Used 1998 Nissan Maxima Consumer Reviews
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Excellent value for features and quality
woow, 09/23/2002
1998 Nissan Maxima SE 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I wanted a powerful and sporty sedan that didn't seem too "young" and radically styled, that wasn't too common (i.e., Accord or Camry), was reliable, and that didn't look cheap...at less than $12K. So I just bought a loaded SE with 88000 miles, and it worked out great. With some detailing and wax, felt like I just bought a new car; the styling and features are still contemporary. The 190 hp engine is smooth--and is a nice balance of power and fuel efficiency. It cruises powerfully up hills and on the freeway.
They killed my baby
osvolant, 01/13/2009
1998 Nissan Maxima SE 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
One of the best cars I've ever owned. Bought in 2000 with 40k miles, now has 128k and is going to the junk heap because some idiot crashed into it while parked at the curb- ins. co. is totaling it. Sigh. Excellent balance of performance, comfort, and mileage (25 mpg suburban, 27 highway, 5-speed) Still on the original clutch, original struts, has never needed Freon, burns no oil, has no rust, and the Bose stereo still sounds good. Had to replace one CV joint boot; otherwise only routine maintenance.
Nissan Maxima GLE
kabisco, 06/05/2002
1998 Nissan Maxima GLE 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This car has a roomy interior with very comfortable seating. The exterior design is sleek with smoothh contours. It is very sturdy on the road with little or no noise penetrating the interior. It seems to be very reliable thus far, requiring only basic maintenance to keep it performing at an optimum level. I would definitely, highly recommend it.
I'm impressed
Imnion, 10/25/2002
1998 Nissan Maxima GLE 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I bought this gem about six week ago and I love driving it. Plenty of power and the sound system (Bose) is outstanding. I got the Super Black with the Black leather interior. When I have this thing clean, it really turns some heads. Especially around dusk, the car looks real sharp. Nay an ounce of any trouble thus far.
Best car I've ever owned
Todd Columbus, 06/02/2007
1998 Nissan Maxima SE 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I've had more than 20 cars, and never owned one for more than 3 years before this car (9 years, >100,000). It's absolutely the perfect balance of acceptable family car, but an absolute thrill to drive, especially with the SE suspension and 5sp. I was contemplating trading it in, and I just can't do it. I've replaced the muffler, an O2 sensor, and the blower motor for the heat/AC. If you are contemplating buying a used Maxima, I strongly encourage you to go for it!
Great Car ! I expect 200K Miles of it!
Todd , 11/08/2002
1998 Nissan Maxima GLE 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
No problems other than reg maint. Low deal cost for tune up, fuel filter, transmission and coolant flush at 72K miles.
First Car
CTM, 09/03/2007
1998 Nissan Maxima GXE 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
The only problems I can recall having are with exhaust pieces rusting and falling off and with frozen rear calipers. I bought this car when I was a young man and, as it was my first car, it was easy for me to love its crazy, enthusiastic spirit and the surprising power of what I thought was just another dependable Japanese family sedan. A word of caution however. The GXE mixes the same big powerful engine as the pricier models with a tall and loose suspension, long-throw manual and no limited slip, sporty tires, ABS, traction or stability control. It instills a sense of adventure in me, not confidence.
Best Car I've Owned
Best Ever, 09/05/2007
1998 Nissan Maxima SE 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Bought a new 98 Maxima SE 5spd to replace a BMW 525. I've driven 215k miles and the only non-wear item replaced has been the alternator! Still has the original clutch, second set of spark-plugs, and second set of brake pads. I drive mostly highway and average 26 mpg. It seems to have a perfect blend of economy and performance, and I couldn't be happier!
