2004 Nissan Maxima
Should You Buy a 2004 Nissan Maxima?
The 2004 Nissan Maxima is a well-rounded sedan that offers a blend of performance and comfort, making it an appealing choice for those seeking a reliable daily driver. With a powerful 3.5L V6 engine producing 265 horsepower and 255 lb-ft of torque, it delivers a spirited driving experience while maintaining a respectable combined fuel economy of 21 MPG. The vehicle's MSRP of $29,350 positions it as a mid-range option in the sedan market, appealing to buyers looking for value without sacrificing performance or comfort. However, potential buyers should be aware of the vehicle's history of complaints, particularly related to the automatic transmission, which has been reported to fail at various mileage intervals.
While the Maxima boasts a solid reliability score of 85.9 out of 100, the NHTSA data reveals 1,000 total complaints, including 27 crash incidents and 12 fire incidents. The most common complaints involve the powertrain, particularly the automatic transmission, which has seen issues arise between 40,000 and 100,000 miles. Buyers should consider these factors when evaluating the long-term ownership of this vehicle, as well as the potential for costly repairs down the line.
The 2004 Nissan Maxima is best suited for individuals or small families seeking a reliable, performance-oriented sedan for daily commuting and occasional road trips.
Strengths
- +Powerful 3.5L V6 engine for spirited performance
- +Comfortable and spacious interior with seating for five
- +Decent fuel economy for a performance-oriented sedan
- +Solid reliability score of 85.9/100
- +Good value for money in the mid-range sedan market
Weaknesses
- -Frequent complaints regarding automatic transmission issues
- -Potential for costly repairs as mileage increases
- -Limited trunk space compared to some competitors
- -Requires premium unleaded fuel, increasing operating costs
- -Higher incidence of crash and fire complaints than average
Known Issues (NHTSA Data)
The 2004 Nissan Maxima has a notable number of complaints, particularly concerning the automatic transmission, which has been reported to fail at various mileage intervals. Additionally, there are concerns related to tire sidewall issues and suspension problems. While the vehicle has a decent reliability score, the frequency of complaints warrants caution for potential buyers. No significant NHTSA complaints on record.
Performance
- Horsepower
- –
- Torque
- –
- Engine
- 3.5 L
- Cylinders
- V6
- Transmission
- Automatic 4-spd
- Drive Type
- FWD
Efficiency
- MPG Combined
- 21
- Fuel Type
- Regular Gasoline
Dimensions
- Length
- 193.7 in
- Width
- 70.5 in
- Height
- 57.1 in
- Wheelbase
- 111.8 in
- Curb Weight
- 3,463 lbs
- Ground Clearance
- –
Capacity
- Doors
- 4
- Seating
- –
- Cargo
- –
- Max Cargo
- –
- Max Towing
- –
- Max Payload
- –