2001 Nissan maxima occasionally will not shift out of 1st gear
It will be working fine and then it will not shift from 1st gear. If I turn off the car and begin again, it will shift fine.
51 views
2001 Nissan Maxima Reviews, Pricing & Specs
Write a review
Minor additions appear this year for the 2001 Nissan Maxima. The front-wheel drive mid-size personal sports luxury sedan was overhauled last year to offer more power, more room, and better road handling and performance. For 2001, four trims are offered -- the base GXE, sporty SE, luxury GLE, and the 20th Anniversary Edition SE. This limited edition Maxima gets 5 more horsepower in its Infinity I30 3.0-liter V6 engine, hitting 227-hp. In addition to the sports components on the SE, the Anniversary Edition adds a body kit, 17-inch alloy wheels, side sills, bronze headlight covers, and a limited slip differential. A sunroof is standard and leather seats optional.
The other trims remain virtually the same, with a 222-hp version of the V6. A 5-speed manual is standard on the GXE and SE, and the optional 4-speed automatic is standard on the GLE. The 2001 Maxima gets wheel-mounted audio controls on both SE and GLE. These are optional on the GXE. While the SE gets a sports suspension, foglights, and a rear spoiler, the GLE treats you right with leather seats, automatic climate control, and power front seats. Dual front airbags and ABS brakes are standard for all trims. A new Meridian Package adds on side curtain bags, heated seats and mirrors, and a washer fluid alert. Traction control is optional.
One of the draws of the Maxima is its extra head and shoulder room that makes it roomier than the Camry or Accord. Owners like all the standard features that come with even the base model (power accessories, keyless entry), and especially like the heated seats option. The new style and engine power lend the 2001 Maxima a sporty edge over other mid-size sedans, and drivers say acceleration and handling is top-notch. Gas mileage is disappointing, and there is a problem with paint chipping off. Seats can be stiff on long trips and the rear windows let in some road noise. Repair visits tackle failing oxygen sensors, squeaky brakes, and ignition coils.
Published Aug 8, 2022 by CarGurus Editorial Team
User reviews for 2001 Nissan Maxima
Write a reviewUser rating:
by Peter W
Dec 09, 2020
Still going strong .... Just passed the 164000 mile mark. Iv e been really happy with this car. Powerful, smooth driving and very comfortable to drive. Highly recommend this era of Nissan Maxims!!!!!!!!!Dec 09, 2020
by Anonymous
May 26, 2015
Exhilarating to drive. Fast acceleration. Sports car handling. Feels safe due to size, powerful V-6 and weight. Roomy interior and trunk. Service and maintenance were expected incidents
of average vehicle life cycle. My last 2 vehicles have been a Maxima SE. Love the design. The SE is made for someone who enjoys the driving experience. May 26, 2015
by Calvin C
Nov 04, 2014
this is so far the best car I've owned to date, very reliable, powerful, and comfortable, would recommend a Nissan Maxima to anyone looking to buy something with low maintenance cost and a smooth, safe, comfortable ride. Great for Families or Bachelors.Nov 04, 2014
User rating:
by Peter W
Dec 09, 2020
Still going strong .... Just passed the 164000 mile mark. Iv e been really happy with this car. Powerful, smooth driving and very comfortable to drive. Highly recommend this era of Nissan Maxims!!!!!!!!!Dec 09, 2020
by Anonymous
May 26, 2015
Exhilarating to drive. Fast acceleration. Sports car handling. Feels safe due to size, powerful V-6 and weight. Roomy interior and trunk. Service and maintenance were expected incidents
of average vehicle life cycle. My last 2 vehicles have been a Maxima SE. Love the design. The SE is made for someone who enjoys the driving experience. May 26, 2015
by Calvin C
Nov 04, 2014
this is so far the best car I've owned to date, very reliable, powerful, and comfortable, would recommend a Nissan Maxima to anyone looking to buy something with low maintenance cost and a smooth, safe, comfortable ride. Great for Families or Bachelors.Nov 04, 2014
by Desi M
Jan 06, 2014
The sporty look of the car. Efficient engine and transmission combination. Reliability so far is great. Keeps the value even after this many years. The average similar Maxima are selling for around $5000 to $6000 which is not bad for a car that is over 12 year old.Jan 06, 2014
by Anonymous
Jul 27, 2013
love the car never had any problems with it
is very good in gas and nice Bose sound system
love the that is a stick sift
the Metalic gray color in my opinion is the best looking for this carJul 27, 2013
by Arthur C
Jul 13, 2012
decent acceleration and speed and plenty of leg room. Brakes arent too great
and the fuel economy is decent for a v6 and the car is easy and fun to drive. For
a 2001 car its fairly cheap to maintainJul 13, 2012
by Anonymous
Apr 14, 2012
The car rides smooth, has quick acceleration, high top speed(about 140-145), never has any problems, maintenance is easy and inexpensive, the handling is pretty good but has a below average turning radius, the Bose sound system really adds to the pleasure of a long ride.Apr 14, 2012
by David S
Apr 06, 2012
Good acceleration, brakes well, good handling. Doesn't squeak or rattle. So far only problem was starter died and plastic on top portion of radiator cracked so both were replaced. Interior and exterior styling is top notch. Gas mileage is decent but it requires premium grade fuel so right now that it hurting the wallet.
