I have a 98 Maxima SE with 5 speed and 26K. The shifter is much less smooth in and out of gears than my older G20. Is there anything I can do to fix this?

 

Perhaps you could be a bit more specific as far as the problem you are experiencing. Is the shifter "sticking" from gear to gear or does it not go smoothly in any gear? Does it grind going into gear? This could make it easier to diagnose your problem.

 

There's really only one thing you can do to make shifting a little less notchy. Try using a different transmission oil. I've used Redline MT90 in the past, and am currently using Amsoil 75W90. (FYI 75W90 and 80W90 are the Nissan-recommended weights to use.) After the last tranny oil change last weekend (Amsoil), I was shocked at how much of a difference it made...much easier to shift now.

The shifter still kinda sucks on the Maxima 5spds, though. Make no mistake about it, it's never going to be as slick as a Miata or BMW, but better transmission oil WILL make some difference. Also, change it at LEAST every 30,000 miles. I think the factory recommends 30K, but I usually change by ~20K or so when the shifting starts becoming tougher.

 

Perhaps you are jumping to a hasty conclusion. A dragging clutch can cause "notchy" shifting. Perhaps that's what David Haygood was thinking about when he asked for more information.

Nissan says:
<font color='blue'>If towing a trailer, using a camper or a car-top carrier, or driving on rough or muddy roads, change (not just inspect) the transmission oil every 30K miles or 24 months. </font>

Aside from this Severe Service recommendation, there is no scheduled replacement interval.