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Nissan Maxima

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Comments

  • joenissanjoenissan Member Posts: 313
    I've been recieving LOTS of mail from some Extended warranty company, telling me that my warranty is about to run out (on a 1 yr old car ? I don't think so). Just for sh%ts and giggles, I called to find out what their price was...LOL..Well...after almost swallowing the receiver...I hung up on the crook !....To extend your warranty 4 years/100k...they wanted $1800+ !

    before hanging up on the guy, I told him what I did for a living, that I've been doing it for close to 18 years now.....LOL..he didn't want to hear it....he continued to try and sway me purchase his bogus warranty. So...be careful when these come in the mail....unless you really feel the need to extend your warranty...DON'T CALL !!! they won't take NO for an answer.

    Joe
  • george2kmaxgeorge2kmax Member Posts: 94
    The problem you are having with your radio could be any one of 4 conponents in your car.
    1) The first component that could be causing your radio to mute would be your head unit which I believe is made by Clarion.
    2) The second component that could be causing your radio problem could be the amplifier which I believe is made by Bose.
    3) The third component that could be causing your radio to mute would be the speakers which I believe are all made by Bose.
    4) The fourth components that could be causing your radio problems could be loss connections with the wiring harnesses connecting all components together.

    George
  • colicincolicin Member Posts: 3
    I just picked up my 2001 fully loaded GLE in Canada, in the process saving around $2500 (after taking account of US import duties and the cost of going to Toronto from NYC and to driving home. I wanted to let potential buyers know that I found Jon's (see post #29 above) advice on this invaluable and accurate. So far the car is a joy - it even has running lights and a full size spare (which I believe are unavailable in the US). Unless you're deeply put off by the speedometer in KM (with miles is smaller print) and the climate control in oC instead of oF, there's no reason to buy a Nissan in America if you live within a few hours of the canadian border.
    Thanks again Jon.
  • greforgrefor Member Posts: 34
    about buying the Max up in Canada at the same time I was shopping for mine. It just sounded too good to be true and too easy to save so much cash. I live in NJ, so Canada is certainly not too far a drive to save a couple Gs. Are you sure everything is legit? Say no so I don't feel like an idiot:)
  • maximizdmaximizd Member Posts: 18
    The PIAAs are a bit more white than the stock, well the SuperWhite H3 fogs are, but the Plasma H4 s are more like the "HID look" (very very slight hint of blue). Anyway, on the 2K, they are a nice combination, IMHO. I ordered them from Carparts.com, and with the 33% off your first order coupon code, you can't go wrong! You can also get wax and cleaners, and even suspension parts with the coupon.
  • jeffmaxse2kjeffmaxse2k Member Posts: 38
    finally got to talk to the rep who was not returning my calls. I talked to my SM today and I think he dropped a bug in someones ear about the non-returned calls. In any event here is what he had to say to me:

    "Nissan Field Engineers have concluded that the noises coming from your car are characteristics of the design of the Maximas engine mounts. Your mounts have been repaired to their original specs"

    He then offered to extend my warranty on the powertrain to 6/100 from the 5/60. Some Gold Package or something like that.

    Ok...so what Nissan is saying is that after 3 replacements(including the original parts that came with the car) and with no change in the sound of the chirps(other than increasing in noise) my engine mount problem has been fixed.

    Huh?!?!?

    If this is the way that the engine mounts are designed to sound, why did it take 3 trips and parts replacements(not to mention probably investing a third of the dollar amount of the car) to deem that this is normal operation? Sounds like to me that they are saying we have no clue what it is so we are just going to say it is a normal occurence. I think that is what bugs me the most...their indifference.

    So pretty much Nissan is washing their hands of this and was told that nothing else can be done. I feel closer and closer to the 5 spd guys every day :)

    I'm not here to demonize the Maxima...I really like the car(just not mine lol)...in fact I find myself looking over every new one in the lot everytime I visit the dealership...its at a point where I'm on a first name basis with everyone there(not really a good thing) Actually the SM and his guys have been great...they have done everything I have ever asked of him regarding the mounts......Nissan basically gave him a cease and desist order on pursing anything further with the mounts.

    Well...back to the drawing board I guess...will try the certified letter route next...

