I have been observing that one can hardly get post bout Nlanders buying and selling of cars like Nissan Maxima 2004 to 2008 series. This is the ride I love most. Please advice on this ride. I don't know anything about it, is it that part-wise or mechanic-wise is not advisable?

please help

I used different nissan maxima models and currently still own one. They are nice cars but here in naija you have to give them tender loving care else ,  They are not to be given to any roadside mechanic else,  especially electricians. It is better for you to own a scanner that will indicate meaning of any light that shows up on the dash board. Do your routine servicing and all will be fine. Fuel economy is ok considering the engine size 3.5L V6, and resale value is also not good relative to honda and toyota!!  And bros if you have to get 04 to 08 series don't enter all those flooded areas in lagos that golf2 etc can pass on a regular basis, could spell doom for you

thank you sir, I appreci8 but ow much does a scanner cost for that. Then I stay in Abuja not Lagos at least road network are better here

SpaceAngel was right on target with his advice. The 6th gen Maxima (2004-06) is a beautiful and powerful car, but which is not to be trifled with. Get a scanner on hand (25-40k, I believe is the range) and allow no uninformed repairs. The greatest weakness (flaw) of the 6th gen max is its transmission. The fluid has to be constantly red to avoid issues, and for this the manufacturer-recommended ATF is Matic-K. Mind you there are Matic-D, S, and J, but the one for 04-06 max is Matic-K. Yes, the 6th gen period is between 2004-2008. But transmission for 2007 and 2008 (they are called 6.5 gen) is different because they are Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT); the ATF is accordingly specialised and different. The CVT ATF is however more readily available because it is used by a number of previous Nissan cars (e.g. Murano and some Altima). So note when going for 6th gen there two models: 2004-06; and 2007-08. Perhaps I should add that some early 2004-05 are 4speed A/T (auto transmission); the rest are 5A/T. Again some of these early ones come with 6speed M/T (manual transmission). Interestingly, the M/T are not known to have so much issues as their A/T counterparts.
Good luck IDOHOU when you finally own the 6th gen.

I currently own a 2006 Nissa Maxima, it happens to be the best car I've ever had, very luxurious and easy to handle. I ran into trouble with the transmission because I was careless but that has been fixed now. To enjoy the car, just make sure it is properly taken care of, don't even allow your Service engine soon like to go on, park the car and diagnose the fault whenever it does. Good luck

mayor4liv:

I currently own a 2006 Nissa Maxima, it happens to be the best car I've ever had, very luxurious and easy to handle. I ran into trouble with the transmission because I was careless but that has been fixed now. To enjoy the car, just make sure it is properly taken care of, don't even allow your Service engine soon like to go on, park the car and diagnose the fault whenever it does. Good luck

What was the problem you had with it, and how was it resolved?

mayor4liv:

I currently own a 2006 Nissa Maxima, it happens to be the best car I've ever had, very luxurious and easy to handle. I ran into trouble with the transmission because I was careless but that has been fixed now. To enjoy the car, just make sure it is properly taken care of, don't even allow your Service engine soon like to go on, park the car and diagnose the fault whenever it does. Good luck

You just made me fall in love more with the car. Is it true that parts are scarce and very expensive even when gotten

Costee:

SpaceAngel was right on target with his advice. The 6th gen Maxima (2004-06) is a beautiful and powerful car, but which is not to trifled be with. Get a scanner on hand (25-40k, I believe is the range) and allow no uninformed repairs. The greatest weakness (flaw) of the 6th gen max is its transmission. The fluid has to be constantly red to avoid issues, and for this the manufacturer-recommended ATF is Matic-K. Mind you there are Matic-D, S, and J, but the one for 04-06 max is Matic-K. Yes, the 6th gen period is between 2004-2008. But transmission for 2007 and 2008 (they are called 6.5 gen) is different because they are Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT); the ATF is accordingly specialised and different. The CVT ATF is however more readily available because it is used by a number of previous Nissan cars (e.g. Murano and some Altima). So note when going for 6th gen there two models: 2004-06; and 2007-08. Perhaps I should add that some early 2004-05 are 4speed A/T (auto transmission); the rest are 5A/T. Again some of these early ones come with 6speed M/T (manual transmission). Interestingly, the M/T are not known to have some much issues as their A/T counterparts.
Good luck IDOHOU when you finally own the 6th gen.

