Manifold/header/muffler/tail Pipe problems of the 2002 Nissan Altima - part 1

80 problems related to manifold/header/muffler/tail pipe have been reported for the 2002 Nissan Altima. The most recently reported issues are listed below. Please also check out the statistics and reliability analysis of the 2002 Nissan Altima based on all problems reported for the 2002 Altima.

1 Manifold/header/muffler/tail Pipe problem

Failure Date: 09/28/2019

My engine is destroyed because a screw came loose from the throttle body in the plenum, got sucked into an engine cylinder and destroyed that cylinder. This would cost somewhere between $3k to $5k to repair, more than the car is currently worth. In talking to a Nissan mechanic and doing online research, this is apparently not an unheard of problem for Nissan cars. There has been at least one recall for this problem in the past for some Nissan 4 cylinder cars but there was never a recall for 6 cylinder Nissan Altima cars (my car is a 3. 5l 6 cylinder model) the car was running fine. I parked it at my gym and when I came out, started it up. I was rewarded with an awful noise and engine vibration all of a sudden. I only lived 1. 5 miles away, so I slowly limped the car home. After some mechanical sleuthing and bringing a mechanic to my home, we determined that a screw had come loose and gotten sucked into the engine. I called Nissan USA to explain the problem and see if they would be able to offer any assistance. But all they offered was that they "would take a look " at the problem if I payed to tow the car to a dealership. They would not make any guarantee that they would then help me if the problem turned out to be as I have described. If they didn't agree to fix the problem, then I would be responsible for towing the car back to my house. Here is one url that lists 10 complaints for this problem with Nissan pathfinder autos, which use the same 6 cylinder engine as my car. Https://repairpal. Com/loose-screws-inside-intake-manifold-can-cause-internal-damage-if-they-fall-out-448 what makes this so awful is that I had a relatively low mileage older car (2002 with only 95k miles) and this problem makes the whole car a junker now due to no fault of my own with no recourse for me!.

2 Manifold/header/muffler/tail Pipe problem

Failure Date: 12/10/2014

Power valve screws in their 2003 Nissan Altima 2. 5s. There is currently a recall on 2004 and 2005 Altimas with the 2. 5s engine with vins starting with 1n4al11. The recall campaign id for this problem is p5202. However, the same problem affects the 2003 Altima with the 2. 5s engine, but Nissan north America has not added the 2003 year model to the recall. Both the 2003s and the 2004s have the exact same engine and I am a case in point of someone experiencing the exact same issue. However, Nissan has of yet not stated whether they will add the 2003 to the recall campaign. I wanted to first let other 2003 Altima owners with the 2. 5s engine become aware of this issue. Secondly don't pay to have the problem fixed, it needs to be reported to Nissan north America that the 2003 models are affected by this power valve screw issue. Here is the kicker: more than half the current value of the car. Please be sure and not let this happen to you. I have been on the phone with Nissan north America and my dealership. My dealership has been extremely honest with me and is working with me to get Nissan north America to add the 2003-year models to the recall campaign. If you have had a similar problem and had to pay for it, or if you are experiencing power loss, hearing engine rattle, unusual engine vibration, or hear a motorcycle engine type noise or muffler type sound coming from the engine, than you may be experiencing problems with the power valve. I hope this information saves someone out there both money and time. If you have already experienced this issue than please let me know. We are currently mounting evidence related to this issue in an attempt to make Nissan north America aware of the issue and add the 2003 model to the recall campaign as well as address the damage. If not we will need to file a class action lawsuit related to this issue.

3 Manifold/header/muffler/tail Pipe problem

Failure Date: 11/14/2012

Tl- the contact owns a 2002 Nissan Altima. The contact stated that while driving 45 mph, the vehicle exhibited a strange noise as smoke began to bellow from the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to a dealer for diagnosis. The dealer informed him that bits and pieces of the catalytic converter were becoming caught in the engine. He was informed of a recall for the failure under NHTSA campaign id number: 03v084000 (engine and engine cooling:exhaust system:manifold/header/muffler/tail pipe) but was also informed that his VIN was not included in the recall campaign. The manufacturer was notified but offered no assistance. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure and current mileage was 85,316. Kmj.