Excellent Daily Driver
kwamdoo, 08/03/2002
1998 Nissan Maxima GXE 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I appreciate the sporty feel that the car gives you eventhough it's a four door sport sedan which feels as quick, nimble and agile as some two door coupes onthe market today. I'm not as tall as many men, but extremely wide across my shoulders. This car seememd to support my wide frame with its wide and supportive seats, rather than having my shoulders sitting out without any support like many other vehicles in its class. The interior design of the controls is somewhat bland, but all and all, is very easy to access while driving.
Keep on giving me check engine lights
nissan_no_good, 05/19/2009
1998 Nissan Maxima GXE 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Don't know if I'm just unlucky on this car or what, starting around 80k miles, check engine light keeps on coming back, I replaced 4 o2 sensors so far (the 1st one was actually around 50k miles), now the check engine is on again for p0325. Since then I've spent more than $5000 repairing o2 sensor and other issues. Every time I tell myself this is a good car, this is the last time I'll need to spend big money on it. It just never stops. I'm selling it now.
Best car around
mlargie, 03/18/2002
1998 Nissan Maxima GLE 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
the best car i had so far
Maxima
aliasabc, 04/24/2002
1998 Nissan Maxima SE 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Fun car to drive even for a family man
Great Car
Nick, 11/03/2007
1998 Nissan Maxima SE 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This car has been extremely reliable. I have never been stranded. Engine is fantastic even after 150k miles. I am glad I did some research on Edmunds. My only problems were a bad oxygen sensor, a bad knock sensor, and the fan switch only works on high. I still drive with these problems but hope to fix them soon even though they are minor. This car is the best bang for your buck!
best car
dancingirl16, 01/09/2003
1998 Nissan Maxima SE 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
i loved this car
great value
bladester, 05/13/2003
1998 Nissan Maxima SE 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This was the 1st Japanese vehicle I have ever owned and i'll never go back to the North American brand. I bought it used with 20,000m. I have put 55,000m and it's never had a wrench to it. Regular oil & filter. That's about it. It's still tight, engine runs like new. I could sell these cars for a living and enjoy every minute of my job I love it so much. Thanx Nissan for building such a great vehicle.
Love it!
Shmegan, 04/30/2004
1998 Nissan Maxima SE 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Bought a black SE w/ leather and manual tranny last year. I've driven it hard and it hasn't let me down yet. For the money, there is nothing that could've touched this in performance, comfort and looks. I recommend switching to synthetic oil, platinum spark plugs and don't even think about using 89 octane gas. (Something to consider before buying with gas prices what they are.)
Maxima
Reypsu, 08/28/2002
1998 Nissan Maxima SE 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This vehicle is a great deal. The performance is excellent and the styling is good.
Black Max
SuperBlack, 07/26/2004
1998 Nissan Maxima SE 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Really got used to the SE firm suspension, it rides fairly low and sports carish. The power is great when the knock sensor isn't on the fritz. Milage is great for a V6 I think we averaged almost 30mpg on our last trip. We looked and looked for a 5-speed and when we finally found a good one we snagged it. Now I know why they are so rare. If you could drop a Honda 5- speed in the max it would be great but I'd pass on Nissan's manual. The car shifts like a 1-ton Ford, long throw, linkage by "Gumby", it is impossible to drive smoothly, and I've had standard trannys all my life.
the best
RollingInI30, 02/20/2003
1998 Nissan Maxima GXE 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
the best car available for performance /value /enjoyment. im waiting for 2004....or even better looking at M45 infiniti.
fun to drive
GPB, 06/05/2002
1998 Nissan Maxima SE 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I've only had this car a month, but I've driven my brothers 97 SE and liked it so much I bought one myself. Great acceleration, good handling, fantastic Bose stereo.
not bad, definite room for improvement
cxk, 02/16/2003
1998 Nissan Maxima GXE 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Very reliable and awesome engine, now for the negatives. I know Nissan was having financial problems in the mid to late 90's and it showed in its cars. Very dissapointing handling. The car sits up way to high and what's with the solid beam rear axle(you generally find that in entry level cheap cars).The only other negative is the very cheap looking cloth seats.
