Since I can't search and don't have hours to look manually...

I need a daily driver and was contemplating getting a Maxima. So far I have been looking at '95-'98 models. However, I stumbled upon a '00 with 103K miles (SE model) that a used car sales lot has (not your typical buy here/pay here shack operation). Anyway, they are selling it for $6995 or at least that is the asking price which seemed decent if no low based on what I have been seeing other people asking/hoping to get for their Maximas. However, after doing some research it seems as if the '00-'03s have coil failures.

Is the '00 model year something I should stay away from or are there other things I should look out for if I decide to go check it out? Do the automatics in these cars generally last? Also, for that year and mileage, what should I expect to pay (I'm in Austin, TX if that matters)?

TIA

 

It's a very reliable car, but the price seems pretty low so be careful.

 

Why do you want a 6 cylinder for a daily driver. I assume you have something fancier for the weekend.

Maxima is praised for its long lasting engine. Atually Nissan claims when properly taken care of it will last effortlessly up to 250K.

 

I have a Z28 and have never owned anything but a V8, therefore four cynlinders don't really appeal to me which is why I rather a V6.

Yes, I don't have any hesitations about the engine, it's the other parts that I'm more worried about. Such as the tranny, AC, and other little things that can possibly add up. I rather not have to waste my mod money for my Z28 on expensive or excessive repairs. Although I do realize every car can have it's problems no matter what the norm is.

 

The 5Spd trannies are weaker than the autos. Early 4th gen will last forever. These have no substantial problems if they're auto. Some had recalled starters but I'm sure all the faulty ones have been replaced by now. The AC on mine was original and worked perfectly. It had been recharged of course but all the parts were original.

 

seems pretty cheap of a 2k se...even with 100k miles. they do have some problems...maf, coils, auto trans. take it for a test drive. any car out there could have more major problems. only expensive concern is the trans. there was a tsb about slow/slipping shifts. if it shifts good and the fluid is clean its probably ok. i test drove a 2k gxe and the fluid was burnt to crap and the car shifted really funky.

 

do a carfax report and take it to a mechanic...

you may have found an excellent buy.

 

The price is too low even for a GXE, there must be something shady going on. THe CarFax may not disclose everything, rather take it to a reputable mechanic to have it checked out. Excellent buy or not, I believe in "you get what you pay for".