Used 1992 Nissan Maxima Sedan Consumer Reviews
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great first car
I got my SE from my uncle when I was 16. It had 210,000 when I got and the next 2,000 were the hardest miles possible. I took my Maxima to the limit everywhere, and she took it in stride. I had to replace the struts, but that was it. I had an automatic, and that was her only downside. The standard manual would have been much more fun. In fact, I sold mine two years ago, and now I'm looking for another, except this time with manual. I would highly recommend this to any driver, young and old.
Fuel Injectors and Transmission
This car has been with our family since new. However this car has had no problems with power, there is always reserve avail. Only problems were Fuel Inj.(Replace all 6 at once and 2 were bad), Transmission died at 134K mi(Replaced with a rebuilt one), all 4 power window reg. went bad, the tape player(Replaced with aftermarket)bit the dust, alternator, hood struts, the hot/cold temperature adjuster(Replace the entire unit from Dealer Part), Power Locks only work when it wants to, Power Antenna, Rear Trunk Key latch, the AC blows cold and never serviced. Curr. at 183K
- SE SedanMSRP: $36,521252 mi away
Fun, comfortable, reliable, fairly nice
I really have nothing to complain about with this car. I inherited this car when I was 16. And I drove it HARD. I was totally wreckless at times. Suffice to say, this car has not been babied. Yet, I'm 23 now and the car has 160K miles and she's still going strong. It has needed a fair share of semi-routine work, but nothing too serious. The brakes dust incessantly (though they have saved my ass many times), and it goes through AC belts like crazy, but hey, she's been very very good to me. I very nearly went out and purchased a brand new Acura, but ultimately realized that the old faithful Maxima probably has more life left in it and it's paid for!
Funny car....
I bought this car with 221k miles on it... today it has 235k and it's still going very strong. I changed out the radiator, battery and windshield wiper motor... I got the car for $450 bucks off my buddy who had the car since it was new and he said the auto tranny has NEVER been worked on. This car refuses to die... starts up in dead winter.. it makes my friends laugh at how durable this thing is... they call it "the beast." The auto tranny started slipping recently but I added some tranny treatment and its working like new... crazy car, they dont build them like this anymore.
Many good memories
I loved this car. Was a little beat up when I got her, but what a fine first car! She wasn't an SE, just a plain ol GXE but still pretty fast. The car weighs somewhere near 2900 lbs and the GXE engine puts out 160 hp, 180 ft lbs of torque which is more than enough to move it at a brisk pace. Great sounding engine too. Only felt uncomfortable on 1 really long 5 hour drive that I took, and aside from that I fit great and I'm 6' 1". I must have picked up a lemon though because I seem to be the only person who had so many issues with reliability.
SolidPerformer
I got lucky and found this gem in a lot with little mileage on it. I am very strict with maintenance but have to say that I think this car would run well under any condition. I cannot say enough about how smoothe this car is and how relable it has proven itself. It now has 180K miles on it and I wouldn't think twice about driving it across the country.
Practical
Good practical car. My Maxima is a 92', I had it for ten years without any major maintenence. Since my car had just passed over the 105k mile mark I decided to replace my timing belt. When doing this we found that my water pump was leeking, my fuel pump had to be replaced, my altenator wasn't holding the juice, my rear passenger automatic window motor had to be replaced. It sucked, I spent nearly $3000 this year. But I guess this is regular wear and tear on any car. After the fix, I've had no problems so far. As for suggestions for buying a used 92' Maxima get a Manual transmission. You'll enjoy and appreciate driving the Maxima much more.
A fun car to own
Great car! 220,000 and original engine and transmission. Routine maintenance done every 3000 miles. I'll buy another maxima in a heart beat.
It's about that time
I needed a reliable car and I got one. Once the car hits 2000 rpm this car can take off. I'm the second owner and the only thing I've replaced was the batt., radiator and starter. But bigger, more expensive problems are starting to occur like the exaust system, motor mounts,and tranny. Beyond my budget to fix, so I'm just going to run this car down to the ground and get ready to to buy another maxima. Newer of course.
