Used 2005 Nissan Maxima Sedan Consumer Reviews
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Fantastic Car
My Nissan Maxima is a fantastic vehicle. It's very powerful at all speeds, extremely comfortable, very quiet, looks great, very fuel efficient, gets 27 mpg city, 46 mpg highway, has great seating and trunk space. Great dealer service. I can't imagine a finer vehicle for even double the dollars. I highly recommend the Nissan Maxima.
110% Satisfied
I've had SUVs, sports cars, sedans, coupes, and my Maxima is the best combination of all of my favorite things in each style of vehicle I've owned. It has the heavy-feeling ride of the SUV, the handling of the sports car (alot of ZIP!), the interior comfort of a sedan, and the cool feel of a coupe. If I had to replace my car tomorrow, I would go buy one just like I have. My brother has a Mercedes (big whoop) and I like my car tremendously better than his. For $33K, I couldn't ask for anything that meets my needs any better. Besides, it looks awesome on the road!
- 3.5 SL SedanMSRP: $7,000163 mi away
- 3.5 SL SedanMSRP: $4,495173 mi away
- 3.5 SE SedanMSRP: $4,495298 mi away
Love my Nissan
I actually paid cash for a brand new 2002 Mercedes CLK 320. That was a very big mistake. I never liked the car and felt that I wasted all that money!! I finally got rid of the M.B. and purchashed a 2004 Maxima and absolutly love it !! I find it so comfortable and easy to handle. I've heard people complain about the wide turning, but I don't find that any big deal. I love the look of my car reliability too! If I were to change anything, I would make the instrument panel easier to read. I find myself squinting to read the print. I think my husband's next SUV might be a Nissan too !!!
Transmission Gone @ 70K
I am very disappointed with my 2005 Nissan Maxima. My transmission is shot. Started around 60K.... been to the dealer several times. Nissan N America claims they are unaware of trans problems for this car. I know that's bull. Two many "Nissan Heads" are having this same problem. Is Nissan going to own up to this or what? This is my 3rd Max, unfortunately it will be my last! Mr Mech, do you have any advise for this $4,000 trans repair?
Much better than expected
We've had our Maxima for approx. 1 month and wow! We looked at the Accord, TSX, Avalon, and the Infiniti G35. The Maxima is almost exactly like the G35 but for a few thousands less, the Accord was just too boring. The Maxima has exceeded all my expectations. The leather is top notch (black interior), the satellite radio is great, the engine power should be in a vehicle that costs thousands more, etc.
So far so good
We got this can in Nov 2004. So far no sig. problems. We've had the steering wheel shake that everyone is complaining about, but it is tolerable. Performance is great. Should have a LSD or be AWD with as much power it has. If you shut off the TC, the car just smokes the tires! Lots-o-torque steer. Navigation is fun, but difficult to use. Sirius sat radio is alright, but we are used to an add on unit in the old car and this car's sat radio just does not compare to the features of the stand alone unit.
2005 Maxima
This is by far the beast automobile I have ever owned. The car is well designed, and the powertrain will not quit. With the Bose stereo playing hot east coast beach music, it's almost like being in Heaven!
Nissan Max base model is fine
I've read the other reviews and compared to them my experience has been good. I never had to take it back during the warranty period. I can related to comments about occasional rotten egg smell, and very bad turning radius. But it's fun to drive and feels solid. Tires very pricey (I ruined one).
Just Love It
I tried out Avalons, Accords, Lincoln LS, Cadillac STS and numerous other vehicles. After trying out the Maxima it was the one that kept creeping back in my head. Like the styling because it is different and the engine is simply one of the very best. We love it and get great compliments on it everywhere we go. People get in and always say man this Nissan's are really nice cars aren't they? Paid 30,400 out the door with navigation and all of the gadgets. Simply couldn't be happier and for the money not sure you can beat this car...Thrilled...
Love My Maxima
This is a terrific car. I look forward to getting behind the wheel! I bought the SL for the smooth ride, leather, opening moon roof and Bose stereo. The V-6 power is immense. I can't complain about a thing, this was a good purchase. It has a huge trunk and a lot of passenger space. It is more attractive than the Toyota Avalon. I am very happy with all of its features and at 106 degrees so far this summer, the air conditioning is perfect in Phoenix. I highly recommend the Maxima 3.5SL. I recommend the "Valentine One" radar detector if you plan on enjoying this car's power. I am going driving!