I Love This Car
Happy Maxima Driver, 02/06/2003
1998 Nissan Maxima GLE 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I bought this car as certified preowned. Excellent power. Had absolutely no mechanical problems. Having the moonroof open and the windows down makes it almost as fun as a convertible but without the higher insurance. Really fun and comfortable to drive. Leather interior with wood accents looks really nice. Especially with seat warmers for winter. All that and it has dual front/side airbags and a four star crash test rating. Couldn't find a better car.
The best car to-date I have owned.
Rick Martinez, 07/15/2003
1998 Nissan Maxima GXE 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Excellent all-around vehicle. Great for all kinds of drivers whether you like speed, comfort, ride, performance, efficiency, comfort and quality. No manufacturer problems and smooth engine without surprises no matter how fast you drive it. The speed governor was unwelcome but I guess it helps bring down the price of insurance.
Great Car
Leo, 03/15/2002
1998 Nissan Maxima SE 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Everything i wanted in the car is in the fully loaded max: great engine, excellent mobility, good stereo, all comfort features, etc
MY SECOND MAXIMA
Kolyan2k, 07/24/2003
1998 Nissan Maxima SE 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
My second maxima. Went from '95, auto GXE to '98 SE, 5-speed, loaded w/GLE features. Still powerful even for cars that are poroduced in 2003. Extreamly reliable, still looks good outside as well as inside, equipped w/ nice features like: BOSE sound system, heated seats, ABS, auto climate control....
The 4 door sports car
Chris Webber, 02/19/2006
1998 Nissan Maxima GXE 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I bought this car used 3 years ago at 110,000 miles. It has been a great three years and I am now up to 150,000 miles on it. Then engine still is extremely strong and the cluth and trasmission have been just as durable. Car is alot of fun but I do wish I got the SE as it has more options than my GXE such as a sunroof and better suspension. The problems so far I have had are with the calipers which it has ate a few up the alternator, which was luckily replaced for free under recall. All in all this is a great car that has alot of power.
Awesome Car
jeallen, 09/13/2002
1998 Nissan Maxima GXE 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Always dreamed of owning a Maxima and my dreams came true in 99. Purchased a 98 GXE and have since added a spoiler which really increased the looks. Great car, runs like a top with 93K miles on it and going strong.
Our favorite car of all
Ralph, 04/02/2010
1998 Nissan Maxima SE 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
We bought it used at 11k miles, and it is now at around 168k miles. We had 2 Maxima before this one-a 78 and an 81. We have had outstanding reliability experience with all three. Ours is the SE model with heated leather seats (which my wife loves). The engine has plenty of power, and it gets fairly good mileage for the performance level. Our average has been about 25 MPG, and up to around 30 MPG on long summer trips. I do the routine preventative maintenance consistently, and we have had no reliability problems at all. Everything works as expected and nothing falls apart repeatedly like the domestic autos we owned in the gap between our 81 Maxima and the 98 we have now.
Babji's Review
Babji, 08/18/2003
1998 Nissan Maxima GLE 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
The vehicle is really fun to drive. You love it when you overtake other vehicles at traffic lights and after tolls. One can really enjoy driving this vehicle. The contol of the vehicle and the road grip is pretty good. Though, the sound system claimed to be the premium quality, you would not find it extraordinary. The vehicle shakes a little when there are gusty winds.
98 Maxima
dan, 11/02/2008
1998 Nissan Maxima SE 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I've had 2 BMWs, 2 Buicks, 2 VWs, 4 Olds, 3 Nissans and a Cad. This is overall the most dependable and driver friendly car I've owned.
Very,Very Good
goodmax, 05/22/2002
1998 Nissan Maxima SE 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
All Nissans are the best, Mostly my whole family drives Nissans and I wouldnt want them to drive anything else.
