this car scares me!!!

 

To be quite honest, my Nissan Quest has had less trouble than my G35

There is truly nothing to disagree about on both of our opinions, because they are just that, opinions. As long as you or I are happy with our decisions, that's all that really matters.

 

((ORG master script calls for Nissan/Infiniti group hug downstage right at this point))

 

Ive used premium since day 1...now, when regular is $4.25 and 91 is $4.45, the 20 cent difference is only 4.7% more, but back when gas was 2.25 and premium was 2.45 it was an 8.8% difference.Since the gap here is always a dime more every grade you go up, the higher gas goes, the less it matters.

 

04BlackMaxx - You may have meant this post for another thread, but since it is here, I will say that, although agreeing with your math, the difference in price between regular and premium reached 48 cents per gallon around where I live in late June. It has since narrowed somewhat. I would also mention that I have used regular in my 6th gen for over a year and a half without being able to detect any difference in performance with my driving style (moderately aggressive), and of course ZERO difference in MPG, as MPG is not related to octane.

But I will never fault those who choose premium for their baby. It may keep the engine a tad cleaner, and could make a difference in extreme accelleration situations. I will probably use premium the first year once I get my '09, then switch to midgrade and use that a year or two before trying regular. Regular has worked fine in all my Maximas during the last 24 years, but I always start them off with a year of premium, then begin the drop.

 

you obviously have no idea what the octane rating means or why its important.

also, why have you been driving maximas for 25 years?

 

Torgus - I welcome your opinion. I think my results with the octane choices I have made over the last 59 years of driving have worked very well for my cars, my wallet and myself, and that is what is important. If you think octane changes the MPG of a properly tuned car that can run well on regular gas, then continue that thought. It isn't correct, but then it won't kill you. As they say, no harm, no foul.

I have driven Maximas for the last 25 years because I found they had the overall package that best fit my family situation and my lifestyle, and I have had very good dealer experiences. Maximas also have a good reliability record, and I like the way they look. If you find other cars more attractive, you might be happier on their boards.

 

With rising gas prices, I have been thinking of switching to 87 octane and I am not worried about losing 10 or 20 hp because I never even use 200 hp out of the 255 I have. However, I wonder whether the engine will remain as efficient and problem-free in the long run, say after 10 yrs of continuous 87 octane use.

 

bb700092 - I seem to recall a time (1950s or 1960s?) when regular gas did not have cleaning agents, while higher grades did. If I'm not mistaken, all grades have cleaning agents these days.

If your car adjusts to regular with no prolonged pinging early on, and no pinging after the first tankful, experts in engine technology say that, unless you are running time trials or other endeavors that require every last HP you can garner, using a higher octane is throwing money out the tailpipe.

Other technologists have for many decades continued to run extended lab tests which show the engine gets the same MPG on all normal octanes of gasoline. Exact MPG cannot be measured on the highway. About three or four years ago, I listed here on the ORG 46 factors that cannot be controlled in trying to measure exact MPG via road testing.

But, like UFO stories and fishing tales, there will always be a group of non-scientific types that swear their car gets better MPG on premium. Don't bother to argue with them; they have no interest in controlled lab tests, and have no understanding how those uncontrollable variables invalidate the exactness of road MPG measurements.

I put 206,000 miles on one of my '85 Maximas (I had two), and the last 160,000 or so miles were using regular gas. The engine ran very smoothly and used no oil when I finally gave it up. I still see it around town sometimes, and it is still a beautiful car.

I have continued to drop one level octane every year or two on each of my Maximas, ending up with regular, and never had even a hint of any engine problem.

Having said all that,

My experiences do not make a valid scientific statement of any kind. Those are simply my results, nothing more.

If a Maxima has any type of mods on the engine, or in the fuel system or non-OEM adjustments to the computer that controls the engine, all bets are off. Better stay with whatever the modded system is expecting.

If the engine shows a discernable dropoff in performance with lower octane, I would go back to a higher octane.

If any pinging is detected after the first tank of regular, I would go back to a higher octane.

