This weekend I am going to look at a 97 GXE, auto, moonroof, A/C w/75 K miles. What should I look out for for this model year Max?

TIA

 

I spent 8 months looking for my maxima. looked at probably 25 cars, maybe less or more. many had too many miles, many were suspiciously low-priced... until i found the winner.

got mine from a lady that owned it from 200 miles from the dealer as a lease car, paid off the lease and kept it to 49k. she barely ever left town and drove like a pansy, engine runs pristine and the drivetrain is flawless.

- '97 SE 5 speed (bought w/ 49k has 62k now)
- Super Black, some very minor scratches and a chip here or there
- Spotless interior (grey cloth)
- Moonroof

bought for $9,700

all in all i didn't answer any questions for you, because mine is a 5spd and yours is auto; but I felt like posting anyways

make sure the tranny feels strong and doesnt slip,
get on it as hard as you feel comfortable if the owner is in the car with you. if not, once you're out of hearing range give it a decent amound for the 1st to 2nd shift and see if it slips. dunno about anything else, I haven't had any problems with anything myself.

 

At 75K you shouldn't be looking at any maintenence other than normal oil changes etc...around 100 or 120K though, you can figure on changing axles, but that's only around $350~400. You should get a good couple of years out of it before you have to do anything major like that though.

$6,500 tops for a 98 GXE, $7,500 tops on a loaded up GLE or SE. Don't forget though, if it's a 5-speed you automaticaly knock off about $750. It doesn't matter whether you want a 5 speed or not, make sure to take that deduction, because when you get ready to sell it later, you'll have to sell it a lot cheaper than an auto.

Go to kbb.com and you'll get a fairly reliable quote on the vehicle your looking for.

 

If the car hasn't already, there was a recall of Alternators for the '97s. Also check for ECU codes/ghost codes, check the cv boots/axles. Also do the other things mentioned in this thread. Goodluck.

 

I think autos are a waste of money but thats just me (pls post no comments or responds to earlier statement). Got mine 500 miles away for $9100. One coil pack was dead so that was like another $500 with dyno. But as long as the engine light isnt on and runs smooth, shouldnt worry too much bout it.