Actually carz10, in Canada the only SE (at least in 2000) you can get comes fully loaded. When I bought mine in 2000 the only option available was Auto with TC. Everything else that was available in the US as options came as standard equipment in Canada so it was impossible to buy a stripped SE at that time. I'm not sure if this has changed or not.
i'm recently looking at, among other things, a 99 max se. 36000 miles/good condition. have not test drove yet. basically, is there anything i should know before looking more into this. i was reading some of the earlier posts, and it seems if one has the bose system (which it does) that extra work needs to go into putting in a new system. is this true? any quirks, or known problems i should be on the look for? if anyone with knowledge of this gen max wouldn't mind posting, i would appreciate it. thanks
Traction control is not standard. It comes with the VDC package on A/T vehicles. I think you also have to get the driver preferred package or higher to get VDC.
The Bose system is different from most in that the amplifiers are at the speakers, not the head unit. If something in the head unit breaks, or if a speaker goes, you must either fix it or replace it with another Bose unit (hard and expensive to do).
When the Bose cassette player in my '92 Maxima broke a couple of years ago I had the whole system replaced by a good independent shop. The whole replacement, including installation, head unit and speakers, was only around $500, and it sounds better than the original system.
As far as the '99 Maxima itself, most who own them love them. They can tell you more. I would recommend my '92 to anyone who wants a reliable beater that still has plenty of zip.
I have a 98 SE , 5 speed manual, Bose stereo, sunroof, convenience package, 61K miles. Absolutely trouble free vehicle so far. No warranty repairs or adjustments and no post warranty repairs to date. Routine maintenance only, (oil & filter changes and one battery). Original tires (Toyos) lasted almost 60K miles. Gets about 27 MPG on premium fuel in combined city and highway driving (driving conservatively) with A/C on most of the time.
Does the current TMV pricing for a 2003 Maxima SE take into consideration that the 2004 model is out? The fact that the TMV price is about $4K under MSRP suggests the answer is yes, but I'm not sure. Thanks.
From reading various posts recently, the TMV price actually seems to be a bit high, considering many have gotten prices 5-6000 off MSRP. Realize that there is also $2000 marketing/dealer support on 03 Maximas now to get rid of them.
I have the Nissan Maxima 98 GLE Leather w Front and Side Airbags and Heated Seats. I want to temporarily remove the FRONT PASSENGER SEAT for more room in the vehicle, without damaging anything, so I can re-install it later.
Where can I find the best instructions on how to do this without damaging anything?
This board may seem stagnant because there is a thread in the "Future Vehicles" Hall that is explicitly to discuss the 04 Maxima. Lots of positive comments there on the new car.
My buddy just got a black 99 Maxima SE loaded- side airbags, ABS, leather, moonroof, 58,000 miles, Nissan certified- haggled down to $13,000. I love it. I'm converting everyone I know to Nissan products. Seriously, the car is beautiful. Anybody out here having a 99 SE would like to share any comments?
How many lb. ft. does the 99 3.0 engine produce? I know its 190 hp...
The 95-99 Maximas have 190hp and 205 ft-lb of torque. My 1995 SE 5-speed weighs almost exactly 3,000 lbs. Which partially explains why the 1995 is quicker than the heavier 2000/2001 with only marginally more torque - and nearly as quick as the 2002/2003 with more torque, but more weight yet.
On the 2004 Maxima, yesterday's Washington Post had a reputable dealer advertising all 2004's at a minimum of $1,000 off MSRP, with 32 in stock. This does not bode well for an "advance" introduction of a 2004 model. Any guess how much below invoice those will be going for in August 2004??
With Nissan going funky on the design of the 2004 Maxima and BMW trying to steal defeat out of the jaws of victory with its 5-series redesign, I'm just hoping my Maxima is good for another year or two until things get back on track.
My guess is that Nissan wont let the MY 04 Maxima run all the way through Aug 04. The 05 will probably be introduced summer next year, with few alterations.
Although this is an assumption, I base this on Toyota's March 2002 introduction of the 2003 MY Corolla. The 2004 Corolla is now being released- with minimal to no changes. So it spent about a 15 month tenure as a 2003 model. Perhaps they will run the 2004 MY Corolla 15 months, thereby getting it back on track with the more normal Aug/September releases.
Also, thanks for answering my question. Here's another one: The 3.0L V6 in the 99 Max- how far does it date back? I know it goes at least to the 1989 MY Maxima, when it produced 160hp. But does it date back to the 1985-88 Maxima (which I absolutely LOVE, and would purchase in a second if I could find one in good enough condition at a reasonable price)?
