I have 1994 Maxima SE with 120K miles. The car is a 5-speed manual that is in need of a new clutch. The problem that I’m writing about is the hesitation problem or loss of horsepower. Although the car has a chattering problem in first gear because of the clutch, it not really affecting gears 2 –5 as far as slipping or chattering that I can tell. The car is very sluggish in all gears. I took the car to a transmission shop to have them confirm the clutch problem. I asked the mechanic if a new clutch would help in the horsepower problem. His response was that it wouldn’t make a huge difference. The car doesn’t respond well when I press on the accelerator. The automobile slowly gains speed. My cousin is a mechanic, although not familiar with Maximas. A few months ago, he did an induction flush (removal of carbon buildup in the system). During the flush, he added a gasoline additive into the gas tank. For about a week after the flush, the car responded very well. After that week, the car went back to its usual sluggish problems. I believe the gasoline additive, used to clean the system, aided in the car performing well for that week.

I already clanged the gas filter, air filter, and NGK platinum spark plugs. Still the car is performing poorly. I also had to change three of the six fuel injectors. Can anyone shed some light to this problem?

 

I have a 92 se 5 speed that does the exact same thing. I have tried all the same things you did to help (plugs, filters, cleaning TB). I even got a new OEM clutch a couple of months ago, and it didn't help at all. I want to do Y/B-pipe, but don't want to waste $$$ on a car that is sluggish. If anyone knows anything about this, feedback would be greatly appreciated.

 

Oxygen sensor and knock sensor, probably both are originals and should be replaced. Parts costs: O2 sensor about $120, knock sensor about the same, maybe closer to $150. You'll also need to buy some gaskets for the knock sensor since it is buried, about $50 for those. Then add labor if you don't do it yourself.