daltongc

Hey everyone, I am looking to upgrade my current 1991 Maxima to a 4th gen. I've read lots about them, but would like to ask all of you a question: If you were going to buy a 4th gen and knew what the problem areas were for each year, which one would you buy and why? I have owned a couple of maximas and an Altima v-6. I know they are great cars and will run forever. I'm also aware that the auto transmission can be a problem area, along with ignition modules(?) and fuel injectors on certain years. Any info you can give me to help make a better decision would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!

96SEMaxima

If you really want a 4 gen I look for a 96 or 99 se stick. I have a 96 and I haven't had to many problems with it up until now. I bought it with 151K and it has 163 on it now. I've only had to replace the knock sensor, alternator, and tach. But you can expect to replace some parts on a used car. Because usually when people trade their cars in it means there is something wrong with them and they don't want to pay for repairs. 99's are the last year for the 4 gen and they should have had most of the bugs out.

daltongc

thanks for the reply. I know somewhere in there 96? they discontinued cornering lights. I've also heard of chronic coil-pack problems in the 97s. I bought my 91 with 182k, so yes, I'm familiar with a few items wearing out, but it still runs great.

NmexMAX

iTrader: (22)

99s had the coil problems, 95-97 have aftermarket ECU support. 98 started the digital OD, no clearance lights in 97+.

darrick

well I would NOT get a 99 if i had it to do over for a few reasons
1 coilpacks
2 there will never be ecu upgrade
3 the whole chip it the key thing cool but when it gos out 1,000 bucks to replace the dam thing

ps get a stick you will just wish you had later anyway

SRJesse

Do yourself a favor and buy a 2003 max if you can afford. IMO that is the best made maxima. I worked at nissan for a while, and was thrilled when that thing came out. I have a 96 and am very impressed with the build quality and everything. But everything you want to MOD out with the 4th Generation is already done on the 5th such as xenon headlights 6 speed, GOSH I WISH I HAD ANOTHER GEAR!!! Also interior is much cleaner looking such as dash, new style leather seats (if you like leather) and the SE rims are bad *** stock. Just in my opinion. Wish I could afford a 2003, but my next car has to be RWD, FWD too boring!

<--- Missing my SR20det 240sx (why did I sell it!)

MDeezy

iTrader: (27)

I'd suggest going with a 97, new body, ecu availability, alternator may be and issue but there is a recall for them so you just take the car to the dealer. 194 guages, and get a Manual.

There is just subtle difference between the year, and a few extremes, but if you know you want the stillen kit 97+ get a 97+ and save yourself buying all the parts for the convertion or waiting till you get in an accident to use that time to get 97+ parts.

daltongc

Thanks for the input guys.. this is the sort of stuff I wanted to know!