1996 Nissan Maxima SE review from North America
"A quick, affordable, and dependable sedan"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Virtually, nothing has been replaced on this car besides regular maintenance items. I have replaced the rear oxygen sensor (1 of 3 total on the car) which cost $90 in parts. The other two O2 sensors cost approximately $100 each.
General comments?
The Nissan Maxima's face has changed in the past couple of years. Before Nissan really pushed the Maxima as a "sport sedan", many underestimated or did not expect the "peppiness" of this car.
Mated with a 5-speed manual transmission, the Maxima is fairly quick and handles its own on the freeway. In no way is it a sportscar. Yet, the car is the fastest in its class for this year (1996).
There is also a fair amount of aftermarket support for the 1995-newer Maxima enthusiast.
The view from inside the car is unobstructed with few blind spots.
With stock suspension, it handles average or below average.
The powerful, yet durable V6 is a joy to drive. It seems to never run out of breath and is like a tank. I have heard of drivers running up to 300,000 miles on the VQ 3.0 liter and have done so without babying it. Truly, this car is dependable and very affordable.
Nissan gets two thumbs up!
Recommended Reviews:
  | All around great car! |
| HIGHLY recommend! |
All 1996 Nissan Maxima reviews
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| First year of ownership | 2000 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2004 |
| Engine and transmission | 3.0 liter twim cam V6 Manual |
| Performance marks | 9/10 |
| Reliability marks | 10/10 |
| Comfort marks | 9/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 6/10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 10/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 46000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 94000 miles |
| Previous car | Volvo 760 |
| Date of Entry | 22nd January, 2004 |