2004 Maxma
I have driven Cadillacs and Jags for the past fifteen years. I got tired of the high maintenance costs and decided to try a Japanese profuct. I settled on the Maxima. By far it is the best automobile I have ever owned. Not a single warrantee issue, where after three mnths I would have been to the Cadillac dealer several times to fix annoying rattles or mechanical problems.
Not I think it is....
Abruptly automatic transmission shifts, to much road noise on highway travel, decent suspension and motor performance, not controllable power.
Problem with frontend
Fun car to drive and has a great pick up and go but keep having problems with the front end. I have replaced both wheel bears, brakes & tires with only have 58K. still making a noise like the brakes are low when I stop but when I replace the bearings it stopped the steering wheel from shaking.
Wonderful Car
Bought new in Jan. 2005, now have 80,000 and have had no problems whatsoever! Power is great, gas mileage is consistent at 22.5 in town and 29.0 on the freeway using 89 octane. I've only had to do the regular maintenance, replaced tires and brakes at 68,000 with no surprises. Ride is on the firm side but that's why it handles so great.
Maxima is Maximus.
The first thing you will notice about the Maxima is that it is not just another mundane four door sedan. I needed a family hauler that was not a essentially a station wagon or SUV that was big enough for a family of four and still had excellent performance and reliability. I drive on the freeway and on city streets and the Maximas total package performance adds enjoyment and safety to all of my trips. In my experience most cars give you only one or two pieces of the package like horse power, but no handling, or performance but no reliabilty. I strongly recommend the maxima because it is the total package for those weary of driving plain vanilla sedans.
Most car for your money!
Absolutely the best sedan you can get on the market for $30K. Love this car, and oh so fun to drive! Never owned a Nissan until now. Will buy one again. Understand too that they're now better cars since the French bought Nissan. Great backseat comfort & room. Lots of power, makes it a breeze to merge onto a freeway! You cannot lose with this car!
Honda loyalist
I have owned Honda products for the past 15 years. I was very happy. I finally made the conversion, and bought my first NISSAN MAXIMA..and I have No Regrets! The MAXIMA is exceptional at every level. I really like the 265 HP 6cyl, which effortlessly and quietly accelerates, with room to spare. With or WithOut all the of Trim Bells and Whistles, it is a Solids Sports Sedan, that I will be driving for years to come. Totally, the best "Bang for the Buck"
love my maxima
I actually bought my car in may of 2003, I have 44,000 mile on it. I love the way it drives, the handling is great and also the pick-up, you definitely have to watch your speed! I have had one little problem with my power sunroof, the dealer fixed with no big deal. No just last week my cd player quit working, I have an appointment next week, the dealer told me a new one cost $600.00, although they do not know yet if I will need a new one. Needless to say that up set me with me car only being 2 years old, I did by the extended warrenty but guess what, not covered. At any rate I would recommend this car. I love it!
Love it! Hate it!
I purchased this car 3 years ago and since I have had to replace the front struts for the third time with only 57000 miles it's too much. My transmission started skipping and kicking at 52000 was replaced under warranty and now the engine Mounts which are extremely expensive are out.This is besides some electrical issues with the lights. So you can imagine why I hate it.
Can you be in love with your car? YES!
I purchased in 02 a 4cyl. Altima - I moved out of my poor Accord sporting 250k miles I kept waiting on Honda to change the Accord but noooo they had to wait one more year. Lucky me! My husband is a Honda Mechanic - he has been for 17 years. We both own Nissans. Go figure. Honda makes great cars but they didn't make what we required at the time we required it. I had several warranty issues with the Altima and 300 mile beyond my warranty I got nervous so I moved into the 05 Maxima Black w/the Elite package fully loaded I LOVE IT.. it will fly! I have the 4 seater with the tangerine color leather. I get more looks with that color scheme! Great for the money and the performance..I'm sold!!
