Nissan Repair: 2005 Nissan Maxima Transmission, 2005 nissan maxima, nissan maxima

Question
QUESTION: My Sister owns a 2005 Nissan Maxima.  All of a sudden, the transmission is now hardshifting from 1st to 2nd gear; hesitates and then jumps into gear.  This car has 66K miles on it.  There are numerous complaints about this transmission on the internet.  Nissan is aware of the issues with this transmission, however, not inclined to help with the repair.  The local nissan dealer is telling her that she needs a brand new transmission to the tune of $4,000.00.  In speaking with a local transmission service company, I'm told that the problem with these transmissions is that the Valve Body goes out causing metal shaving internally in the transmission which is causing the problem.

Any advice?

ANSWER: Charlie,

I would contact Nissan USA and see if they have a solution since the dealer will not help.  If you get no resolution let me know and we will go from there.

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: My Sister has been in contact with Nissan and after a week of waiting, they told her they were not inclined to help her with her vehicle.  Also, my sister is military and had the JAG office send a letter to Nissan along with all of the complaints that she found from other owners.  After two weeks, Nissan sent the Attorney a letter back stating again that they were not inclined to help resolve her problem.

Answer
Charlie,

First, get on-line and source a used unit.  Greenleaf is a wrecking yard I use and there is also ebay and the like.

Second, go to the National Highway Transportation Safety Agency website nhtsa.gov and fill out a complaint form.  Remember, that this could be a safety issue since if it fails moving you could get into an accident.  Look what Toyota is going through.  They should do something...  But, NHTSA will make their lives interesting even if they do not help you.  Also, there are many military websites that you can share information on how the manufacturer is treating you.  Another option is the class action lawsuit where all the people join and go after the manufacturer to get resolution to the problem.  Bad press makes people think differently as to what really costs more...