2002 Nissan Altima engine and engine cooling problems

Jun 17, 2022 · failed Jun 11, 2022 · 133,000 miles · CA

The contact owns a 2002 Nissan Altima. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle lost motive power with the traction control warning light illuminated. The vehicle hesitated to restart. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic who related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 03V455000 (Engine and Engine Cooling) however, the VIN was not included in the recall. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 133,000.

Mar 15, 2017 · failed Mar 1, 2017 · CA

2002 nissan altima. Consumer writes in regards to power valve screw issue. *ld the consumer stated he was quoted a price of $1,000 for a catalytic converter and $5200 for a new engine with less than 90,000. *jb

Jul 14, 2016 · failed Jun 16, 2016 · 135,000 miles · TN

Tl* the contact owns a 2002 nissan altima. The contact was unable to start the vehicle. The vehicle was towed to the dealer where it was diagnosed that the catalytic converter fractured and went into the engine. The contact was repaired per an unknown recall in 2003, but the failure recurred. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 135,000.

Jul 28, 2015 · failed Feb 5, 2015 · 123,000 miles · NC

Tl* the contact owns a 2002 nissan altima. When the vehicle was started, the contact heard a loud abnormal noise. The contact mentioned that after having replenished the engine with oil, the engine light remained illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer. The technician diagnosed that the catalytic converter needed to be replaced. The approximate failure mileage was 123,000.

Jun 26, 2015 · failed Mar 1, 2015 · 119,500 miles · NY

Purchased vehicle pre-owned,seller appeared honest & truthful about the vehicle,however after about 2 weeks of ownership I noticed high oil consumption,probably about a quart a week,,didnt think much about it,except that I probably have bad rings,or leaking intake valves/seals and would require costly engine repair.my daughter came home one day and mentioned the car wouldnt go over 15 MPH,so I took it for a ride & as she said,intermittantly the vehicle would only go 15-20 MPH,rendering the car unsafe to drive,,when I got back with the car I opened the hood only to see the front catalytic converter was glowing bright orange and no exhaust exiting the tailpipe,,,I know enough about cars to know that can only mean the converter is clogged solid,,,,inquired at a local nissan dealer what the warranty was on the the cat and they said it was 8 yrs,80K miles,,,did some research on the web and find out theres a recall on it,the cat coming apart & pieces of it getting sucked up into the intake causing catastrophic engine damage,,,nissan was replacing the cats,installing heat shields,and replacing engines to to the defect of the cat,,,,,dealer says he cant help me,,,,,check the web,its an ongoing problem with the altimas as well as the sentras,,,this is something that nissan knows is an issue and should take care of this..

Aug 4, 2014 · failed Aug 4, 2014 · PA

I have a general question please. Someone in my home purchased above mentioned car recently from dealer and was never told of the recall or the problems these cars have. When my friend called the dealer asking why the oil continued to be eaten up, they responded that it was normal. Tonight this individual drove it home from work, it acted up, and had "engine over temp" according to machine that gives codes when there are problems, and said other codes about random multiple cylinder misfire. Could this be related to the recall you issued on this 2002 vehicle. Also what can she do to ensure her safety. This person was sold this without being told. How can we ensure the company complied with the recall and "fixed" safety issues?the recall information sounds very dangerous. *tr

Aug 13, 2013 · failed Aug 13, 2011 · 100,000 miles · NC · fire

Tl* the contact owns a 2002 nissan altima. The contact stated while driving 70 MPH, the vehicle decelerated without manual force and a fire emerged from the harness of the vehicle. The fire was put out by the contact. A police report was filed. The contact did not sustain any injuries. The vehicle was towed to the dealer for diagnosis where it was stated the wiring harness needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified. The approximate failure mileage was 100,000. Updated 12/12/13*cn

Jul 15, 2013 · failed Jul 5, 2013 · 187,000 miles · FL

Tl* the contact owns a 2002 nissan altima. The contact stated that while driving 55 MPH, the vehicle began to shake and stalled. The contact stated that he had to add two quarts of oil to the engine in order for the vehicle to operate correctly. The vehicle was not taken to the dealer for inspection. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 187,000. Updated 09/06/13*lj

Jul 15, 2013 · failed Jul 5, 2013 · 187,000 miles · FL

Tl* the contact owns a 2002 nissan altima. The contact stated that while driving 55 MPH, the vehicle began to shake and stalled. The contact stated that he had to add two quarts of oil to the engine in order for the vehicle to operate correctly. The vehicle was not taken to the dealer for inspection. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 187,000. Updated 09/06/13*lj