4 Manifold/header/muffler/tail Pipe problem

Failure Date: 03/12/2012

The contact owns a 2002 Nissan Altima. The contact stated that the service engine soon warning light was illuminated on and the contact experienced a reduction in engine power. The dealer was notified of the failure and the contact inquired of NHTSA campaign id numbers: 03v084000 ( engine and engine cooling:exhaust system:manifold/header/muffler/tail pipe) and 03v455000 (engine and engine cooling). The dealer advised that the vehicle was not included in either recall campaign. The dealer diagnosed that the catalytic converter needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was 148,295 and the current mileage was 148,300. Updated 05/03/lj.

5 Manifold/header/muffler/tail Pipe problem

Failure Date: 03/06/2012

Tl-the contact owns a 2002 Nissan Altima. While driving approximately 55 mph, the contact approached a stop signal when the vehicle suddenly began to shake with a hesitation. The contact maneuvered to the side of the road to inspect the vehicle. He noticed coolant leaking into the oil and the engine oil level had become extremely low. In addition, black and gray smoke emitted from the exhaust. The vehicle was taken to an independent auto shop twice. The technician advised the contact that the catalytic converter and the engine cylinder seal were defective. There was a recall associated with NHTSA campaign id number 03v084000 (engine and engine cooling:exhaust system:manifold/header/muffler/tail pipe) however, the contact's VIN was ineligible for repairs under the recall. The vehicle had not been repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the problem. The failure mileage was unavailable. Kmj.

6 Manifold/header/muffler/tail Pipe problem

Failure Date: 01/25/2012

The contact owns a 2002 Nissan Altima. The contact stated that the check engine light constantly illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an authorized dealer and the contact was informed that the pre-catalyst had broken down and destroyed the engine. The dealer then informed the contact of the recall associated with NHTSA campaign id number 03v084000 (engine and engine cooling: exhaust syste: manifold/header/muffler/tail pipe). The manufacturer was notifed and stated that the vehicle was not included in the recall. The failure and current mileages were 94,889. Updated 04/25/lj Nissan informed the consumer the vehicle was out of warranty. Updated 04/30/12.

7 Manifold/header/muffler/tail Pipe problem

Failure Date: 11/11/2011

The contact owns a 2002 Nissan Altima. The contact stated that the vehicle was abnormally consuming four quarts of engine oil in under a month. The contact referenced NHTSA recall campaign id number: 03v084000 (engine and engine cooling: exhaust: manifold/header/muffler/tail pipe) and stated that the vehicle was taken to the dealer where he was advised that the vehicle was not included in the recall. The dealer replaced the catalytic converter at the contact¿s expense. The failure mileage was unknown, but the current mileage was 135,000.

8 Manifold/header/muffler/tail Pipe problem

Failure Date: 09/20/2011

The contact owns a 2002 Nissan Altima. The contact stated the service engine light illuminated on the instrument panel. The contact took the vehicle to a mechanic and was told the catalytic converter needed to be replaced and that it was under recall. The contact spoke with the manufacturer regarding NHTSA recall campaign id number: 03v084000 (engine and engine cooling: exhaust system: manifold/ header/ muffler/ tail pipe) and was told the vehicle was not included in the recall. The failure mileage was 99,450. The VIN was not available.

9 Manifold/header/muffler/tail Pipe problem

Failure Date: 09/20/2011

The contact owns a 2002 Nissan Altima. The contact stated that the service engine warning light illuminated. The contact took the vehicle to a mechanic and was told that the catalytic converter needed to be replaced and that it was also under recall. The contact spoke with the manufacturer regarding NHTSA campaign id number: 03v084000 (engine and engine cooling: exhaust system: manifold/ header/ muffler/ tail pipe) and was told that the vehicle was not included. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was 99,450.

