what kind of things should she look at, what are some common problems

 

do not get one with the vg30e. you can read about my mishap in the timing belt broke thread a page back or so.

things that break frequently are the power window regulators and the antenna. 3 of the 4 window regulators went out on my max (75 bones each) and the power antenna needs to be lubed every few weeks or it starts howling. also check around the power steering pump for leaks. seems every 3rd gen I've seen leaks around there once it hits 100k and it goes right on the passenger side lower a arm bushings and eats them up.

 

guys like me selling theirs and hitting on good looking girls that come to test drive. .. .

seriously: VTC ticking on VE motors, rust right behind rear door. Open rear doors and look in door jams for repairs, rims in bad condition, half shafts, steer rack boots, you know, normal stuff oh auto tranny!!!! beware!!!

 

LOL....dont get a VG?

That's only like 85% of 3rd gens...

My power steering pump is leaking. Ah well, I'll wait till it completely dies...

 

The VG is one of the most reliable engines, if the timing belt and oil are changed at proper intervals they last for at least 200K miles. Make sure that she gets a 5 speed, the autos are notorious for failing. VTC's in the VE engine are also something to watch out for, they are an expensive repair. Other than that just watch out for the normal things.

 

so then avoid 85% of the 3rd gens I haven't seen a 5 speed vg around here, all of them are the ve engines, not sure if its just what most people bought around here or if they are harder to find.

the ve engine is nice, my parents have a max with that engine and it will smoke a stock mustang or RS camaro, and thats with the automatic and the classic maxima hesitiation off idle. Definately worth looking for one with that engine. Easiest way to tell them apart for someone unfamiliar w/ the engines is to look at the vin tag on the firwall, it will say which engine it is.

 

If you want one that will last forever, get a VG 5-spd. If you want it to be fast without mods, get a VE-5spd. Avoid auto all together. Listen for exhaust manifold leaks and motor mounts that are broken..notorious on these cars. If it has over 70k on it, change the timing belt. Look for ruct in the rear inner wheelwells. I had it pretty bed, but it was an easy fix..grind, POR-15, and fiberglass. Watch tie rod ends and ball joints too. Axle boots, the usual wear items. Happy hunting!

 

VG 4 LYF

 

Look out for VE 5 speeds, if you find one, grab it.