The 1998 Nissan Maxima, part of the A32 generation (1995-1999), was a front-wheel-drive mid-size sedan marketed as "The 4-Door Sports Car." Key trims included the GLE and the sportier GXE. New pricing typically ranged from $21,000 to $27,000. Its popularity stemmed from offering a potent V6 engine and engaging driving dynamics at a competitive price, making it a standout in its segment.
The Good
The 1998 Maxima impressed with its spirited V6 performance, comfortable ride, and surprisingly spacious interior. Its appealing, somewhat sporty design resonated with buyers seeking more than just basic transportation. Practically, it offered good value and reasonable reliability for its class.
The Bad
Owners should be aware of potential issues like transmission problems, particularly in automatic transmissions. Other common concerns include oil leaks from the valve covers, exhaust manifold cracks, and potential rust on the rear fenders and rocker panels. The power steering pump can also be a source of leaks.
1998 Nissan Maxima: Quick Overview
- Engine Options: The primary engine for the 1998 Nissan Maxima was a 3.0-liter V6.
- Horsepower: This V6 engine produced approximately 190 horsepower.
- Fuel Economy: Estimated fuel economy was around 18 MPG city and 25 MPG highway.
- 0-60 Times: Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph was typically in the mid-to-high 7-second range, which was competitive for its class at the time.
- Towing Capacity: The 1998 Nissan Maxima was not designed for towing, and therefore, towing capacity is not applicable.
- Trim-Level Features:
GXE (Base Model): Standard features included power windows, power locks, power mirrors, cruise control, air conditioning, a tilt steering wheel, and a basic AM/FM/cassette stereo system. Some models might have had optional alloy wheels.
GLE (Higher Trim): Built upon the GXE, the GLE often added features such as leather upholstery, automatic climate control, a power driver's seat, a premium Bose audio system with a CD player, alloy wheels, and fog lights. Some advanced options like a sunroof might have been available on this trim.
Both trims benefited from Nissan's focus on a comfortable and quiet cabin, with supportive seating, making them suitable for longer journeys. The GXE was positioned as the driver-focused model, while the GLE offered a more luxurious experience.
1998 Nissan Maxima Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 1998 |
| Make | Nissan |
| Model | Maxima |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Sedan |
| Category | Compact Car |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | Japan |
| Manufacturing City | YOKOSUKA CITY |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | VQ30 |
| Engine Size | 3L |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 |
| Transmission | - |
| Transmission Type | - |
| Transmission Speeds | - |
| Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | - |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
Vehicle History Report
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Analysis
Analysis
What Problems Does the 1998 Nissan Maxima Have?
The 1998 Nissan Maxima, while generally considered a robust car, is not without its common issues that owners frequently report. One of the most significant concerns revolves around the automatic transmission. Many owners have experienced premature failure or significant wear, often manifesting as slipping gears or a loss of power, especially at higher mileage. This is a costly repair that prospective buyers should investigate thoroughly. Another prevalent problem is oil leaks. Specifically, valve cover gaskets are notorious for degrading over time, leading to oil seeping into the spark plug wells or dripping onto the exhaust manifold, which can cause smoking and a burning oil smell. Exhaust manifold cracks are also a common complaint; these can result in exhaust leaks, a ticking noise, and a decrease in performance. Rust is another considerable long-term concern, particularly in regions with harsh winters and road salt. Rear quarter panels, rocker panels, and wheel wells are susceptible to significant corrosion. Furthermore, the power steering system can develop leaks, often from the pump or hoses, leading to a loss of power steering assistance. While there haven't been widespread recalls specifically targeting major component failures for the 1998 model year, regular maintenance is crucial to mitigate these issues. Addressing minor leaks and rust spots early can prevent them from becoming major problems. The manual transmission variants generally exhibit better reliability than their automatic counterparts. Overall, while the Maxima offers a compelling driving experience, potential buyers must be vigilant about these known weaknesses.
How long will the 1998 Nissan Maxima last?
