hey guys...i'm definitely the newbie around here and let me tell you why. i haven't even bought my max yet! however, after taking the time the past month to read as much on the site as i possibly can and learning about the max, i think it's safe to say that i'm a maxima enthusiast with a lot more learning to do.
i'm looking forward to purchasing my 2001 gray lustre/sterling mist (undecided) max se in the next 3-6 months and i would like to put some mods on it to start like the h&r/tokico combo, courtesy fstb, clearing the sides, and changing the bulbs. being the person that i am, i like to do some research ahead of time so for all you socal people out there, can you recommend any shops that will be able to install the springs/shocks well and charge a reasonable fee(i plan to do the rest myself)? Also, it'll be great if you can share any tips on dealing with shop people so that i don't get gipped and anything you think a future max owner would find useful. thanks...glad to be onboard.

 

Where in So Cal are you? Do you know which dealer you are going to buy from?

 

there are like performance and tuning shops like every other mile down here, depends on what u want, some places specialize in rims, performance, tints, but i know a place where my friend works that does pretty good work and has low prices.

 

I'm up here in the San Gabriel valley where there are a couple of dealers to choose from. However, I'm actually thinking about purchasing the max online through a broker like CarsDirect or eNissan. They've been quoting under invoice or close to invoice prices and they include the factory-dealer incentive in their prices. Save the haggling too. Got any thoughts?

 

yeah, i've noticed the shops everywhere which only makes it harder to choose because of that "dime-a-dozen" feeling. let me know more about where your friend works.

 

Give Frank Bachman a call at Performance Nissan. He's the VP/General Manager there. His number is 626-305-3000.

I bought two 2K Maximas from him last year. I paid sticker, but it was worth it. Their service department is top notch! They don't know much more than any other service deparment, but every time I've walked in with a TSB, they've never given me any hassle. I always get a free loaner and they treat me right. And if you want to know how important a good service department is, just ask a few of the guys on this forum.

As far as a good shop is concerned, I've been doing business with Arcadia Service Center for years. Besides Nissan, they're the only ones I'll let touch my Max. Call 626-294-0072 and ask for Sammy. Tell him Bruce sent you.

If you want Exhaust work done, go to Mike's Mufflers in El Monte. Their phone number is 626-443-5139.

[Edited by y2kse on 02-23-2001 at 08:20 PM]

 

thanks y2kse. appreciate the info, it'll give me a good start.

 

I'm also in the San Gabriel Valley. I just got my Cattman y-pipe and am thinking about having someone else install it. I'll give Mike's Muffler a call. Thanks, y2kse!

 

Let me know if Mike decides to install it. Most licensed muffler shops won't because it's ILLEGAL TO REMOVE SMOG EQUIPMENT!

 

I bought my car from Performance Nissan also. They were great! I dealt with the Fleet Manager and Frank Bachman (GM). I have not taken the car back for service. Ive only had the the first oil change done to the car. I went to Universal Nissan for that. Universal Nissan is alot closer to my house and my office. For aftermarket stuff, I have gone to Stillen in Costa Mesa. They are a bit pricey, but they get the job done right the first time!

 

I called Mike's today and the guy I talked to said they CANNOT install a y-pipe that is not smog legal. I guess I'll do it myself. After I've bruised all my knuckles, I'll keep repeating this phrase, " Half the fun is doing it yourself."

 

No surprise there, PKO. On the other hand, there ARE muffler shops in the local area that are not so scrupulous. Don't call them, just drop by a few and tell them what you want to have done.

Good luck!