If you are an aggressive or very spirited driver, You might feel more comfortable with a higher octane.

I only switched to regular 18 months ago in my '04, which tells us nothing as far as long-term results for the '04.

I do not know if the '09 Maxima will be as adaptable to regular as previous Maximas have been. I understand the compression has been nudged up slightly in the '09, but that does not necessarily mean it will not run fine in normal driving on regular. I don't plan on trying regular in my '09 until I find out more about the '09 engine/fuel setup, and until others on the ORG report using regular for some time with no problems. That might take a year or two.



Edit - If you are running elapsed time tests, stick with premium. But I have run extended periods, over 50 straight miles in one instance on a desolate highway in southwest Texas, at speeds between 105 and 110 MPH, and over 120 MPH for a shorter stretch on a deserted section of Montana State Highway 200 ON 87 OCTANE, and the only thing slowing me down was a slight fluttering of the hood. The engine had more power left, had I needed it.

 

Hey guys,

Just bought the SV w/ premium and tech and I love it. They're throwing in a free spoiler and now I'm not so sure I want it. Does the spoiler decrease the MPG b/c it increases drag? And is there a way to remove it so that it doesn't leave a mark?

Thanks in advance.

 

The spoiler, if properly designed, should actually increase mpg b/c it decreases the aerodynamic drag. But that is so negligible that no one gets a spoiler for increasing mpg. A spoiler is entirely for looks. If you like it, get it. If you don't like it, try to negotiate the price.

 

Oasis, that is pretty much exactly what Im looking to pick up. I wasnt thinking about the Prem until recently. I would like the bigger wheels but i have a couple sets of 20's that i used to run my Infiniti that would look real sharp. If you dont mind, how much did you have to fork over?

 

I ordered mine last Friday, 8/1/08, Winter Frost, Prem/Nav, splash, mats and organizer. Looks like the first week of September for delivery. The dealer has said he will get a vin # when they start production. I have heard on this forum somewhere that someone tracked their vehicle all the way to the dealer. Does anyone know how to do that. I will be counting days to get my new beauty!

 

forr all the future posters can we not make this a mpg v.s oactane thread. we got plenty of em.

 

4themax - I posted here somewhere that I had done that. I had always been able to track trucks my wife's ordered special built, but those were coming long distances by rail, and I had access to inquire on any rail shipment nationwide. When my wife and I replaced our computers, we did not download the railroad inquiry system we had used for years (we are both now retired, and no longer have rail company access).

I'm not sure that system would have helped, because the location of Smyrna in the middle of the eastern half of the country enables Nissan to ship a significant percentage of their Smyrna vehicles by truck (Maximas came ashore in Jacksonville and were shipped mostly by rail until the '04 model).

When you think it may be time for your car to be built, you can go to nissanusa and check the inventory of your dealer each day. When the Maxima with your VIN number appears, the car should arrive at your dealer within two or three days.

 

Light, Thanks for the help. The dealer here in Greenville has told me he will give me the VIN as soon as he gets it. I will start checking everyday after I get it! If it were up to me I would go to Smyrna and get it myself. I guess there really wouldn't be much to "track" anyway, It probably won't even make a stop between TN and SC! I sold my 02 Max much quicker than I thought I would and now am driving my husbands Yukon.... It's a really nice truck but after driving it for a month I will really appreciate my new Max! Thanks again for this help and all of the great info you post.

 

4themax - I have seen two '09s equipped exactly as you have ordered sitting on dealer lots here in the Atlanta area (one at Nissan South - Union City, one at Nissan South - Morrow). Since the Winter Frost Premium is what I will be buying, I have tried twice to take my wife to see what that setup looks like, but the Winter Frost Premiums were each sold before I could get my wife to the lot next day.

You are correct that your car will make a quick trip from Smyrna. Once you have it, we will expect you to post your driving experiences here on the ORG. A good first test might be to take the Paris Mountain-Altimont Road across the mountain to Traveler's Rest. If that works, then you will be ready for the Saluda Grade (old US Hwy 176 from Tryon up the North Pacolet River valley via Melrose to Saluda). It will be interesting to see how this '09 takes to very steep hills and very sharp curves.

