Used 2004 Nissan Maxima 3.5 SL 4dr Sedan (3.5L 6cyl 4A) Consumer Reviews
Probably the worst car I've owned
Just got rid of the 2004 Maxima I got in June. First it was a brutal wind noise that after 4 visits to the dealership was finally fixed. Then, the sun roof stopped closing. It would open fine but would tricky to get closed. I could not handle another trip to Nissan Service to fix. Hence, I am the happy drive of a previously owned BMW 525I with 9,000 miles on it. Take my advice, go to BMW and go with a proven winner. This is a 30K car but if you need service you are relegated to the no frills Nissan Dealership. If you must buy from Nissan at least step up to the Infiniti, that way when your car has its problems you will at least be treated well.
Problems and Headache
I brought the Max 04 SL, Majestic blue last Dec 03 and a month later the fuel pump gone bad.It took Nissan 4th attempts to figure out that it was the problem.Then, headliner fell off, glove box hang, front struts gone bad, driver side weather strip came loss,fan makes noise when ac/heater on,dash board makes noise as well,smell engine burn when on a long trip just to name a few...This is a HEADACHE CAR.I filed a BBB claim and can't wait to settle this claim...I thought this was a reliable vehicle but I guess not...
- 3.5 SE SedanMSRP: $14,500444 mi away
- 3.5 SL SedanMSRP: $8,488632 mi away
- SLMSRP: $3,991643 mi away
Buyer Beware
Think twice before buying a Maxima. Yes I'm sold on the horsepower and the beauty of the exterior...but this horse needs to be shot. With less than 17K miles I've had to replace the rotors, struts, one tire (should replace all others)and the chrome trim that runs across top of the car. The turning radius is horrible...buy this car and you'll become an expert at 3 point turns! I'm afraid the beauty of this car is only skin deep...you've been warned...she'll seduce you with her looks and power, but leave you sitting on the sideline (or in the service waiting area) with all the other Maxima owners.
OK
The ride is not as smooth as I thought it would be. The noise inside during riding is loud. Gas mileage is nothing to write home about.
Flawed Model
The Nissan Maxima has always been a "dream car" of mine. Now that I finally own one, I am a bit disappointed. To its credit, the car is beautiful inside and out and a blast to drive. Unfortunately, all my visits to the service department have soured my overall experience. In two years, I have had two recalls. One for a wire in the seat (minor), and another for a corroding rear sub- frame. The latter is a major repair. The battery has also corroded on me and I have had 2 front-driver-side struts go out in less than a year's time. There seems to be a lot of corroding going on for a car less than two years old. Yes, its still under warranty, but I feel my troubles are just beginning.