Nissan Maxima 2000 - 2003 review

2003 Nissan Maxima (photo: Nissan Canada)	The Maxima is one of the top selling V6 import sedans since 1984 when first V6-equipped Maxima was introduced. The fifth generation of Maxima was introduced in 2000 and remained with minor upgrades until it was replaced with 04 model in 2003. The Maxima is a spacious mid-size four-door sedan with many attributes of a luxury vehicle and one of the best V6 engine in its class. Front-wheel drive, transversely mounted V6 engine, five- or from 2002 model, six-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmission, MacPherson struts in the front, semi-independent torsion beam suspension in the back, disk brakes on all four wheels. The only engine choice - the 3.0-liter 222-horsepower (increased to 3.5-liter 255-horsepower from 2002) DOHC V6, famous VQ-model engine. Interior is spacious and well designed. There are many luxury features available, such as 8-way power driver's seat with memory, auto-dimming rearview mirror, heated steering wheel, trip computer, steering wheel mounted audio controls, Nissan Navigation System, etc. Handling is good, although there is notable torque steer on hard acceleration. Ride is firm and fairly quiet. Overall, the Maxima has very solid feel with excellent passing power. The ABS is standard. Traction control is optional. Dual-stage front airbags are standard, side-impact airbags are available as an option. In NHTSA frontal crash test, 2000-2003 Nissan Maxima has received four stars for both the driver and the front passenger.
2003 Nissan Maxima (photo: Nissan Canada)
2003 Nissan Maxima (photo: Nissan Canada)

The engine

Maxima comes with 3.0-liter DOHC 222-horsepower (3.5-liter 255-horsepower from 2002) V6 engine model VQ, also found in the Nissan Pathfinder and Murano. With ample power, excellent low-end torque, advanced lightweight design and high durability, this engine is one of the best in its class. Good news, there is no timing belt that would need regular replacement, silent chain is used instead. Platinum spark plugs provide longer service intervals.
If properly maintained, you shouldn't expect any major problems with this engine.

Strengths

- Above-average reliability
- Excellent powerful V6 engine
- Built quality
- Generous level of standard equipment
- Roomy well designed interior
- Standard ABS
- Easy to maintain

Weaknesses

- Requires premium fuel
- Torque steer on heavy acceleration
- Stiff suspension
Common problems are mostly minor: 'check engine light', defective coils on early models, bad airflow sensor, some electrical.

Overall

The Maxima is a spacious mid-size four-door sedan with many attributes of a luxury vehicle, yet it is one of the few models where you can find sporty V6 engine combined with manual transmission. Maxima is very reliable and doesn't require too much maintenance, although parts and service are quite expensive. You may want to consider an extended warranty to protect from unexpected repair costs.

Main competitors are Toyota Camry and Honda Accord.

What to look for when buying a used Nissan Maxima

As a first step, check used car history records. A history report may help you to uncover some of the problems the car might have in the past such as accidents, flood damage, rolled back odometer, etc. Follow this link: How to check used car history
- Check the service records if available - it's important to verify that the car was properly maintained.
- Look for leaks
- If the "check engine" light is on, have the problem assessed with your mechanic or a Nissan dealer before buying a car; in worst cases repair might be quite expensive.
- Check operation of all accessories including all windows, heater controls, air conditioner, etc.
- Make sure to thoroughly test manual transmission operation - if abused by previous owner(s), it may be excessively worn.
Learn more what to look for when buying a used car
- Prior purchase have the car inspected by a mechanic of your choice on a lift - many components (e.g. ball joints) can not be properly inspected by simple visual inspection.
After buying a car, visit your local Nissan dealer to check if all necessary recalls have been performed.
Shop wisely, check few cars to compare; it's worth to pay a little extra for a well-maintained vehicle in good condition; check our step-by-step used car buying guide for more information.
Some models may be costly to insure. Get the insurance quotes first.

Few maintenance tips

- Wash and wax your car regularly to protect the paint.
- If you live in the area with high humidity, rustproofing will help to protect the car body from corrosion.
- Regular oil changes are very important to keep your engine in a good shape.
- Change transmission fluid regularly.
- Try to avoid overheating the engine; this may cause serious problems.
- Take care of minor problems as soon as you can, before they cause something serious.
- Try to stick with original Nissan parts to avoid troubles.
- Always check your parking space for leaks, and if you find one, get it fixed as soon as you can.
- Follow recommended maintenance schedule and keep all the fluids clean and topped up.
- At least once a year have your car inspected in a garage on the lift (e.g. when doing tire rotation) to keep it safe. Many components (e.g. brakes, steering, suspension) cannot be properly inspected by simple visual inspection at fast lube places; the car must be on the lift.
Check more Car maintenance tips from infocat-auto.ru

Nissan Maxima short specs. (2003 model)

Links

If you are looking for Service Manual

If you want to find more technical information such as repair manual, check engine codes description, electrical diagram, diagnostic procedures, vacuum line diagram, fluid type, maintenance schedule, component location, technical service bulletins, etc. follow this link: Where to find repair manual

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