2002 Nissan Maxima Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.60/5 Average
311 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

The Maxima receives updates this year that make it less of a family sedan and more of an entry-level luxury sport sedan. Headlining this year's upgrades is a 3.5-liter V6 that produces a stunning 255 horsepower. For maximum performance, sport-tuned SE models now combine this engine with a standard six-speed manual transmission. Other changes include revised exterior styling, additional feature content and an optional GPS navigation system.

Pros:
  • Impressively powerful V6 engine, sports car moves, plenty of room for five adults.
Cons:
  • Odd styling details, high price, rough ride quality with SE suspension.

User Reviews:

Showing 81 through 90 of 311.00
  • Maximum - 2002 Nissan Maxima
    By -

    I had been waiting many years to buy a Max., for various reasons I purchased other cars instead. Boy, am I glad I waited! The power, luxury, and performance you just cant beat for the money. Think about how many cars you can get for under 30K that can do 6 to 7 seconds 0 to 60. Just make sure that when you plant the gas padal you are holding on tight to the steering wheel, you get major torque steer. Great fit and finish, except the position of some of the controls and the richness of the sound from the Bose system. Other than that thrilled, simply thrilled! You want a sedan that will make your blood pump and get you past just about anyone quickly on the highway? Drive this car!

  • good car for the money - 2002 Nissan Maxima
    By -

    this is my 2nd maxima. i really enjoy driving this car. it is very fast, and rides smooth. i looked at the acura tl s-type and the infinity i35. both were very similar to the maxima. the maxima though was thousands cheaper. i never had a problem with my first maxima. that is why i chose this car again. reliability!!!!

  • 2nd MAXIMA...LAST MAXIMA - 2002 Nissan Maxima
    By -

    This car has been problems from the time it was about 3 months old until now. I have had the car in the shop 7 times now in 9 months. Bose radio was replaced, hood shakes when going highway speeds, electrical problems, and it has also died on me 4 times in the last 2 weeks. Dealership cant fix several of the problems.

  • Sport Sedan - 2002 Nissan Maxima
    By -

    After 40,000 miles, this car remains fun to drive. Except for a O2 sensor, Ive had no problems. Highway mileage is 30 MPG. The RE92 tires will go 50K. My major complaint is the fact that the engine holds on to its revs between shifts.

  • 2002 Nissan Maxima GXE - 2002 Nissan Maxima
    By -

    Excellent value. One of the best engines Ive seen, very powerful, yet quiet and refined. I like the ext. styling and the interior is comfortable. It was between this and the Toyota Camry V6-I felt the Camry was more comfy inside, yet I like the Maximas performance and ext. styling. I would also consider the 2003 Accord. The only complaints are wind noise at highway speeds (sounds like the rear passenger window is slightly rolled down), having to turn on the cruise control every time the car is started, and the beep of the horn when locking the vehicle. I highly recommend this car.

  • Very Nice Second Car - 2002 Nissan Maxima
    By -

    Had a 1990 Maxima SE for years, finally had to put her to rest. Went looking to replace on a $12-13K budget, didnt find much on dealer lots. Ended up going private party, found a very clean, luxurious 2002, paid a little over $14K. Its my commuter car, but a pretty nice one. Really like the black leather interior with the dark grey color and the fancy touches -- heated steering wheel, seats heated and also memory, Bose, auto-dim mirror. My other car is M3, so I wanted a different driving experience, although Id prefer a little less body roll and bounce. Hopefully will be as reliable as my 1990.

  • My Baby - 2002 Nissan Maxima
    By -

    This is a great car for anyone single or with a family. It is sporty enough for the single folks but yet roomy enough for a family. I would recommend this car to anyone wanting something powerful.

  • New 2k2 GLE - 2002 Nissan Maxima
    By -

    As a previous Nissan owner, 95 Maxima, and 88 Pulsar, I was impressed by the reliability of my Nissans. Having been an owner of Fords, Chevys and Plymouths I was easy to impress. My new 2k2 GLE appears to be as good as or better than my 95 GLX. I have not had any problems, defects, or quality defects (but I only have 1700 mi on it).

  • 2002 Maxima vs. 2002 Altima - 2002 Nissan Maxima
    By -

    Owned a 2002 Nissan Altima, there not as close as critics say they are !

  • Problems, but it never left me stranded. Car changes its own oil. . - 2002 Nissan Maxima
    By -

    Ok its been 5 years since we purchased our gunmetal grey 2002 Maxima w/6 speed manual. The car had roughly 78k on it at the time certified pre-owned vehicle from West Covina Nissan. Now has well over 160k fast, hard miles. Maintenance has been: Front brakes three times, goes thru tires a lot. Front right wheel assembly and hub became loose. Replaced clutch as well. Sound system broke. Power steering leak. Uses 2.5 quarts of oil every month or so, which is a lot. This is very common as are the individual coil packs failing (theres 6), and O2 sensors (4 I believe),Catalytic converter failed. These days my Maxima is firing on only two cylinders and we have thrown in the towel. Car still runs!

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