I know you are on pins and needles! It won't be much longer.

 

You are correct that your car will make a quick trip from Smyrna. Once you have it, we will expect you to post your driving experiences here on the ORG. A good first test might be to take the Paris Mountain-Altimont Road across the mountain to Traveler's Rest. If that works, then you will be ready for the Saluda Grade (old US Hwy 176 from Tryon up the North Pacolet River valley via Melrose to Saluda). It will be interesting to see how this '09 takes to very steep hills and very sharp curves.

I know you are on pins and needles! It won't be much longer.[/quote]

I will be posting when I get my new Max. My folks live in Bristol, VA so I will taking the car "home" as soon as I get it. We drive up 25 through Hendersonville and hit 26 which goes through Asheville and "Sams Gap". I can't wait to see how "she" does! We will be trying out the routes you suggested as well

 

[/QUOTE] 4themax. My folks live in Bristol, VA so I will taking the car "home" as soon as I get it. We drive up 25 through Hendersonville and hit 26 which goes through Asheville and "Sams Gap". I can't wait to see how "she" does! We will be trying out the routes you suggested as well [/QUOTE]


As you go home, you will pass exits for Waynesville, Marion, Barnardsville, Hot Springs, Spruce Pine, Erwin, Elizabethton, etc, etc; I have lived in all of those places. I was born in Erwin during the depression, my Mom worked in the Bemberg textile plant in Elizabethton beginning when she was age 14, and my first move (late 1934) was from Erwin to a little suburb of Bristol called 'Flenore Park', long lost in the passage of time. Oh, the memories . . .

This trip will give you a wonderful chance to check out the '09 at speed on some very challenging roads. I'm not sure anyone here has had a chance to test this redesigned CVT on really steep grades at speeds over 70 MPH. I will love to hear about your trip.

 

really enjoyed my test drive earlier this...top of the line model is nice all around

 

finally test drove one today. Exterior looks very nice in person. I was disappointed by the interior though. I like my '08 interior much better. Couldn't stand the patterned cheap plastic material around the radio/controls and cup holders. And since I would probably never use the paddle shifters... they kind of annoyed me. It did drive nice though. Didn't seem to pick up much faster than my '08 does... but the engine sounded stronger.

 

personally
for the price i would take a new g35 or g37 over a new maxima

i have been in all 3 and i must say, the infinitis take the maxima

although im not saying the new max is bad, but for the price, g35 is the way to go

 

Did you hit your knee on the bottom of the '09 steering column? Each of the 3 times I sat in one, mine hit.

 

Originally Posted by lightonthehill This trip will give you a wonderful chance to check out the '09 at speed on some very challenging roads. I'm not sure anyone here has had a chance to test this redesigned CVT on really steep grades at speeds over 70 MPH. I will love to hear about your trip.[/quote]


Light, I know the exits you are talking about in the area on the other side of Asheville. Lots of memories for me too, love the mountains and have loved driving my other Maximas to and from visits with my folks for years. All 4 lane now, but still lots of curves and steepness about the drive!

I will have my "co-pilot" (husband) recording my data as I drive and will let you know of RPM's at different speeds, etc. I too will be anxious to see how the acceleration is going up the mountain. I probably won't drive much faster than 75. I'm checking the dealer site every day to see when mine shows up, maybe next week!

 

Good afternoon....

Well I finally did it.... I took the G35 instead; I did test drive the 09 Max once more before making my final decision...I have to say the G35 seem to ride smoother and handle much better..... the car is sweet, and I love all the options it has.... I was driving 3days after my purchase and along came a 09 Max (Silver) up next to me; it was sweet, but I now like what I got especially with the offer I got, which was the driving factor....

At least I still have alot of Nissan cars within the family; Wife = Muranao, mom=Quest, Sister=Altima

Soundmike, Lightonthehill...thanks for your constant feedback...really appreciate it....

