I am looking for 5 speed maxima. Other than the tranny porblems on the 4th gen what else are common things to watch out for when buying a maxima?

 

same things to look out for when buying any used car.

Clear title
low milage
good condition
check the inside of the fenders, trunk and hood for VIN stickers to make sure they are original, if not, it was in an accident.
Look for maintenance records from previous owners.

You won't be able to tell of too many potential problems off the bat when looking at the car and driving it. Look for obvious things, that it drives straight, idles smooth, accelerates well, no weird noises..

 

engine and wheels