Finally, I was interested to read your comments with respect to acceleration of the various model years. My buddy's 99 Maxima (which has a cold air intake, by the way), while damn quick, was noticeably less so off the line than the 2000 GXE we tested at the same dealership- both automatics.
My friend has a 99 SE-L automatic, which I helped him find last May. He purchased it with 45K miles and now has 62K miles. He has had to do mostly routine maintenance (brakes, 2 tires, 60K tune-up). The car is really smooth except for a recent(couple months) problem in the "feel" of the pedal when accelerating; the problem is a rubbing/"sandpaper" like feeling especially when accelerating. He already had his throttle cable replaced but that didn't solve the problem. We are going to try to "experiment" soon with the slack in the cable to see if it is too tight/loose.
Regarding the automatic, the only "annoyance" is that from a rolling stop( e.g. accelerating from a stop sign), the power is leisurely, then the transmission kicks in and the acceleration is very quick and smooth. I've heard from maxima.org that this is a normal occurence for the auto. The steering I feel is also a little light/not enough weight.
He only has the BOSE as an option (no sunroof, leather etc.), but it rocks!!( love the bass)
I own a 98 SE with a 5 speed manual transmission. I recently tested a new 03 SE with a 6 speed manual and it did not feel substantially faster off line than mine. The engine in the 03 produces 65 more horsepower than the 98 engine, but the power seems to develop at high RPMs and the off line torque increase appears marginal. 0 to 60 times are not drastically less for the 03 model. I could feel the difference when shifting the 03 at high RPM, as the 03 enigne appears to rev up more willingly, and pulls stronger at high RPM than the 98 engine. In summary, the difference in performance somehow does not feel like additional 65 horsepower, but more like 25 or 30. This could be also due to the fact that 03 is a heavier car than the 98 model.
The 3.0 liter V-6 in the 95-99 "4th generation" Maxima was a completely new design. Quoting from the June 1994 issue of Car and Driver: "The other new ingrediant in the Maxima recipe is the engine. It is still a 24-valva 3.0 liter 60 degree V-6, but virtually no parts interchange with the previous powerplant." "...for the enthusiast driver, the engine's running character is more notable...a short stroke design and concerted effort to lighten the weight of all rotating and reciprocating parts have given the new V-6 a lively free-revving feel."
As far as the acceleration of the 95-99; 00-01, and 02-03 models, I was comparing manual transmissions. In 1995, the 5-speed was considerably quicker than the automatic. Perhaps the 2000 GXE automatic was quicker than a 99 automatic, but I think the 5-speeds were quicker in the 4th generation version. Frankly, I would never buy a Maxima with an automatic. As good as the 3.0 and now 3.5 liter engines are, the 4-speed automatic is a dinosaur.
In 6852 you asked why aren't some of us buying an '04 model.
I have an '00 SE loaded with everything. It's been a great ride and I was eagerly awaiting the '04 as I was seriously considering a trade. Then, I got hammered with a reality check!
To purchase the same model I now have, equipped the same way, would sticker out at $34,000.00- 35,000.00 big ones. This amounts to a "huge" percentage increase over the just slightly over $30.000.00 my present SE stickered for.
Wanna know what else annoyed the (^%^#%$(*& out of me? The HID lights that were "standard" over the last couple of m.y.'s are now an "option." To add insult to injury, to get the HID's.....they have to be ordered with a "package" which may include additional "options" that I may or may not have any interest in having.
The fact of the matter is that looking at the Max from a purely "financial outlay" perspective, you might say that now it's competing with the G35 or cars of similar dollar value, which incidentally, doesn't make sense to me.
Frankly, I've started looking around at other makes which is something that I definitely had not thought of doing since I liked the Max so much and was determined to stay with this particular make and model. Sorry for the "wordy" response!
I just started officially looking for a new car this weekend. My first stop was BMW. I asked to drive a 325i with manual and the only one available was a stripped version. Nice handling but about as much power as my Jetta 1.8T (and lacking the constant thrust). I also tried out a steptronic 325i with all the goodies. The sports package makes the car feel better but that engine's useless - especially for 30k eurodelivery price.
After that debacle, I tried to get into a TSX but they lacked manuals. Tried to take out an A4 V6 manual but again no dice. Saab's 9-3 about put me to sleep. Slipped into a Jetta GLI and found that the new 200 hp/200lb-ft of torque V6 and six speed really liven the car up but it's not my bag.
So finally I stopped by Nissan. More a lark. I wasn't enthralled by the pics of the Max but figured I'm out so...
I hop into the car and fiddle with the seat and the telescoping/tilt steering column. Wow, unlike the G35 I found my sweet sitting position instantly. I love telescoping wheels. Not sure why Infiniti doesn't have it on the G but they do on the FX.
