My review of 2002 Maxima SE + summaries
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Junior Member
Joined: Apr 2002
Posts: 21
My review of 2002 Maxima SE + summaries
Hi Guys,
I've been reading Maxima.org posts for quite a while now, and I thought it would be useful for anybody considering buying a 2002-2003 Maxima to read this review, even though it is a bit brief.
I'll start with cons. Due to the strategies of Nissan, which is to release a whole bunch of cars at low cost and high power, quality takes a hit. If you take a look at the Maxima and compare it to similar vehicles in its class (Toyota, VW, Acura, etc.) there are some low quality materials: take a look at the trunk sidewall, the middle compartment of the Maxima - there is some poor lining. These other companies try different strategies, going for quality, but less performance. Nissan is the other way. Also is the problem of wind noise - I've had the Wind Noise TSB done and there is still a flutter.
For reasons beyond me, there is a 40-ft turning radius. It is kind of annoying but i have gotten used to it; however, I still can't make effective U-turns.
Goodies! : Engine is superb. Solid handling feel (with RSB+FSTB.) Decently smooth ride. Lots of room for you and passengers all around. Nice design. People flame 2000+ maximas for being ugly but it stands out; not many cars have a similiar design. Looks bold but not bulky. OEM stereo system pretty good for OEM. A car that looks reasonable yet can be modded to your taste.
Must have mods:
RSB, FSTB.
Michelin Pilot Sport A/S 235/50/17 - These tires have allowed me to blast through rain at 80mph. I drive through BUffalo, NY alot, where there are torrential downpours. While people are in the ditch, i'm blasting on the highway.
Valentine One - Excellent Radar / Laser. Has saved me from numerous tickets.
Been going 20,000 miles on my Maxima SE and still going strong. Need to get the freaking lack of power TSB done though...more comments later!
I've been reading Maxima.org posts for quite a while now, and I thought it would be useful for anybody considering buying a 2002-2003 Maxima to read this review, even though it is a bit brief.
I'll start with cons. Due to the strategies of Nissan, which is to release a whole bunch of cars at low cost and high power, quality takes a hit. If you take a look at the Maxima and compare it to similar vehicles in its class (Toyota, VW, Acura, etc.) there are some low quality materials: take a look at the trunk sidewall, the middle compartment of the Maxima - there is some poor lining. These other companies try different strategies, going for quality, but less performance. Nissan is the other way. Also is the problem of wind noise - I've had the Wind Noise TSB done and there is still a flutter.
For reasons beyond me, there is a 40-ft turning radius. It is kind of annoying but i have gotten used to it; however, I still can't make effective U-turns.
Goodies! : Engine is superb. Solid handling feel (with RSB+FSTB.) Decently smooth ride. Lots of room for you and passengers all around. Nice design. People flame 2000+ maximas for being ugly but it stands out; not many cars have a similiar design. Looks bold but not bulky. OEM stereo system pretty good for OEM. A car that looks reasonable yet can be modded to your taste.
Must have mods:
RSB, FSTB.
Michelin Pilot Sport A/S 235/50/17 - These tires have allowed me to blast through rain at 80mph. I drive through BUffalo, NY alot, where there are torrential downpours. While people are in the ditch, i'm blasting on the highway.
Valentine One - Excellent Radar / Laser. Has saved me from numerous tickets.
Been going 20,000 miles on my Maxima SE and still going strong. Need to get the freaking lack of power TSB done though...more comments later!
Senior Member
Joined: Sep 2002
Posts: 964
Originally Posted by Skywalker636
I would agree with all but the Bose system IMO sucks!
Personally, I hate the turning radious on this car. No problems going straight though
Originally Posted by rumblehead
For reasons beyond me, there is a 40-ft turning radius. It is kind of annoying but i have gotten used to it; however, I still can't make effective U-turns.
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