I am waiting on the Altima to debut, sometime in Sept. I have not test driven the WRX, but I am sure it is a fast car, but a little too small for me, plus the Altima will have more features than the WRx, and way more than the 96 GXE. If you are considering the Altima SE 3.5, the only V6 model, I would suggest you look at the 2001 Maximas, esspecially the SE model, buy the end of the year, you will be able to get one really cheap, or why not check out the VW Passat, it is a bit pricey, but it is one nice car as well. I would most definately wait until the Altima comes out though, I am, and I have a feeling that the Altima 3.5SE will be sitting in my driveway.
BTW, tomorrow 7/27 will be the day that the embargo for driving impressions is dropped. So that means, we might be seeing Altima previews in the September issue of Motortrend, Car and Driver, and Road and Track, just to name a few. I can't wait for this car to debut.
Seems a bit odd to me that a '96 Maxima GXE is in that list... i would guess that a WRX and an Altima SE would cost thousands more than a used GXE... Why not also wait for the Mitsubishi Lancer EVO -- heard it's very much comparable to the WRX and to me it looks a heckuva lot better than the Subaru. With that amount of money, maybe you could modify a Civic to match the WRX.
I have looked at the WRX. Didn't go for a drive by everyone said once the turbo kicks in it hauls. Looks rather plain inside, with small back seats. I like the previous year's front and back end better. If you want a fast car that handles, then that would do the job. Can't say about comfort, reliability, luxury however.
Will wait and see what the Altima will be like. Driving is believing.
I have Maxima 97 and have problem with courtesy light in driver sides door. Does it suppose to light when driver open the driver side door? Because it only light when other doors are opened, not driver sides. How can I fix it?
Is there such thing as Nissan Loyalty Rebate? What is it anyway? I saw Infiniti dealer had put advertisement that Infiniti Loyalty Rebate: $1000. Does it mean I had to purchase Infiniti from that dealer? Or I just have to own Infiniti cars regardless where I purchased previously.. Thank you
the 96 maxima gxe was on the list cause thats car my brother has, which he is getting rid of to make room for his 99 acura 3.2TL with 12000 miles.
if anybody is interested, it runs wonderfully, he hasn't had any mechanical malfunctions to date, and has pretty much followed the factory maintenance pamphlet to the letter. the only blemish is on the rear bumper when somebody bumped him from behind. he bought it new in 96, and now has 110000 miles on it. we are located in new jersey.
well, i just asked my mom before I left for work this morning, and she said she doesn't mind me using her car one more month and waiting for the altima. so i think i'm gonna wait for the altima. in the meantime i'll check out other new car prices. i'm also going to check out certified pre-owned prices again on some other cars. anybody got any ideas on some good cars to look at while I wait, ever so impatiently, for the altima?
nissanlover, The Loyalty Rebate for Infinitis will apply for anyone who pulls up in an Infiniti. You don't have to have an Inifiniti purchased from that specific dealer. $1000 for loyalty is pretty good. Just 3 months ago here in Atlanta, the loyalty reward was just $500. My wife drove a J30 and we were shopping for a G20 at the time. I've never heard of a Nissan Loyalty reward program, not here at least. I just purchased my 01 Max 2 months ago, but didn't hear of any loyalty rewards program at that time.
the 96 maxima gxe was on the list cause thats car my brother has, which he is getting rid of to make room for his 99 acura 3.2TL with 12000 miles.
if anybody is interested, it runs wonderfully, he hasn't had any mechanical malfunctions to date, and has pretty much followed the factory maintenance pamphlet to the letter. the only blemish is on the rear bumper when somebody bumped him from behind. he bought it new in 96, and now has 110000 miles on it. we are located in new jersey.
well, i just asked my mom before I left for work this morning, and she said she doesn't mind me using her car one more month and waiting for the altima. so i think i'm gonna wait for the altima. in the meantime i'll check out other new car prices. i'm also going to check out certified pre-owned prices again on some other cars. anybody got any ideas on some good cars to look at while I wait, ever so impatiently, for the altima?
