5th Generation Maxima (2000-2003) Learn more about the 5th Generation Maxima, including the VQ30DE-K and VQ35DE engines.

4th Gen Owner Considering a 5th Gen

Thread Tools
 
Search this Thread
 
Old Dec 8, 2003 | 12:23 PM
  #1  
thisasian's Avatar
Thread Starter
Senior Member
iTrader: (5)
 
Joined: Jun 2002
Posts: 614
4th Gen Owner Considering a 5th Gen

I'm sure you guys get this alot, but what are the differences in the model years? Aesthetically, and internally. I know a little about the 5th gen, like the 2k only had 222hp, and I think got bumped up to 255hp in 2k2. Was that b/c of new engine, 3.5L? Aesthetically, I've seen 5th Gens with different grilles and headlights.
What are common problems you've seen in the 5th gen? In my 4th gen I've replaced: A/C, PSP, knock and O2 sensors, which all seem to be common with my car.
Thanks,
-t.a.
Old Dec 8, 2003 | 12:26 PM
  #2  
KLOOGY's Avatar
L33t BMW Drivah
iTrader: (12)
 
Joined: Mar 2002
Posts: 9,421
From: Murrieta, Ca
2k2-3 has 3.5 liter motor, HIDS, auto tranny is better , and 6 speed is available if you want a manual tranny. Front rotors are bigger, Navigation was available . Front bumper and grille are slightly different. We also get tailights....I think thats it ....

I personally like 4th gens a lot. Ive seen some local org friends of mine that have some sweet ones !

Most common problem.....BLOWN MAF ! , intake or not !
Old Dec 8, 2003 | 12:41 PM
  #3  
Loe max's Avatar
Senior Member
iTrader: (6)
 
Joined: Dec 2000
Posts: 4,269
From: sarasota FL
I don't think anyone has proof of a "better" auto transmission in 2k-2k1 Vs. 2k2-2k3. The VB is the same, and they appear the same externally. You can really go wrong with either year.

2k's mainly have ignition coil problems
2k1's seem to be slightly more problem free
2k2-2k3's mainly have blown MAF

All model years have warped rotors as well as faulty 2-3 shift solenoids. Recalls are mainly centered on VQ35DE models. If you have the money, I'd go with either a 2k1 SE AE 5speed or a 2k3 SE in either transmission. Out of those two, I like the 2k3 alittle better because the interior doesn't have a two-tone scheme (blonde or frost interior) and the window/door lock switches look more modern vs. other years.

Squeaks and rattles are across the board. A-pillars, center HVAC/audio stack, center console, pass-side dash rattle, Bose (If so equipped) woofer rattle. Those are the most common ones. All are ez d-i-y jobs.

I bought my 2k GLE back in 4/00 and it was built 12/99. The only real problem I had was rattles which I took care of. It was reliable as the sun until she wa totaled at 86,XXX miles
Old Dec 8, 2003 | 12:45 PM
  #4  
KLOOGY's Avatar
L33t BMW Drivah
iTrader: (12)
 
Joined: Mar 2002
Posts: 9,421
From: Murrieta, Ca
Originally Posted by ScreamingVQ
I don't think anyone has proof of a "better" auto transmission in 2k-2k1 Vs. 2k2-2k3. The VB is the same, and they appear the same externally. You can really go wrong with either year.

2k's mainly have ignition coil problems
2k1's seem to be slightly more problem free
2k2-2k3's mainly have blown MAF

All model years have warped rotors as well as faulty 2-3 shift solenoids. Recalls are mainly centered on VQ35DE models. If you have the money, I'd go with either a 2k1 SE AE 5speed or a 2k3 SE in either transmission. Out of those two, I like the 2k3 alittle better because the interior doesn't have a two-tone scheme (blonde or frost interior) and the window/door lock switches look more modern vs. other years.

Squeaks and rattles are across the board. A-pillars, center HVAC/audio stack, center console, pass-side dash rattle, Bose (If so equipped) woofer rattle. Those are the most common ones. All are ez d-i-y jobs.