10 Manifold/header/muffler/tail Pipe problem

Failure Date: 09/15/2011

Purchased vehicle from a dealer in rittman, ohio, on September 10, 2011. Consumer reports rate this model as very reliable for the years manufactured. Less than one week later, 9-15-11, the oil light came on. Took to a quick change oil place on the morning of 9-16-11, and the worker commented that it only had 1 quart of oil in the engine. Drove for 2 days and was checking the engine compartment and notice there was again no oil in the engine. On 9-19-11, took car to a local garage and they diagnosed that the engine was damaged and needed to be replaced because the catalytic converter near the engine had broken into pieces and been sucked into the engine. Nissan dealership in mansfield, ohio confirmed this diagnosis on 9-20-2011. Alerted Nissan north America about this problem because of a vehicle recall executed by the NHTSA in 2003. (campaign id 03v084000) while the recall affected 338,000 vehicles, Nissan said my vehicle was not included? Nissan said that they would be unwilling to assist me with the cost of the engine replacement for that reason and that the mileage was too great. How can a car that exhibits the exact problem that the recall describes no matter what the mileage not be included in a safety recall? the NHTSA website lists 982 complaints regarding 2002 Nissan Altimas, many for engine failure caused by a faulty catalytic converter design. Cannot understand why the NHTSA has not opened another investigation to remedy this issue? the original complaint concerned three vehicles. This research should show that a greater problem still exists concerning the safety of these vehicles. I ask that the NHTSA please correct this problem for myself and the thousands of other motorists affected by this borderline criminal act. Have spent almost as much money to bring the vehicle into compliance ($4600) as the purchase price.

11 Manifold/header/muffler/tail Pipe problem

Failure Date: 09/01/2011

My VIN should be included in the below recall as my mechanic diagnosed and recommended I bring to Nissan to fix. But per there recall my car VIN is not included even though be as campaign # 03v084000. Please see campiagn notice below to reference. What can I do to make Nissan do the right thing and fix under recall. Recall number: 03v084000 summary: on certain vehicles equipped with the 2. 5 liter engine, the exhaust pipe hanger pin may catch debris from the road that could be ignited by contact with the main catalyst. Consequence: this condition could result in a fire. Remedy: dealers will remove the protruding portion of the exhaust pipe hanger pin. In addition to the corrective action, in order to reduce the risk of fire in the event of poor or improper maintenance that could result in oil spillage, heat shield(s) will be installed on the pre-catalyst and exhaust tube. Owner notification is expected to begin during may 2003. Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact Nissan at 1-800-647-7261. Notes: also on 2002 Altima and sentra vehicles, certain engine operating conditions may cause the pre-catalyst to overheat and damage the catalyst substrate. If substrate particles enter the combustion chamber, they could score the cylinder walls, resulting in increased oil consumption. If the engine oil level is not checked on a periodic basis and drops below the low level, and the driver continues to operate the vehicle ignoring noticeable engine noise, engine damage may occur which could result in a fire. Nissan is still developing a remedy for the pre-catalyst problem. Customers can also contact the national highway traffic safety administration's auto safety hotline at 1-888-dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).

12 Manifold/header/muffler/tail Pipe problem

Failure Date: 06/11/2011

This complaint is a continuation of your investigation pe02078. Nissan only addressed a part of the problem by recalling cat converters. However, this did not solve the problem as the engines were damaged causing excessive oil consumption. The problem is all connected but they didn't replaced the engines which has since been upgraded. Here's a link to the number of complaints even after the recalled parts were replaced (keeping in mind that not everyone makes a report). . Read more...

13 Manifold/header/muffler/tail Pipe problem

Failure Date: 02/01/2011

2002 Nissan Altima. Consumer requests reimbursement for the expense of replacing catalytic converter and oxygen sensor the consumer stated the check engine light illuminated. When the consumer took the vehicle to the a mechanic for a diagnosis, they found a stored code p0420; catalyst system efficiency below threshold. They erased the code to see if it would return and shortly thereafter it returned. Another diagnosis revealed a failed pre-catalytic converter. Upon removal of the catalytic converter it was found to be damaged as a result of overheating. The front oxygen sensor was also damaged and both had to be replaced. The consumer then discovered a recall had been issued, but when he contacted the dealer, they informed him that since he had already had the catalytic converter replaced, there was nothing further they could do for him, the consumer then contacted Nissan north America and was informed there were no open recalls on his vehicle.