The Altima 6 according to my Nissan dealer will be a new 6 cyl engine. It will not be the tried and proven one that is in the Maxima. Do you remember all of the issues with the Mazda tribute last year? The Altima is such a drastic change it's bound to have some hidden defects.
If you're interested in the very best value for your dollar, buy the newly used Maxima that you know has been well taken care of. It will be much less expensive in the long run.
I test drove the Maxima last night. It is one sweeeet car. Altima is nice, but it's not in the same class.
"The Altima 6 according to my Nissan dealer will be a new 6 cyl engine it will not be the tried and proven one that is in the Maxima"
The 3.5L V6 in the new Altima is the same "VQ" engine as the Maxima with larger displacement. The engine is already proven and serving duty in the current Pathfinder.
Note: 2002 Maxima GXE model include equipment offered as part of the optional $1,069 Comfort & Convenience package in MY01. 2002 Maxima SE models include equipment offered as part of the optional $1,799 Comfort & Convenience package (minus the $899 sunroof feature) in MY01.
I've put my plans on buying a TLS on hold until I see the new 2002 Maxima. However, I'm wondering if I should put my car buying on hold until next year for the 2003 Maxima. Does anyone knoe when the 2003 Maxima be avilable. Will we need to wait until Aug/Sept or will it be available sooner? TIA
Good name - sounds like your "sitting on it" like me. I have a 1995 Maxima SE that runs like new, so I'm not highly motivated to buy a new car just for the sake of it. And it looks like a lot will be happening over the next 12 months. My problem is further compounded by the fact that I am also considering cars in a higher price range.
A Nissan/Infinity corporate marketing rep e-mailed me the following:
2002 Maxima SE 6-speed: Out in early October, realistically in showrooms in quantity in late October / November.
2003 Infinity G35: Rear wheel drive sport sedan available in April 2002 +/-.
2003 Nissan Maxima redesign: "Estimated" September 2002 in showrooms, but no firm dates yet.
Add to that for me: BMW M3 or Mercedes C32 available January - March 2002 (on waiting list to get either at MSRP, representing high cost, but good deal). BMW 5-series to get engine upgrades throughout 2002 (no specific dates yet).
Perhaps a tree will fall on my Maxima to force me into a decision, but in the meantime, I almost have to wait to see more.
I too have a 95 Maxima that runs very well (knock on wood). Unfortunately I also have a 94 Saturn which at some point soon I would like to replace with another family saden. I was initally on the fence about TL vs Passat. That decision ended when we test drove both TL and Passat on the same day... The TL won. As we were testing the TL we kept saying oh that's like our Maxima, and this is like our maxima. The day before I was going to buy the TL I read an article about the new 2002 Maxima -- more HP, more lux. stuff (seat memory, etc. and it has a better stereo then the TL) and that stopped me in my tracks of buying the TL. Now I've joined the grear TL/Maxima debate. Aside from the prestige factor, I'm not sure what else the TL has above the maxima(maybe a bit quieter cabin and the better exterior.)...I'm stuck in limbo, I'm sitting on the fence, I need to S**T or get off the pot(or is it can.) How many different ways are there of saying, I want to spend money but I just don't know what to buy. :-) Now I've read that the 2003 Maxima will be redesigned...uuuggghhh So many options...My significant other is getting tired of me waffling, and says just go buy a d*mn something I don't want to hear about it anymore... :-) Man, typing is good psychological relief. :-)
Here's a real question -- When will Edmund's post the invoice cost for the 2002 Maxima? Is it safe to go to the deal and offer $2,500 below invoice because that's about what it seems like is the invoice?
Didn't quite understand your last question. Were you questioning what's a good price for a 2001? They are selling for $1,000 + under invoice here (Washington DC). I had my 95 in for routine service last week and they jokingly handed me the keys of a new SE anniversary edition 5-speed which they offered to let me take for $1,500 under invoice (think it had 200-300 miles of test driving on it, but I assured them I wasn't interested). Instead, I offered to be the first buyer of a 2002 Maxima SE 6-speed if they also give me the first new Z-car they get at or under MSRP! They said sure, but no money has yet to change hands!
