wats good to the maxima fam. I have a couple of questions. 1. Where can i get a certified mechanic to help me check a car that i am intrested in and how much do they charge. Some might say getting a certified mechanic is a waist of money during this hard times? 2. When buying a used car especially a maxima 02 or 03, what are the key things to look for while checking the car out at the dealer. 3. Should i buy a warranty with the dealer or shop around else where? your suggestions will be emensely appreciated.

 

1. Did you read this stickied thread? http://forums.maxima.org/5th-generat...info-here.html

2. How can anyone possibly suggest a mechanic local to you when you don't have your location listed?

 

Check under hood, make sure there is an engine in there

 

make sure the car has ALLLLLLLL four tires

 

Listen i have been selling cars for the past 26 years. I check them in myself my advise is find yourself a independent mechanic who has been at his location awhile.
Let him inspect your car and let him know that you will also need someone to service it if you buy it. This way he will inspect your car and have you as a customer.
As for as Warrantys save your cash they look for reasons to turn claims down.
Our dealership gives each customer 6 months, 6,000 miles regardless of year or miles.

 

the 5.5 gen have a common problem with oil. I hear alot of people saying there 3.5 burns oil, just smell the dipstick and make sure theres no gas scent but if so its really not that big a deal(at least to me). Also another common problem is the driver door sags a tad, also not a biggie and in most 6 speeds 3rd gear "crunches" going into gear. but idk if its an auto or 6 speed. Other then that look out for a cel light and just make sure it drives like any other car you'd be looking into buying..
GL!

 

while I o think taking it to a mechanic for an inspection is a good idea, there are a few basic things you can do yourself.

1) Take it for a spin off of a cold start. Beat on it, give it lots of gas. This is a good way to tell if there are any obvious engine or transmission issues as they generally are more prevalent when cold and have a heavy work load.

2) Check the tires for tred. Seems very simple but maxs have expensive tires and thats something you don't want to put in right away

3) Fuel Economy. BAd fuel economy could be a sign of a bad sensor or owner neglect. A car that has not had a tuneup generally will have poor fuel economy. Take a look at what the MPG meter says on the car. Usually subtract 5 miles from that number and you have somewhat of an accurate reading.

4) Fluids. Check the transmission fluid and engine oil.

5) Catalytic converters. Catalytic converters are expensive and a pita to fix. Rev the engine while in neutral or park and see if you hear any rattleing noises. This could be a sign of a bad catalytic converter

Hope that helps - good luck