14 Manifold/header/muffler/tail Pipe problem

Failure Date: 01/15/2011

The contact owns a 2002 Nissan Altima. While the contact was driving approximately 65 mph, the check engine warning indicator illuminated. The warning light remained illuminated until the vehicle was turned off. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic for diagnostic testing and they detected a faulty engine warning indicator. The vehicle was not repaired and the failure continued to occur. The vehicle was taken back to an independent mechanic where the catalytic converter and oxygen sensor were replaced. There was a recall associated with NHTSA campaign id number 03v084000 (engine and engine cooling: exhaust system: manifold/header/muffler/tail pipe). The manufacturer was notified and informed that the vehicle was not eligible because the vehicle exceeded the warranty. The failure mileage was approximately 110,000. ` updated 5/2/11.

15 Manifold/header/muffler/tail Pipe problem

Failure Date: 11/04/2010

The contact owns a 2002 Nissan Altima. The contact stated that the pre-catalyst converter overheated and shattered into pieces, causing the engine to fail. The engine would also exhibit a loud, abnormal noise when driving. The vehicle was taken to the dealer who stated that the catalytic converter ruined the engine which needed to be replaced. There was a recall under NHTSA campaign id number: 03v084000 (engine and engine cooling: exhaust system: manifold/header/muffler/tail pipe) but the contact's vehicle was not included in the recall. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and offered no assistance. The failure mileage was 101,000.

16 Manifold/header/muffler/tail Pipe problem

Failure Date: 11/01/2010

The contact owns a 2002 Nissan Altima. The contact stated that the vehicle was experiencing recurring engine failures in which the check engine light would illuminate on the instrument panel, the catalytic converter failed, and oil was being consumed excessively. The vehicle was taken to an independent repair shop on several occasions where numerous repairs were performed on the vehicle. Various repairs were performed on the vehicle, including the replacement of the catalytic converter. The failures continued. The contact was advised to have the engine rebuilt. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure, and the contact was informed the vehicle was not included in the recall associated with NHTSA campaign id number 03v084000 (engine and engine cooling:exhaust system:manifold/header/muffler/tail pipe). The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was 120,000.

17 Manifold/header/muffler/tail Pipe problem

Failure Date: 06/15/2010

The contact owns a 2002 Nissan Altima 3. 5. While driving approximately 40 mph, the contact applied pressure to the accelerator pedal but the vehicle became resistant to acceleration. The contact stated he was able to drive the vehicle but the vehicle continued to decelerate independently. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where the technician stated that the catalytic converter would need to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was contacted and stated there was a recall under NHTSA campaign id number: 03v084000 (engine and engine cooling: exhaust system: manifold/header/muffler/tail pipe) but the contacts VIN was not included. The approximate failure mileage was 90,000. Updated 03/18/lj.

18 Manifold/header/muffler/tail Pipe problem

Failure Date: 06/09/2010

The contact owns a 2002 Nissan Altima. The contact stated that the head gasket was blown. The check engine light had been illuminated fro some time and the contact noticed that the vehicle would shake abnormally at various speeds. The contact, who was a certified mechanic, stated that the head gasket failed due to the catalytic converter failing. In addition, the third cylinder was blown and caused the engine to fail. The dealer advised the contact that the failure was a known issue and was associated with NHTSA campaign id number: 03v084000 (engine and engine cooling: exhaust system: manifold/header/muffler/tail pipe). The contact did not confirm if his vehicle was included in the recall. The contact made repairs to the vehicle himself and replaced the engine. The failure mileage was 140,000 and the current mileage was 148,000. Updated 01/11/2011 updated 04/07/11.