Best ever
Sold my Passat V6 to get this. Better looking, more powerful, better mileage, more reliable. Besides that, I guess I should have kept the VW. Nissan has yet another winner in this one.
pretty good, could be better
I have had this for for 2 years now and still look forward to driving it. Acceleration: Off the line is decent but there is lots of torque steer to get used to. Highway acceleration is pure bliss. I mean wow. It's a great looking car as well. The interior is kind of cheap and the climate control isn't very good. It gets good highway mpg (30ish) but if you floor it around town, you will get about 220 miles to a 22 gal tank. The turning radius is horrendous and the headlights are not very good and I can barely tell the difference when I turn the brights on. I have a shimmy in the brakes when I am braking downhill that no mechanic seems to be able to reproduce. Would seriously consider rebuying.
Sexy car
I recently passed the 100K mark on the odometer and the problems have begun :( Randomly driving one night it felt like I was not going to stop while braking, it turns out Nissan diagnosed the ABS actuator pump as "bad". $ 2200 to fix, I had just put brand new front and rear brakes, new tires x 4, and a new battery. I have taken very good care maintenance wise, and Nissan will not work with me at all. Disappointed with the car? No- I am however very displeased with Nissan and not being willing to help me despite the technical service bulletins on NUMEROUS 2005 Maxima ABS actuator pumps :( Also have have both fog lights and head lights replaced at least 3-4 times each light!!!
Blown away and love it.
First time buying a car of this size. Compared, Camry, Accord and was almost set for buying the accord. Walked into the NISSAN Dealership and was completely blown away by the MAXIMA. The trunk space beats both the others cars hands down. I actually took two big suitcases (airline-internationl travel), and they both fit with lots of room for small bags. Tall people actually have thigh support in the back seat. The car's fun to drive (read blast). Controls are good. Like the windows down feature from the key.. handy on hot days. I am just very glad that i bought this car. Wish i can keep the new car smell forever now.
Great Car
It is a very snappy car. Holds the road very well. It is a very stylish looking Car. I went from a Yukon xl to car and thought the room would be a big factor, but it acutally is quite roomy. Stopping is excellent. I love the telescope steering wheel. So far I love it. My daughter likes the fact that we are riding on 18 inch wheels.
Best
I bought my 05' Maxima when it first came out with the EGR valve. I love this car very much. There are also tons of performance mods available for this car. Everything from headers, body kits and even Chip tuning. I am over 320BHP. I have had zero issues with this car since I bought it. I would recommend everyone look into upgrading the suspension for better handle if you are not into modifying the engine.
My Maxima 2004
Im having very good experience with this 2004 Maxima so far. I just got it last month. The ride is so smooth and very sweet. Im 22 years old man, and i love having fun in it by driving.
Poor craftmanship
I purchased my vehicle in 4/2004 and I must say, I was quite happy with the performance of the vehicle. In terms of driveability,The car handles corners very well, overtaking was never a problem performance I would say was superb But I had a few problems with my vehicle and the list are as follows. At around 300 miles I encountered my first problem with my right front strut. It began leaking fluid.The front rotors was warp.The strut was replaced and the rotor resurfaced. At around 4500 miles I noticed waterleaking into the terior from the sun roof. The front driver's doors and passenger's would touch if the drivers's door opened simultaneously with the passenger door.
Can't get repair parts from Nissan
I loved my Maxima until the air conditioner died while on vacation (38000 miles) and now a coolant part which failed will be on back order for a total of 5 weeks before it it ships. I can't drive the car which only has 57000 miles on it. The Nissan consumer department hasn't helped so beware of the support you get after the purchase.
Close Compant
I considered the Audi A4, Volvo S60,Acura Tl and chose the Nissan Maxima SL (all '04's ). While the Audi perhaps had the best interior material quality of this group I chose the Maxima SL for its large interior compared to the others. Performance with the TL was essentially the same and cost was within $ 700. comparably equipped.I also liked the styling whereas the TL seemed a bit too' boy racer' and was similar in looks to its smaller brethern. The SL Maxima also uses regular gas and has more torque than the TL. (must be because its higher compression ratio).
lots of fun
Great quality for the money. This car has so many bells and whitles that tech lovers such as I should keep themselves occupies. Lots of little, thoughtful touches from stereo controls to design details and customization abilities makes this a well thought out car. Although thirsty for gas, the rocket ability of this car makes it worth the cost. Feels like it could take off if it had wings. At high speeds though I could sence some instability in the rear (in the SL) especially when changing lanes but we shouldn't be driving that fast anyway. I bought this at the beginning of winter so I can't wait to roll down the windows and open the sunroof this summer. So far I love it!