For 2002 Nissan list pricing go to www.nissannews.com and check under the 2002 vehicle guide. Click on "features and specs" for a complete list of option prices. Looks like a fully loaded SE 6-speed will come in at about $750 more than its 2001 5-speed counterpart, but with several new features (memory seats, zenons, etc.). Will they discount it like they are the 2001's - tough to answer at this point, but I would bet that if you wait until December 30, you'll get a heck of a deal.
I miswrote my question: 1) When will Edmunds post the invoice price for the 2002 Maximas
2) If Edmunds doesn't post it right away, should I go to the dealer and offer about $2500 below MSRP of the 2002 Maxima, since it seems like for the 2001's the invoice is about $2,500 less then the MSRP.
wife cracked the rear spoiler stop lite on our 2000 se. i purchased new entire assembly because the lens only is not available.. \lite continues to work but New York inspection has a problem.. has anyone attempted to remove the spoiler and whats the best way.. the screws that hold in the lens do not allow it to come out ..there are other unreachable plastic caps that may have to be removed..i was told that there is a sealant on the end of the wing that also keeps it in place.i have attempted to take it off but dont know if im approaching it the rite way or if there is an easier way to make a tough fix into a simple one..any body shop guys out there..please respond
I now have 3,400 miles on new 5 speed Maxima SE. I used to own a Datsun 280Z, but this car far surpasses it, seats 4 or 5 adults, and still looks good (also will not rust like the 280Z).
In the last two days I have taken two separate trips, one of about 250 miles and the other 210 miles. After these trips at reasonably high speed (70 to 85 mph) I am convinced the car would be better served with Stillen (or other) FSTB (front strut tower brace) and RSB. The handling at speeds up to 60 mph does not seem to be affected.
Should I spend the money on the Stillen or would I be best served by Courtesy or another brand. Does anyone know how to get Stillen at a discount?
Also, if I get the FSTB and the RSB, will I see a noticeable difference or is the Rear Sway Bar recommended as well.
I am running on 17" Bridgestone Potenza's that are just OK, but will not spend the money to upgrade until they need replacing.
The only difference between the Stillen and Courtesy FSTB is cosmetic apparently. I've asked this question a few times and it's always the same response. So if you care about the way your FSTB looks go with Stillen.
www.eatricezone.com sells the Stillen for $174 plus $10 shipping, that's the best deal I've heard so far. But Courtesy is only $89.
1) If I'm not mistaken the gated shifter is just a shifter without a button on the knob. So you have to move around to shift gears. The Acura TL has a gated shifter, the shift pattern is in a "squiggly line". lol thats basically what it is, shifter with no button.
2) The engine control module is probably a trip computer. I'm not sure...
I can understand all the "HUB BUB" about the new 2002 Max with "260hp"..noooo..I'm not jealous...but at what point is it worth it....yes you do have more power..but at what cost....the higher you go...the more you sacrifice in economy...we all know you can't use the extra horsepower...we don't have an autobahn here...so where are you gonna excercise those horses...I have 222hp ...way plenty of enough power but still getting outstanding fuel economy.....that's incredible technology....so where does it end...and is it worth it...sorry...just exercising freedom of speech...Joe D.
Wish I could help you but I am looking to buy a 2001 GLE. Can I be so bold as to ask what kind of deal you got on yours. I'm looking for a "loaded" except for chrome wheels. If you prefer not to disclose no problem :-) Glad to hear you love yours as it seems like a great car.
Looking at the pricing at nissannews, someone tell me why I have to get a BOSE stereo/6 CD Changer and a sunroof in order to get side air bags and traction control? Those two luxury options add up to $2000, and then the safety features are an additional $550. I don't want to skimp on safety, but I'm not ponying up $2000 in unwanted extras. This may put the Maxima out of the running for me. Guess I'll just get the Altima.
This is the compter that governs all of the engines functions, taking input from all the sensors (throttle position, air flow, etc.) and decides how much fuel the engine gets and when the ignition spark will take place.
Locating it in the passenger compartment (as opposed the to the usual locationin under the hood in the engine compartment) has 2 possible benefits:
1. It is better protected from crash damage.
2. It is also isolated form the temperature extremes found under the hood. This should allow it to last longer, or have fewer failures. Though I haven't heard of any Maxima ECM failures.
