Manifold/header/muffler/tail Pipe Problems of Nissan Altima - part 2

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.

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The contact owns a 2003 Nissan Altima. The contact stated that the vehicle consumed a large amount of the oil that had recently been replaced. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic for diagnostic testing. The mechanic advised the contact that the catalytic converter would have to be replaced. There was a recall under NHTSA campaign id number: 03v084000(engine and engine cooling:exhaust system:manifold/header/muffler/tail pipe) that could have been related to the failure. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and advised the contact that the vehicle was not included in the recall. The vehicle was not repaired. The approximate failure mileage was 110,000.

See all problems of the 2003 Nissan Altima 🔎.

Rattling noise in engine, unusual engine vibration and muffler sound coming from engine. This can be dangerous this screw is located in the engine and could cause $7500 dallors of damage. If this screw was to come loose it could ruin engine compressor, destroy the exhaust manifold, O2 sensor and power valve plates. I search to see if there was a recall on this and it seem to be or talk of it. Call dealership to see if a recall was issued. Some website suggest there was one, what has happen to qualtiy products. If there was one they are not upholding it. Recall should never expirer, for public safety,.

See all problems of the 2005 Nissan Altima 🔎.

My 2000 Nissan Altima idles rough and the engine shakes. My mechanic ran a diagnostic test and said cylinder 4 was misfiring and the only way to correct it was to change the intake manifold gasket. The price: $1500. This seems to be a common problem because I see the same complaints from 98-01 Altima owners. The mechanic, said this was common problem with these cars. He also said changing the gasket will fix the problem. Why isn't Nissan forced to recall this issue? someone needs to do their job and look at this issue.

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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.

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.

The contact owns a 2003 Nissan Altima. The contact stated that the check engine warning light illuminated. So the contact took the vehicle to the dealer. The dealer discovered metal chips in the engine due to a faulty catalytic convert. The dealer stated that the vehicle could not be repaired and the engine needed to be replaced. The contact referenced NHTSA campaign I. D. Number 03v084000 (engine and engine cooling:exhaust system:manifold/header/muffler/tail pipe) and called the manufacturer. The manufacturer advised that based on the VIN, the vehicle was not included in the recall. The failure mileage was 128,000. Updated 03/28/lj the consumer had the work performed at a repair shop. Updated 06/18/12.

The contact owns a 2003 Nissan Altima. The contact stated that while driving 70 mph, the check engine light illuminated and the engine stalled. The vehicle was taken to the dealer. The dealer confirmed spark plugs needed to be replaced along with the engine. The manufacturer was contacted and advised the contact that the VIN failed to qualify for repairs under 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 109,000 and the current mileage was 110,000.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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).

As I was driving on the freeway during rush hour, my 2003 Nissan Altima began to jerk back and forth, as if it was misfiring. The check engine light came on and then started flashing. At the next exit I got off the freeway to drive to a safe place to stop the car. Getting off the freeway, my car stalled in a busy intersection (all red lights came on and there was no power to my car). I could not restart it and was stranded just past the busy intersection near the center divide. I put on my emergency lights and was almost hit several times, and I am very lucky to not have been hurt. After about 30 seconds I was able to restart the car, pull over to the side in a safer area and had my car towed by aaa straight to the Nissan dealership, who had performed an oil change on the car a day before. It took them 2 days to figure out that a power valve screw failed and was sucked up into the engine, causing irreversible damage to the engine -the piston top, cylinder walls, spark plugs, valves and catalyst. Nissan recommends a long block replacement with new exhaust manifold with converter ($4500). After much research and speaking with the Nissan service manager, I have found that this was an issue with all Altimas (manufacturer's defect) until the screws were redesigned for the 2006 model year. I have also found that there was a recall for 2004 Nissan sentras and 2004-2005 Altimas with the 2. 5 l engine for this reason. But the 2003, which has the same engine, was not part of this recall. I have been told by Nissan that since I am past the warranty period that this is not covered, even though it is a known defect. I am thankful I was not hurt, and I am very upset that Nissan knew about this defect and did nothing about it for my model year. I have seen other similar complaints on-line and hope that they will be analyzed as well for possible recall & compensation.

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...

The contact owns a 2005 Nissan Altima. The contact stated that the check engine light illuminated on the instrumental panel sporadically when driving at various speeds 5 mph and above. The vehicle was inspected by an independent mechanic and they advised her that she needed to replace the manifold converter and the O2 sensor. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was contacted and they offered no assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 87,000.

This 2003 2. 5s Altima failed to start on February 6, 2011. Upon taking the car to mossy Nissan in san diego, where the car was sold, the mechanic working on the car diagnosed the car as having a screw from the power valve over the 4 cylinder that came loose and damaged the intake manifold and catalytic converter to the extent that they must be replaced. The car only has 41,000 miles. . Read more...

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.

The contact owns a 2003 Nissan Altima. The contact stated that when taking her vehicle in for routine maintenance, the mechanic advised her that there was a recall 03v084000 (engine and engine cooling: exhaust system: manifold/header/muffler/tail pipe). Once the repairs were performed, they notified the contact and advised her that the vehicle was inoperable due to metal being jammed in the engine. Since the metal was not included in the recall they are not willing to repair the vehicle. The contact stated that prior to the mechanic advising her of the problem, she had never been informed of the recall. The vehicle was repaired for the engine components but not for the metal. The failure and current mileages were approximately 115,000. Updated 03/24/lj updated 05/02/11.