 

42k for a maxima?!?!? there are so many better cars in that price range it's not funny.

and as for the octane debate, as i understand it; during the winter you'll probably never ping on 87, during a 110 degree day you have a decent chance of pinging on 87 if you car calls for 91. when you ping your engine retards the timing like a **** and you get crap mpg/acceleration. i don't drive my maxima in the winter thus i use 93 all the time which i only purchase from tier one gas stations. if i'm pissing money out my gaspipe i may be but i have my timing advanced and other modifications...when i go FI next spring, *fingers crossed* 93 will be all i can use as i'll tune on it and 93 is redily availible around my area...

for 43k i'd would buy: 535 twin turbo awd used 1 year old. 1/4 in 13.4...

5 series > any maxima

 

Congrats Eddie! Post pics when you get time.

 

Congrats on your new ride, It was a win/win situation with either the Max or G. Enjoy every mile!!!

 

Congratulations Eddie. You couldn't go wrong with either of these cars. The deals are good on the old ('08) G35 right now.


Torgus - Only an Arab oil sheik would be paying $42K for a Maxima. Folks right here on the ORG have been driving new '09s with Sport or Premium packages off the lot for $5K to $8K less than $42K. Just some friendly advice: NEVER pay the 'Appearance' or 'Market Adjustment' fees, and NEVER pay MSRP. Until your dealer is ready to drop those two fees and go $2K or more below MSRP, he isn't really ready to deal, and you should either head for another Nissan dealer or wait until the 'intro' excitement on the '09 Maxima has subsided and reality returns.

 

I agree!!! I went to a dealer this past monday and test drove a Navy Blue SV sport (3rd time!!!) and he was willing to drop the appearance cost and do his best to get me in the car so I won't go back to CarMax! I more than likely will get it from them, since I bought my '01 Max from them several years ago and was treated very well.

 

I bought a black 09 Max Premium and I let them sell me a demo car w/ 200 miles b/c they threw in a free spoiler. Before I took it home, I noticed the car and the steering wheel would vibrate noticably on the highway at 60 mph. They fixed that and I took it home and now I'm noticing it vibrates on the highway at 70+ mph, not terribly though, but enough to feel my seat shake. Should I just insist on giving it back for a brand new one?

 

Oasis340 - I haven't seen anyone else here with an '09 have this problem, so I would bet it is a tire/wheel balance/alignment situation. Take the car back and tell the dealer you either want the vibration fixed or a car that doesn't vibrate. If they know what they are doing, they should be able to fix this fairly quickly. I'll bet they make this beautiful car ride smoothly. Keep us informed.

 

Light- you're correct. It was a tire balance alignment issue when they fixed it the first time, but it's still giving me issues at higher speeds. I'll take it in today and see what they say.

 

I test drove the 09 Maxima last night, and wanted to post my thoughts.

First off, it looks amazing in person...everyone else has said that the pictures don't do it justice, and they're right. Yes, it looks a *little* like the new Camry (not a bad thing), but there is something about the stance that says it's more than that. The car I'm looking at is a Blue SV Sport, although they also had a Black SV Sport and Gray SV Premium. The blue color looks great, and brings out some of the details better than the black. Interior is a heck of a lot better than my 97 SE. I've been in the new Camry, GS, Accord and a few other cars, and the Maxima interior is near the top of the list. Ridiculous amounts of legroom, especially in the front passenger side. Large trunk, nice leather, decent sound system.

I'm coming from a 5sp 4th gen, and there is no comparison in power. I've always said that I will drive manual transmissions until I die, but the CVT far exceeded my expectations. Someone else mentioned a slow response in the tranny, but I thought the opposite - punching the accelerator provides instant response. Very little torque converter lag as compared to other regular automatic transmissions that I've driven. The car feels VERY solid in corners. The turning radius improvements are pretty evident. The paddle shifters are fun, and provide quick but smooth shifts...not sure how often I will use them.