    BigK I am planning on bringing the car to a mechanic who used to be one of the lead techs at my dealership. My folks have dealt with him for years with their 95 Max and he is top notch with their car. I will ask him about all your theories as I have printed out your suggestions regarding the ICV etc.

    Darn it...can never make these posts short enough..heh sorry :(
  • shermaxshermax Member Posts: 31
    We can't let this guy go out and buy a Camry! I own the GLE and like the ride, the acceleration and the handling a lot. The GLE comes with a lot of the finer touches like Bose, that are extras on the SE. The GLE is an AT, and it sounds as if you want the 5 spd. If sporty is what you want...a lot of SE owners here can confirm it's handling and acceleration. I think if you compare the numbers, the Maxima beats the Camry pretty handily. I ahve never been able to justify the "old lady" look of the Camry. my two cents.
  • bigk200bigk200 Member Posts: 170
    Let me know what you find out from your mechanic friend.

    I think you are on the right track gy getting a 2nd opinion from someone who isn't required to recite the "company line".
  • dukehouston2dukehouston2 Member Posts: 36
    I have an Auto. 01 SE w/17" tires, to me the ride is very stiff, much harder than my '95 SE as I remember it, BUT I'm getting used to it, and the car handles and steers great. Get the Bose, if you don't, You'll regret it. Drive the cars with the 16" and 17" tires and see what works for you, both SE and GLE. Any Max will ride firmer and handle better than a Camry, I happen to think the trade-off is worth it... My takes, what do you folks think??
    Duke
  • bamadjbamadj Member Posts: 18
    I would definitely go for the Max! I didn't end up test driving a Camry, but drove my mom's around for a month and a half while waiting for my Max. Granted, her Camry was a '91, but even '91 Maximas looked better and roomier.

    I have heard OVER and OVER how much FUN a Max is to drive and in comparison, just how boring a Camry is. I definitely agree! It feels so nice inside and the doors all shut solid to make it feel airtight inside (something the Camry never did). I don't know all the stats, but I believe the Max also packs much more horsepower than the Camry.

    MAX is definitely the way to go if you want to feel good, comfortable and styling while on the road! It takes the boring out of driving and you have NO trouble merging in with traffic (and that's even with the AT)...

    bamadj
  • gerhatgerhat Member Posts: 5
    Well, actually it's impossible to judge what's important to you. The Max is definitely distinctive looking and the Camry does have a bland old lady, republican look to it. But then, of course, si8 might be an old lady and I might look exactly like Mel Gibson and I bet JoeNissan is Josephine.

    I owned a 90 5 speed SE before trading in for the 00SE Auto (my left foot just got lazy, but I do miss the old stick). Had great luck and enjoy both cars immensely. I got everything except leather and think the Bose, Meridian (heated seats and side airbags), traction, sunroof, white gauges, al gore, and 17" wheels are worth the extra effort. The ride is tight but slightly firm, so judge for yourself. Check out the 5 speed carefully since it sounds like it can be hard to handle in stop/go traffic, if that is a major part of your regular commute. I wish they had the Merlot last year, I like it.

    So take your time, no need to rush and make a bad bush decision.

    Good luck...subliminal George
  • bamadjbamadj Member Posts: 18
    I just want to say a quick thank you to those who take this board seriously and answer even some of the silly questions I have...

    Because of the information I've received from all of you, my car is now at the dealer service department having the oil changed at 882 miles, alignment (car was pulling to the left), and re-torquing the lug nuts on the rotors. The torque problem I would have never known about and because of this board, I am now doing what I can to prevent damage to the rotors - I'm all for preventive maintenance. I spoke to Chris (the service manager) and told him why I wanted all of this done and he agreed 100% on why I was having them change the oil, align the wheels, and re-torque the lug nuts. He made me feel very comfortable and knowledgeable - he mentioned that he used to work for Chevrolet and noticed all of the above on their cars as well...

    So, THANKS a bunch guys and gals. That's what this board is all about.

