Ask an expert

Hi,

I have owned the 2nd hand nz new Maxima for about 12 years and has served us extremely well as a family car but is getting a bit tired, needs some work and with the wife mostly using it with the kids I like the idea of improved safety with air bags etc.

I would like to replace it with something of similar size, needs to seat at least 5 and I would like to keep it for a similar period of time (or longer!) so reliability is a important. I have a budget of up to $15K.

I have looked at the newer Maxima's and Teana imports and there seems to be quite a big price difference between the two. For example seem to be able to get a 2008 with around 80K on the clock for about $15K but a 2005 Teana with similar k's will be around $9K. I know they have a smaller engine but it does seem quite a premium on nz new.

I have owned jap imprts before but they have turned out to be lemons and really don't want to repeat the experience so am quite turned off by the imports from that perspective, is this justified?

Other cars I have given consideration to are Ford Falcon and Toyota Camry.

Cheers
Dean

The newer Nissan Maxima/Teana models in this price range will in most cases be fitted with a CVT transmission. The CVT automatic doesn't have a great reputation and is best avoided. A low mileage Toyota Camry is worth considering as it has a good reputation for reliability.

Japanese used imports do have a reputation for poor service history whereas a New Zealand new model you can normally trace the services and the specification levels can also differ - which is why NZ new models are normally dearer. It will be a good idea to have the vehicle serviced.

Whether it is a NZ new or Japan used import you should get the vehicle checked out properly before purchasing any vehicle as even a NZ new model can be a lemon.

Thanks for your response, I have been looking at Camry's but test drove a 09 Falcon FG XT the other day, with low k's and quite liked it. How are these cars for reliability.

thanks again
Dean

The Ford Falcon 2009 is a good vehicle and not aware of any major faults with them.