I agree with you regarding the new Maxima. I think I'll like the added power, but don't expect to use it. The main reason I'm looking at a 2002 Maxima, is because there are several ammenaties that are not part of the 2001 i.e. Seat memory, better seats, 6 disk indash changer, etc. Because I would really like these feature I can't see my self getting the 2001 even thought I think you can get a VERY good deal now on the 2001s.
If I'm not mistaken, the MSRP for the 2002 Maxima is only a couple hundred dollars more than the 2001. As for useable power: You don't have to be going 140 miles an hour to feel the difference between 222hp and 255hp (or more importantly, the difference between 217lbs torque and 246 lbs). The 2002 has 29lbs more torque at 4000 rpm than the 2001. This is a difference (13%) that you can easily feel in day to day driving. If I have to pay $200 to get 33 more hp, I wouldn't have to think twice about it (considering an average car usually costs about $100 per hp).
As for fuel efficiency: you are correct that the new 3.5L VQ is less efficient. However, I believe it is rated at 18/26 (or maybe 19/26). This is not far at all from what I've heard 5th generation owners have been getting.
By the way, I sat in a 6-spd 2002 SE model this weekend at MAXUS 2001 in DC. The 6-spd shifter is the best shifter I've ever felt. It feels extremely mechanical, and there is a solid clunk when you throw it into each gear. It requires virtually no effort to shift, and the throw is shorter than my 4th generation. And the shift from 4th to 5th is perhaps the quickest shift of all (normally this shift sucks on 5-speed cars).
The gearbox alone would be enough for me to choose a 2002 over a 2001.
Not trying to convince anyone from buying a 2001, or refuting your post, just speaking my mind...
(Actually, I AM trying to convince people to buy the 2002 so that there are more used 2002s when I am in the market for another Maxima in about 3 years
I read all the announcements about price, etc., for the 2002 Maxima that was posted on the net last weekend.
On nissannews the announcement from Nissan North America Inc. gave the specs and prices and said the vehicle would be available August 2, 2001.
I phoned Nissan Canada and two dealers about this and they don't know if or when it will be available in Canada. (We are a small market and no doubt really don't matter to Nissan)
However, I do wish they had said North America, excluding Canada, as it does impact on plans that the few Nissan customers in Canada might have.
The dealer in Smiths Falls, Ontario was very helpful but did not even know when they would be available.
To bad because I now am going to look at the Passat my wife wants and not the Maxima I wanted.
You guys have got the corner on the market so enjoy.
I really do agree that having to purchase the bose stereo and other options on the maxima is really a bummer just to get side airbags. From Nissan's perspective, they figure people are going to want things in bundles, and maybe they can make some extra $$$ out of forcing options on you. But, some of us would really like some safety features in our cars (side airbags) and not have to spend over $2000 to get them! By the time you add it up, you're into 28-29k territory. I would rather walk down to the Acura dealer and get a CL type-s of a TL for the same price. And that includes a better warranty, better service, sweet leather seats, and much better resale value. But, if you can live without side airbags and traction control, the Maxima is quite a ride.
I have a 2001 Max GLE. Am looking for a good way to haul two bikes. Does anyone know if a trailer hitch can be bolted onto the back of a 2001 Max. If so, who makes the hitch? I have been told that a hitch with a two inch receptacle is best.
Also, would like to know if anyone has used a trunk mounted bike rack successfully on the 2001. If so which make bike rack is it?
I do not want to use a roof mounted bike rack. Too much trouble to lift the bikes.
Whoops- MAXUS 2001 was a Maxima meeting this weekend in DC. We spent all Saturday at the 75-80 race track in Frederick, MD. It was a lot of fun....a bunch of people were running 1/4 miles (my first time). They had a 2002 Maxima SE there as well as a Nissan Primera.
If you want to sit in a 2002, I think you have to wait until August until they start showing up at dealers.
