I was out messing around the other day and ran into a guy that wants to sell his 98 SE Maxima Black on Black Leather. It's got all the options - BOSE, sunroof, and is even a 5spd. It's got like 90K on it, but is in pretty nice shape. I haven't driven it yet or looked at it real close, but it seems to be in pretty nice shape. Just wanted to know some 4th Gen owners thoughts, and what you think it would be worth. KBB on it in Good condition is like $7100, and fair is like $6300. Any major problems I should look out for that are common for 4th Gens?

Thanks for the input.

Jeremy

 

Honestly, I'd pick it up quick, unless it has issues like burning oil or leaking fluids. A 5 speed SE is hard to find. Have a mechanic look over it and look for the Check Engine Light.

There shouldn't be any issues with the 98 except for possibly a bad starter or alternator (but those would have been fixed already). Some members have had O2 sensors go out, but that's pretty much an issue with any car. That year was about the most worry free 4th gen year.

95-96s had problems with the 5-speed differential bearing shimmed wrong causing the bearings to wear prematurely, but that was thought to be fixed by 97.

 

That is sounds like a great car. Still got lots of life left if it was taken care of. What kind of guy is he? Friend, Joe Schmo, or a car guy. These things should infulence your decision buy if I were you I'd be leaning toward buying it. The only downside to having a 98 is that there is no ECU available. That probably won't be true for long. Do Pros/Cons and then buy. Then mod like hell.

 

Roll up in the dealership and get it checked for codes. For example knock sensor might not light up the CEL, but it only takes like $100 to replace yourself so it's not a big deal

Good deal though. I paid 7100 plus 1000 (for extanded warranty) for mine a month ago with 54,000 miles

BTW BLACK ON BLACK SE 5SPD is a rare find!!!

 

thats pretty much the same car i have- 98 se black leather, 5 speed, (mine is sterling mist). And I have loved it every minute since i bought it in july. Go for it, you won't regret it.

 

I have a 98 SE auto, leather and sunroof. Very nice car, even at 6 years old and even though I have one myself, I still have to look at a 4th gen Max when one passes by. The only problem I've had with it is the brakes, but it seems it is only an isolated problem. Other then that I love the car. Bought it in 2000 with 25,000 miles and now have 99,000 and still get 28+ mpg on the highway.

 

I have a black '98 SE auto and its still going strong. Had the alternator replaced under warranty. The only problem I had was a headlight bulb exploding a month after receiving the car. Has been problem free since (that is, if I don't factor in the SC!).