Hi all,
I just joined in Jan 2005. I posted twice in the 2nd Gen forum and classifieds. I am posting here hoping for some help. I know nothing about cars. Neither does my 17 year old son who was given a 1986 Maxima GL 4dr sedan. I resisted investing in it bc it was so old. After a time I decided to put a limited amount into it so he could drive. I have replaced the alternator, alternator belt, battery, cap/rotor, plugs, radiator hose and master cylinder. Did an oil change and filled radiator with new antifreeze mix. It passed inspection. My son was ecstatic. One week later there was a clicking noise....brought it back to the shop. Turned out the alternator belt was loose. The mechanic tightened the belt and recharged the battery. Afterward as he started the car to back it out of the bay I heard a screeching noise. He said nothing to me, but I asked him what it was. He said, it's either the starter or flywheel. Can't tell unless he takes it off. I had already invested $1100. I posted on this site to confirm what I was told. Relieved to find that he was being truthful. Still very upset to know I had to put more $ into the car. One week later, the car won't start at all. After reading "starting problems" on this site, I told my son to disconnect the battery cables until I make a decision. I want to sell it. Is there a market out there for this 1986? Can I get back what I put in? Any advice? Thanks so much. Please help me.

 

I went to NADA's website and assuming the car has 150K miles on it, I wouldn't see it being unreasonable to at least break even on this car. Good luck.

http://www.nadaguides.com/uv/viewres...wPr=1&wPg=2032

 

cut your losses and get what you can. Even if you don't break even, it may be better than holding onto it and needing more work done to it. Good luck either way.