I also have a '97 Max, and if I recall correctly, both door courtesy lights should come on regardless of which door you open. The fact that the driver's light only comes on when the passenger door is open suggests that you have a bad switch in the driver's circuit. I don't have my car at work, but these switches (typically a smallish, plunger-type switch) are located in the door frame (not the door) and closing the door presses in the switch (or, alternatively, opening the door releases the switch, closing the circuit and illuminating the lamp). As your passenger door switch is apparently functional, you should check out that one to make certain you know you have the correct part, then come back over to the driver's door and examine that switch. Does it release properly? Can you pull it out (and have the lights come on)? Maybe you're lucky and it only needs lubrication. I'd guess worse case is that you need to replace the switch assembly.
How are their service? How reliable and convenient are they? I am thinking about buying another Nissan car this month. I have researched 01 Pathfinder for roughly two month, but I can't get price that cardirects.com offer from dealership. What's up with that?
I'm considering a Maxima in the future. However I've found that all engines have a place to put one in. It usually takes the place of a drain plug. My most recent purchase, a Mazda cost less than $100.00, including a drain and refilling the coolant.
I'm enthusiastic about block heaters in cold weather. They keep fluids just warm enough for smooth starts and quick warm ups. I think they save engine wear in cold weather. No more rough starts.
Highly recommended for anyone in a cold climate. Doesn't take too much electricity if used overnight. Can get excessive if left on constantly.
I took a look at my car when I got home last night - the switch is located at the base of the support pillar between the front and rear doors, and is encased in a small flexible rubber boot. It also appears to be removable (replaceable?) by taking out the Philips screw that holds the switch assembly in place. I'd expect you'd be able to pull the switch out - and find it attached to a couple of removable connectors. Then just install a new switch if needed.
i'm very interested in this affordable, extremely attractive auto. Can someone give me a range of purchase price for a top end, loaded model? What is a reasonable lease rate for 36 mo with little down? thanks in advance.
Comments
BTW, tomorrow 7/27 will be the day that the embargo for driving impressions is dropped. So that means, we might be seeing Altima previews in the September issue of Motortrend, Car and Driver, and Road and Track, just to name a few. I can't wait for this car to debut.
Will wait and see what the Altima will be like. Driving is believing.
Does it mean I had to purchase Infiniti from that dealer? Or I just have to own Infiniti cars regardless where I purchased previously..
Thank you
if anybody is interested, it runs wonderfully, he hasn't had any mechanical malfunctions to date, and has pretty much followed the factory maintenance pamphlet to the letter. the only blemish is on the rear bumper when somebody bumped him from behind. he bought it new in 96, and now has 110000 miles on it. we are located in new jersey.
well, i just asked my mom before I left for work this morning, and she said she doesn't mind me using her car one more month and waiting for the altima. so i think i'm gonna wait for the altima. in the meantime i'll check out other new car prices. i'm also going to check out certified pre-owned prices again on some other cars. anybody got any ideas on some good cars to look at while I wait, ever so impatiently, for the altima?
The Loyalty Rebate for Infinitis will apply for anyone who pulls up in an Infiniti. You don't have to have an Inifiniti purchased from that specific dealer. $1000 for loyalty is pretty good. Just 3 months ago here in Atlanta, the loyalty reward was just $500. My wife drove a J30 and we were shopping for a G20 at the time. I've never heard of a Nissan Loyalty reward program, not here at least. I just purchased my 01 Max 2 months ago, but didn't hear of any loyalty rewards program at that time.
if anybody is interested, it runs wonderfully, he hasn't had any mechanical malfunctions to date, and has pretty much followed the factory maintenance pamphlet to the letter. the only blemish is on the rear bumper when somebody bumped him from behind. he bought it new in 96, and now has 110000 miles on it. we are located in new jersey.
well, i just asked my mom before I left for work this morning, and she said she doesn't mind me using her car one more month and waiting for the altima. so i think i'm gonna wait for the altima. in the meantime i'll check out other new car prices. i'm also going to check out certified pre-owned prices again on some other cars. anybody got any ideas on some good cars to look at while I wait, ever so impatiently, for the altima?
If you're interested in the very best value for your dollar, buy the newly used Maxima that you know has been well taken care of. It will be much less expensive in the long run.
I test drove the Maxima last night. It is one sweeeet car. Altima is nice, but it's not in the same class.
The 3.5L V6 in the new Altima is the same "VQ" engine as the Maxima with larger displacement. The engine is already proven and serving duty in the current Pathfinder.
