2000 Nissan Maxima SE review from North America

SES light intermittent.

Shifter pops out of 4th gear.

Slight stumbling due to MAF sensor.

Powerful, smooth engine.

29mpg on highway.

Steering is sharp, a little numb however which could be the tires used.

The only sound I hear inside at speed is the road noise... no wind or engine. Very quiet.

SE model suspension is firmer than GLE/GXE and can be a little stiff than I'd like at times, but it corners very flat with no body roll.

Driver ergonomics are a disaster. Clutch pedal is too far away, steering wheel is pretty much fixed right in your lap. I've tried to adjust the 'friction zone' of the clutch pedal to no avail. Short people will have trouble driving this car.

Shifter is vague, certainly not precise as in a German sedan or RWD vehicle. Synchro's are balky and don't allow for quick shifting. I'd almost advise NOT getting this model in a 5-speed for these reasons. Too bad considering the sporting nature.

Typical SES light comes on trying to lure me to the dealer for a $1000 service. I refuse. Code is for the O2 sensors, a non-issue. It drives fine.

MAF sensor replaced ($90) and helped remove the slight hesitation.

Headlights are heavily hazed for some reason. Again, a non-issue, but suprising anyway. I'd love to get the HID's at some point.

Today the car wouldn't start, and when it did was very slow turnover. Checking the starter motor tomorrow, could be clutch switch. Battery/connectors are fine.