Overall I love my carApr 06, 2012
by Mike P
May 16, 2011
Great all round driveability. Great looks. Very reliable.
Been driving it daily for 2 1/2 years and compaints are minimal, just a good all round car.
Only real complaints are SEL and vinyl instead of leather on seat area.May 16, 2011
by Dan W
Jan 25, 2011
Wonderful car, reliable as anything, just hit the 110K mark and it needs a couple things, namely a new cat and ABS sensor, but it's to be expected with any can at 110K miles. It's incredible FUN and PEPPY, and sounds incredible when opened up. The engine is bulletproof, and has never had any issues at all. It's also very comfortable, and offers tons of space, leather, traction control, side air bags, heated seats, and everything you could want in a 2001 car! Safe, reliable, fun, and it looks incredible!Jan 25, 2011
by Jeff W
Aug 01, 2010
The engine, transmission and body of this car was built very well. The emissions system and are horrible. The check engine light will just have to burn out. The c-pillars/rear doors have WAY too much wind noise. The drivers seat is comfortable for a really long trip (9+ hrs). Aug 01, 2010
by Don F
Aug 08, 2009
The interior is nice, and the engine has pretty darn good pickup. plenty of room for my family of five when our SUV broke down. I have spent $$ only on tires, brakes, alternator, and a battey & tune up since I bought this car with 45K miles on it. Highly recommended.Aug 08, 2009
by Anonymous
Feb 25, 2009
i like my car,very sporty yet for the family as well, i bought mine used for 2,300 from a friend of mine with 130,000 miles on it. the check engine light is on but it is suppose to be due to an o2 sensor being replaced and the computer not being cleared, not sure but it is not giving me any problems at all. drive it everyday, my previous car which i still have is a 93 honda accord...hate to say but my honda rides just as smooth as the newer maxima...wow..but overall the car is fun to drive, love the interior layout, acceleration is awesome, seems to get good gas mileage!Feb 25, 2009
by Waine C
Sep 12, 2008
Great car, comfortable but the gas mileage on the 2001 was terrible. Overall it was a very smooth driving car with so so acceleration. I would probably recommend the SE trim to anyone looking at the Maxima. It was not a fun car to drive but it had more power and extras than the Accord's of that time.Sep 12, 2008
by Anonymous
Sep 04, 2008
The only thing i don't like about my car is the repairs it needs now. The engine is solid but need a little work like intake, headers, exhaust, ect.. you see where i'm going.
Once we get the important stuff done the play time will begin. It only has 142,000 k on it and for a V6 it's pretty good on gas.Sep 04, 2008
by Anonymous
Aug 21, 2008
260 brake horse power 230 foot pound of torque good performance. Heated leather cruise control, Halo Projection headlamp kit. HID kit, K&H cold air Intake system, HKS exhaust system, Eibach springs, Tokico adjustable shocks, Sony Xplod sound system, Greddy shift knob, BEST THING IS MANUAL TRANSMISSION VERY FUN TO DRIVEAug 21, 2008
by Brandon W
Mar 28, 2008
Wonderful ride, handling, and acceleration. SOO pleased!Mar 28, 2008
by Alex G
Mar 15, 2008
This car has it all, quick, has all the luxuries, and large. Handles pretty good to.Mar 15, 2008
by Andrew O
Mar 14, 2008
This car has a great engine, strong and relieable. Fun to drive, nice suspension setup. Handles well.Mar 14, 2008
by Anonymous
Nov 27, 2006
I bought my 2001 Nissan Maxima SE 5speed in May 2001 w/ 38,000 miles. This car is extremely fun to drive, I typically get bored with my vehicles pretty easily...A year and a half later im still thoroughly enjoying it. Great horsepower on one of the industries flagship V6 engines. Ive had some minor things that needed repaired....the Emergency brake clamp on the right side kept sticking, and was approx $150 to replace. The exhausts do not last as long as they should, I relpaced the exhaust system at 49k costing $600 at a nissan dealership. Midas had a tin can version of the exhaust for $300ish. The catalyctic converter also needed replaced, a dealership was quoting me approx $800+ to have this repaired....I did my research and found that all Nissan Catalyctic converters have an 8yr/100k warranty...I had it replaced for free at another dealership.
It has been a very reliable car, never broken down (knock on wood). I now have 73k on it and have taken many long road trips....Virgina, Canada etc and loved the ride.
Nissan gets great style points for this car. Campared to the camry, accord etc of 2001, the Maxima easily wins. The exterior is sporty, elegant, and still one of the best looking mid size sedans on the road. The maxima interior is high quality compared to most competitors, and even most Nissan interiors.
The Three complaints about this car are:
1, BAD GAS MILEAGE, window sticker states 22-27mpg.....I have a 5-speed manual, and with conservative driving can only squeeze approx 325 miles to a full tank.