Anyway I motor off noting that the interior materials feel nice. At least on par with the Infiniti and in some respects higher.
Clutch pickup is smooth and predictable. Wow, feels like home (I owned a 91 Stanza 5 speed for 7 years). I motor onto the freeway and punch it. The VQ roars a bit but still the sound is deadended nicely vis a vis the more raucous G35. Uh-oh torque steer. The car pulls pretty hard to the right. I recall this test model lacked a LSD and VDC. Could be a wise choice.
Once on the freeway this thing flies along confidently with no fuss. Very smooth lane transitions, quiet, sturdy. The backwindow's a tad small though making rearward visibility tough. Even in 6th gear I note the car can pick up speed rapidly to pass. If I really want to boogey I throw it into 4th and the car jets forward. Oh this is working.
I inform the salesman of my needs - power, luxury, reliability and handling. He suggest I take and off-ramp and then leads me into some nice rolling hills and steep inclines.
It's out here that I begin to really feel connected with the Max. I'm flipping through 35-45 corners at over 70 and the car's drawing a perfect line. Slower cars are overtaken with ease as I slip into 4th and sometimes 3rd to rocket by everybody.
Transitions are nice and flat. The car never feels as large as it really is. Reminds me of a poor man's 745i (if you haven't driven one of those, do so, it's sublime). All I can think of while negotiating the corners is this car is: very stable and confidence inspiring. And darn quiet.
The u-turn I make on a side road reveals the car's got a large turning radius. Oh well, that's not a big issue in the scheme of things.
The trip back down the mountain and back to the dealership is ultra-smooth and swift. Pulling into the dealership my excellent salesperson gives me more info on the car, we discuss express kidnappings in mexico (odd topic but amusing) and he understands I'm still in the looking for the "right" car mode.
All told I'm very impressed. The car's handling isn't BMW-perfect but it's not a wallowing pig like a Passat or ES300 for instance. Unlike say the IS300 this thing's got guts galore and tons of room. The 6 speed felt much nicer than I had expected. Do i wish it were RWD? Yes. Am I taken by the body yet? No. I only like the trunk but the car's functional, swift, comfy and in my opinion a pretty nice deal.
I haven't settled on the Max as I want another shot behind the wheel of a G35 with a manual and a real test drive (like my Maxima or BMW drives). I'd also like to get my hands on a 330i just in case that extra dollop of power for the BMW puts it over the top. Plus given the max's reputation for falling prices i expect to get this car at invoice, which doesn't seem possible this month.
Thanks for the info- looks like I lied to my friend about the engine dating back to 89. Sorry to say, but more Maximas are sold with autos than shift yourself gear boxes- I am interested by your statement "the 4sp auto is a dinosaur". I disagree. How many 1999 vehicles had something better. The unit in his Maxima is after admittedly only a 30 mile drive for which I rode in the car, really well matched to the engine.
I understand what you are saying about the value not being there in the new Max. Like you, I planned to replace my Max with a new one.
Now, I most likely would buy a used '02 or '03, or wait a while and pick up a '04 for a lot less than it costs now.
I think Nissan has a marketing dilemma with the Max. Those wanting the VQ V-6 can get it in the Altima for less; those wanting to pay mid-30s, where the tricked out Max sits, can get a G-35 or other near-lux model.
I recently test drove an 03 Infiniti M 45 with a 340 HP engine, 5 speed auto with manual shift mode, and rear wheel drive. This was a base car, with a 42K sticker. They were willing to let it go for $ 37K. The base M 45 already comes with leather interior, Bose stereo, and a number of features that are only optional on Maxima. The only regret is that the car is not available with a manual transmission. This car moves!!!!! Smooth as silk and astoundingly quiet. The point is, I would never spend 35K on a fully loaded Maxima if I can get into a base M45 for $ 37K. This is a totally different class car, competing with BMW 540i and Mercedes E500, at least in performance terms. I do not really care if some say it is ugly looking. I will take it over a fully loaded Max any day of the week. The Max engine simply cannot deliver what this 340 Hp V8 car can for this money. And you cannot beat a 4 year/60K bumper-to-bumper warranty and Infiniti customer service.
Does anyone know if there is any way to keep the power antenna on the 1998 nissan maxima to stay up? It gets very annoying for it to always go up and down.