    And may all of you have a wonderful and joyous Thanksgiving! And for those of you that have to drive, be careful...

    bamadj
  • jeffmaxse2kjeffmaxse2k Member Posts: 38
    Joe ..I asked my SM yesterday if they use tourqe wrenchs when they put the wheels back onto Maximas(Had a balance done) He actually seemed like he didnt know...is that normal for a SM not to know what his techs use? He said that they use different colored pieces that go on the end of the wrench...color coded for specific cars? Do you guys do that?

    heh George...nice try...at least you have the right first name for the next commander in chief...lol :)
  • max2001max2001 Member Posts: 63
    The sunroof is only available with the C&C package which adds some of the stuff you don't want. But the SE is the way to go if you want stick

    As for the Bose I think it's worth it, great base and sound, very little distortion (but I have to say my previous car was saturn SL2 with a terrible stereo system). I suggest taking a CD with you to the dealer (something that has a lot bass) and popping it in. That's what I did to see if I wanted the Bose.

    As for the Camry - there is no comparison in my mind. I tested the big three Japanese cars (Camry, Accord, Maxima). The Maxima was the best handling of the lot. For the price the Maxima is the best.

    Hope this is helpful.

    RM
  • bamadjbamadj Member Posts: 18
    I want to back max2001's comments. To me, the BOSE is definitely worth it. The sound is absolutely awesome and so solid! The bass can run you out of the car. It is the best "factory" stereo I've ever heard.

    Yup, the sunroof only comes with the C&C package, but it's worth it - the other "stuff" that comes with the C&C package include:
    variable intermittent wipers
    auto-dimming rearview mirror (very handy)
    cargo net (nice for small items in trunk)
    HomeLink Universal Transciever (awesome - I don't need my garage door opener anymore)
    8-way power driver's seat (easier to get "fit" comfortably in the car)

    Let us know what you decide!
    bamadj
  • sgrd0qsgrd0q Member Posts: 398
    Joenissan – thank you again for your help. I will get the wheels re-aligned. I am relieved it is easy to fix.

    Bamadj – you mentioned you would be re-torquing the lug nuts on the rotors. Why would you do that if you haven’t done any wheel rotation? I would have thought the factory would have installed the wheels correctly when the car was assembled.
  • kyleknickskyleknicks Member Posts: 433
    When you went back for your first oil change and wheel alignment, did you go straight to the Service dept? you didn't have to interact with your salesperson right? I'm totally new when it comes to getting my car serviced, and would like to know who to speak to right away to get things done. Am i right to assume that the person you spoke to at the service dept, you met him for the first time that day? thanks
  • gymshoegymshoe Member Posts: 80
    I have a 00 Max SE and I test drove a 00 Camry V6 and V4. Here are my thoughts.

    Camry: Excellent reliability
    Maxima: Excellent reliability

    Camry: Spacious interior
    Maxima: Even more spacious interior

    Camry: 2nd most stolen car in US
    Maxima: Not even in the top 10

    Camry: V4 is gutless, V6 is uninspiring
    Maxima: V6 will make you WANT to drive more

    Camry: Suspension is soft, rolls a lot
    Maxima: Stiff suspension, corners really well

    Camry: Indistinguishable looks
    Maxima: You know it's a Maxima when you see one

    Camry: Feels like a basic people mover
    Maxima: Feels like a real car!

    Camry: Boring to drive....no fun
    Maxima: Be careful...you may have too much fun

    If anyone can think of more....feel free to add!
    Seriously re-consider before you plop down the wad of cash for the Camry. It is indeed a good car, but test drive a Maxima....you'll see and feel a huge difference.

    Happy Thanksgiving to all!

    -James
  • speedracer3speedracer3 Member Posts: 650
    Well, those pesky Passat owners are contending that their cars are more "exclusive" simply because Maximas can be rented while Passats cannot.

    Wanna join the fray?

    http://townhall.edmunds.com/cgi-bin/townhall?c=Sedans&t=3379

    Speed
  • borsystborsyst Member Posts: 30
    I'm bringing in my 2000 GLE on Tuesday to have a few things to be looked at/replaced 1)the TCM, 2)the groaning brakes/warped rotors and 3)the fan whirling noise. I bought the car last Dec 4th and have almost 20,000 miles on it. Is there any reason to believe that these would not be covered under warranty?

    Also, at this time of year with all the thanks we should be giving, I wanted to thank you for your help on a variety of topics.