Maximas rule
Maciek, 07/21/2003
1998 Nissan Maxima GLE 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I bought the car used, with 120K miles. Possitives: It is beautiful champagne outside and tan leather/black and wood dash. Bose is great, engine terrific, lots of room front and back, dash layout fantastic. Negatives: Electronics are extremely touchy, had to replace burnt fans for the radiator, HVAC is acting up (sometimes won't blow air) Overall great car. I would buy another one in a heartbeat.
Great Maxima GXE
Charles, 12/05/2004
1998 Nissan Maxima GXE 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I purchased this used Maxima that was three years old with 12,000 miles. It is a wonderful road car - I have taken a 3,700 mile vacation and averaged about 27 MPG. No problems ever except the alternator recall which was taken care of with no issues at all. I can only hope the 2004/2005 Maximas are as good as my '98! Best car I have ever owned along with my 99 Toyota Camry.
Fast, Fun, and Inexpensive
Paul Huang, 11/05/2002
1998 Nissan Maxima GXE 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
The car has been reliable: small problems include battery replacement under warranty and a front-end squeak that dealers have not been able to fix. The rear suspension lands with a harsh thud when going over speed bumps with both rear wheels. If only 1 wheel goes over the bump it's fine. The engine is great!!! The clutch is getting close to replacement after 76000 hard (not auto-journalist level of hard though) miles. I love my car and have problems finding a potential replacement. I have money to buy a more expensive car, but even then I can't find a car that is as fast, fun, and reliable as my $18K Maxima.
My Best Car
Nissan3, 07/08/2009
1998 Nissan Maxima GXE 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I have owned approximately 20 cars in my lifetime including 7 new cars. The Maxima is the best car I've ever owned. It is comfortable and very reliable. I average 25 MPG overall and get 27-31 MPG on the freeway. Replaced front brake pads @ 90,000 and the rear brake pads at 135,000. Regular oil, filter & air filter changes are completed. Also installed one new battery so far but no other problems. The car currently has 138,000+ miles and purrs like a kitten. Overall - it's a great car. I plan on driving it until it drops.
1998 GLE
Big Iq, 03/07/2002
1998 Nissan Maxima GLE 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
We decided to try a Nissan vehicle, because they weren't as common as an Accord or Camry, and Nissans do not get stolen as much compared to these cars. We purchased this with 32,000 KMS, and the car has been running problem free! The luxury touches are wonderfull! These cars come with many options, engine is silky smooth, and they look great! Highly recommended to anyone looking for a family sedan, with a little luxury and sportiness.
Love my '98 SE 5 speed
Jonathan, 02/23/2009
1998 Nissan Maxima SE 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Bought this car with 95000 mi. 4 yrs ago and I have been running it hard ever since. The car is comfortable, classy, fast, dependable, fun to drive and now with 195000 mi. still runs strong and torquey. Very few problems in the 100,000 miles I have had it. In really cold weather the cruise control is intermittent. I had to have a new airbag control at 185,000, $750. Now the ABS light is on. Will get that fixed in the spring. Other than that I have had no real problems... still running the same clutch, same water pump, same alternator, same suspension parts, no problems. I love this car. It's one of those rare cars that comes along and it becomes a keeper. I love this car.
I love my car!
ak725, 11/30/2002
1998 Nissan Maxima SE 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This is the best car that I have ever had. I just love it. It's comfy, quiet and (knock wood) has not given me any problems.
Reliable
99-Vette, 11/12/2003
1998 Nissan Maxima SE 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This is the second Maxima that I've owned. This one has everything except leather. I bought it used with 27k miles and now have about 70k miles on it. If you are looking for reliability, look no further. The only complaint that I really have is the poor quality of brakes and rotors. The handeling could be improved a little too. It doesn't drive as smooth as I would have thought.