With diligent maintenance, a 1998 Nissan Maxima can realistically achieve 200,000 to 250,000 miles, and in some cases, even more. Owner data suggests that vehicles that have had regular oil changes, transmission fluid flushes, and timely attention to minor leaks and wear items tend to endure well. The V6 engine itself is generally durable. However, the longevity is significantly impacted by the aforementioned weaknesses. Automatic transmission failures can drastically shorten service life if not addressed. Similarly, untreated rust can compromise the structural integrity over time. While the core powertrain exhibits potential for long-term service, owners must be proactive in addressing common issues to maximize the vehicle's lifespan and maintain its mechanical soundness.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 1998 Nissan Maxima offered a blend of standard and optional features that were competitive for its era, focusing on comfort and basic convenience. Standard technology included power windows, power door locks, and a tilt-adjustable steering wheel. Entertainment systems typically consisted of an AM/FM radio with a cassette player, with an optional CD player becoming more common, especially in the higher GLE trim. Some GLE models were also equipped with a premium Bose sound system, offering a richer audio experience. Driver-assistance features were limited by today's standards, primarily including cruise control. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) was a standard safety feature across all trims, designed to prevent wheel lock-up during hard braking. Airbags were standard for the driver and front passenger. Optional features could include a power-adjustable driver's seat and automatic climate control on the GLE, enhancing occupant comfort. Regarding crash-test ratings, specific data for the 1998 model year from agencies like the NHTSA and IIHS can be sparse for older vehicles. However, vehicles from this era generally did not perform as well in frontal and side-impact tests as modern cars. The Maxima of this generation was designed with a relatively robust safety cage for its time, but it lacked advanced crumple zones and sophisticated airbag systems found in today's vehicles. It's advisable to check resources like Edmunds or Kelley Blue Book for historical crash test summaries if available, but expect ratings that would be considered modest by current safety benchmarks.
What Colors Options are Available?
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In the meantime, feel free to explore the other sections for more content.
In the meantime, feel free to explore the other sections for more content.
1998 Nissan Maxima Prices and Market Value
When new, the 1998 Nissan Maxima had an MSRP ranging from approximately $21,000 for the GXE to over $27,000 for a well-equipped GLE. Like most vehicles of its age, it has experienced significant depreciation. Currently, used 1998 Maxima prices vary widely, typically falling between $1,000 and $4,000, depending heavily on condition, mileage, and maintenance history. Factors significantly affecting resale value include the presence of known mechanical issues (especially transmission problems), rust damage, overall cosmetic condition, and a documented service history. A well-maintained, low-mileage example with fewer of the common weaknesses can command a higher price, while neglected models are priced very low. The market for these cars is primarily enthusiasts or budget-conscious buyers looking for a capable, older sedan.
1998 Nissan Maxima Cost of Ownership
Ownership costs for a 1998 Nissan Maxima can be moderate if well-maintained, but can quickly become costly due to potential repairs. Insurance is generally affordable, especially for liability-only coverage on older vehicles. Fuel costs are reasonable, averaging around 18 MPG city/25 MPG highway for the V6. Routine maintenance like oil changes and tire rotations are standard. However, repair costs can be significant, particularly for transmission issues or exhaust manifold repairs, which can run into the thousands of dollars. While it offers good value as an initial purchase, unexpected major repairs can make its long-term ownership more costly than initially anticipated, especially compared to more modern, simpler vehicles.
1998 Nissan Maxima Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Fuel Capacity
-
City Mileage
-
Highway Mileage
-
1998 Nissan Maxima Safety Rating
NHTSA
1998 Nissan Maxima Recalls & Defects
Electrical System:alternator/Generator/Regulator
Recall date
2002-06-24
Recall no.
02v171000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
ON Certain Passenger Vehicles, ONE OF THE Diodes Used IN THE Alternator MAY Have Been Damaged When Built. This CAN Eventually Result IN Failure OF THE Diode and AN Electrical Short Which Could Melt THE Plastic Housing.
Consequence
IF THE Combustible GAS Emitted BY THE Melting Plastic Does NOT Disperse DUE TO AIR Flow Through THE Engine Compartment, IT Could Ignite and IN Turn Ignite THE FAN Guide IN THE Alternator.
Remedy
Dealers Will Replace THE Alternator. Owner Notification Began July 29, 2002. Owners WHO Take Their Vehicles TO AN Authorized Dealer ON AN Agreed Upon Service Date and DO NOT Receive THE Free Remedy Within A Reasonable Time Should Contact Nissan AT 1-800-647-7261 or Infiniti AT 1-800-662-6200.
Notes
Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-888-Dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).
Exterior Lighting
Recall date
2006-05-24
Recall no.