After driving the Maxima, we jumped in the 3.5 Altima (that was actually the car we went there to look at). That was certainly the wrong order to drive the vehicles in. The Altima feels very similar to my 97 Maxima, as far as handling, interior space feel, weight, etc. It's clearly more powerful than my car, but there is just something that doesn't compare to the 09 Maxima. It's hard to put into words, but the Maxima is just more enjoyable to drive. The Altima may have given a little better road feedback, particularly around corners, but that doesn't mean it didn't "feel" better in corners. The Maxima actually felt more in control around the corners, and if I do buy it, I'm going to need to be careful not to exceed what the car can actually do It inspires confidence better than the Altima.

The MSRP of the 09 SV Sport that I looked at was $35,485 (had floor mats, etc). If I build a 3.5 Altima SE to the same level, the MSRP comes out to $31,660. I can't see any reason not to spend the extra $3,825 for the Maxima, except for those that want the manual transmission. They make the Maxima Sport and Premium packages so enticing...

The dealer is willing to drop the price to $34,000 and give me $3,000 for my 97 with 180,000 miles on it, a cracked windshield, expired inspection, and more than a few exterior "blemishes". I *think* this is a decent deal...not quite as good as we can probably get near Christmas, but it's tempting. What do you think?

 

id hit that till the cows come home.

 

drakutis, if you happen to go back to that dealer again can you please take pics of the navy blue maxima (preferable the premium version, but sport is better than nothing) and post them. I still have yet to see any day shots of that color. Thanks

 

****** You are in agreement with almost everybody on this point. *****



[QUOTE= Neptune97. . . I've always said that I will drive manual transmissions until I die, but the CVT far exceeded my expectations. Someone else mentioned a slow response in the tranny, but I thought the opposite - punching the accelerator provides instant response. Very little torque converter lag as compared to other regular automatic transmissions that I've driven . . . [/Quote]

****** Warms the cockles of my heart to see a driver with an open, flexible and receptive mind report on the redesigned CVT. ******



[QUOTE=Neptune97. . . The dealer is willing to drop the price to $34,000 and give me $3,000 for my 97 with 180,000 miles on it, a cracked windshield, expired inspection, and more than a few exterior "blemishes". I *think* this is a decent deal...not quite as good as we can probably get near Christmas, but it's tempting. What do you think?[/QUOTE]

****** I can only wish my dealer was ready to negotiate like this. Sadly, as wonderful as my dealership is in every other way, they are nowhere near ready to deal like this. ******


Very good and informative report, Neptune97.

 

Just so happens I took two shots!! How do I post them? I took one that I carry in my cell phone, the others were with my digital cam.

 

thats a great deal, the 3k for the trade in is excellent

 

I took my new black SV (aka the Batmobile) on a long 400 mile trip to the hamptons and back to stretch her legs. Here are my impressions:

- The acceleration is phenomenal. I brought her to 90+ from 60 many times in a few seconds smoothly and quickly. I revved the engine above 4,000 rpms despite what the manual said after I was told by a very experienced Nissan technician that it's good for the car to go above 4,000 at least once a week to clear out the carbon.

- Cabin is both luxurious and state of the art. The air conditioned seat felt like a godsend to my sweaty back and butt after a hot walk to my car. Bose stereo is amazing- music is 10x more enjoyable than when played on inferior systems. GPS is very intuitive/easy to use and blows away my portable Garmin 300W, that I thought was a great GPS unit. The hands-free bluetooth is also really convenient and simple- the car recognizes my phone automatically and calls placed through my phone connect directly to the car speakers w/ no delay. After the call, hit a button on the steering wheel to end the call and the music instantly comes back on. Gotta love modern technology.

- Even in an SV premium (and not sport), you can feel the road very clearly, especially if it is rough or bumpy. If you are looking for a car to absorb the bumps or impacts, go for a Lexus or Avalon instead.

- The car is the narrowest near the driver/passenger seats. While there is plenty of thigh room, when I reach down on the side of my seat for the power adjustments, I was barely able to squeeze my wrist and watch through.

- Car makes a cool, star wars-like 'whirring down' noise when you shut it down. After my trip, I left the car in park and noticed it was making this noise every so often and I heard a fan kick in every so often as well. My guess is that the car was just winding down from the trip.