1997 Nissan Maxima SE VQ30DE

Summary:

Reliable, bargain, roomy high performance car

Faults:

AC doesn't get very cold on hot days.

Leather seats don't seem to hold up too well. I have no cracks or tears, but some seats are getting crispy while others are getting shiny.

MIL/Check Engine Light is on. My car VIN falls under a recall notice, but because I live in California, it is not covered. O2 sensors are expensive.

General Comments:

Very reliable. Only maintenance I have done on the car since I got it was oil changes every 3000 miles with Mobil 1 Synthetic.

Good performance in factory form.

Good acceleration.

Handling was helped a lot with the addition of a front strut tower brace.

Very roomy inside and in the trunk.

Long cruising range... all freeway around 75mph will get you almost 500-600 miles per tank.

Smooth ride.

VERY quiet car.

Fast, track 1/4 mile times around 15.0 seconds and a top speed around 140mph!

I love this car.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 20th June, 2001

1997 Nissan Maxima GLE V6

Summary:

Car has been performing very well with two noted exceptions

Faults:

Air conditioner compressor motor replaced at 30,000 miles.

Radiator replaced at 43,000 miles.

General Comments:

Attempts to have the manufacturer to compensate for the cost of the radiator have shown to be non-productive as the local dealer, New Jersey representative and California home office 800 telephone number has produced no results to date with replacement occurring in June 2000. Letters and phone calls have lead to no resolution.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Don't Know

Review Date: 26th December, 2000

2nd Aug 2001, 19:45

It's refreshing to know that the cherry blossom from Japan, namely Nissan, has few recalls to protect their Maxima. What else is wrong with this car besides poor management? The Infiniti is a spin-off of the Maxima. Are they faring better? Where can I find a web page that is REALLY open about the Nissan Maxima as related by Maxima owners. I prefer reality over dreams.

Maxima.org is strictly for the hyped owners... any other sources?

Feedback appreciated, good or bad...

JoeD.

9th Feb 2002, 18:11

I own a 1996 Nissan Maxima GXE, it has about 56,000+ miles, on it now. I do go to the dealer and have it serviced when the owner's manual indicates.

I did have a problem with my brakes squeaking. So Peruzzi Nissan had the rotors cut, brakes resurfaced and put a spray for squeaking, so far things have been good.

There was a recall, because of the engine light coming on concerning the sensors. Peruzzi Nissan, held my car when I had it serviced and did the recall repairs. I was given a rental car while my car was being repaired.

My only problem is I had a 6 year warranty or 72,000 miles. It is up on March 15, 2002. I would like some type of additional warranty on it. I have been the only driver since 1996, March 15th.

If you're good to your vehicle it will perform good for you! Get your vehicle serviced when the owner's manual says, you won't have any problem. Peace and God Bless.