06e049000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Certain CK Motorsports Combination Headlights, Clear Corner, Bumper, and Side Marker Lights Sold AS Replacement Lamps FOR USE ON THE Passenger Vehicles Listed Above. Some Combination Lamps That ARE NOT Equipped With Amber Side Reflectors Fail TO Conform TO Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard NO. 108, Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment.
Consequence
Without THE Amber Reflectors, THE Vehicle Will BE Poorly Illuminated, Possibly Resulting IN A Vehicle Crash Without Warning.
Remedy
CK Motorsport Will Notify Owners and Replace THE Noncompliant Lamps Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON July 1, 2006. Owners MAY Contact CK Motorsport AT 1-909-610-7211.
Notes
This Recall Only Pertains TO Aftermarket Replacement Equipment and HAS NO Relation TO ANY Original Equipment Installed ON Vehicles Manufactured BY THE Vehicle Manufacturers.for More Information ON THE Lamp Model Numbers, Click ON Document Search and View Document Titled "lamp Model Numbers."customers MAY Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty: 1-800-424-9153); or GO TO Http://Www.safercar.gov.
Exterior Lighting
Recall date
2006-03-23
Recall no.
06e026000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Certain Pro-A Motors Corner Lamps, Turn Signals, and Headlights Sold AS Replacement Lamps FOR USE ON Certain Passenger Vehicles Listed Above. Some Combination Lamps That ARE NOT Equipped With Amber Side Reflectors Fail TO Conform TO Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard NO. 108, Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment.
Consequence
Without THE Amber Reflectors, THE Vehicle Will BE Poorly Illuminated, Possibly Resulting IN A Vehicle Crash Without Warning.
Remedy
Pro-A Motors Will Notify Owners and Offer TO Repurchase THE Lamps. THE Recall Began ON April 3, 2006. Owners MAY Contact Pro-A Motors AT 323-838-2988.
Notes
This Recall Only Pertains TO Pro-A Motors Aftermarket Lamps and HAS NO Relation TO ANY Original Equipment Installed ON THE Listed Passenger Vehicles.for More Information ON THE Lamp Model Numbers, Click ON Document Search and View Document Titled "lamp Model Numbers."customers MAY Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty: 1-800-424-9153); or GO TO Http://Www.safercar.gov.
Exterior Lighting:headlights
Recall date
2008-08-11
Recall no.
08e050000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
K2 Motor IS Recalling 1,921 Aftermarket Headlamps OF Various Models Sold FOR USE ON THE Above Listed Vehicles. These Headlamps ARE Missing THE Amber Side Reflex Reflector Which Fails TO Conform With THE Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard NO. 108, "lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
Consequence
Without THE Amber Side Reflex Reflectors, THE Lighting Visibility MAY BE Affected, Possibly Resulting IN A Vehicle Crash.
Remedy
K2 Motor Will Notify Owners and Offer A Full Refund. THE Recall Began ON Decemeber 17, 2008. Owners MAY Contact K2 Motor AT 1-909-839-2992.
Notes
This Recall Only Pertains TO Aftermarket Replacement Equipment and HAS NO Relation TO ANY Original Equipment Installed ON Vehicles Manufactured BY Honda, Ford, or Chrysler Llc. Customers MAY Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty: 1-800-424-9153); or GO TO Http://Www.safercar.gov.
Exterior Lighting:headlights
Recall date
2009-05-11
Recall no.
09e025000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Dope, Inc. IS Recalling 42,540 Combination Corner and Bumper Lamp Assemblies OF Various Part Numbers Sold FOR USE AS Aftermarket Equipment FOR Various Passenger Vehicles. These Headlamps Fail TO Conform TO THE Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard NO. 108, "lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment." These Lamps DO NOT Contain THE Required Amber Side Reflectors.
Consequence
Decreased Lighting Visibility MAY Result IN A Vehicle Crash.
Remedy
Dope, Inc. Will Notify Owners and Offer A Full Refund FOR THE Noncompliant Combination Lamps. THE Safety Recall Began ON July 28, 2009. Owners MAY Contact Dope, Inc. AT 1-626-272-1798.
Notes
This Recall Only Pertains TO Aftermarket Replacement Equipment and HAS NO Relation TO ANY Original Equipment Installed ON Vehicles Produced BY THE Vehicle Manufacturer.in Order TO Determine IF Your Aftermarket Lamp Assembly IS Affected BY This Noncompliance, Please Review THE List OF Model Numbers Provided TO US BY Dope, Inc.the List CAN BE Found Under "document Search" Located AT THE Bottom OF Your Screen. Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO <A Href=http://Www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
Exterior Lighting
Recall date
2009-04-07
Recall no.
