rmdl51

iTrader: (4)

Hello Guys,

I'm planning to buy a used 6th gen, but before I do, I want to come here and ask you for your opinion, I'm tired to see bad reviews from people that ignore cars and they plan to last for 200k miles without an oil change. I hate to read complains from people that whine of parts being expensive for this cars but they do oil changes at the dealership. They complain transmission problems but they never change fluid.

This is why I know most of you understand this cars better than a common driver out there, I come from a 3rd gen and I really love Maximas, but I know there are a lot of problems with transmissions. I need your advice.

I'm currently looking at a Maxima 2005 SL with 90k miles, my question is what should I test and check before buying it. I know transmission is first, but I never drove a 6th gen before, not sure what could be considered normal behavior, I'm not a mechanic but I know basics, I will know if transmission slips. Not sure about the rest.

I appreciate advice regarding this. Thank you so much beforehand.

Costee

Well, you seem prepared to take any issues head-on. Yes, the transmission is the sore point of the 6th gen, but there are now known options to deal with it effectively. At 90k miles, your prospective car has either gone through it's transmission worries or closing in on them. Watch out.

po8pimp

Test drive it like a granny then like a stunt car driver. The transmission issue will feel like getting hit by a Semi while parked, when it shifts from 3rd to 2nd and 3rd to 4th. If you have a scanner don't be afraid to take it with and plug it in. I would also check the motor mounts. Ask about the recalls for the drivers seat and the "rear member" ???<-- can't remember what Nissan calls it. Check door handles are operational on all doors, and windows roll down and up without issue. These are known parts that fail. Check the boots for the axles. Power steering leaks; also a common issue. If it has a trans issue but still drives through all the gears, talk them down a lot. 4500 for a new trans to get put in. You can fix it for under 350 though :P Do what you can to find issues to drive the price down. Let them tell you the problems, and just add to it. It's dirty, but in the end it is your headache.