2, PAINT - The paint quality is poor. The paint scratches, and chips very very easily. Splashing for the additional "Autobahnd" claer protector etc is a good idea with these vehicles. I keep the wax fresh, and still have a hard time keeping the paing looking new.
3, WIND NOISE - The 00-03 maximas have a major wind noise defect coming from both rear windows. There have been several Technical Service bulletins posted regarding the wind noise but to the best of my knowledge there have been no major solutions posted.
Overall, you will be happy with this car....If you love to drive, and enjoy performance, you can easily deal with the gas, paint and wind noise. I would recommend this car to anyone.Nov 27, 2006
What users have asked
4429 views
My car won't star but cranks over
I have a 01 nissan and i bought it 2 years ago and it ran great till a week ago. Last year i had to replace the battery amd starter. Well about 3 weeks ago or 4 my car would randomly sputter not only could i feel it i can hear it coming from the exhaust sounded like a bad stick shift. Then it got worse went from randomly to consistently and at a stop or park my Rpms would drop down to 500! It acted like it wasn't getting gas even tho i have half a tank. When i accelerate it went slow but it sounds like the air fuel ratio is off sounds like to much air. Anyways it stopped starting all together even a jump start doesn't help and if it does it runs 5 secs then dies and hitting the throttle does nothing. In the past week i changed the fuel pump and strainer, all 6 spark plugs and coil packs, and now the camshaft sensor and still nothing! Oh amd when it does start is smells like a lite exhausty smell idl how to explain it. And my dad said the spark plugs smelled like unburnt gas and the camshaft sensor was cover in oil idk if thats normal. I cant use a code reader i have cause my car wont stay on long enough. Im stumped. Help!!
13 views
How change a 01 gle maxima to a rwd?
Ok I have a 2001 nissan maxima gle 4sp auto trans Fwd. I want know if i switch it to Rwd with a different drivetrain or driveshaft what do need to do to get it to a rwd?
18 views
Top Comparisons
Have you driven a 2001 Nissan Maxima?Compare this car
2001 Nissan Maxima Pricing
Original MSRP
$23,489 to $27,689Price range
N/AAverage price on CG
N/AYoY price change
N/ATrims & specs
Airbags
Dual front airbags · Front side airbags
Audio System
Single disc in-Dash CD · AM/FM radio
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel
Convenience Features
Multi-function remote: keyless entry · Steering wheel: tilt-adjustable · Steering wheel mounted controls: audio
Lights
Exterior entry lights: security approach lamps · Headlights: Auto on/off
Mirrors
Exterior mirrors: power · Inside rearview mirror: electrochromic
Rear Seats
Type: split-bench
Roof
Moonroof: power
Seats
Front seat type: bucket · Heated: front seats · Upholstery: leather
Tires and Rims
Wheels: alloy
Windows
Front wipers: intermittent
Air Conditioning
Automatic climate control front air conditioning
Airbags
Dual front airbags · Front side airbags
Audio System
Premium Brand: Bose · AM/FM radio
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel
Comfort Features
Shift knob trim: leather · Steering wheel trim: leather
Convenience Features
Multi-function remote: trunk release · Steering wheel: tilt-adjustable
Lights
Exterior entry lights: security approach lamps · Headlights: Auto on/off
Mirrors
Exterior mirrors: power · Inside rearview mirror: electrochromic
Rear Seats
Type: split-bench
Roof
Moonroof: power
Seats
Front seat type: bucket · Heated: front seats · Upholstery: leather
Tires and Rims
Wheel type: aluminum alloy
Windows
Front wipers: intermittent
Air Conditioning
Automatic climate control front air conditioning
Airbags
Dual front airbags · Front side airbags
Audio System
Premium Brand: Bose · AM/FM radio
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel
Comfort Features
Shift knob trim: leather · Steering wheel trim: leather
Convenience Features
Dimming rearview mirror: auto-dimming · Multi-function remote: keyless entry · Steering wheel: tilt-adjustable
Lights
Exterior entry lights: security approach lamps · Headlights: Auto on/off
Mirrors
Exterior mirrors: heated
Rear Seats
Type: split-bench
Roof
Moonroof: power
Seats
Front seat type: bucket · Heated: front seats · Upholstery: leather
Tires and Rims
Wheel type: aluminum alloy · Wheels: chrome
Windows
Front wipers: intermittent
Air Conditioning
Automatic climate control front air conditioning
Airbags
Dual front airbags · Front side airbags
Audio System
AM/FM radio
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel
Comfort Features
Shift knob trim: leather · Steering wheel trim: leather
Convenience Features
Dimming rearview mirror: auto-dimming · Multi-function remote: keyless entry · Steering wheel: tilt-adjustable
Drivetrain
Limited slip differential: front
Lights
Exterior entry lights: security approach lamps · Headlights: Auto on/off
Mirrors
Exterior mirrors: power
Rear Seats
Type: split-bench
Roof
Moonroof: power
Seats
Front seat type: bucket · Heated: front seats · Upholstery: cloth
Tires and Rims
Wheel type: aluminum alloy
Windows
Front wipers: intermittent