1991 Nissan Maxima

Introduction

The 1991 Nissan Maxima is a mid-size sedan renowned for its sporty handling, luxurious interior, and powerful engine options. It came with a choice of two engines: a 3.0-liter V6 (160 hp, 180 lb-ft torque) and a 2.0-liter inline-4 (140 hp, 132 lb-ft torque). Transmission options included a 4-speed automatic and 5-speed manual.

Engine

• 3.0-liter V6
  • Camshaft Position Sensor Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Stalling, rough idle, reduced engine power, check engine light illumination
    • Solution: Replace camshaft position sensor
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $250
  • EGR Valve Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Poor engine performance, stalling, reduced fuel economy, check engine light illumination
    • Solution: Clean or replace EGR valve
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300
• 2.0-liter Inline-4
  • No Issues Found

Transmission

• 4-speed Automatic
  • Transmission Slippage
    • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty engaging gears, slipping out of gear, delayed shifting
    • Solution: Rebuild or replace transmission
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
• 5-speed Manual
  • Shifter Bushing Wear
    • Description/Symptoms: Loose or difficult shifting, rattling noises
    • Solution: Replace shifter bushings
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400

Suspension

• Rear Suspension Sag
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle leans towards the rear, reduced handling, excessive tire wear
  • Solution: Replace rear springs or struts
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
• Front Suspension Strut Mounts
  • Description/Symptoms: Knocking or clunking noises, reduced handling, uneven tire wear
  • Solution: Replace front strut mounts
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+

Electrical

• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Dimming headlights, electrical accessories not working, difficult starting
  • Solution: Replace alternator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery goes dead quickly, difficulty starting
  • Solution: Find and fix electrical drain (e.g., replace faulty alternator, disconnect parasitic draw)
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+

Exterior

• Door Lock Actuators
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty locking or unlocking doors, doors not opening or closing properly
  • Solution: Replace door lock actuators
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks on dashboard surface
  • Solution: Replace dashboard
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
• HVAC Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Blower motor not working, poor air conditioning or heating performance
  • Solution: Repair or replace faulty components (e.g., blower motor, compressor)
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+

Summary

Overall, the 1991 Nissan Maxima is a reliable and enjoyable vehicle with a few common issues. The estimated cost to fix these issues range from minor to moderate, making them generally affordable to repair. Owners praise the Maxima’s performance, handling, and comfort, but some express concerns about transmission slippage and suspension sag.