Safety
The Maxima failed to impress me when it came to its Latch connectors and child-safety-seat fit. The backseat has bolsters that interfered with the fit of my sons' booster seats. The result? The booster seats sat slightly crooked. Sounds safe, doesn't it? The Latch connecters were difficult to access, so it looks like some kid-friendly renovations are in order in the Maxima.
The Maxima has all the standard safety features we look for, including side-impact airbags, side curtain airbags for both rows of seats, antilock brakes, traction control and an electronic stability system.
I also like that the emergency trunk release handle is easily visible in the trunk. It made me feel secure knowing it's in there in case I ever find myself stuck in the trunk for whatever reason. I should really watch less "Law and Order."
FAMILY LIFESTAGE
In Diapers: There's plenty of room for a rear-facing infant-safety seat.
In School: My sons' booster seats didn't fit well in the backseat because of the bolsters.
Teens: This is a distinctive-looking sedan that any teen would happily drive.
See also:
Driving Impressions
The Pathfinder performs capably on the highway and in the wilderness. It's
quiet while cruising and emits a slight truck-type drone. Its engine snarls a
bit during hard acceleration.
A four-whee ...
Glass
When cleaning the rear window, it may be easier
to clean if the high-mounted stop light (if so
equipped) is removed first.
Be careful when removing the high-mounted
stop light to reduce the r ...
Wheel balance
Unbalanced wheels may affect vehicle handling
and tire life. Even with regular use, wheels can
get out of balance. Therefore, they should be
balanced as required.
Wheel balance service should b ...