Bulletproof
Doc, 06/09/2005
1998 Nissan Maxima SE 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I've owned quite a few cars in my days, but this is the best! The Maxima is not only bulletproof, but it is easy to mod if you are into that. Dollar for dollar it has to be the best car on the road. My 4th gen is still a timeless style. I love the giddyup this car has when I dust those Honda ricers who want to play. Not your Grandma's grocery getter!
sure bet
fabdog, 06/27/2005
1998 Nissan Maxima GXE 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
First car that after 2 years of owning it, I still enjoy driving. Great gas mileage on trips averaging 30 MPG on recent trip. Can't ask for much better with the power you have at your disposal. I highly recommend this car. GM eat your heart out.
Good but doesn't quite make it
DHG, 04/30/2003
1998 Nissan Maxima GLE 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
The good stuff; powerful engine, good automatic, lots of luxo type features for just slightly an econobox price. Now the real stuff; problems with front end since day one. Selling dealer replaced front struts at approx. 25k, also needed new tires at same time. Didn't fix the problem. Different dealer replaced engine mounts at 30k, better but still rough and bumpy. Just put third set of struts on from private mechanic. Needs stableizer bushings. Can't believe Nissan didn't make a valet type lock/key system for their flagship car, and what about having to manually turn off headlights? What is the cost difference between a buzzer and a time delay switch?
great
jdub, 03/01/2002
1998 Nissan Maxima GLE 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
THis is a great car and it has a great engine
Nissan Maxima SE
white98se, 03/10/2002
1998 Nissan Maxima SE 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Very functional, roomy performance sedan. Good road manners on freeway or windy country roads. SE suspension gives road feel without the rough sports car ride. Dependable never fails to start. Easily "modable" for the enthusist that wishes to squeeze a few more horses from the very well built 3.0L V6 Fine for 4 adults. 3 small kids will fit in the back if they get along ... Ample trunk room. A joy to drive on the daily commute or sunday run through the country.
First Car
Carter, 02/15/2010
1998 Nissan Maxima GXE 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
While there is a special place in my heart for this car, I can't recommend the GXE. With such a powerful engine, the car was all over the place. The extra handling power of the SE is necessary. I loved the way this car looked, inside and out, especially with the spoiler. Interior materials felt premium to me. Loved the beige velour seats. It was pretty well equipped for a base model with no options.
The Best Care for The Price Range
Dave Zeitlin, 01/07/2004
1998 Nissan Maxima SE 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Powerful, economical, and reliable. I looked at the Camry, Accord, and Maxima. The first two are very good cars but a little underpowered in my opinion. They also cost more. I feel that the Maxima is the best choice when considering performance and reliability v.s. price.
Best car ever owned!
Jess, 04/01/2008
1998 Nissan Maxima GXE 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I have owned my Maxima GXE for 7 years. This is by far the most reliable car I have ever owned. I have never had to have anything major done just normal replacements muffler, tires and brakes. I highly recommend this car to everyone. It's great to drive, comfortable and good on gas. I could go on and on about this car. I will drive it until it falls apart. It drives as if it were brand new and it has 140k miles on it.
Used car best buy
bkiser, 03/19/2002
1998 Nissan Maxima SE 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
We "traded down" to our 1998 Maxima SE from my wife's dream vechicle- a 4Runner limited so that she could stay home with our child. Originally, she thought it would be a sacrifice, but she has since decided that she likes it more than any car she has ever owned. We looked at several Acuras, Lexuses, etc., but the Maxima offered similar luxury with much better performance. Plus, the car gets 30+ mpg on the highway (at 80mph)! Unbelievable!
Nothing better than a Maxima
Indira, 05/08/2002
1998 Nissan Maxima SE 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I just bought a 98 Maxima SE w/ leather and i must say this car drives like a champion.It's fast, smooth, sharp looking, and can carry a family of 5 rather comfortably. I love everything about it. You can bet that I'll be a Maxima owner for life!!
Good Stuff
ktklev, 05/25/2002
1998 Nissan Maxima SE 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This car is reliable, quiet, and handles well. A little pricey, but then again you get what you pay for. Love all the options. I've got 'em all. Heated seats, roof, BOSE, leather, etc..