Is it expensive to keep as a used car?
Bought it in August 2000. Changed timing belt and water pump and tires right away. Door window stopped working. Changed wires and exhoustion system. Changed 4 injectors. Changed alternator and battery(2times). Changed wiper motor. Cassete stopped working. Going to change CV joint boots, ball joints, strats, actually almost all suspension system. Do not know what is next. Cost of repair in 4 years is about $5250. Right now 160,000miles. 131,000 miles when bought. It rusts a lot. If I have money, I will buy a new car, toyota maybe.
Excellent car!!!!
I would drive this car across country in a heartbeat. I wouldn't think twice about it. I'm actually going to be driving to California this summer, and I'll be taking my Maxima. I love this car. It's fast, powerful, smoooooth, and very, very reliable. It has 108,000 miles, and if I continue to take care of it, it will last easily another 100,000 miles.
1992 nissan maxima
I have had this car for 7 years and driven it approx 130k miles to a current 183k. It has been extremely reliable except for an auto transmission that went out at 60k and the dealer covered. After that I changed trans fluid about every 3 oil changes or 9000 miles. Other than normal stuff brakes tires alternator hoses belts and half shafts it's been a great car. The only thing the manufacturer could have done better was to design the power window transmissions/cables ect... better because all have had to be replaced. I would recommend to remove door panels and lube the window trans components from time to time.
92 GXE still running like a champ
I have had to replace the water pump twice and 3 of the 4 power windows, but that is it. It's been paid for forever and just seems to get smoother each year. I currently have just over 160K miles and think 200k should be no problem. VERY reliable.
Nissan Did it Right
I just said farewell to my 1992 Maxima SE with 320,000 miles. It is still a bueatiful car on the outside, but a little under-powered these days. Except as noted in "improvements", I never had to give my SE anything but oil, brakes, cv boots, gas and a new stereo (came with a cheap Clarion disguised with a Bose name plate). Otherwise, an awesome car with awesome engineering. Nice job Nissan!
Great car
This was/is my first car since I've turned 16. I'm now 22 and have this beast up at school. I got it with roughly 190,000 miles on it, currently at 240k. The engine is still running like a champ, but the body is another story. With harsh winters and no garage, its starting to show its age with rust and some minor leaks. The leaks and rust i can easily deal with, its getting me to where i want to go thats important. My trans. is the 5 speed manual and its a blast to drive. The original clutch lasted 200k miles, which is amazing. Body will fall apart before engine fails. great, reliable, safe car for any new drivers.
92 Maxima SE (5 Speed)
great car to be a 92, there's a hand full of mods that can make your Maxima even faster (Place Racing, Warpspeed Performance & Stillen)the Bose stereo is great (200 watts) a lot of people think my car is a lot newer than a 92!
I loved it so much I named it
Darlene. That's her name. I haven't had any "real" problems with the car, other than a VTC overhaul AND replacement. NOTE to consumer, REPLACE the VTC, do not overhaul it! I do quite a bit of routine maintenance, including taking her in for any cling or clack--and it's paying off because she runs like a dream. The suspension and shocks could probably be better at 130K, as she is a bit of a rough ride, and like some of the other feedback, the stereo went at 90K. I want to get 250K out of her, so if anyone is around that mark, I'd love to hear your story
Nissan Super Maxima
My experince has been very postive overall. I would recommend this veicle to anyone who wants slightly above average transportation.
Why don't they make them this good now?
Found the car on autotrader with 55k. Flew from Birmingham to Columbia, MD and drove it home. At 55-65 mph got 31+ mpg. Replaced clutch and main bearing at 72k. All window regulators have been replaced. I drive aggressively and this car fits the bill. I have sold high line cars and promise you nothing retains the fun, style and reliability of a 3rd gen. 92- 94 Maxima SE 5-speed. The 4DSC now has 97k on it and still runs strong. It's a smooth, sporty, and stylish sedan. Should you be lucky enough to find a 92-94 SE 5-speed in good shape with relatively low miles grab it quickly. You'll be thanking yourself the first time you shift 3rd to 4th at 100 mph. GREAT CAR .
