I have done this
I have a 96' Maxima GXE and I changed out the front bumper and the front grill to the 97-99 year setup. I kept my year headlights since headlights are so expensive. Everything bolts right on without any problem except the brackets under the headlights. On our year Maxima, the brackets are at differnet locations. But this is no problem. All we did eas take small pieces of aluminum and metal shears and we made two new brackets and bolted them to the existing brackets. No problem. Everyone looks at my car from the front and they think it is a 97-99 but my rear taillights give me away. Post back if you need more info.
Erik
Southeast Maxima Group
Erik
Southeast Maxima Group
Also
On our Maximas, there is an air dam in the lower half of the bumper. If you look at your car from the front, up close, on the drivers side you will see and air dam. When I put the new bumper and grill on, this air dam looked funny....also the 97-99 year Maximas do not have this air dam. And since I have a CAI and do not the air in my engine bay, I ripped the sucker right out. It is just held in by those tiny little little rivets that can be broken by a 3 year old. Anyways, its all good.
Erik
Southeast Maxima Group
Erik
Southeast Maxima Group
Senior Member
I was gonna do the coverstion but felt it wasnt forth the money and hassle to make it fit. The actual bumper itself is primed and ready to paint costs around $150. The mounting hardware is what is gonna cost you. The best price i have seen for the bumper and parts is at http://www.autodirectsave.com or you can call them at 215-426-1117
and ask for Rich. He hooked me up with 99 corner lenses for only $30 a pop brand new to match my 97 headlights.
and ask for Rich. He hooked me up with 99 corner lenses for only $30 a pop brand new to match my 97 headlights.
Senior Member
my buddy did this and he said you need a few other pieces from nissan in order to get the new bumper to stay on.. not a direct swap... you can go with an aftermarket bumper(looks the same) for less