2004 Nissan Maxima SE from North America - Comments

Hello.

I have had every problem mentioned go wrong with my 2004 Maxima. I was told today the timing chain need replacing, which was replaced in 2006; and the axles and the motor mount are broken from the jerking.

Things replaced:

1. Spark plugs

2. Ignition coil

3. Air flow meter

4. Brakes

5. Transmission tuneup

6. AC line

7. window motor

8. Alternator

10. Axles (2 x)

Nissan completed a diagnostic - no success and no help.

Nissan stated the warranty was out.

I am ready for the Lawsuit!

Please let me know if there has been a lawsuit initiated. Please email re: comments.

kimjack76@yahoo.com

Yeah, sorry, your car has like a billion miles on it and the stuff you listed isn't even that horrific given how many miles are on it. Stuff breaks. No car is perfect. The more you drive, the more stuff will wear out and you'll have to replace it. Your problems appear mostly isolated to your car in particular.

-From a four-time Maxima owner.

Almost half the stuff on the list is basic maintenance - hopefully more than once. The rest is pretty small stuff.

Alternators' brushes wear out with use.

Air flow sensors fail on almost every vehicle given enough miles.

Axles often fail after 60000-90000 miles because the rubber boots on the CVs break, allowing the joint to become fouled with road grime.

A/C lines should last longer, but often don't.

The coil and window motor should have lasted longer, but are rather minor repairs considering, again, the higher mileage.

He mentioned that the timing chain needed replacing for the second time in a few years. Most vehicles have a BELT not a chain. Belts normally need to be replaced by 90,000 miles or less (which it sounds like he did). After that, it should have been good for another 60000 to 90000. If it indeed has a chain, it shouldn't need replacing at all. I'd have gotten a second opinion because that sounds fishy, as does the broken axles and motor mounts. Especially the axles can take almost more jerking than the car's owner can. I think some garage was trying to cheat this poor guy.

My 96 Max has 172,000 miles and NEVER had those annoying problems, My A/C works like a dream still! No timing belts. BUT that's when Nissan KNEW how to make a car then. TOO BAD NISSAN forgot how to make a good car anymore!