The 2002 SE Auto/T is going to be $25,449.
They said it is $200.00 more than the 2001
Must be the American Price because you don't buy them up here under 35M
GXE 3.5-liter DOHC V6 4-speed auto. $24,699
SE 3.5-liter DOHC V6 6-speed man. $25,449
SE 3.5-liter DOHC V6 4-speed auto. $25,449
GLE 3.5-liter DOHC V6 4-speed auto. $27,099
Destination and Handling $540
Note: 2002 Maxima GXE model include equipment offered as part of the optional $1,069 Comfort & Convenience package in MY01. 2002 Maxima SE models include equipment offered as part of the optional $1,799 Comfort & Convenience package (minus the $899 sunroof feature) in MY01.
A Nissan/Infinity corporate marketing rep e-mailed me the following:
2002 Maxima SE 6-speed: Out in early October, realistically in showrooms in quantity in late October / November.
2003 Infinity G35: Rear wheel drive sport sedan available in April 2002 +/-.
2003 Nissan Maxima redesign: "Estimated" September 2002 in showrooms, but no firm dates yet.
Add to that for me: BMW M3 or Mercedes C32 available January - March 2002 (on waiting list to get either at MSRP, representing high cost, but good deal). BMW 5-series to get engine upgrades throughout 2002 (no specific dates yet).
Perhaps a tree will fall on my Maxima to force me into a decision, but in the meantime, I almost have to wait to see more.
Here's a real question -- When will Edmund's post the invoice cost for the 2002 Maxima? Is it safe to go to the deal and offer $2,500 below invoice because that's about what it seems like is the invoice?
TIA
For 2002 Nissan list pricing go to www.nissannews.com and check under the 2002 vehicle guide. Click on "features and specs" for a complete list of option prices. Looks like a fully loaded SE 6-speed will come in at about $750 more than its 2001 5-speed counterpart, but with several new features (memory seats, zenons, etc.). Will they discount it like they are the 2001's - tough to answer at this point, but I would bet that if you wait until December 30, you'll get a heck of a deal.
Good luck.
1) When will Edmunds post the invoice price for the 2002 Maximas
2) If Edmunds doesn't post it right away, should I go to the dealer and offer about $2500 below MSRP of the 2002 Maxima, since it seems like for the 2001's the invoice is about $2,500 less then the MSRP.
In the last two days I have taken two separate trips, one of about 250 miles and the other 210 miles. After these trips at reasonably high speed (70 to 85 mph) I am convinced the car would be better served with Stillen (or other) FSTB (front strut tower brace) and RSB. The handling at speeds up to 60 mph does not seem to be affected.
Should I spend the money on the Stillen or would I be best served by Courtesy or another brand. Does anyone know how to get Stillen at a discount?
Also, if I get the FSTB and the RSB, will I see a noticeable difference or is the Rear Sway Bar recommended as well.
I am running on 17" Bridgestone Potenza's that are just OK, but will not spend the money to upgrade until they need replacing.
1) Gated shifter
2)engine control module located inside the passenger compartment for reliability
Any insight would be much appreciated. I've talked to several dealerships and one seems to think that they will get some in this week.
--TIA
www.eatricezone.com sells the Stillen for $174 plus $10 shipping, that's the best deal I've heard so far. But Courtesy is only $89.
2) The engine control module is probably a trip computer. I'm not sure...
I purchased the clear side marker lenses to replace the red and amber side markers. How do you remove the existing side markers?
If possible, also reply to jpscatena@t-one.net
If you prefer not to disclose no problem :-)
Glad to hear you love yours as it seems like a great car.
Locating it in the passenger compartment (as opposed the to the usual locationin under the hood in the engine compartment) has 2 possible benefits:
1. It is better protected from crash damage.
2. It is also isolated form the temperature extremes found under the hood. This should allow it to last longer, or have fewer failures. Though I haven't heard of any Maxima ECM failures.
