2004 Nissan Maxima 3.5 review from North America

I recently purchased a 2004 Nissan Maxima. I love the car, besides the fact I have had more problems with it in the last few months than I did with my Oldsmobile Alero in the last 4 years. This is extremely frustrating. I have always assumed Nissan's were dependable cars. I know I purchased it used, but the problems I am having should not be occurring at 90,000 miles. Really disappointing.

TRANSMISSION - I just had the transmission replaced (not a cheap repair). I did not purchase an extended warranty (which yes is my fault), but I only expected minor problems, if any, considering the low mileage. Yes on a Chevy or Ford I would expect these problems possibly at these miles, but a Nissan?

The transmission was slipping so bad it about threw me through the window and almost caused me to get in an accident getting on the freeway. It downshifted so quick, it was like slamming on the brakes.

The problem, as I have seen other people note as well, was extremely tempermental. You never knew when it would do it.

I bought my car from a 'reputable' Nissan Certified Dealership. They did not want to accept any responsibility either, saying I bought the car 'AS IS'. Nissan Certified? 200 point inspection? BS!!! After several months of fighting the issue, they agreed to pay for half. I just picked my car up today, and it is still clunking when I downshift. Its supposed to have a new transmission. Not happy at all with the results.

This Nissan Maxima has caused me more stress and cost me more money than any car I have ever had.. and I have only had it 3 months. I bought Nissan hoping to avoid these things... and instead all I bought was a problem. I am thinking I am going to take this up with Nissan, but from the sounds of everyone elses results, it doesn't look like that will get me anywhere. I have lost so much money $$$, time, and my sanity.

I spoke with a Transmission specialist who said he has seen this in several Maximas, and that it should not be happening (of course he only told me this because he is not employed by Nissan). He said it is a manufactored defect... that something ruptures in the transmission causing friction in the fluid and causes the hard shifting. But of course to get the dealership to pay half, I had to have it repaired through them... and its still not working right.

I feel Nissan should look at this issue with a little more regard, as it seems this is a common problem.

If you buy a used Maxima, make sure you have it looked at thoroughly!!! Common problems with the Transmissions... very expensive repair!!!