09e012000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Sabersport IS Recalling 16,270 Combination Corner and Bumper Lamp Assemblies OF Various Part Numbers Sold FOR USE AS Aftermarket Equipment FOR Various Passenger Vehicles. These Headlamps Fail TO Conform TO THE Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard NO. 108, "lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment." These Lamps DO NOT Contain THE Required Amber Side Reflectors.
Consequence
Decreased Lighting Visibility MAY Result IN A Vehicle Crash.
Remedy
Sabersport Will Notify Owners and Offer A Full Refund FOR THE Noncompliant Combination Lamps. THE Safety Recall Began ON MAY 11, 2009. Owners MAY Contact Sabersport AT 1-909-598-7589.
Notes
This Recall Only Pertains TO Aftermarket Replacement Equipment and HAS NO Relation TO ANY Original Equipment Installed ON Vehicles Produced BY THE Vehicle Manufacturer.in Order TO Determine IF Your Aftermarket Lamp Assembly IS Affected BY This Noncompliance, Please Review THE List OF Model Numbers Provided TO US BY Sabersport.the List CAN BE Found Under "document Search" Located AT THE Bottom OF Your Screen.owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO <A Href=http://Www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
1998 Nissan Maxima Insurance
Insurance for a 1998 Nissan Maxima is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Sedan with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 1998 Nissan Maxima Compare to Other Sedan?
The 1998 Nissan Maxima competed in a crowded sedan segment against rivals like the Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Ford Taurus, and Chevrolet Lumina. In terms of performance, the Maxima often held an edge due to its V6 engine and sportier tuning, earning its "4-Door Sports Car" moniker. The Camry and Accord were known for their exceptional reliability and fuel efficiency but were generally less performance-oriented. The Taurus and Lumina offered larger interiors and a smoother ride, but their V6s often lagged behind the Maxima's power, and their long-term reliability could be more questionable. Regarding features, the Maxima's GLE trim offered a good balance of luxury and technology for the price, often matching or exceeding competitors in comfort amenities. However, reliability is where the Maxima faced its toughest challenge. While the engine was solid, the automatic transmission issues are well-documented and significantly impacted its reputation compared to the bulletproof transmissions found in many Toyotas and Hondas. In terms of price, the Maxima was competitively positioned, offering strong value for its performance and amenities.
Similar alternatives that offer a strong blend of performance and comfort might include the V6-powered Acura TL of the same era, which generally boasted better reliability but at a higher price point. The Mitsubishi Diamante also offered a V6 and a comfortable ride. If reliability is paramount and performance is secondary, the Toyota Camry V6 or Honda Accord V6 are excellent choices. For a more budget-friendly option with decent performance, a well-maintained Ford Taurus SHO (though rare) or a V6 Chevrolet Lumina could be considered, but with a greater risk of higher maintenance costs. The 1998 Maxima remains appealing for its driving dynamics and value if one is prepared for potential transmission maintenance.
Final Verdict: Is the 1998 Nissan Maxima a Good Sedan?
The 1998 Nissan Maxima is ideal for budget-conscious buyers who prioritize spirited driving dynamics and a comfortable ride over absolute long-term mechanical certainty. It's worth considering as a used vehicle for those who appreciate its "4-Door Sports Car" ethos and are willing to accept the potential for transmission-related repairs. Buying this Maxima is best done under specific conditions: meticulously inspect any used example for signs of transmission trouble and rust. The manual transmission variants are generally more reliable and a safer bet. Specific trims like the GXE offer a sporty feel, while the GLE provides more comfort. It's a car for enthusiasts or pragmatic buyers who understand its quirks and are prepared for potential maintenance, offering a rewarding driving experience when well-maintained.
Cathleen V
Cathleen is an exceptional freelance writer covering hot topics in the automotive world from a gearhead's perspective. Her articles delve into various aspects of automotive technology and history, offering readers detailed insights into engine performance, reliability, and maintenance. Through her engaging and informative writing, Cathleen provides valuable information to automotive enthusiasts and consumers alike, helping them make informed decisions about vehicle maintenance and purchases.