    Happy Thanksgiving to everybody!
  • majohnsmajohns Member Posts: 16
    Hey....I had my fan replaced, too! That just about drove me crazy, the "whirrrr...." And yes, it's replacable under warranty. Unfortunately, they told me "no way" to new rotors, they say "well, it's your brakes, they're going to wear just like anything else..." can you believe that??
    Happy Thanksgiving all!!
  • bamadjbamadj Member Posts: 18
    sgrd0q: unless I misunderstood all of the posts, the factory is where the lug nuts are over-torqued. So, I wanted to get that fixed ASAP, whether or not I was rotating wheels. I'm sure the factory installed the wheels correctly, but the posts say the lugs are way over-torqued. Even the service manager knew what I was talking about and was happy to oblige.

    kyleknicks: yes, I went straight to the service department. Actually, the guy that sold me the car had introduced me to him that day, but that was it. From past experience and this one, once you buy the car, that's the LAST you see of the salesperson... I called Regal Nissan (my dealer here) and asked for the service department a couple of days ago and scheduled my car for today. I got it back about an hour ago.
  • gerhatgerhat Member Posts: 5
    My dealer replaced the TCM with only minor encouragement, I took the service rep for a ride and he offered the new TCM once he realized I was serious.

    The brake groan has a known TSB to hand sand the rotors and replace the pads. My car expert friend says its normal for metallic pads to deposit stuff on the rotor and cause a noise, but it does not diminish braking. He is a motor head and used to regularly sand his Accord rotors (he obviously has no kids). The fix is to go to "softer" pads that won't deposit material on the rotors as much. I believe the softer pads actually brake better but wear faster so it's a trade-off.

    At my first visit the dealer said they could not replicate the noise and I had trouble too, then I relaized it only happened after the brakes got warm like after coming down a long hill. My next visit, I presented them with a note saying the groan can be replicated by warming up the brakes, so feel free to take the car for a ride...so they owned up to the problem and ordered the parts. You do need to "encourage" them with firm attitude and documentation.

    I did not have a rotor problem.....George
  • jeffmaxse2kjeffmaxse2k Member Posts: 38
    I hear you guys saying that you have had your fans replaced due to a whirring noise...I noticed that if I turn the windshield defogger on(the one that lights up red instead of green) that my radiator fans kick on automatically and it is pretty loud ...is that what you are talking about?

    Why does this fan come on anyways? Cant remember any other car I have owned as having this "feature" when the windshield defogger is turned on.
  • majohnsmajohns Member Posts: 16
    This refers to the actual blower. Some '00 Maximas, when the fan is turned on (heat/air) there is a loud "whirrr..." that comes from the area where the blower is located near the glove box--Ok, it's the actual blower. This is a known issue/problem and is replaced under warranty.
  • joenissanjoenissan Member Posts: 313
    The reason the fan comes on in defrost mode is because in this mode, the A/C compressor comes on.
    And yes....most dealerships use a torque sensitive attachment for the air rachet, that is adjustable.

    Bors.....No....all the problem areas you've mentioned will be covered. There is a TSB out for all of those known problems.

    I'm glad I was able to at least help a few of you !

    Hope you all have a fantastic and healthy thanksgiving !!!

    Joe
  • stevek180stevek180 Member Posts: 4
    I have a 2000 GLE with 18k miles, and, after a several month absence form this forum, it's value is once again apparent.

    I still give this car four stars, but I seem to be having similar problems to some other owners:

    1) My rotors are appparently warped. I get steering wheel shimmy when I brake, but I get no noticeable pedal pulsation (which is surprising).

    2) My fan (climate control) makes an annoying whirring noise, mainly at low speed. It's getting worse. I see that this is a known problem.

    3) I thought at first I might have the same squeak problem as jeffmaxse2k, but after a brief offline discussion, I think I have a loose belt instead.

    4) I'm not sure if the tranny is slipping as per the TSB, but it sure feels mushy from 1st to 2nd. I'll have the dealer check it out soon.

