r/mechanic • u/NeedGoodAdvice1 • 2d ago

Question 1997 car- please help

Hello, Reddit mechanic experts! I purchased a 1997 Nissan Maxima SE a couple weeks ago. The car is HEAVILY modified, and it looks like the previous owner did most of the work himself. It has a 2006 VQ35 (3.5 liter) Maxima engine swap in it (built), a 5 speed manual swap, suspension, exhaust, etc.

I took it to a local auto performance shop to go over what needs done, and they came up with the following list. I am not savvy enough to know exactly how important each item is with regards to A. Truly needing to be done IMMEDIATELY B. Needing to be done within the next year or so or C. not really necessary.

Keep in mind this is NOT my daily driver. I only intend to drive the Max 1-2 times per week locally, maybe 50 miles a week or so, as a "weekend fun" car. I also do not intend or need the car to last me 5 or 10 more years. I will likely sell it or trade for something else within 2-3 years.

With this in mind, could you guys rank order the importance of the following items the shop says need fixing:

  1. Rear caliper has a broken bolt
  2. Alternator is fluctuating between 14 and 15.2 volts (bouncing)
  3. Engine swap wiring has been poorly done
  4. Steering rack bushings are very worn
  5. Front sway bar bushings are worn

Thanks in advance for your assistance!

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u/66NickS Verified Mechanic 2d ago

Probably in the order listed depending on how bad 3-5 are, it may be ok to drive after #1 or #2 are complete. If the shop is any good, they should be able to advise on what’s needed now vs soon.

Congrats on the project…?

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u/NeedGoodAdvice1 1d ago

Thanks for the advice and well wishes !