Very Pleased
After driving a 1997 GLE (bought new in '96) for the last 101600 miles I decided it was time for a new Maxima. No other car can match the features coupled with the reliability of these cars. I originally wanted to stay with the luxury edition SL, but the 18" tires on the SE were too much of a draw to ignore. To compromise I upgraded the SE to SL form, including the navigation system.
Fun with a few rough edges
The spacious interior, good looks, horsepower attracted me to this car. After 60 days it still wows me! I had a little buyers remorse having not chosen an Acura Tl... so i went back to take a second look at the TL last week. Glad I got the Maxima.
Maxima Fun
Folks, this by far is one of the best cars I have had the pleasure to own. What a dream in performance and the power under the hood makes it a fun car to drive. I love the interior space, I am 6" tall and can move the seat all the way back and another 6" person can be directly behind me with plenty of room; You do not give up trunk space for this either.
LEMON
I will have to say that this car has really cost me an arm and a leg. This car has been to the dealership over 20 times since I purchased it in 2005. I had to replace several front end parts at 30,000 miles or less. Also, at 72, 000 miles I had to replace the transmission. Nissan was very awful at fixing their own products. This car has literally broke me in the past two years. My maxima is in the shop at this time getting a hub and strut assembly for the front right. I am very upset about purchasing this car. I have replaced almost every part on the car with the exception of an new engine. I will never purchase another Nissan.
5 time Nissan Owner!
In my opinion you can not go wrong when you purchase from Nissan. The company is top notch and the customer service is superb. I drive a 2004 Maxima SL and I absolutely adore it. This is my 4th Maxima and I also drove a Pathfinder. The Pathfinder (2001) drove just about as smooth as the luxurious Maxima. I missed having a car, so I bought the Maxima the last time. You can't beat the value because the cars come standard with so many great features. The buying experience was good and I feel like I received a fair deal each time. As far as reliability...the cars have been virtually flawless. Go get one!!!!
25 Years of Drivings Maxima's
The car is a reliable means of transportation with good looks, low maintenance and few repairs outside of normal maintenance. I drive the car for 5 years and hand it down to my wife (4000 miles per year) for the next 5 years.
A Buttkicker
Forget the Lexus,Acura, Avalon, this car blows their doors off! Not only is the car less expensive than the overpriced above models it out performs in all areas including looks & dependibilty.Also a very high resale value, pound for pound the best car on the road! Reminds me of my dad's old Buick , built like a tank & fast as hell! Great on gas too!
I love this car!!
I have had my 2005 Maxima for 3 1/2 months and still get a thrill when getting in it! I look for excuses to take it out! I researched the Acura TL and the Camry along with this one, and the Maxima came out way ahead. My husband (who is not a car fanatic) even loves getting in it. The space inside is just perfect for our family of 4. I get a kick out of the looks and comments I get when out driving . You cannot go wrong with the Maxima.
WOW
Our Maxima is dark blue on the outside and heaven on the inside. never before have i seen a car like this! I cant beleive it was only $30K. The other day on my way home i was listening to music not realy paying attention. i started to notice the cars around me going realy slow; curiously i started looking around until i noticed that everybody was not going slow, I was going 115MPH. 115MPH in a full size sedan...hints the name of the reveiw. This car also has the best excelleration i have ever seen. My son drives a 1996 honda delsol turbo which he has fixed up for racing, he passed me on the way home one day and just for fun, i tried to catch up. Needless to say, I passed him like he was stil
Love My Maxima!
I have been privileged to drive some wonderful vehicles including the 5 series BMW. However, this is, by far, the BEST sedan I've enjoyed. It's quiet, comfortable, safe and above all, reliable. The owner's manual is most helpful in detailing what needs to be done regarding services. Following the manufacturer's recommendations, this car will last forever. I highly recommend the Maxima if you want luxury and sensibility combined!
