2002 Nissan Maxima

The 2002 Nissan Maxima is a mid-size sedan known for its sporty handling and comfortable ride. It was offered with one engine option: a 3.5-liter V6 producing 255 horsepower and 246 lb-ft of torque. This engine was available with either a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic transmission. Owners generally appreciate the Maxima’s performance and reliability for its time, while common complaints include issues related to age, such as rust and failing sensors.

Engine

3.5L V6 (VQ35DE)

• Catalytic Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The catalytic converter can fail due to age, overheating, or contamination. Symptoms include a check engine light (often codes P0420 or P0430), reduced engine performance, and a sulfur smell.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty catalytic converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1200+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Ignition Coil Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Individual ignition coils can fail, leading to misfires. Symptoms include a check engine light (often a P030x code, where x is the cylinder number), rough idling, and reduced power.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty ignition coil(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300 per coil
  • Recalls: None Found
• Camshaft Position Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The camshaft position sensor can fail, leading to poor engine performance, stalling, or a no-start condition. A check engine light will typically illuminate.
  • Solution: Replacement of the camshaft position sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $250
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic

• Transmission Slipping/Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The 4-speed automatic transmission is known to have issues with slipping between gears, harsh shifting, or complete failure, especially at higher mileage.
  • Solution: In some cases, a fluid change and filter replacement might temporarily alleviate symptoms. However, a full transmission rebuild or replacement is often necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2000 - $4000+
  • Recalls: None Found

5-Speed Manual

• Clutch Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clutch wear and failure are common in manual transmissions. Symptoms include slipping clutch, difficulty shifting, and a burning smell.
  • Solution: Clutch replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut/Shock Absorber Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Worn struts and shocks result in a bouncy ride, poor handling, and increased stopping distances.
  • Solution: Replacement of struts/shocks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1000+ (for all four)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Control Arm Bushing Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Worn control arm bushings can cause clunking noises from the front suspension, especially when going over bumps.
  • Solution: Replacement of control arm bushings or complete control arms.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600 per control arm
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Window Regulator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Power windows stop working, often due to a failed window regulator.
  • Solution: Replacement of the window regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400 per window
  • Recalls: None Found
• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The alternator can fail, leading to a dead battery, dimming lights, and eventual stalling.
  • Solution: Replacement of the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust is a common issue on older vehicles, especially in areas with road salt. It often appears on the rocker panels, wheel wells, and undercarriage.
  • Solution: Rust repair or panel replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies greatly depending on severity and extent of damage, $200-$2000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• No Issues Found

Summary

The 2002 Nissan Maxima, while generally reliable for its time, suffers from issues related to its age, particularly in the engine, transmission, suspension, and electrical systems. The most significant concerns include catalytic converter failure, transmission slipping (especially in the automatic version), and suspension component wear. While some repairs are relatively inexpensive, others like transmission replacement can be costly. Rust is also a consideration, particularly in regions with harsh winters.