Thank u very much, one more thing heard the part are scarce and very expensive. Ow true

IDOHOU:

Thank u very much, one more thing heard the part are scarce and very expensive. Ow true

It's really a very relative question. It's common to have it said that Toyota parts are available and comparatively cheap. But then that applies to say Corolla and Camry models, which are not too recent. The point is parts for most cars from say 2005 upwards are still expensive because they are not so common. Mind you these parts are expensive abroad too because they are oem (original equipment manufacturer) parts. They only become less expensive here after sometime because of the "Chinese" or "Taiwan" factor. In general these new cars if well taken care of seldom give much problem, and usually you find that for years you might not need to do any repairs beyond the routine service and which is easy enough. So when talking of expensive parts I think all these cars are the same. A small thing as an O2 sensor no matter the brand of car would not cost less than 20k and you need at least two if you have a v6 engine. The cars are basically run by intricate electrical systems, but there is a ready antidote in the scanner which makes fault detection easy for the mechanic and layman alike. Once your fault is diagnosed just be patient to look for the required part and that's it. Yes, patience, because it might be necessary to obtain the right part from abroad. No matter how connected you are, that could take days  and weeks.
Hey, this is not to discourage you. But then there's no choice in the matter if you must use a fairly recent car.

@ chelsebmw , bro u gotta stick to da topic yo he aint talking about no avalon or anything like dat u talking like u gat one ureself, real smhh,

Stay away from the 2004 model and infact the first year in any revamped model series.
The 04 has the most transmission related issues.

The answer is simple. They are not as rugged as the Toyotas and Hondas of the world. Those toyotas and hondas can withstand all the bad roads, potholes, gallops, unnecessary street bumps all over lagos. However, the Maximas simply can't do all that. I know this first hand because I currently have an 04 paid up Maxima that I left at my friends house overseas since 2008, that I refused to bring to 9ja because our bad roads and the various floods will kill the car.

Don't get me wrong, the maxima brand is awesome (ONLY IN THE USA or some other countries with great road networks). If you don't not live in Abuja, do not bring that car into this country. You gonna be sorry if you do

I use a 2004 model and love the car so much especially the power, the car hits 100km/hr from zero acceleration in a matter of seconds and I enjoy harrassing other cars on the road with this special take-off power. But recently I pulled-off my usuall stunt and heard a strange sound, the next thing I observed was that it does not transmit easily anymore.

I gave it to my mechanic(road side) who took it away twice and assured that he as fixed the gear at a cost of N25K, but the car does not exhibit the take-off power anymore, worse still it does not climb above 120km/hr without this strange noise.

Can someone please advise on how to make the car return to normal.

Typical! The guy requested for comments on Nissan Maxima and guys are talking about Toyotas etc. Didn't he know there were other cars before he requested for Nissan? So easy yet difficult for guys; please stick to the topic or just observe as everybody can't like the same thing.

brinell:

Typical! The guy requested for comments on Nissan Maxima and guys are talking about Toyotas etc. Didn't he know there were other cars before he requested for Nissan? So easy yet difficult for guys; please stick to the topic or just observe as everybody can't like the same thing.

My brother, I couldn't express it better. The problem with this forum is that people seldom read other specialised auto forums. Surf the net on consumer forums on Toyota models and you'll be shocked at the extent of complaints. The point is: every car brand has its ups and lows. The serious flaw of this auto forum is that it lacks discussion segments. Everything is about sales and sales. and little attempt is made to tackle auto issues. At the end of the day, forum members consider that the most available cars are the least problematic. Some judgement!

Jimmy Boy:

I use a 2004 model and love the car so much especially the power, the car hits 100km/hr from zero acceleration in a matter of seconds and I enjoy harrassing other cars on the road with this special take-off power. But recently I pulled-off my usuall stunt and heard a strange sound, the next thing I observed was that it does not transmit easily anymore.

I gave it to my mechanic(road side) who took it away twice and assured that he as fixed the gear at a cost of N25K, but the car does not exhibit the take-off power anymore, worse still it does not climb above 120km/hr without this strange noise.

Can someone please advise on how to make the car return to normal.

Did you run a scan on it? PM me on verdant@dr.com to share ideas on the car.

Costee:

Did you run a scan on it? PM me on verdant@dr.com to share ideas on the car.

Ok thanks , I'll dowit right away.

dere is not like german machine. (mercedes)

The reason is quite simple,car buyers in Nigeria have a "herd" mentality,and you have a lot of ill informed mechanics.There is no reason not to choose the Maxima over the Toyota Camry and Accord,the Maxima is more stylish,better performance and has a better interior than both of those.For those folks talking about "potholes" aren't people driving BMW's,Jaguars and many other car brands in Nigeria

The Maxima has only one big problem that I know of,the power steering pressure hose, and most newer nissans have that same problem but other than that the I would still take it over a Accord or Camry,All car brands have problems even when new,educate yourself before buying by going to a car forum like Nico forums.org for Nissan owners.

@jason 2010,
Not having the adequate technical know-how to deal with a problem doesnt automatically translate to a car being problematic,
I can only assume you know nothing about the Nissan VQ35 engines, The engines are bullet  proof, and do not break. That engine was rated top 10 best engines since its introduction in 2002. It replaced the 3.0 VQ30 (which was also consistently ranked top 10 since 1995 when the awards started). The VQ35, was pushed off the list and replace by another Nissan Engine the VQ37 currently used in the infiniti engine (and which maxima enthusiast have been asking to be put in the Maxima).
Like everyone else has said, the gear system was a problem in the 6th gen, but this was in the early years (04-06) when they used 4speed A/T. But with the 5speed A/T, the (06-08) the problems were resolved, and Nissan went as far as backing this up by increasing the warrantly to 60k miles on the gear box as a show of faith, compared to the initial 36k miles.