Great looks, no reliability
I have had my Maxima for about 3 years now and I love it. This car performs, as well as offer great style. I take care of my car and I would expect it to last. Sadly it has me fed up with its annoying problems such as when I put the cd player on, the left side speakers don't work, the transmission jumps, the back of the car spins out easily, there is even an annoying flickering sound. Sometimes it reeks like rotten eggs, and the steering radius is horrible. I love my car, and I might not ever part with it. It has only 40,000 miles and when I can afford it I'm gonna have to get a new transmission, cat converter, cd player and new finger valves.
Nissan wins again
Had this car for 2 years. I have 120k miles on it. Asside from regular maintenance, I have had no problems. It drives very nicely in all conditions. Awesome for long hauls on the highway. Plenty of power when you need it. This car is the best one I have ever owned, and I plan to drive it until the wheels fall off.
Love it but needs some improvements!!!
The car is a very nice car and I love the power. Have taken the car on two long trips. One I was alone so it was fine the other was very cramped. Not made for traveling, or maybe i just travel with too much stuff. Has pretty much every feature available. However the car seems very thin and I sometimes feel unsafe. The car looks great though, I love the new body style! If you buy one, buy it with all the features you want, dont put aftermarket xm radio or subs in it or you will have trouble if you have radio problems. The dealerships like to blame problems on other people!!! They think you like to spend hours at the dealership for no reason at all. They can never find anything wrong
Nice car that needs some improvements
Sporty sedan with much nicer body design than Accord, Camry or Avalon. 265HP is more than average driver needs. Unfortunately you better keep both hands on the wheel when flooring the gas pedal - terrible torque steer. So used to my V8 T-Bird with RWD I almost crashed the car when accelerating while turning. Acura TL which I also considered for additional $1,500 didnt have that problem and it had a lot nicer interior design. Too bad TLs interior is even smaller than Altimas. Front seats could be more comfortable (no upper back support). Driving 50% city 50% hwy I only get 20mph not between 20 and 28 as stated on sticker. It costs me $50 to fill up the tank (recomended premium fuel :(
My first Maxima
I had traded in my '01' Quest for this first time beauty. I am floored by its performance and handling. At first glance it is easy to mistake it for a heavy luxury car. Drive it once and put that myth to bed. It is 'practical' for the family issue, yet 'youthful' for some solo time. I actually wake up earlier than normal, ready to shred some much driven road. Cannot say enough what an absolute blast this car is to drive.
Buyer Beware
The sunroof leaks in the car wash. After 3 attempts to have the problem fixed, I received a copy of the Nissan work instruction stating 'If water leaks occur only when using an automatic car wash or high pressure water spray, no repair is necessary'. All the positive aspects of the car are overshadowed by the leaking sunroof. Buyer Beware -- Nissan does not warranty the sunroof in a car wash and this information is not available to consumers prior to purchase. If you never use an automatic car wash, this is the car for you. Otherwise, buy a Toyota.
Flawless Acceleration
I test drove other mid-size cars in similar price ranges; Camry, Accord Ex, Mustang GT 4.0 and none accelerated like the Maxima. I do a lot of highway driving, and hate not being able to pull out and away from a bunch of slow pokes, who love riding each others bumpers.
I wouldn't buy another Nissan
I've had this car for just under 3 years and have had all sorts of problems. First there was this weird "air leaking" noise around the front-passenger side. Second, The exhaust bracket started making noise right around 30,000 miles. By this time I had moved to Dallas and a dealership couldn't figure out what was wrong with it at first. I had to take it back to them like 5 times before they could figure out what was wrong with it. They fixed it and the problem came back within 6 months. Also, about this time, the cover under the sun-roof fell. Now, just around 60,000 miles the air condition stopped worked. I would not buy a Nissan again
The Best!!!
I love my 2005 Nissan Maxima SL. I had a 2003 Maxima SE and i loved it but instead of going for another maxima i got a explorer and hated it. but then I got a BMW hated it so gave it to my daughter and got another Maxima and LOVE IT!!!! I bought the car with 81000 Miles on it and now has about 83000 on it. No Squeaks or rattles ( that i've heard) ride is perfect, and is very fun to drive. Engine is quiet and QUICK!!! Very roomy and BOSE sound system is GREAT. LOVE the xenon lights and the heated steering wheel. The Traction control came in handy during a bad thunderstorm the other day.