2002 Nissan Maxima
Should You Buy a 2002 Nissan Maxima?
The 2002 Nissan Maxima is a well-rounded sedan that combines performance with comfort, making it an appealing choice for buyers seeking a reliable daily driver. With a powerful 3.5L V6 engine producing 255 horsepower and 246 lb-ft of torque, the Maxima offers a spirited driving experience, especially with its front-wheel-drive layout. However, it requires premium unleaded fuel, which can add to the overall cost of ownership. The vehicle's MSRP of $27,099 positions it as a mid-range option in the sedan market, appealing to those looking for a blend of luxury and performance without breaking the bank.
Despite its strengths, potential buyers should be aware of the 278 total complaints reported to the NHTSA, including 37 crash incidents and 26 injuries. The most common issues involve air bags, vehicle speed control, and exterior lighting, particularly in the early mileage range. Nevertheless, the Maxima boasts a strong reliability score of 96.1/100, indicating that many owners have had positive experiences with the vehicle over time.
This vehicle is best suited for individuals or small families looking for a reliable and comfortable sedan that offers a blend of performance and everyday usability.
Strengths
- +Powerful 3.5L V6 engine with strong performance
- +High reliability score of 96.1/100
- +Comfortable seating for five with a spacious interior
- +Good balance of luxury features and affordability
- +Front-wheel drive provides stable handling in various conditions
Weaknesses
- -Requires premium unleaded fuel, increasing operating costs
- -Reported issues with air bags and vehicle speed control
- -4-speed automatic transmission may feel outdated compared to newer models
- -Some complaints about exterior lighting reliability
- -Crash incidents and injuries reported may raise safety concerns
Known Issues (NHTSA Data)
The 2002 Nissan Maxima has a notable number of complaints, particularly related to air bags and vehicle speed control, which could be concerning for potential buyers. However, there are no significant NHTSA complaints on record regarding fire incidents. The mileage patterns indicate that issues may arise primarily with exterior lighting and engine cooling at specific mileage intervals, suggesting that prospective owners should be vigilant about maintenance as the vehicle ages.
Performance
- Horsepower
- –
- Torque
- –
- Engine
- 3.5 L
- Cylinders
- V6
- Transmission
- Automatic 4-spd
- Drive Type
- FWD
Efficiency
- MPG Combined
- 20
- Fuel Type
- Regular Gasoline
Dimensions
- Length
- 191.3 in
- Width
- 70.5 in
- Height
- 56.3 in
- Wheelbase
- 108.3 in
- Curb Weight
- 3,217 lbs
- Ground Clearance
- –
Capacity
- Doors
- 4
- Seating
- –
- Cargo
- –
- Max Cargo
- –
- Max Towing
- –
- Max Payload
- –