    Finally, I hit a deer while going about 50 mph about three weeks ago. It mashed the left front fender beyond recognition and cracked the headlight reflector assembly. The deer flew over the top of the car and left two deep hoof scratches on the roof, and damaged the windshield moulding. It could've been a whole lot worse--at least I'm okay, and the car is driveable, except the fender rubs the tire if I really hang a right turn. (By the way, I'm sick of people, mostly ladies, asking "Did the deer live". NO, IT DIED!!! I'm sure some buzzards and maggots had a nice feast...) Actually this kind of works out, 'cuz I'll have the body shop fix some other scratches and dents, plus I'm getting a pickup truck as my rental vehicle for two weeks. That will come in handy for some haulin'.
  • kyleknickskyleknicks Member Posts: 433
    wow... u're heartless... poor deer!!
  • joenissanjoenissan Member Posts: 313
    GOOD !!

    Something that does that much damage had better NOT get up and walk away !! Glad you're ok.

    As you've probably read in these posts, all the problems you've stated, are not only covered under warranty (sans the deer hit of course..lol), but known to be problems of the Maxima, and have TSB's out for them.

    Joe
  • umpopaumpopa Member Posts: 37
    Happy Turkey day, all! Well, I'm making plans for my currently-ordered 2001 GLE, and want to give myself a holiday present, some Zaino products (I can practice on my current car before the GLE arrives!). My new car will have the Sterling Mist paint...doe anyone know if this is a clear-coat paint?

    Thanks for your help!
    -umpopa
  • joenissanjoenissan Member Posts: 313
    Yep...All Nissan cars now have clearcoat. In the past, the only ones not clearcoated were the white cars. Now ALL have it. Enjoy your new ride.


    Joe
  • sunbird3200sunbird3200 Member Posts: 12
    My friend purchased a 91 Maxima SE w/100k miles on it for $4600 from a private owner. The car seemed to be in good condition but now everything is going. He had to replace the waterpump and now he has a cracked axle. He replaced the four tires but I don't count that as a problem. Now his suspension is going. Everytime he hits a bump he loses control of his steering a little bit. It says on his registration that the car was a total loss cause it was in a accident. The first owner after 4400 miles got into a fender bender and sold the car to the guy that sold it to my friend. Seems the fender bender also pushed part of the car into the engine causing the pulleys to crack. He has no way of getting back at the guy because he has had the car for a month now. I just wondering is car really worth fixing or is it better just to take a loss and run? Oh yeah does the 91 Maxima need 92 octane people have been telling him that for a while.
  • joenissanjoenissan Member Posts: 313
    Yes the 91 Max uses super unleaded (91+ octane).

    A cracked axle ?....you mean half shaft ? Did the guy who sold your friend tell him it was totaled ?
    Without seeing the car, it's hard to tell if it's worth fixing or not. Shocks wear out, tires wear out...as do waterpumps and halfshafts but...it sounds like this car was really wrecked.
    As long as the car was fixed properly, and it's just a coincidents that theses parts are going, it may be fixable.
    First off...have your friend have it checked out FULLY which he should have done 1ST. He can then make a determination on weather he wants to spend what it'll take to bring it back to a "before accident" condition.
    Good Luck

    Joe
  • lsflsf Member Posts: 98
    Sounds like your friend got taken. Most states allow private transactions to occur "as is". But with guys selling wrecks for $4600 it's only a matter of time b4 states make it difficult to sell a car privately. See if you can talk to someone in your state who understands implied warranties.
  • blackstone3blackstone3 Member Posts: 29
    If the break-in period is so critical to ensure the longevity of the engine why don’t they just come broken in from the factory? I don’t know how much more it would cost the consumer, however knowing that my engine was broken in under the strictest of conditions would be worth the cost. The company could monitor everything from the emissions to oil consumption for the first 100 hours. When you did receive your car the odometer would read zero but the engine could have an hour clock to monitor hours used. I own a 2000 SE and I knew the break- in period was for the first 1000 miles. I have to say I was guilty pushing the RPM’s above 4k once and awhile. Did I really do major damage to the engine? Problem not, however if car manufacture really thought the break-in period was that important they should put a governor on the car so it can’t exceed a certain RPM during the break –in period or have the engine already broken in.
  • lsflsf Member Posts: 98
    I wonder how important it really is. If you do it right it may increase your chances of having an engine lasting a lot longer and with fewer problems, but I'm not sure. But think about 100 hours of engine time on a shop bench. That's nearly five days. That adds a lot of time to the manufacture of a car. Multiply that times $40 per hour for labor, overhead and profit. Ouch!
  • george2kmaxgeorge2kmax Member Posts: 94
    I know that many people have had brake rotor problems related to over tightened lug nuts. My luck nuts are torqued to the proper torque setting but I am not at all happy with how the brakes perform after 3 or 4 hard stops within a few minutes. My brakes work fine if you were a little old lady, but if you want to have some fun driving and you have to make a few hard stops boy do they suck.

