I have a 1995 SE and I was growing tired of the stupid cup holder in the center armrest console. It's either too big or too small for my beverage containers. I prefer the look of the 97-99 models, which has a more precisely defined cupholder section with a swinging lid to hide it when not in use.

So, I ordered the replacement console from Scottsdale Infinity (they respect the Maxima.org discount). Basically, it easily replaces the 95-96 console unit, using the same connecting points and hardware. But there's more of a difference than the cupholder area. Here's the complete rundown:

1) Cupholder unit is designed better and has a closing lid.
2) There are fewer coin holders (2 instead of 3).
3) The armrest compartment is about 2" shorter, same depth.
4) The replacement unit comes with a new emergency brake boot installed.
5) There is no longer an ashtray at the rear end.

One caveat: You must order a replacement lid as well. The parts guy I spoke to didn't tell me this, and I found out by simulating the installation. The newer lid is 2" shorter. So, I had to order that as well. Total cost, including shipping: $149 (for both the console and the lid). Not a bad cost to get a more usable drink holder, brand new e-brake boot, and simply put, a nicer looking center armrest console (no scratches or signs of aging). Also, there is plenty of channel space inside this thing, and I'm considering running the ashtray light wiring to the back for rear seat floor lighting (drilling a few holes and tacking on some kind of light to the rear of the console).

 

That sounds awesome. My question is, how many CDs can you fit in the new armrest? Fewer than in the old one, or is it the same? Also, why no ashtray? It doesn't matter to me, I'm just curious. I guess I can use the ashtray power to light my ejection seat button.

 

question... where did u buy it from? if you have a number or website that i could check out, that would be gr8!

thanx

 

Thanks for the information. It's great that people share insightful knowledge like that. Even though I don't need a new console if I were to ever rip my boot or break the lid it's good to know that I could just upgrade to a newer console.

 

Wonder if this would work for an auto as well..hmmm...

 

I have a 95 se as well, and I dont have any cup holder in the center arm rest?

 

Hmmmm...weird....may not look much like a cupholder,......two squarish looking holes just in front of the coin collectors.

 

I dont really think that was designed to hold cups, as most cups are not SQUARE bottomed

I keep differnt stuff in there, sunglasses etc

 

LOL....me too.....I wouldn't take the chance of spilling something in my car anyway...

they are supposed to be cupholders....maybe we should call them first gen cup holders...lmao

 

Argggh! I can't tell you the number of coffee spills I have had to clean up from in and around there because those holes just didn't cut it!

CW

 

Do those inserts(appear like inserts) come out?...how do you clean in those little cracks along the edges....ouch....I use those for putting other objects...like a remote for the stereo/keys etc.

 

I dont think I have any coin holders in my console. I have a 97 GLE if that makes any difference. Where are they located? I have seen them in 95-96 but never in 97+.

 

You can fit CDs in yours? The one of my 95 GLE is too shallow to hold a CD vertically and too narrow to hold one horizontally. I can put a couple in there at an angle, but not nearly enough to replace my CD case.

 

I like 97 and above arm rest lid better than my 96's. 95 and 96's lid goes down in the lid front. The whole lid is already too low to support my arm when my right hand is on the steering wheel. The 97 and above arm rest lid is flat although is also too low for my arm. 5th gen's adjustable lid is much better.

 

I forgot to mention that I have an automatic. I can fit about 15 CDs in mine if I have the hinge-end of the case sticking up with the text facing either side of the car. 2 stacks of 7 or 8 CDs... they stick up a little when it's open, but the armrest/cover is deep enough to cover them.

 

Infiniti of Scottsdale
1-800-955-9181 ask for TJ..
They give 25% off the list price for parts (just like Courtesy)

or you can try Vince of Courtesy Nissan
1-800-442-5257

 

I'm not sure how many CD's, as I keep them in a special case under my seat. I put mostly cassette tapes and other assorted things in the armrest compartment. Since the size is smaller in the '97, you will fit less, but it won't be by very much. The depth is the same, so no problems there. It is identical for either automatic or manual.

About the ashtray, you misundertood me. It's not the lighter, just a tray--hence no power. And it isn't the front one--it is in the rear of the console. You probably never noticed it. No one would use it, unless they smoke in the back seat, or have to toss a used gum wrapper.

Check the FAQ on Modifications, specifically I30 part upgrades. They list the Infinity of Scottsdale info there. The phone number is out of date, though: (888)468-7070 is the new one. And mention you are a member of the Maxima.org website so that you get your discount.

 

I've actually been thinking about modifying mine a bit to try and fit CDs in there with the hinge up and the label facing forward... I've got a couple ideas to try, but I'm open to suggestions if anyone has any.

 

It's my condom holder.... Holds quite a few, hahaha.