I own a 2001 Max and was driving home doing about 75 at nite,air conditioner on,cruise on when I saw the "service engine soon"indicator lite pop on.....mannnnnn.....Read the owners manual...talks about emission problems...I made sure gas cap is tite...don't look like the lite is going out...got my appointment for the dealer.....Anybody experience this yet???..Any ideas on what it could be(besides the gas cap)...Would anyone know if emissions problems are covered under factory warranty?...Car has 24,000 miles...signed...bummed out
As far as acceleration times goes for 95-99's vs 00-01's manual to manual and auto to auto. The manuals are a tossup with the 95-99 having better low end and the 00-01 has better top end and pulls better at highway speeds both if driven well are high 6's to 60mph. Now the auto the auto the nod goes to the 95-99's they pull harder from a roll and maintain that lead up to highways speeds. The 95-99's are mid to high 7's to 60 and the 00/01's are high 7's to 60mph. Now the 02/03 autos are putting down times faster than manual 95-01 Maxima's go to Maxima.org thy may not feel faster because it an auto but they are its been proven time and time again at the org. Some stock autos are getting mid to high 14's stock there are several timeslips to prove it. The 6spd 02/03's are putting down times much quicker than any 95-01 manuals and are trapping 7 to 9mph faster in the 1/4 they are much more powerful in the higher rpm ranges and will pull a 95-01 by a considerable margin. 350z's are similiar they pull hard at highway speeds.
Thanks for the info...I was wondering why you were charged for that service...were you out of warranty...would it have been covered do you know..and did the dealer give an explantion for why it lost the programing?....Thanks...Joe D.
My reason for saying the Maxima 4-speed automatic is a "dinosaur" is that, at least by my standards back in 1995, the performance penalty was too high. And I don't think they made any changes in the 4-speed auto through 99 (or even through 03, for that matter).
I almost got a 1995 GXE auto instead of the 1995 SE 5-speed. My wife was several months pregant at the time and I thought it would be a better choice for her. We had test driven the SE 5-speed together, but when I went back to the dealership alone, I bought the GXE auto. Upon returning home and expressing some disappointment with it's slow shifting and lack of pep, my wife insisted I take it back to the dealership and get the SE 5-speed. The sales guys at the dealership had a good laugh at my expense.
I have driven several automatics that have exceptional performance capabilities - 540iA and any of the AMG models (C32, E55, etc.). In the Maxima's price range, the Honda Accord and Acura TLS 5-speed automatics are quicker shifting and do not reult in as much of a performance loss as the Maxima's 4-speed.
The 1995 SE 5-speed was tested at 6.7 seconds 0-60 in the Car and Driver article I mentioned previously. A later test of a GLE automatic produced a 8.2 second 0-60. I recall other tests in the 7.7 to 8+ second range. To me, that 1+ second gap is significant. An Acura TLS manages 6.5 seconds and the BMW's are usually only 0.2-0.4 seconds slower than their manual counterparts.
If you are satisfied with the performance of the 99 automatic, go for it. The rest of the car is certainly a worthy competitor.
Yes, out of warranty - 40K. Didn't ask if it would have been covered but I assume so. Initially there could have been a generic $75 fee "just to take a look at it" but since it didn't take long I guess I was only charged $50. Labor rates are near $80 or so here in DC IIRC (they are $84 at my Infiniti dealer). No explanation given.
Norbert, don't be surprised by the lack of pinging/knocking detonation. Your engine (most engines these days in North America) have knock sensors screwed into the block that pick up pre-ignition well before it's audibly apparant in the human hearing range. The voltage spike from these piezo-electric transducers (think of them as a type of microphone) is fed to the engine management computer, which then retards or advances the ignition timing appropriate to power demand and the fuel grade in use. In other words your engine -continually- tunes itself during operation. From your experience, it's apparent that 87 octane unleaded works perfectly fine in your engine. It's probable that the 87 octane fuel results in a slight power loss (roughly 3-5 hp at the top end), but given the 20 cent/gallon price difference, and the fact that you still have more power on tap than any sane man actually needs, it's just as likely that it's not important enough to pay the difference (say $3.50-$4.00 per tankful) - especially when you also enjoy a slight fuel consumption advantage. Enjoy!
My 2K SE had the SES light turn on a few months ago. It turned out to be a "3-way catalyst" failure. I have ~60K on the car, and luckily for me, emmissions is covered to something like 86K. I got it replaced, and I have been trouble free since.
My SES light went on last October. Dealer told me that a P0420 was stored on the ECU. Although this indicates a problem with the 3 Way Catalyst, they attributed the MIL indicator to a problem with the car's original ECM program. They only updated the car with a new ECM program under Nissan TSB NTB00070a. Appartently this replaces a previous TSB also addressing this issue.
I can't imagine that the SES light did not light up after driving the car over 2 and a half years and 40,000 miles. I hope that this resolves the SES problem once and for all.
Although this was procedure was covered under warrenty, they charged me $85 to readjust the idle for a stalling problem I also reported.I guess that they get you one way or another.