Dave
If I'm not mistaken, the MSRP for the 2002 Maxima is only a couple hundred dollars more than the 2001. As for useable power: You don't have to be going 140 miles an hour to feel the difference between 222hp and 255hp (or more importantly, the difference between 217lbs torque and 246 lbs). The 2002 has 29lbs more torque at 4000 rpm than the 2001. This is a difference (13%) that you can easily feel in day to day driving. If I have to pay $200 to get 33 more hp, I wouldn't have to think twice about it (considering an average car usually costs about $100 per hp).
As for fuel efficiency: you are correct that the new 3.5L VQ is less efficient. However, I believe it is rated at 18/26 (or maybe 19/26). This is not far at all from what I've heard 5th generation owners have been getting.
By the way, I sat in a 6-spd 2002 SE model this weekend at MAXUS 2001 in DC. The 6-spd shifter is the best shifter I've ever felt. It feels extremely mechanical, and there is a solid clunk when you throw it into each gear. It requires virtually no effort to shift, and the throw is shorter than my 4th generation. And the shift from 4th to 5th is perhaps the quickest shift of all (normally this shift sucks on 5-speed cars).
The gearbox alone would be enough for me to choose a 2002 over a 2001.
Not trying to convince anyone from buying a 2001, or refuting your post, just speaking my mind...
(Actually, I AM trying to convince people to buy the 2002 so that there are more used 2002s when I am in the market for another Maxima in about 3 years
On nissannews the announcement from Nissan North America Inc. gave the specs and prices and said the vehicle would be available August 2, 2001.
I phoned Nissan Canada and two dealers about this and they don't know if or when it will be available in Canada. (We are a small market and no doubt really don't matter to Nissan)
However, I do wish they had said North America, excluding Canada, as it does impact on plans that the few Nissan customers in Canada might have.
The dealer in Smiths Falls, Ontario was very helpful but did not even know when they would be available.
To bad because I now am going to look at the Passat my wife wants and not the Maxima I wanted.
You guys have got the corner on the market so enjoy.
Also, would like to know if anyone has used a trunk mounted bike rack successfully on the 2001. If so which make bike rack is it?
I do not want to use a roof mounted bike rack. Too much trouble to lift the bikes.
MAXUS 2001 was a Maxima meeting this weekend in DC. We spent all Saturday at the 75-80 race track in Frederick, MD. It was a lot of fun....a bunch of people were running 1/4 miles (my first time). They had a 2002 Maxima SE there as well as a Nissan Primera.
If you want to sit in a 2002, I think you have to wait until August until they start showing up at dealers.
I also have a '97 Max, and if I recall correctly, both door courtesy lights should come on regardless of which door you open. The fact that the driver's light only comes on when the passenger door is open suggests that you have a bad switch in the driver's circuit. I don't have my car at work, but these switches (typically a smallish, plunger-type switch) are located in the door frame (not the door) and closing the door presses in the switch (or, alternatively, opening the door releases the switch, closing the circuit and illuminating the lamp). As your passenger door switch is apparently functional, you should check out that one to make certain you know you have the correct part, then come back over to the driver's door and examine that switch. Does it release properly? Can you pull it out (and have the lights come on)? Maybe you're lucky and it only needs lubrication. I'd guess worse case is that you need to replace the switch assembly.
Good luck, and cheers from the PNW.
Ken M. (a visitor from the Outback Wagon site)
Thank you for your help, Ken. I really appreciate it. I will examine my door frame carefully to fix these matter. Thank you.
James
I am thinking about buying another Nissan car this month. I have researched 01 Pathfinder for roughly two month, but I can't get price that cardirects.com offer from dealership. What's up with that?
I'm enthusiastic about block heaters in cold weather. They keep fluids just warm enough for smooth starts and quick warm ups. I think they save engine wear in cold weather. No more rough starts.
Highly recommended for anyone in a cold climate. Doesn't take too much electricity if used overnight. Can get excessive if left on constantly.
Love block heaters.
I took a look at my car when I got home last night - the switch is located at the base of the support pillar between the front and rear doors, and is encased in a small flexible rubber boot. It also appears to be removable (replaceable?) by taking out the Philips screw that holds the switch assembly in place. I'd expect you'd be able to pull the switch out - and find it attached to a couple of removable connectors. Then just install a new switch if needed.
Good luck!
Ken M.