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.

The contact owns a 2003 Nissan Altima. The contact received notification of NHTSA campaign id number (03v084000- engine and engine cooling:exhaust system:manifold/header/muffler/tail pipe) and took the vehicle to the dealer for repairs; however, she continued to experience the same failure. The dealer was not contacted. The contact did not inform the manufacturer. The vehicle was not repaired. The current mileage was approximately 158,300. The failure mileage was approximately 158,000.

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.

The contact owns a 2000 Nissan Altima. The contact stated that the intake manifold failed after 30,000 miles. The intake manifold was replaced April 2007. The failure recurred three years later. The dealer repaired the intake manifold again at the contacts expense. The manufacturer was contacted and offered no assistance. The failure mileage was 30,000 and the current was 91,351.

The contact owns a 2006 Nissan Altima. The contact noticed that the tail pipe was emitting excessive smoke. The vehicle was taken to the dealer who stated that sludge was present because of improper vehicle maintenance. The manufacturer agreed with the local dealer and offered no additional assistance. No repairs were performed due to the cost. The urrent mileage was 47,000 and the failure mileage was 46,000. Updated 04/25/11.

See all problems of the 2006 Nissan Altima 🔎.

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.

The contact owns a 2000 Nissan Altima. The contact stated that when stopping, the vehicle shook and made a vibrating sound. The vehicle was taken to an authorized dealer where the contact was informed that the intake manifold needed to be replaced. The intake manifold had previously been replaced three years prior to the failure. The dealer stated that vacuum pressure caused the manifold to malfunction. The failure mileage was approximately 89,500.

The contact owns a 2003 Nissan Altima. The contact stated that while driving approximately 30 mph, she noticed that the vehicle started losing power. She drove the vehicle to a repair shop where she was informed that the catalytic converter was replaced. A few days later, the mechanic noticed that the vehicle was becoming low on oil. The contact filled the fuel tank and noticed that there was very little oil left. The vehicle was taken to an authorized dealership where the contact was told that she needed a new engine and the problem was widespread with the catalytic converter. The contact called the manufacturer who advised her to take the vehicle in for a diagnostic fee before they could escalate her case to a regional specialist. The contact took the vehicle into the dealership where it was confirmed that she needed a new engine; the manufacturer stated that there was nothing they could do to assist. The vehicle had not been repaired at the time of the complaint. The contact believed the failure to be related to recall 03v084000 (engine and engine cooling:exhaust system:manifold/header/muffler/tail pipe) but the manufacturer refused to repair it since the mileage was too high. The current mileage was approximately 124,000. The failure mileage was approximately 123,000. Updated 12/02/10 updated 12/08/jb updated 05/26/11.

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.

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.

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.

The contact owns a 2005 Nissan Altima. The contact stated that when starting the vehicle, there were unusual clouds of blue smoke coming from the tail pipe. In addition, the vehicle was consuming excessive amounts of oil. The vehicle was taken to the dealer for diagnostic testing. The mechanic told the contact that there were no signs of an oil leak and could not determine the cause of the failure. The mechanic advised the contact to replace the engine and the catalytic converter. The vehicle was not repaired. The vehicle was then taken to an authorized dealer who was not able to determine the cause of the failure but recommended having the engine replaced at the contact's expense. The dealer also stated that there was a possibility of an internal engine failure where the carbon in the engine oil was damaging the pistons. The manufacturer would not provide any assistance. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was 88,000 and the current mileage was 90,000.

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.

Driving down the interstate all of a sudden the car began to 'hesitate" and I was losing 'power/speed" . Got off freeway and a "rattle" type noise coming from engine bay. The muffler sounded like it was "sputtering". Drove via city streets at 20 mpg - 40 mpg towards a repair facility ( all the while feeling as though the car was going to die) and 20 minutes later the "engine light" came on. Pulled over and had car towed the last 4 miles to the repair facility. First diagnosis was a "foreign matter" hit the #1plug and closed the gap. The plug was regapped and installed. Car seemed fine , but 2 days later the same symptoms happened on the interstate again. Pulled over and drove to repair facility where it was discovered a common problem with 2002 thru 2005 Altimas have. The butterfly valves screws had come loose and they could not find the screws. Ran a magnet in that area but pulled nothing. Tech thinks it may have blown out of the exhaust if I remember correctly. So the first time it occurred was probably a screw hitting the plug and closing the gap and the second time was because of the missing screw/screws not letting the valve functioning properly. The intake plenum was removed and the secondary butterfly plates were inspected. The #1 plate lodged by intake valve and 2 plate screws were missing(passed into cylinder #1), all 4 plates were replaced and all screws secured with red loctite thread locker, total cost for first repair was $200 which included decarb service(because they thought "loose carbon" hitting the plug closed the gap). The second time to cure the actual cause was $460. 87 which included replacing a gasket also.

The contact owns a 2000 Nissan Altima. The contact stated while sitting idle at a traffic stop the vehicle began to vibrate excessively. The dealer advised the intake manifold gasket would need to be replaced. There were no recalls for the failure. The contact believed odi number 10145161(engine and engine cooling: exhaust system: manifold/header/muffler/tail pipe) is the same as his failure. The approximate failure mileage was 80,000 and the current was 81,000.