On a test drive, be sure to inspect tire wear at each corner of the vehicle, noting tread depth and ensuring tires are worn evenly across their width. If that’s not the case, the vehicle in question may have issues with alignment.
Also, sidewalls should be smooth and free of ‘lumps’ or ‘bubbles’ in the rubber.
Visit some rougher sections of road and note any suspicious loose clunking or banging sounds form the suspension. The presence of any of these may indicate the need for some attention under the car. A ride on a rough road is also ideal to ensure you’ll be comfortable with the Maxima’s comfort and handling tradeoff.
Note that a sloppy or noisy sensation from the front end could be evidence of bad struts, a well documented issue on early models in this generation. If in doubt, solicit a Nissan mechanic’s opinion. Revised or aftermarket struts may be available.
Plenty of owners report dissatisfaction with the durability of the Maxima’s paint finish, so be sure to inspect the body for paint peeling or rust. Pay special attention to the area around the sunroof, and avoid any model with excessive finish wear which could result in cosmetic headaches down the road. If the model you are considering has a sunroof, check the footwell and trunk areas for signs of moisture or mildew, too.
Ensure the braking system and clutch aren’t in need of attention, and that the car’s former owner isn’t trying to pass a potentially expensive repair onto you. If in doubt, a Nissan mechanic should have a look at your potential used model for peace of mind. This may cost an hour of labor-- but could save plenty of money down the line.
No glaring issues were noted with any drivetrain related mechanical parts—though several owners reported potential idle and smoothness issues caused by wonky sensors. These can be diagnosed by a dealer mechanic.
Maxima isn’t a machine without its flaws-- though most owners will tell potential shoppers the ‘pros’ far outweigh the ‘cons’. Take a thorough test drive to ensure the Maxima is for you, scrutinize the ride and paint, and have a mechanical inspection for peace of mind. If everything checks out, you’re on your way to joining a largely satisfied community of enthusiast owners.
photo:Nissan
 |
| 2008 Nissan Maxima |
Also, sidewalls should be smooth and free of ‘lumps’ or ‘bubbles’ in the rubber.
Visit some rougher sections of road and note any suspicious loose clunking or banging sounds form the suspension. The presence of any of these may indicate the need for some attention under the car. A ride on a rough road is also ideal to ensure you’ll be comfortable with the Maxima’s comfort and handling tradeoff.
Note that a sloppy or noisy sensation from the front end could be evidence of bad struts, a well documented issue on early models in this generation. If in doubt, solicit a Nissan mechanic’s opinion. Revised or aftermarket struts may be available.
Plenty of owners report dissatisfaction with the durability of the Maxima’s paint finish, so be sure to inspect the body for paint peeling or rust. Pay special attention to the area around the sunroof, and avoid any model with excessive finish wear which could result in cosmetic headaches down the road. If the model you are considering has a sunroof, check the footwell and trunk areas for signs of moisture or mildew, too.
Ensure the braking system and clutch aren’t in need of attention, and that the car’s former owner isn’t trying to pass a potentially expensive repair onto you. If in doubt, a Nissan mechanic should have a look at your potential used model for peace of mind. This may cost an hour of labor-- but could save plenty of money down the line.
No glaring issues were noted with any drivetrain related mechanical parts—though several owners reported potential idle and smoothness issues caused by wonky sensors. These can be diagnosed by a dealer mechanic.
Maxima isn’t a machine without its flaws-- though most owners will tell potential shoppers the ‘pros’ far outweigh the ‘cons’. Take a thorough test drive to ensure the Maxima is for you, scrutinize the ride and paint, and have a mechanical inspection for peace of mind. If everything checks out, you’re on your way to joining a largely satisfied community of enthusiast owners.
 |
| 2008 Nissan Maxima |
photo:Nissan
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