Awesome Car....
I bought my '92 SE in 1998 with only 35,000 miles. I have had it for four years now and it only has 71,100 miles on it now. I LOVE this car. It hauls major ass for a sedan (I have the SE-V6 w/ the DOHC 190+ hp)and handles like a sports car. The only major repair was I had to have the ECU (emissions control unit) replaced @ 45,000 miles and Nissan paid for it! Other than that I have had no other problems. Most of my driving is on the highway and this vehicle is a dream @ 85 mph.
A great car for anyone!
From the get go he got named Blackie. It has been a great car. We have 220K miles that have been for the most part repair and maintenance free! Only thing that was an out of the ordinary repair was for the manifold cover because of warping. We have replaced the CV axels but that was not until 200K. It gets regular oil changes but other than that has not had any regular maintenance. If it was worn out it got replaced and that's about it! The window regulators are the biggest downfall on this car we have had problems with all of them except the drivers. In all tho we have enjoyed this car!
92 Nissan SE
I have owned by Maxima SE for almost 10 years. It is a fun, performance-oriented car, and extremely reliable. It has a large trunk and comfortable back seat for adults too. The Bose stereo is one of the best sounding stock systems I have heard.
Best Car I have owned.
Since 1992 I have never had a problem other than the daytime running lights {Canada Only} But aside from this all is fantastic. 10 years after the car looks awesome with 2 coats of wax per year!
Trusty Maxima SE
This car has been absolutely fabulous. I expect it to go for another 100,000 miles. At 128,000 miles it still has a lot of power and will give most of the newer cars a run for their money. The only thing I do not like is the seat belt system. This is now history on newer Nissans. I will probably buy another one if I can ever part with my current SE.
Furq's Maxima
My 92 Maxima 4dr sedan now has 204000 miles. Just made a 2000 mile trip and it ran like a top. 29.5mpg and with 3 adults and loaded with baggage. I change oil & filter between 3000- 4000miles. Have had a problemd with leaking water pump the last 75000mi. Changed 4 of them. Don't belive its the car. Drives excellent and my wife loves it.
Great car
This car is as tight today as it was when I bought it new 10 years ago. It has had a few repair issues with the axles and crank seal, and the power windows failed three times, but it is overall probably the best car I've owned. I'll miss it when it's gone.
1992 Maxi
I have driven this car hard for over 10 years. The only major repair required was a VTC (Variable Timing Camshaft) at 98k miles, and a transmission bearing at 160kmiles. The car is still sound mechanically, but does need some cosmetic work. My hats off to Nissan for building a car that can whip the pants of most other 4-door sedans, haul around 4 large adults with 4 sets of clubs in the back at a price of $18,900.
One smooth car
I purchased the car new in 1992.. The car has been a joy to own and drive. Car currently has 160k on it and it still running the original clutch. At 100k I had both VTC sprokets replaced (1500).. That was the most expensive problem to date. Then after 152k miles the klacking started again. I shunted the VTC solenoids, and the car runs as smooth as ever (without the valve timing though). The alternator finally went out this year (2003).. Overall, I recommend this car for someone that wants a nice sedan that is durable versatile and reliable.. I can't bring myself to sell it..
save a lot
overall is a perfect commute car. now is 160k and still run like a champ.
Maximized
I bought my 1992 SE from a Private party in Houston, Texas. It is White on Gray with 5 Spd Manual. I have put approximately 30K Mi. on this car and it runs just like a Jewel. When I drove it from Houston to Los Angeles it can keep up with the flow of traffic @ 85 MPH with no hesitation. I would recommed this car to anybody in the market for a reliable used car.
Wolf in Sheep's Clothing
AWSOME!!! I dont know if this would best describe this car. It's powerful,sporty, can take any car on the road, fun to drive, a road hugger in all weather, too advance for its model year. got every thing u need. leather, both driver and front passanger seats are powered, powerful A/c and heat, heated windshield washer nozzels, heated side mirrors( they are also tinted) to minimize teh glare at night, spoiler and sunroof, fog lights great BOSE sound system, sports tuned suspenstions, security system. and much much more...........