I bought my 2k GLE back in 4/00 and it was built 12/99. The only real problem I had was rattles which I took care of. It was reliable as the sun until she wa totaled at 86,XXX miles
I tried to buy a modded VB from a 2k auto, and I was told it wouldnt fit because our trannies are slightly different. I also confirmed this with Nissan.....Am I wrong ?
Old Dec 8, 2003 | 12:46 PM
  #5  
F23A4's Avatar
Senior Member
 
Joined: Aug 2001
Posts: 2,720
off the bat:

Best powertrain setup: 2k2/3 SE 6sp
Best looking package: 2k1 AE (227hp)
NAVI: 2k2/3 SE or GLE

Mentionable 2k2/3 Problems: MAF sensor and HID theft (in Northeast US).
Old Dec 8, 2003 | 12:54 PM
  #6  
KLOOGY's Avatar
L33t BMW Drivah
iTrader: (12)
 
Joined: Mar 2002
Posts: 9,421
From: Murrieta, Ca
Originally Posted by F23A4
off the bat:


Best looking package: 2k1 AE (227hp)

......
Old Dec 8, 2003 | 01:11 PM
  #7  
IgS's Avatar
IgS
Senior Member
iTrader: (3)
 
Joined: Dec 2002
Posts: 619
Originally Posted by F23A4
off the bat:

Best powertrain setup: 2k2/3 SE 6sp
Best looking package: 2k1 AE (227hp)
NAVI: 2k2/3 SE or GLE

Mentionable 2k2/3 Problems: MAF sensor and HID theft (in Northeast US).
nah, i actually like the 2k2/3 appearance better....the headlights and the new bumper make the car look really aggressive, plus i like the 2k2 SE rims way better then the 2k1's and about the body kit, they are coming out with the new front lip for the 2k2's so i think a 2k2 has more potential as well as power over a 2k1

juts my $0.02

-IgS
Old Dec 8, 2003 | 01:13 PM
  #8  
Loe max's Avatar
Senior Member
iTrader: (6)
 
Joined: Dec 2000
Posts: 4,269
From: sarasota FL
I guess I've been living in a dark underground cave kloogy
Old Dec 8, 2003 | 02:38 PM
  #9  
MONTE 01&97 SE's Avatar
Senior Member
iTrader: (1)
 
Joined: Mar 2001
Posts: 3,750
From: Manhattan Beach, Ca / Dallas, Tx
02/03's also have the Side Sills which also help it look more agressive than the 00/01's to go along with the other things.
Old Dec 8, 2003 | 03:03 PM
  #10  
joebangaa's Avatar
Supporting Maxima.org Member
iTrader: (3)
 
Joined: Apr 2003
Posts: 2,586
From: the OC & Silicon Valley
yes yes, it's just a given the 02-03's shat on any max, and yes i do include the 6th gen
Old Dec 12, 2003 | 10:36 AM
  #11  
thisasian's Avatar
Thread Starter
Senior Member
iTrader: (5)
 
Joined: Jun 2002
Posts: 614
Originally Posted by ScreamingVQ

2k's mainly have ignition coil problems
2k1's seem to be slightly more problem free
2k2-2k3's mainly have blown MAF

All model years have warped rotors as well as faulty 2-3 shift solenoids. Recalls are mainly centered on VQ35DE models.
I'm hoping this is all stuff I can get done at the stealership for "free", because of Nissan recalls.

Originally Posted by ScreamingVQ

Squeaks and rattles are across the board. A-pillars, center HVAC/audio stack, center console, pass-side dash rattle, Bose (If so equipped) woofer rattle. Those are the most common ones. All are ez d-i-y jobs.
I'm assuming this is all just stuff I can look up on the org, and thru the forums.

Thanks for the input guys.
Old Dec 12, 2003 | 11:13 AM
  #12  
Loe max's Avatar
Senior Member
iTrader: (6)
 
Joined: Dec 2000
Posts: 4,269
From: sarasota FL
Yes, those sticky's up above can help you with TSB's and the search function can help you with write-ups on personal experiences with the rattles.

Recalls are free i believe.
Related Topics
Thread
Thread Starter
Forum
Replies
Last Post
MAXSE5SPD
General Maxima Discussion
33
Sep 17, 2022 04:00 AM
crazyespn
New Member Introductions
0
Sep 3, 2015 01:30 PM
Lowered_a33
5th Generation Maxima (2000-2003)
0
Sep 1, 2015 07:49 PM




All times are GMT -7. The time now is 05:52 PM.