    I was thinking of replacing the Nissan OEM rotors with Stillen Cross Drilled Rotors, has anyone replaced their OEM rotors with much better after market rotors. If I complain to Nissan maybe they will replace them with the same poorly designed rotors, so what would the point be then? The web site for Stillen is the following:
    http://www.stillen.com/brakes/rotors/rotors.html

    Does anyone know if Nissan redesigned or changed their original OEM rotor since they had so much trouble.

    George
  • joenissanjoenissan Member Posts: 313
    No they didn't change their rotors but....you're right...for extreme driving conditions, and quick braking, they really do "suck"...they fade fairly quick.
    The change0over to Stillen's rotors, and pads should get you the results you're looking for.

    Break-in.....Break-in isn't what it used to be, although it's still a good idea to let everything seat properly, I wouldn't say you have to drive any particular way for the 1st 1000 miles. I would definitely change the oil at the 1k mark, and not use synthetic oil until aprox 3 or 4k.

    Joe
  • ccyoungccyoung Member Posts: 6
    arronw1 posted a while back about a cd changer he got from Premier Audio. They do indeed have a six disk cd changer that is fully compatible with the Bose head unit, runs $234 + $8 shipping. If you are out there arronw1, did you install it yourself and if so how difficult was it. Is the Max pre-wired for the CD changer? Also where did you mount the unit? It looks like there is a space on the left side of the trunk for a cd changer. I have also heard of some being mounted under the rear shelf in the trunk. I also have a question for anyone with the Nissan Cd Changer. Premier Audio claims that the Nissan changer will not play home burned cd's while theirs will. Is this true about the Nissan unit?

    Thanks for any info.

    Chris
  • expat0007expat0007 Member Posts: 9
    Has anyone tried to install the QM218.03CX component set from MB Quart in a 2000 or 2001 GXE? I am wondering how much effort an installer would have to go through (i.e. how much permanent modification to the existing small speaker holes) ?

    Anyone gone through any similar situation (mounting component speakers versus bi-axial or full range)?

    Anyone have any experience putting rear speakers in back deck versus the existing "in-door" location?

    Thanks,
    Mat
  • adg44adg44 Member Posts: 385
    I wouldn't get cross drilled ones. If rotors are CNC machine pressed, they will warp very easily. Also, when you run stock brakes with cross drilled rotors, you loose contact patch between the brake and the rotor, so your stopping will actually take longer. I would try some slotted rotors instead of cross drilled. Powerslot has a good product, and I would recommend looking into them.
  • joenissanjoenissan Member Posts: 313
    If yopu go to www.courtesy-nissan.com they have the actual Nissan (Clarion is the builder of Nissan Audio, including the Bose units) unit for almost the same price.

    Joe
  • joenissanjoenissan Member Posts: 313
    As long as you use Stillens pads with their rotors, you'll be ok. It's the heat build-up along with the thickness of the rotor that'll warp quickly. Stillens rotors are the same as stock except that their cross drilled for better cooling. Slotted may help but...not as cool running as the cross drilled.....But either one would be better than stock for spirited driving.

    Joe
  • george2kmaxgeorge2kmax Member Posts: 94
    Actually I only want to change the rotors. If I changed the pads to the stillen metal-matrix pads I would be concerned about the additional noise that the metal-matrix pads would make. Stillen sells both slotted and cross drilled rotors.

    Joe / Anthony do you both agree that slotted rotors would be a better choose if I didn't want to change to Metal-Matrix brake pads??

    In addition if I changed rotors and I did not want to change to the metal pads, do you feel that I should change to new Nissan OEM pads due to the rotors being changed with 5,500 miles on the pads??

    Thanks for your help

    George
  • joenissanjoenissan Member Posts: 313
    You can use either slotted or cross drilled....either way...you HAVE to change the stock pads. The stock pads are too soft, and won't last with either of those.
    Noise ? When was the last time you could actually HEAR your brakes ? You won't notice any change except the better stopping power w/o fade.

