! Thinking of going to junkyard and find a console from later model with cup holders.

Faults:

Over the previous four years the following items had to be replaced or serviced.

Fuel Injectors had to be replaced at 220K.

Exhaust Manifolds were rebuilt.

Alternator and Batter Replaced.

Heater Blower module replaced.

Several minor electrical problems (ie. No display on Climate Control, Power Locks don't work, power antenna does not move, etc..)

General Comments:

I have driven the Nissan Maxima for the last 4 years and I have had little or no major mechanical problems. It is a fun and spacious car to drive. I would dare to suggest that the Maxima has probably one of the best V6 engines on the market and this car is no exception. Fast and moderately torqued, gives a nice blend of sport and comfort. However the electrical system for minor components are quite fickle and the exterior body is prone to rusting.