1990 Nissan Maxima GXE 3.0 from Costa Rica

Summary:

Sporty yet confortable mid size car

Faults:

I was way too confident when I purchased the car, I did not take the time to fully inspect it.

First thing I notice was that the auto transmission needed to be fully rebuilt ($1000).

Changed the lower control arms bushings (generic brand) and they lasted only 3 months. Bought the genuine ones at the dealer, they only lasted 6 months. So I finally bought some improved urethane bushings ($80 -in USA), no problems since.

Put in 4 new -original size- Sony speakers ($75).

Last year I had to change the engine ($600): It was overheating in traffic almost since I bought the car, and finally a head gasket blew off. Seems that the older engine was at some point poorly repaired by the former owner´s mechanic.

I changed all belts, tensioners, water hoses, spark plug wires, cap distributor, coolant, cleaned all 6 injectors, etc., and the "new" used engine purrs like a kitten.

A few weeks ago the clock stopped working. I took it off, soldered some contacts and voila!, like new ($0).

Took all genuine wheels to a paint shop ($120), and the car looks great now.

General Comments:

The former owner beat the hell out of this car, but I did not notice because the exterior and interior looked fine to me. That's the reason for all these repairs, not because of the car itself.

Besides all the money and time invested in it, much more than it's worth, I have discovered how refined and well constructed this car is. The interior still looks like new (except for the steering wheel), all exterior panels are aligned, the engine is very discreet and smooth, but if you want to have fun, the engine pulls very strong, along with some exciting noise coming out of the exhaust...

I would recommend this model to anybody. A full inspection is mandatory, special attention to the auto tranny, suspension and cooling system. Parts can be expensive or unavailable at the dealer.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 4th February, 2010

5th Feb 2010, 11:49

Update:

I forgot to mention that a few days ago, the idle started to run rough, but no problems when starting or accelerating... Hmmm... I took the fuel filter off, tapped it against the floor, and a LOT of dirt came out... The fuel filter was clogged. Put in a new one, and the rough idle disappeared... NO problems since.

1990 Nissan Maxima GEX from North America

Faults:

Two Electronic Fuel Injectors(EFIs) went bad (check light came on) when car had 114,000 miles. Replaced all EFIsd for $1,400.00 parts and labor. No problem in this area so far.

Had electrical problem. Repair shop stated battery problem. Car ran fine for one week, same problem. Repair shop said bad alternator. Replaced it and car ran fine for 2 months, but alternator failed again, and they put a new alternator. After 7 seven months same problem. I can drive the car with charging red light on, but I know one day I will get stuck in the freeway. Any help on this?

At the same time of above problem, panel brake light is now on. Checked and filled brake fluid, as well as all connections , no leaks. Car runs and brakes perfect. Checked brake pedal motion and it is OK. What is my problem?Why red brake light is on?

Joseph.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 29th July, 2007

29th Jul 2007, 14:40

The brake light indicates new brake pads are needed.

22nd Sep 2011, 00:05

Try the fuse-able link loom on the positive cable to the battery; it might be wearing out or be broken, because I had the same problem with my Maxima.

1990 Nissan Maxima GEX from North America

Summary:

Excellent car

Faults:

Alternator has failed twice

Currently, interior panel brake light on.

General Comments:

My local shop has replaced twice alternator. It ran for 6 months fine OK, but now alternator is bad again. Shop said is an electrical problem.

Panel brake light on. Filled it with DOT brake fluid to max level, but light is still on. Why?

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 25th July, 2007