1997 Nissan Maxima SE review from North America
"A solid car, but you'll rebuild it all by 200k"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Sunroof motor worked intermittently when I got the car, inoperable now. Leaks a bit in the motorized car washes, so I wash it with the hose and brush now.
Starter cut out at 140k, not sure if it was original.
Alternator quit at 155k.
Volume knob on the Bose stereo deck became a problem, replaced head unit with an Alpine.
Oil leak persists from rear valve cover and possibly other areas. It gets onto the exhaust manifold and smells bad.
General comments?
This 97 Maxima is my second one, I had a 92 Maxima GXE earlier. The interior door panels and e-brake/armrest console are more poorly made in the 97.
I do enjoy the steering wheel, the car has great sightlines.
I have solid visibility for backing up, turning, etc.
The paintjob remains shiny despite the conditions I've exposed it to.
Recommended reviews
| Fun to drive, but not much fun to live with |
|
| Lots of fun, mostly reliable, economical |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Model year | 1997 |
| Year of manufacture | 1997 |
| First year of ownership | 2006 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2009 |
| Engine and transmission | 3.0 Manual |
| Performance marks | 7 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 9 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 7 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 5 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 130000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 160000 miles |
| Previous car | Volvo 240 |
| Date of Entry | 6th February, 2009 |