    Joe
  • adg44adg44 Member Posts: 385
    I have EBC brakes with stock VW rotors on my car. I wouldn't be concerned with any noise, mine only squeek a bit if they get very warm. The additional braking power that you'll get from different brake pads is great. I also changed them because I didn't like all the brake dust I was getting from the stock VW pads. I would recommend slotted rotors if I were you. The slotted rotors will wear down your brake pads faster, but the slots in the rotor keep the gases off of the brake pad during braking, so you get a stronger stop. I've never used slotted rotors, but I know enough about them. One thing to remember is that stock Nissan pads are organic, which are very soft and won't last very long at all with slotted rotors. If I were you, I'd just get the same Nissan rotors and make sure that your lugs are always evenly torqued. As for the 5500 miles on your brake pads, I wouldn't be concerned at all. The groves from the old rotors on those pads will go away once they are bedded in with the new rotors. Once you replace the rotors (whatever kind) just drive around normally for about 300 miles and try to avoid hard stops. After the 300 miles is over, you should do what we call "setting the brakes." Make sure that your brakes are warm before you do this so that the sudden temperature change doesn't warp the rotors again. What I'm trying to say is don't get up at 6:00 in the morning and go set the brakes at 6:02! Just drive around a bit. Take the car up to 70 MPH, put the clutch in (or neutral if you have an auto), and slam on the brakes completely until you come to a complete stop. Drive for about a half a mile so the brakes can cool a bit, and do it again. Then repeat the process one more time, for a total of three. When you set the brakes, it increases the life of the pads and the rotors. The pads will be completely even with the rotors, and it will eliminate any squeeking you might have had. One more thing you might want to worry about with EBC or mintex or metal-matrix pads is that they are a harder compound and they will wear the rotors faster and the pads won't last as long! Check out www.ebc-brakes.com. I really like the set that I have.

    Good luck.

    - Anthony
    adg44@earthlink.net
  • lofquistlofquist Member Posts: 281
    Gregg (grefor) [reply to post #167],

    Yes the buying from Canada is real and also easy. I know of about a dozen of us who have gone up there in the last couple months. See my most recent post #29. But basically the dollar is so strong that the prices are incredibly low. For example:
    1) Maxima GXE, auto trans, traction control, and
    convenience pkg. Convenience pkg contains
    everything in the Meridian and Com and Con pkgs.
    $20,800. (US dealer invoice is $22,740)

    2) Maxima SE 20th Anniv Ed. Auto trans. Includes
    traction control, Bose, Meridian pkg, and leather.
    Does not have the ground effects though. $23,500.
    (US dealer invoice is $28,006)

    3) Maxima GLE. Auto trans. Includes traction
    control, sunroof, Meridian pkg. $22,700. (US
    dealer invoice is $25,852)

    NJ is an easy one day drive back from Toronto. Email me and I can fill you in and give some contacts too.

    Stephen (colicin) [reply to post #166],
    Glad your trip up to Toronto was great and all went as planned. I appreciate the compliments. I'm having fun helping folks with this.

    Jon
    jonlofquist@aol.com
  • cabowabodudecabowabodude Member Posts: 45
    I am going to be in the market for a new Max. Here is my question, I see that Motortrend is saying the Max is going to get the new 3.5 liter engine next year for 260HP. If my 235K ride that I have now, will last that long. Do I get the 2001 Max or wait for the 3.5? If this was a American car there would be "NO WAY" that I would even consider doing it. Do you think that Nissan will Make sure that this will be a rock solid engine. Also this new engine will be in the current body stye, So in 2003 the Max will get the bigger body with the 3.5/260HP engine and you would think that this would not be as quick as the 3.5 in the current body style. Any thoughts on this, Again with my luck my ride will probably take a dump and I won't have a choice.
  • kyleknickskyleknicks Member Posts: 433
    personally, the current max feels just right in terms of size. if it gets any bigger, i'll feel like i'm in a intrepid or some other big bulky american... no thanks!
  • danny25danny25 Member Posts: 119
    You won't have to worry about the 3.5L not being rock solid, yes, it will be the first year they put it in the Maxima, but it's already being used in the Pathfinder. They should have all the bugs, if any, worked out by the time they put it in the Maxima.
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