I am looking into a used maxima and was wondering what are its typical problems? Also I wanted to know what the difference between a Se and SE-L is?

Thanks,
Robert

 

i think this might be covered in the faq but i dunno.

SE-L's have some different trim options, but basically, they were just the last production 4th gens and that's what makes them so "limited". was probably just to sell more.

on 99's, ignition coils seem to be a problem. knock sensors are the other big thing people on here seem to have trouble with. just make sure you check the ecu for codes and make sure it's had all proper maintenance(sp?).

 

no major diff. b/w SE & SE-L other than a few cosmetic changes such as titanium-tinted gauges, titanium-tinted SE wheels, "SE Limited" badging, "SE Limited" floor mats, and optional perforated leather seats

'99s are known to have coils go bad

all 4th gens are prone to have a knock sensor go bad as well

'97 and '98 models have alternators that go bad, or in some cases can catch fire, there is a recall on this

other than that, make sure as Jepht20 said that the car has been well-maintained

 

would the service enginge soon light come on for a bad knock sensor?

 

no it won't.... the ECU won't pick it up. malfunctional knock sensor won't necessary trigger the ECU, the ECU itself will go into the safe ignition mapping, which will decrease gas mileage (messed up air/fuel ratio) and horrible performance. u can kinda tell just by driving it daily.

new knock sensor vs. old knock sensor is like heaven and hell difference.

 

ignition coils definitely are crappy on '99s. i have atleast 2 bad ones, just waiting on a CEL so I can fix them myself