Hi all. First post (O: Shopping for a new ride with limited funds (9k max)... I've seen some very clean 97's-99's with 50k to 75k miles and newer 00's and 01's with 90k plus miles, near perfect bodies and interior. I don't keep cars for very long (2-3 years) and I generally steer clear of cars at the 100k mark for resale reasons. I like the extra ponies in the newer cars but other than that I'm pretty indifferent to everything else (body, interior)... So should I really even be concerned with a high mileage car? Are these good stong motors that go for a long time as long as they are well maintained? Any advice on what to look for mechanically on these particular models?

Thanks

Mark Robert

 

These engines (VQ30DE) are known to be very durable (over 200k miles). So the high mileage shouldn't be a problem.

 

I have a bias for the 4th Generation (95 - 99s) over the 5th Generation (00 - 01). I would opt for the low mileage 4th Generation in either a 1997 or 1998. If you want to improve the performance then install an aftermarket Y-pipe. I went with the Budget Y-pipe. This addition, combined with say a K&N panel filter, would make the high-end performance of the 4th Generation comparable to the 2000 or 2001 Maxima.

I don't know how much you drive and if you plan on keeping the Maxima for a daily driver, but a low mileage 1997 or 1998 Maxima would provide you with years of trouble-free driving.

My 1995 is extremely low mileage, under 57,000 miles. I have owned it since new and the only problem I have ever had is an O2 sensor required replacement about 6 years ago under warranty. Other than that: a new battery and a flat tire and that is it. I have seen postings of 4th Gen Maximas on this site that are running strong at well over 200,000 miles. The key is to maintain them and they should last over 300,000 miles.

So I would look for a low mileage, clean 1997 or 1998 Maxima with a full maintenance history. I would then get it inspected and ensure it hasn't been in an accident or come from a chop shop.

Just my Cdn 2 cent opinion, which isn't worth very much, lol!

 

i agree, my car has got 152k on it, and i just beat a motorcycle in 3 out of 5 races yesterday... its got plenty of power in its old age.

 

really? what motorcycle did you beat

 

Base the decision on which car you like more. Mileage isn't really an issue on these cars. If you plan on modding the 4th gens have the better aftermarket cause they've been around longer.

 

ok first of all the guy's 41 years old so the chances of him wanting to mod his max are beyond me, the 95-99s are great cars, so are the 00-01 if you decide on a 95-99 you should know that the 98s have coil pack problems, thats out of all the only real maintainance problem our maximas have, i've got 174k and never had any serious problems (cv boots/axles, couple sensors nothing major)
so i really reccomend our cars their somewhat quick, reliable, and the motor could probably take a bullet or two...hope this helps with ur decision

 

I believe the 99s are more prone to coil pack problems. They were made by a different company no?

 

Thanks for all the input...You're right about mods only to the point of body work. The car will be lowered and the wheels changed out. Perhaps a pulley, intake and exhaust. That'll most likely be the extent of engine mods. I'm leaning toward a trip to Stillen for shocks, springs, tower braces and sway bars. I live near Angeles Crest and want my car to handle well but still be "comfy" so the drop will only be minimal.....

 

Truth is you don't know whether the engine has been taken care of regularly so it's hit or miss. The best thing to do, as with buying any used car, is to get as low of a mileage as possible. Even that isn't 100% safe.