19 Manifold/header/muffler/tail Pipe problem

Failure Date: 04/23/2010

If you google 2002 Nissan Altima problems you will see hundreds if not thousands of people complaining from about 60k to 100k about a design flaw of having the pre catalytic converter too close to the exhaust valves. The pre-cat was found to be a problem of breaking down the metals inside and causing them to be sucked into the engine and ruining the piston rings and ultimately blowing the engine. Nissan had said my car was not part of that recall but low and behold I experience the same symptoms. 2 quarts a week oil consumption, smoke coming out of the tail pipe, no heat until about 4k rpm. Many calls and complaints went upon deaf ears. Why is it so hard for them to see that they missed some on this recall. Many with this engine like sentra's with the 2. 5 engine have the same problem. Some have replaced the pre-cat just to have it fail again and ruin the engine after repairs.

20 Manifold/header/muffler/tail Pipe problem

Failure Date: 04/01/2010

The contact owns a 2002 Nissan Altima. The contact stated that the check engine light illuminated while attempting to start the vehicle, but the vehicle would not start. The vehicle was towed to the dealer who performed a diagnostic test listing the failure within the catalytic converter manifold. The manufacturer would not assist with the repair; because the vehicle warranty expired and it was not included in NHTSA campaign id number 03v084000; engine and engine cooling exhaust system manifold header muffler tail pipe. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure and the current miles were 79,000.

21 Manifold/header/muffler/tail Pipe problem

Failure Date: 12/01/2009

Recall number 03y-455 for 2002 Nissan Altima. The consumer stated over the past 24 months the service engine light illuminated intermittently. The vehicle also exhibited poor acceleration and power and it also ran a little rough. But, after driving a couple of miles the light went out, but a few days later the light illuminated again. The consumer took the vehicle to the dealer on several occasions and they performed an engine diagnostic. They were unable to pinpoint the problem as to why the light would illuminate and then go out. The consumer went back to the dealer and they recommended replacing catalytic converter which was apart of the recall.

22 Manifold/header/muffler/tail Pipe problem

Failure Date: 11/16/2009

The contact owns a 2002 Nissan Altima. While driving approximately 45 mph he began to see smoke coming from the exhaust pipe. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where he was informed that the pistons and catalyst needed to be replaced. The manufacturer was notified informed him that his vehicle was not included in the recall associated with NHTSA campaign id number 03v084000, engine and engine cooling:exhaust system:manifold/header/muffler/tail pipe. He also noted that the vehicle would burn oil quicker than usual. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure and current mileages were 68,000. The VIN was unavailable.

23 Manifold/header/muffler/tail Pipe problem

Failure Date: 11/10/2009

The contact owns a 2002 Nissan Altima. While driving approximately 55 mph he heard a loud knocking sound inside of the engine compartment. He then noticed an abnormal absorption of oil from the engine. The vehicle was taken to an authorized dealer for inspection. The technician recommended replacement of the engine and catalytic converter. The vehicle was partially repaired according to recall campaign id number 03v084000 (engine and engine cooling:exhaust system:manifold/header/muffler/tail pipe). No additional repairs were made. The failure mileage was 78,500. The current mileage was 79,200.

24 Manifold/header/muffler/tail Pipe problem

Failure Date: 11/01/2009

The contact owns a 2002 Nissan Altima. He heard a peculiar noise coming from the engine. A technician from the dealer made repairs to the catalytic converter. His VIN was included in recall campaign id number 03v084000 (engine and engine cooling:exhaust system:manifold/header/muffler/tail pipe). However he was advised by the manufacturer that the recall ended in December 2009 and was not an "actual recall". The representative added that if he had brought the vehicle in two months prior to the repairs, they would have covered the entire costs. The manufacturer agreed to split the costs of the repairs to the catalytic converter. The current and failure mileages were under 77,000. The VIN was not available.

25 Manifold/header/muffler/tail Pipe problem

Failure Date: 10/22/2009

The contact owns a 2002 Nissan Altima. The vehicle was repaired according to recall # 03v084000 (engine and engine cooling:exhaust system:manifold/header/muffler/tail pipe). Several years afterwards the engine warning light would illuminate on the instrument control panel. The vehicle was taken to the dealer and the error code was reset. Soon afterward the engine would intermittently stall. The current and failure mileages were 106500.