250k ++ miles!!!
I had the manual trans SE V6, and yes I put over 250k miles on this machine, until it crapped out on me! Good styling for a '92. I loved impressing my friends with how fast this thing could accelerate. Also i got a top speed of 135! (On an enclosed racetrack of course...) I've seen quite a few of these cars suped up, and I can only imagine how fast they were.
my car
great car , economical , reliable and an all around car
Great for '92, but d/n age gracefully
Owned since new. Solid driver w/ good HP readily available; minimal to mild torque steer. Compliant ride w/ reasonable handling for a FWD. Fuel economy acceptable. Sometimes balky autotranny when cold. Clean, well- designed interior. Weakest area has been cabin electronics (Bose stereo, clock, window lifts, rear-window defroster), and engine electronics (notably the coils and ECM). Defective VTC sprockets. No fold-down rear seat, intrusive trunk hinges. Prehistoric cup holders. Surprisingly rattle-free after all these years.
A solid car
This car has been very reliable from day one. The only expenses have been for normal wear and tear. Manual transmission has made this car a blast to drive. I'm so pleased with the Maxima that I am going to sell it for a new one.
Good car but...
I've owned this car for 9 years and finally selling. It's been overall a good used car. The engine is very strong and reliable. The only complaint I have concerns the brakes. This car goes through brakes every 30k miles and you need to settle for Nissan factory brakes that cost $700.00. After market brakes from other companies don't last as long. Recently had some sporadic electrical problems, which is impossible to detect - I simply replace the fuse. Otherwise it has been a good car (145k miles).
old faithful
This car has been in my family for 11 years & it's been great! My mom has put a/b 100 miles a day for the past 3 years. Not too much work, had to replace brakes & engine. Cute little car. Looking at the 2004 model for my mom's new car. i'm 16 & its gonna be my first car- GREAT first car! We've put 272,000 miles on it & its going strong. Hopefully it will last a few more years or at least to 300000 miles!
The Ultimate Sleeper
I bought this car at a steal in 2003 with 74,000 on it, have driven it HARD nearly 35,000 every year since and not had any problems. I do my own maintenance and because of its small oil capacity, it is vital to change the oil every 2,500 miles for performance and reliablility. Some of the minor things go eventually, like the waterpump, and also the solenoids for this year are surprisingly ahead of their time.
THE PERFECT CAR
I LOVE MY MAXIMA. SHE IS A POWERFUL,RELIABLE,COMFORT CAR. SHE IS MY FIRST CAR AND I AM VERY HAPPY TO OWN HER. THE ONLY THING I HAD TO CHANGE WERE TRANSMISSION SUPPORTS, BRAKES.
LemonTransmission
I must have gotten the lemon version after reading all the great reviews. I bought the car with about 107k miles. after the 1st yr, the trans went out. Spent 2K expecting this to be the last major problem. Took it back to trans shop 4 times. After an 8 month good run, trans went again. Now trans is out of warranty. I have also replaced all fuel injectors. Thank God I learned how to replace the injectors myself. They kept going 1 after another. After the injectors were all replaced, what an improvement in the performance! but just when I thought I was on my way to a good experience, the Trans failed again! Hopefully, you will have a better experience than I did. In 50K miles, spent around $4K
only traded it for a supra turbo
i loved my se. 5-speed, twin cam 300zx v6, variable valve timing (nissan vtec). burns tires through first, second, and chirps in third. never lost to a civic. outran a 98 mustang gt. cant touch a z28 :( fun fun, car. sold it to my dad when i bought a supra. he still hasnt lost to a honda an he's 60. timing set around 25 instead of 15 degrees is an exceptional boost. 24 mpg mixed city/highway.
Great daily driver.
Over 105k miles and still running like a clock. Only major problems encountered were a corroded coolant plug and a faulty main battery wire. Minor problems were the Bose amps and speakers (went out @ 7 yrs.). Acceleration remains strong though the engine roar has gotten louder. The ride is rather stiff but handling is average. Steering is very responsive with good feedback for a fwd car.