While at the Parts Department, I purchased the In Cabin Filter. I don't know why they didn't install one on 2K models. The cabin air runs cleaner and also seems a lot quieter too. Although it takes about a minute to insert the two filters, I spent about a half hour making sense of the confusing installation instructions. 20 minutes of which, figuring out where the hell was the lower glove box finisher. Hint: there isn't one!
Well Habitat Motor Trend tested both the GXE auto and 5spd manual in 95 when the Max won the Import car of the year and they got a 7.6 sec for the auto.Also since your on mag times R&T got a 7.4 sec for the 95 manual back in 95 so we cant always base on those. Also in may of 1995 C&D got a 7.3 sec for the 95 auto in a comparison and also it is well know that Nissan beefed up the auto tranny for 02 with the added power. The 02 shifts so much quicker and smooth and downshifts much quicker than 95-99's or 00-01's. Nissan publicizd the beefing up of the tranny. Since 02 the auto max has closed the gap considerably on the manual and they are putting down similiar times in alot of cases.
Since you indicate they tested both the auto and manual, what did Motor Trend get for the 1995 5-speed? I think I remotely recall 6.6, which is a full second quicker than the 7.6 for the auto. This may be the only fair comparison, since across different magazines and test conditions, times seem to vary greatly. Example - for my S2000, Motor Trend got a 5.2 but Car and Driver only managed a 6.3 (with a brand new un-broken in car). Road and Track is at 5.4. Even Consumer Reports got 5.5. Go figure.
I have also heard that the auto for 02/03, in spite of still being a 4-speed, is improved. Of course, the added horsepower and torque of the 3.5 liter may tend to equalize things for the automatic.
My only point was that back 8 years ago, my butt-o-meter noticed a big difference between auto and manual. If I were in the market again today, I'd still let my (slightly bigger) butt-o-meter help decide.
Check auto parts stores online for o2 sensors. They usually have a warranty of 100k miles although none seem to last that long. You should be able to get them under $100 if you comparison shop. I replaced two on an old mazda. Dealer price was 175.00 apiece. I got them from an online auto parts store for 65.00 apiece.
Yeah Habitat it was 6.6 for the manual in that M/T test(mag testing is inconsistent) and yes Nissan did the best they could for the 02/03 with the 4spd auto in the and it really is much improved from previous years. If you drive a 02/03 back to back with an 01 they are night and day in tranny performance and of course in acceleration. I have very copy of the Maxima and Z's from 85 on up till now when in Mag. test,lol. I agree with the way it feels to you is the best judge! My wife loves her 03 Maxima auto and I love my 350Z auto( my wont and cant drive manuals), but miss my 97 Max manual at times. Now the 5spd auto in the 04 Max S 5spd (with its 10 more hp and 9 ft more torque) auto is ok but with its added couple hundred pounds in weight it is no quicker than the 03 auto and the 04 SL with the 4spd auto is a tad slower than the 02/03 auto.
I have a 2003 SE and wanted to check out the status of the filter b/c I am getting a strange odor occasionally. I went to the trusty 'maxima.org' site and was directed to the courtesy-nissan parts web site for filter instructions that were supposed to be easy. I didn't think they were that easy and so have written to NISSAN to ask WTF on the cabin microfilter. Now, "warrenul" posts that the instructions are faulty so I am even more confused. A user-replaceable and supposedly washable filter should not require brain surgeon expertise to access. This is very disappointing but NOT surprising. Many car makers do NOT "design for maintainability (DFM)" like they should!
Unless they left the Glove box finisher off on 2K models, I did not find one. However, to access the filter cover you have to remove the glove box assembly. (Too bad that you aren't able to slide the filters in from the bottom)
Start by removing the 2 screws attaching the metal latch bracket. Then remove the 4 screws that hold the glove box assembly to the dash. When you gently pull the glove box assembly down, you'll see that the Passenger airbag connector is secured to the glovebox, Why, who the freak knows. You need pliers to squeeze the plastic tabs in so that you can push the connector off of the glove box. Then push out the glove box light and you will then be able to completely separate the glove box assembly. The filter cover in held in by a steel clip on the lower edge. Use a screwdriver to pry it off. Be careful because it will inevitably come flying off and lodge itself in some god forsaken location, like under or between one of the seat rails.
After you remove the cover, you will be able to slide each of the filters out (in if the car came without filters). I found remnants of leaves and dirt inside the blower compartment. I used a vacuum with a long thin nozzle to get as much crap as I could.