26 Manifold/header/muffler/tail Pipe problem

Failure Date: 08/13/2009

I began to burn about 1 quart of oil per 1000 miles that I drove at the beginning of 2009. There was also a strange growling noise when starting my car. Eventually the check engine light came on. The oil usage also began to increase. I brought my car to a local mechanic and they said that my catalytic converter needed to be replaced and there were some engine issues that was beyond their capabilities. They recommended taking it to a Nissan service department. I dropped my car off on 8/15 and within less then 2 hours they service technician told me that I not only needed a new catalytic converter but I also needed a new engine. He told me that because of a faulty design the front catalytic converter was to close to the engine causing it to over heat. Once it overheated it would break down and because there is no egr valve on the cat the particles of the converter would get sucked back into the engine which ended up scoring the cylinder walls. They told me that because the recall campaign # 03v084000 was "performed" at 13,208 miles Nissan would not cover the cost of a new engine and catalytic converter even though it is direclty related to the defective part that Nissan is already aware of. The service advisor quoted me 4586. Oo plus tax for my out of pocket cost and the parts and labor would only be covered for 12 monhs or 12,000 miles even though the engine that comes with the car when it is new is covered for 5 years or 60,000 miles. I am currently filing a complaint with Nissan and consluting a lawyer.

27 Manifold/header/muffler/tail Pipe problem

Failure Date: 08/12/2009

The contact owns a 2002 Nissan Altima. The contact stated that he received notification of NHTSA campaign id number 03v084000(engine and engine cooling: exhaustsystem: manifold/ header/ muffler/ tail pipe ) and took the vehicle to the dealer for recall service. Several years later, the engine failed without warning. The contact stated that because of an oil consumption issue with the vehicle, excessive smoke would blow out of the exhaust pipe. The contact took the vehicle to the dealer for inspection where they advised that the head gasket was blown. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified and stated that the engine did not need replacing and that they had honored their end of the recall campaign agreement. The failure mileage was 110,000.

28 Manifold/header/muffler/tail Pipe problem

Failure Date: 08/01/2009

I recently purchased a 2002 Nissan Altima. Since I've had it, it uses oil and has a bad catalytic problem due to manufacturer defect. This 2. 5s is under a recall. The ecm was replaced on the car to avoid this problem, but it still persists. Nissan refuses to acknowledge the recall even though its never been fixed. . . . . . The recall number for this catalytic converter is 03v084000.

29 Manifold/header/muffler/tail Pipe problem

Failure Date: 06/12/2009

The contact owns a 2002 Nissan Altima. While driving 40 mph, the contact heard a clicking sound followed by a popping sound. The consumers daughter pulled the vehicle over and noticed smoke coming from the bottom of the vehicle. The vehicle was towed to the dealer and they stated that the engine needed to be replaced due to a lack of engine oil. There were no warnings prior to the failure. The current and failure mileages were 109,250. Updated 8/3/09 the consumer stated there was a known defect with the vehicle, in which a recall had been issued. The consumer daughter had just had the oil changed. Updated 08/10/09.

30 Manifold/header/muffler/tail Pipe problem

Failure Date: 06/03/2009

I have a concern involving my 2002 Nissan Altima it is a 4 cylinder engine my check engine light has come on and its burning large amounts of oil (1 quart every 1000 miles) I bought this car in 2004( second hand)the cars burning of oil was strange to me because I always changed my oil approximately every 3000 miles,so I started to do some investigating on the web and came across a recall campaign in 2003 ( #03v084000) I read were fire may be caused by the catalytic converter and of 3 instances of fire to date of closer of NHTSA report in 2003. Also Nissan acknowledging a problem with the 2002 Altimas converters and engine failers from this catalytic con. Being that NHTSA has closed there report in 2003 will that affect Nissan responsibility to fix this problem. I did not receive any type of recall for this issue and know finding out about potential fires and engine failures is starting to scare me this is a family car and I do have children can you please advise on needed actions on my part.

