Gas Recirculation Valve (egr Valve) problems of the 2003 Nissan Altima

Butterfly valve screws in the intake/gas recirculation system work loose and make their way into the engine, causing damage. This was recalled on the 2004 and 2005 models, but the same problem exists on the 2002 and 2003 model qr25de 4 cylinder engines. The fix was to replace the screws, but engine damage occurred, which compromised the reliability of the vehicle.

On 01/13/05, the engine of my '03 Nissan Altima se stalled. Thankfully, I was driving slowly on a residential street and was able to safely coast to the side of the road. I turned over the engine and it did not start. I waited a few moments and then tried again. The vehicle started but stalled again after I drove approx. 100 feet. The outside temperature was approx. 9 degrees fahrenheit but my vehicle's engine temperature gauge indicated the engine was warmed up. I waited in the car for approx. An hour in 9 degree temperature with my seven-year-old daughter until I was picked up by a family member. I had the vehicle towed to the Nissan dealership where I purchased the vehicle. They were unable to determine the cause of the engine stalling. While my vehicle was in their possession, I had them conduct a 15,000k service (oil change, tire rotation, etc. ). On 01/23/05, I heard an "engine knock" and discovered oil spots on my driveway from the car. I brought my car into the same dealership first thing the following morning. They inspected the vehicle and are telling me I need an entirely new engine. They are also claiming that it is not a manufacturers defect and therefore the engine replacement will not be covered under my warranty. At this point in the process, I believe the engine stalling was a safety procedure that indicated an engine problem. Furthermore, I believe the failure of the dealership to identify,and repair, the problem may be the cause of the engine damage they are reporting.