I found this 04 Maxima, and it seems like a really good deal. He went down to 4k on the price as hes moving in a few days but the only thing about it is it wont pass smog. He said its because the Cat converter needs to be changed, and I thought I could buy it and change it out. Do you guys think its worth it? or is it just gonna be a car full of problems?

http://sfbay.craigslist.org/eby/cto/4595679546.html

 

I would have to say NO. Cats for the Maxima isnt cheap IMO.

 

Why is it so difficult for some people to create an informative, enticing ad for whatever they are trying to sell? No mention of mileage and a few crappy pictures.

I wouldn't buy that car unless I knew specifically why it wouldn't pass emissions. Is the CEL light on? What fault codes gave been set? Wouldn't surprise me if it has something to do with that "wicked exhaust". And mods mean the car was probably used hard.

That being said, if you KNOW what is wrong with it and the " as is" price is lower than the typical going price in your area by more than a large enough margin to cover the cost of repairs and the hassle of dealing with it, then it could be worth it. But it could be opening a can of worms, too. If it's a simple fix, kind of makes you wonder he hasn't taken care of it and then set the sale price higher.

 

he is not moving anywhere he is just trying to scam people

 

Wouldn't hurt to look at it. Take it for a drive, see how the transmission and suspension feels. Bring a buddy who might know more what to look for than you do. Looks like a decent ride. If that cat is the only thing thats bad with it, that's not too bad... Could be the 02 sensor bringing up the code that says inefficient cat. Blahh.. Just my 2 cents..

 

If you really like that maxima take it to your local Nissan dealer and have them do a full inspection (cost me $115 which is refundable if you get a repair done)That way you will know exactly what your getting into. personally I would stay away from that car unless you have someone who can do that job for you for the low...I paid $2000 at my local Nissan dealer for a new catalytic convertor with installation cause I planned on keeping car for a while and didn't want to see that check engine light anymore!

 

If the car only needs Catyl, you can get them online and installed total for about $1500.00.


I am at 250K miles, and on the 3rd Catyl....Actually not hard to replace if you have the right tools and a lift / ramp..

 

I'd be more worried about the transmission than anything else. Doesn't hurt to check it out but I would recommend a thorough inspection.

 

Don't risk it!

 

If you're interested enough, it's worth a test drive and lookover. Everyone's given you enough advise, take that with you and you'll see what you have in front of you. A car that old if it's high mileage could be a money pit regardless if it is this one or another...point being, if you get the right price, and can accommodate the repairs, maybe it's worth it to you.

 

Base on my experience I have right now, Cat Converter is very expensive, the Stealers wants $830 for a part, about $480 for labour, plus oxygen sensor. like someone mention it worth taking it for a drive. if there is an engine light you should get a code. my 2004 O2 felt on it owns. and I have no thread left on Cat converter its loud as hell and no power. very expensive it nice a ride. if someone have and idea please advice.

 

I would venture to guess craiglist and cars do not go together.