Bottom line is, treat the car well, do not abuse it, maintain it when due, and you will have made one of your best auto purchases interms of what you get for the money.

The only down side to that car, is that the turning radius is atrocious, and you couldnt do a 3-point turn if your life depended on it. But that has been fixed in the 7th gen which isnt as bloated in terms of size.

Jimmy Boy:

I use a 2004 model and love the car so much especially the power, the car hits 100km/hr from zero acceleration in a matter of seconds and I enjoy harrassing other cars on the road with this special take-off power.

now i know who nearly pushed me off the road the other day

Nissans are very good, very beautifully designed too but if you listen to Mechanics locally and people who don't really observe you will be missing out on the Luxury of driving a lovely Nissan. I drive a 2009 Nissan Maxima and I'm bringing it into Nigeria in about 2 weeks, if you would like to get a look and maybe a drive you can call me and come and see the car. I would most likely sell it off anyway. If you would like pictures then let me know, Here's a picture anyway,

Supercar99:

Nissans are very good, very beautifully designed too but if you listen to Mechanics locally and people who don't really observe you will be missing out on the Luxury of driving a lovely Nissan. I drive a 2009 Nissan Maxima and I'm bringing it into Nigeria in about 2 weeks, if you would like to get a look and maybe a drive you can call me and come and see the car. I would most likely sell it off anyway. If you would like pictures then let me know, Here's a picture anyway,

By 2009, I presume its a 7th gen. If so let's see it man!

Here's one.

Engine=VQ35DE 3.5 V6
290 hp and 291 lb ft of torque, which is best in its class compared to the Accord and Camry

Built in Smyrna,Tennesse.

Shares its platform with the Infiniti M35/45 sedan which is an A35 platform.

Keyless ignition with push button start,Navigation and CVT transmission with paddle shifters, no manual shifting.

Enjoy.

Own a '00 maxima, lovely car, aggressive driving, have a problem 1. when i put it in reverse first thing in the morning, the engine stutters to the point of almost switching off, it does not happen any other time of the day, 2. when i switch off the engine after a short drive, it is difficult to restart, it keeps stalling. I have to turn the ignition and press the accelerator slightly to get it to start. If the engine has been off for say 2 hours,,this does not happen. Someone says it might be the MAF sensor? Please guys help me out.

onezirozan:

Own a '00 maxima, lovely car, aggressive driving, have a problem 1. when i put it in reverse first thing in the morning, the engine stutters to the point of almost switching off, it does not happen any other time of the day, 2. when i switch off the engine after a short drive, it is difficult to restart, it keeps stalling. I have to turn the ignition and press the accelerator slightly to get it to start. If the engine has been off for say 2 hours,,this does not happen. Someone says it might be the MAF sensor? Please guys help me out.

You have the 5th gen Maxima (2000-2003). This is what a source says of their weakness:“The fifth-generation Maximas have a number of common problems: ignition coils, MAF sensor, TPS (Throttle position sensor) and IACV-AAC (Idle control valve).Users should be particularly aware of the IACV problem which can short out the ECM leading to a very costly repair. All of these faults trigger the check engine light.”
Try and run a scan check on the car.

IDOHOU:

You just made me fall in love more with the car. Is it true that parts are scarce and very expensive even when gotten

The parts are kind'a expensive, I had to buy a new transmission for the car actually but after you fixed the car and start driving again, you will immediately forget whatever amount you spent on it due to how much you will enjoy it, trust me on that

Jimmy Boy:

I use a 2004 model and love the car so much especially the power, the car hits 100km/hr from zero acceleration  in a matter of seconds and  I enjoy harrassing other cars on the road  with this special take-off power. But recently I pulled-off  my usuall stunt and heard  a strange sound, the next thing  I observed was that  it does not transmit easily anymore.

I gave it to my mechanic(road side) who took it away twice and assured that he as fixed the gear at a cost of N25K, but the car does not exhibit the take-off power anymore, worse still it does not climb above 120km/hr without this strange noise.

Can someone please advise on how to make the car return to normal.

http://wiki.answers.com/Q/On_a_2000_Maxima_what_would_cause_a_loss_of_power_upon_quick_acceleration_at_any_speed_The_rpms_drop_and_it_does_not_shift_into_the_appropriate_gear_when_you_punch_the_gas

Also:
I would check your compression for starters and see if any of your cyl. is having a problem


Also:

This link is to contact professionals in many different fields - automotive mechanics is one - they have Nissan specialists that will assist you via the internet and they are good - this is in the U.S. - you pay a nominal - very small fee - they will answer your question and tell  you what to look for, etc,

https://justanswer.com/