31 Manifold/header/muffler/tail Pipe problem

Failure Date: 03/01/2009

A month or so ago, the check engine light went on and I took it to the Nissan dealership for diagnosis. My car is a 2002 Nissan Altima 2. 5s, 104,000 miles and the mechanic stated it needs a catalytic converter and possibly a new engine . The vehicle was repaired according to NHTSA campaign id number 03v084000 (engine and engine cooling:exhaust system:manifold/header/muffler/tail pipe) in 2004, but that recall has not corrected the issue. The vehicle has not been repaired yet. This is ridiculous- there are hundreds, if not thousands of exact failures and no recall??? Nissan should be investigated for not repairing the matter. The small fix in 2004 did nothing to avert the long term issue. The maintenance records to this car are impeccable. Oil changes documents every 3000-5000 miles using top grade synthetic synpower motor oil. There is no reason for this type of failure aside from design flaws.

32 Manifold/header/muffler/tail Pipe problem

Failure Date: 01/14/2009

I purchased this car from a dealer used (2nd owner) in 2005 with approx 37,000 miles. Ran fine. During the first year it was noticed it burned alot of oil, however had no oil leak. Also began having heating issues (which persist)in the way that it will only give off heat if car is moving at 2rpms or higher. Check engine light was on probably within first 6 months and has only not been on since then when a mechanic "resets" it--and that lasts short period(like week). This car died while driving on the interstate for no apparent reason winter of 2009. It was found to need new engine. Replacement with used engine approx $4,000. 00. This engine promptly died in less than a month and yet again needed to be replaced. A 2005 motor was then put in my car, but guess what?? same problem with oil mysteriously vanishing and no leaking on ground and no leak to be found. Spring of 2010 all recall work done, including sensor 03v084000 which could cause a fire. Now find out catalytic converter is bad. Also through web-browsing that this can cause check engine light to be on all the time, is related to the recalled sensor, as well as the need for engine replacement. The cold air issue appears unrelated to this and is caused by air in the heating/cooling system, however this too is very common Nissan Altima problem. It seems to me that Nissan is putting bandaid on bigger issue by recalling only sensor and not addressing the fact that this is causing bigger, much costlier problems for the consumer. I have been able to find 100's of people on the internet who are complaining about the same exact thing. I also personally know 3 other "02 Nissan Altima owners who share this issue. I have easily put $8,000 into this car for problems related to the engine only. This is seems to be a widespread problem and should be addressed in a serious manner. Thank you.

33 Manifold/header/muffler/tail Pipe problem

Failure Date: 01/12/2009

The contact owns a 2002 Nissan Altima. The contact experienced an issue with her catalytic converter. When she took the vehicle in for emissions testing, she was informed that the catalytic converter was faulty and needed to be replaced. The manufacturer stated that there was no recall for this issue. The failure mileage was 114,000. Updated 06/10/09 updated 06/11/09 updated 06/30/09. The consumer wanted to know the status of his/her complaint. Updated 03/01/10 updated 03/05/10.

34 Manifold/header/muffler/tail Pipe problem

Failure Date: 01/10/2009

The contact owns a 2002 Nissan Altima. The contact stated that repairs for recall 03v084000 (engine and engine cooling: exhaust system: manifold/header/muffler/tail pipe) had been partially performed by the previous owner. The dealer told the contact that the catalytic converter, which was supposed to be replaced, was not and was not malfunctioning; the converter failure caused the engine to malfunction which also needed to be replaced. Although the recall had not been thoroughly performed, the manufacturer stated that they would offer no assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 80,000. The current mileage was approximately 80,000.

35 Manifold/header/muffler/tail Pipe problem

Failure Date: 01/08/2009

Power valve screws fell into the intake manifold plate on 2002 Nissan Altima 2002 nissian Altima 2. 5 stalled on the highway. Car had been idling very rough and engine vibration as well as intermittent power loss 24 hours prior to issue. Took it to two independent mechanics. Both confirmed that the pvc value screw fell intake manifold. This was also confirmed by Nissan. However it was only recalled on the 2004-2006 models. It just so happens that Nissan had to replace my engine on my vehicle in 2004, therefore my car should be included in the recall but because my call is 02 Nissan will not cover the problem. 2002 models need to be included in the recall.



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