I just bought a used 2001 MAX GLE Black with 38k miles. Everything has been serviced except for changing the tranny fluid and new front break pads which both need to be done soon. This is my second maxima,(used to have a '95 GLE), and I really want to take excellent care of this car because it is in perfect condition. My question is, should I just take it to the Nissan dealership to have the fluid and the brakes done ($109 for the tranny fluid and $189 for the front brakes) or does a national place like CAR-X, where the prices are definitely lower, but I'm worried about quality work, good enough for these two services. It is sad to say but my car knowledge ends the minute I open the hood.

 

Congrats on the purchase!

$109.00 would be a little high if it was for a transmission fluid drain. That price would be reasonable if it was a transmission fluid flush. A drain only takes out the fluid in the pan and replaces what came out. A flush gets rid of all the fluid.

As for the front brakes, $189.00 is a bit high especially since you'd be getting OEM brake pads which typically don't perform as well as aftermarket pads. But wherever you take your car to do the brakes, make sure you remind them to be careful with any cleaners they might spray as it can damage the finish on your wheels.

For me, I do my own transmission fluid drains since its pretty easy to do, and I take my car to a friend of mine who is a mechanic to do brake work. For that, I always ask him what brand pads he can get, do some research, and then tell him what to use. Or I get the pads online somewhere and then have him put them on. Saves dough that way.