When putting the cover back on, make sure that you first catch the top lip of the cover to the tab on the blower assembly. Otherwise it could fall off later on. Before you reinstall the glove box assembly you press the airbag connector and light back in the holes. Its a tight squeeze to get them back on and its better if you have small hands. I bet you that the dealer leaves it off.
After that, it will take a little bit of adjusting, but the glove box assembly has guide tabs that must be aligned before the screws can be re-installed.
First time took me close to an hour to complete, however, I know that I will be able to change the filter in 30 minutes or less.
Since my car did not come with one, I immediately noticed a difference. Now when the fan goes on I don't get any dust spewing from the vents. In addition, its a whole heck of a lot quieter as the filter act as a muffler for the blower motor. However, I believe that the air flow is somewhat impeded, but thats okay beacause I don't like the air coming out of the vents like a wind tunnel anyhow.
I was wondering if anyone knew where was the best place to sell a low mileage Maxima GLE? Each of the online services seem like the charges are increasing and I'd like to get the most bang/viewers for my money. cars.com vs. yahoo classifieds vs. autotrader? Any thoughts? Thanks.
Comments
When the Bose cassette player in my '92 Maxima broke a couple of years ago I had the whole system replaced by a good independent shop. The whole replacement, including installation, head unit and speakers, was only around $500, and it sounds better than the original system.
As far as the '99 Maxima itself, most who own them love them. They can tell you more. I would recommend my '92 to anyone who wants a reliable beater that still has plenty of zip.
Courtesy Nissan website says its no longer available from them. Thx.
2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.
Anybody out there buying the new Max, and if so, how is it? If you aren't buying one, why not?
Where can I find the best instructions on how to do this without damaging anything?
My buddy just got a black 99 Maxima SE loaded- side airbags, ABS, leather, moonroof, 58,000 miles, Nissan certified- haggled down to $13,000. I love it. I'm converting everyone I know to Nissan products. Seriously, the car is beautiful.
Anybody out here having a 99 SE would like to share any comments?
How many lb. ft. does the 99 3.0 engine produce? I know its 190 hp...
~alpha
On the 2004 Maxima, yesterday's Washington Post had a reputable dealer advertising all 2004's at a minimum of $1,000 off MSRP, with 32 in stock. This does not bode well for an "advance" introduction of a 2004 model. Any guess how much below invoice those will be going for in August 2004??
With Nissan going funky on the design of the 2004 Maxima and BMW trying to steal defeat out of the jaws of victory with its 5-series redesign, I'm just hoping my Maxima is good for another year or two until things get back on track.
Although this is an assumption, I base this on Toyota's March 2002 introduction of the 2003 MY Corolla. The 2004 Corolla is now being released- with minimal to no changes. So it spent about a 15 month tenure as a 2003 model. Perhaps they will run the 2004 MY Corolla 15 months, thereby getting it back on track with the more normal Aug/September releases.
Also, thanks for answering my question. Here's another one: The 3.0L V6 in the 99 Max- how far does it date back? I know it goes at least to the 1989 MY Maxima, when it produced 160hp. But does it date back to the 1985-88 Maxima (which I absolutely LOVE, and would purchase in a second if I could find one in good enough condition at a reasonable price)?
Finally, I was interested to read your comments with respect to acceleration of the various model years. My buddy's 99 Maxima (which has a cold air intake, by the way), while damn quick, was noticeably less so off the line than the 2000 GXE we tested at the same dealership- both automatics.
~alpha
Regarding the automatic, the only "annoyance" is that from a rolling stop( e.g. accelerating from a stop sign), the power is leisurely, then the transmission kicks in and the acceleration is very quick and smooth. I've heard from maxima.org that this is a normal occurence for the auto. The steering I feel is also a little light/not enough weight.
He only has the BOSE as an option (no sunroof, leather etc.), but it rocks!!( love the bass)
As far as the acceleration of the 95-99; 00-01, and 02-03 models, I was comparing manual transmissions. In 1995, the 5-speed was considerably quicker than the automatic. Perhaps the 2000 GXE automatic was quicker than a 99 automatic, but I think the 5-speeds were quicker in the 4th generation version. Frankly, I would never buy a Maxima with an automatic. As good as the 3.0 and now 3.5 liter engines are, the 4-speed automatic is a dinosaur.
In 6852 you asked why aren't some of us buying an
'04 model.
I have an '00 SE loaded with everything. It's been a great ride and I was eagerly awaiting the '04 as
I was seriously considering a trade. Then, I got
hammered with a reality check!
To purchase the same model I now have, equipped
the same way, would sticker out at $34,000.00-
35,000.00 big ones. This amounts to a "huge"
percentage increase over the just slightly over
$30.000.00 my present SE stickered for.
