2004 Nissan Maxima ST-L review from Australia and New Zealand

1. Occasional short rattle on cold start appeared after about 2,000km. Gradually increased in frequency, intensity and length over time until it was doing it every morning by 10,000km.

2. At about 8,000km, the engine started to ping loudly when fully warmed up under medium throttle with engine speed of between 1,800 to 2,200rpm.

3. Engine oil consumption appears to be higher than any the most recent 3 cars I've owned.

4. Engine appears to me to be harsher under acceleration than I remember it being when new.

5. Passenger side front window rattles occasionally.

6. Passenger side A-pillar internal cover often rattles against windscreen.

7. Driver's side door armrest padding partially unstuck.

1. The performance, smoothness and economy superb when new. However, over time, the performance has diminished, the smoothness has gone, but it is still economical. The consistent pinging is a big concern - extensive reading indicates it causes long term engine damage. This would explain the drop in performance, possible increased oil consumption and harshness under acceleration. Dealer has tried to resolve, but support to dealer from Nissan is terrible. I have serious reservations about its long term reliability.

2. It looks great and the interior is one of the best around in terms of appearance and efficient use of space. Quality of plastics (and the whole car) is dubious. This is not up to usual Japanese standards.