Wanna know what else annoyed the (^%^#%$(*& out of
me? The HID lights that were "standard" over the
last couple of m.y.'s are now an "option." To add
insult to injury, to get the HID's.....they have
to be ordered with a "package" which may include
additional "options" that I may or may not have
any interest in having.
The fact of the matter is that looking at the Max
from a purely "financial outlay" perspective, you
might say that now it's competing with the G35 or
cars of similar dollar value, which incidentally,
doesn't make sense to me.
Frankly, I've started looking around at other makes
which is something that I definitely had not thought of doing since I liked the Max so much and
was determined to stay with this particular make
and model. Sorry for the "wordy" response!
berbel
Headed over to Infiniti and tried out a G35. Or I attempted to. My tale of woe regarding that drive is located here ( http://forums.freshalloy.com/ubbthreads/showflat.php?Cat=&Boa- rd=UBB25&Number=67397599&page=0&view=collapsed&sb- =5&o=&fpart=1#Post67397864 ).
After that debacle, I tried to get into a TSX but they lacked manuals. Tried to take out an A4 V6 manual but again no dice. Saab's 9-3 about put me to sleep. Slipped into a Jetta GLI and found that the new 200 hp/200lb-ft of torque V6 and six speed really liven the car up but it's not my bag.
So finally I stopped by Nissan. More a lark. I wasn't enthralled by the pics of the Max but figured I'm out so...
I hop into the car and fiddle with the seat and the telescoping/tilt steering column. Wow, unlike the G35 I found my sweet sitting position instantly. I love telescoping wheels. Not sure why Infiniti doesn't have it on the G but they do on the FX.
Anyway I motor off noting that the interior materials feel nice. At least on par with the Infiniti and in some respects higher.
Clutch pickup is smooth and predictable. Wow, feels like home (I owned a 91 Stanza 5 speed for 7 years). I motor onto the freeway and punch it. The VQ roars a bit but still the sound is deadended nicely vis a vis the more raucous G35. Uh-oh torque steer. The car pulls pretty hard to the right. I recall this test model lacked a LSD and VDC. Could be a wise choice.
Once on the freeway this thing flies along confidently with no fuss. Very smooth lane transitions, quiet, sturdy. The backwindow's a tad small though making rearward visibility tough. Even in 6th gear I note the car can pick up speed rapidly to pass. If I really want to boogey I throw it into 4th and the car jets forward. Oh this is working.
I inform the salesman of my needs - power, luxury, reliability and handling. He suggest I take and off-ramp and then leads me into some nice rolling hills and steep inclines.
It's out here that I begin to really feel connected with the Max. I'm flipping through 35-45 corners at over 70 and the car's drawing a perfect line. Slower cars are overtaken with ease as I slip into 4th and sometimes 3rd to rocket by everybody.
Transitions are nice and flat. The car never feels as large as it really is. Reminds me of a poor man's 745i (if you haven't driven one of those, do so, it's sublime). All I can think of while negotiating the corners is this car is: very stable and confidence inspiring. And darn quiet.
The u-turn I make on a side road reveals the car's got a large turning radius. Oh well, that's not a big issue in the scheme of things.
The trip back down the mountain and back to the dealership is ultra-smooth and swift. Pulling into the dealership my excellent salesperson gives me more info on the car, we discuss express kidnappings in mexico (odd topic but amusing) and he understands I'm still in the looking for the "right" car mode.
All told I'm very impressed. The car's handling isn't BMW-perfect but it's not a wallowing pig like a Passat or ES300 for instance. Unlike say the IS300 this thing's got guts galore and tons of room. The 6 speed felt much nicer than I had expected. Do i wish it were RWD? Yes. Am I taken by the body yet? No. I only like the trunk but the car's functional, swift, comfy and in my opinion a pretty nice deal.
I haven't settled on the Max as I want another shot behind the wheel of a G35 with a manual and a real test drive (like my Maxima or BMW drives). I'd also like to get my hands on a 330i just in case that extra dollop of power for the BMW puts it over the top. Plus given the max's reputation for falling prices i expect to get this car at invoice, which doesn't seem possible this month.
~alpha
Now, I most likely would buy a used '02 or '03, or wait a while and pick up a '04 for a lot less than it costs now.
I think Nissan has a marketing dilemma with the Max. Those wanting the VQ V-6 can get it in the Altima for less; those wanting to pay mid-30s, where the tricked out Max sits, can get a G-35 or other near-lux model.
Smooth as silk and astoundingly quiet. The point is, I would never spend 35K on a fully loaded Maxima if I can get into a base M45 for $ 37K. This is a totally different class car, competing with BMW 540i and Mercedes E500, at least in performance terms. I do not really care if some say it is ugly looking. I will take it over a fully loaded Max any day of the week. The Max engine simply cannot deliver what this 340 Hp V8 car can for this money. And you cannot beat a 4 year/60K bumper-to-bumper warranty and Infiniti customer service.
I almost got a 1995 GXE auto instead of the 1995 SE 5-speed. My wife was several months pregant at the time and I thought it would be a better choice for her. We had test driven the SE 5-speed together, but when I went back to the dealership alone, I bought the GXE auto. Upon returning home and expressing some disappointment with it's slow shifting and lack of pep, my wife insisted I take it back to the dealership and get the SE 5-speed. The sales guys at the dealership had a good laugh at my expense.
I have driven several automatics that have exceptional performance capabilities - 540iA and any of the AMG models (C32, E55, etc.). In the Maxima's price range, the Honda Accord and Acura TLS 5-speed automatics are quicker shifting and do not reult in as much of a performance loss as the Maxima's 4-speed.
The 1995 SE 5-speed was tested at 6.7 seconds 0-60 in the Car and Driver article I mentioned previously. A later test of a GLE automatic produced a 8.2 second 0-60. I recall other tests in the 7.7 to 8+ second range. To me, that 1+ second gap is significant. An Acura TLS manages 6.5 seconds and the BMW's are usually only 0.2-0.4 seconds slower than their manual counterparts.
If you are satisfied with the performance of the 99 automatic, go for it. The rest of the car is certainly a worthy competitor.
Take it to the dealer.
anyone know?
On five consecutive fillups with 91-octane, I got 24.7, 25.6, 24.83, 22.15 and 25.71 mpg. Average about 24.5 mpg.
On two consecutive fillups with 87-octane (with a quarter of a tank left from before), I got 26.2 and 25.4 mpg. Average is 25.8 mpg.
I remember someone else claiming similar experience back in 2000/2001.
Since I do not experience any knock in my 00GLE at 30K miles, I will stay with 87-octane from now on.
I can't imagine that the SES light did not light up after driving the car over 2 and a half years and 40,000 miles. I hope that this resolves the SES problem once and for all.
Although this was procedure was covered under warrenty, they charged me $85 to readjust the idle for a stalling problem I also reported.I guess that they get you one way or another.
While at the Parts Department, I purchased the In Cabin Filter. I don't know why they didn't install one on 2K models. The cabin air runs cleaner and also seems a lot quieter too. Although it takes about a minute to insert the two filters, I spent about a half hour making sense of the confusing installation instructions. 20 minutes of which, figuring out where the hell was the lower glove box finisher. Hint: there isn't one!
I have also heard that the auto for 02/03, in spite of still being a 4-speed, is improved. Of course, the added horsepower and torque of the 3.5 liter may tend to equalize things for the automatic.
My only point was that back 8 years ago, my butt-o-meter noticed a big difference between auto and manual. If I were in the market again today, I'd still let my (slightly bigger) butt-o-meter help decide.
Start by removing the 2 screws attaching the metal latch bracket. Then remove the 4 screws that hold the glove box assembly to the dash. When you gently pull the glove box assembly down, you'll see that the Passenger airbag connector is secured to the glovebox, Why, who the freak knows. You need pliers to squeeze the plastic tabs in so that you can push the connector off of the glove box. Then push out the glove box light and you will then be able to completely separate the glove box assembly. The filter cover in held in by a steel clip on the lower edge. Use a screwdriver to pry it off. Be careful because it will inevitably come flying off and lodge itself in some god forsaken location, like under or between one of the seat rails.
After you remove the cover, you will be able to slide each of the filters out (in if the car came without filters). I found remnants of leaves and dirt inside the blower compartment. I used a vacuum with a long thin nozzle to get as much crap as I could.
When putting the cover back on, make sure that you first catch the top lip of the cover to the tab on the blower assembly. Otherwise it could fall off later on. Before you reinstall the glove box assembly you press the airbag connector and light back in the holes. Its a tight squeeze to get them back on and its better if you have small hands. I bet you that the dealer leaves it off.
After that, it will take a little bit of adjusting, but the glove box assembly has guide tabs that must be aligned before the screws can be re-installed.
First time took me close to an hour to complete, however, I know that I will be able to change the filter in 30 minutes or less.
Since my car did not come with one, I immediately noticed a difference. Now when the fan goes on I don't get any dust spewing from the vents. In addition, its a whole heck of a lot quieter as the filter act as a muffler for the blower motor.
However, I believe that the air flow is somewhat impeded, but thats okay beacause I don't like the air coming out of the vents like a wind tunnel anyhow.
Go ahead and take it out. Hope that this helps.