Jun 21, 2013 · failed Jun 8, 2011 · TX

Tl* the contact owns a 2002 nissan altima. The contact stated that after having the vehicle serviced under NHTSA campaign number: 03V084000 (engine and engine cooling), the check engine warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a private mechanic where it was diagnosed that the engine needed to be replaced. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The approximate failure mileage was unknown and the current mileage was 122,000. *tr

May 16, 2013 · failed May 1, 2013 · 89,000 miles · MD

Tl* the contact owns a 2002 nissan altima. The contact stated that while driving approximately 55 MPH, the vehicle stalled without warning. The vehicle was towed an independent mechanic for diagnosis. The mechanic stated that the crank position sensor would have to be repaired. The contact referenced NHTSA campaign number: 03V455000 (engine and engine cooling) but was advised that the VIN was not included in the recall campaign. The vehicle was not repaired. The approximate failure mileage was 89,000. *tr

Feb 23, 2013 · failed Nov 18, 2011 · 100,351 miles · FL

The check engine warning light illuminated on the instrument panel. The vehicle would also stall while driving at various speeds and would often hesitate to start while parked. The vehicle was inspected by an independent mechanic for diagnostic testing. The mechanic stated that the crank shaft and the cam shaft position sensors would have to be replaced. There was a recall under NHTSA campaign id number: 03V455000 (engine and engine cooling) that could have been related to the failure. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and advised the contact that the VIN was not included in the recall. Also my car is loosing coolant and don't know where the cooling is going, took it to nissan they don't have a clue either. Also I sometime smell gas when the car start up after a long stall crank. *tr

Apr 27, 2012 · failed Mar 29, 2012 · 100,000 miles · IN

Tl* the contact owns a 2002 nissan altima. The contact stated that the engine was consuming oil rapidly and every two weeks, he would have to add oil to the engine. The vehicle was taken to a local mechanic who advised the contact that the catalytic converter needed to be replaced. The mechanic was unable to replace the component. The dealer was notified of the failure who advised the contact that there were no recalls for the failure. The manufacturer was also contacted who confirmed that there were no recalls for the vehicle. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was 100,000. The dealer didn't know the exact cause of the problem. However, the dealer recommended replacing the catalytic converter and the entire exhaust system at a cost of $2000. The consumer was informed it was not a guaranteed fix.

Apr 12, 2012 · failed Apr 4, 2003 · 43,000 miles · CA

While driving at 65 MPH, vehicle stalls without warning, vehicle is unable to re-start right away leaving driver in eminent danger of been rear ended by on coming traffic. No codes or lights turn on dashboard signaling a malfunction of vehicle. After letting the vehicle cool off for about five to ten minutes it re-starts again. Vehicle was taken to dealer who was unable to diagnose failure because no lights are coming up on the dashboard and when hooked to a scanner no failure codes were produced. Manufacturer was made aware of failure but offered no assistance because vehicle was "repaired" under the recall associated with NHTSA campaign id number 03V455000( component: engine and engine cooling ) . This recall calls for cam, crank and variable timing sensors to be replaced, however only the crank sensor was replaced. Failure mileage was 43000 when vehicle was first taken in for recall but it is currently failing again at 160,000 miles with above symptoms and manufacturer won't offer assistance. They have advice to take it to a dealer again and they will be able to keep replacing parts until problem is "found". Due to lack of codes their technicians will have to "guess" what the problem is. All this at my own expense of diagnosis, parts and labor. In september of 2011 a dealer performed a re-program of the main computer as part of another recall from manufacturer concerning vehicles stalling. This re-program of the main computer did not fix anything and right after I took vehicle out of the dealer it started stalling again. This vehicle keeps stalling at high speeds (65MP), there are no codes given out and manufacturer offers no assistance. Afraid I am going to get seriously injured as the problem continues but can't figure out what's wrong with the car. *tr

Mar 19, 2012 · failed Mar 12, 2012 · 148,295 miles · NY

Tl* 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 05/03/12*lj

Mar 19, 2012 · failed Mar 12, 2012 · 148,295 miles · NY

Tl* 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 05/03/12*lj

Mar 15, 2012 · failed Feb 12, 2008 · 43,000 miles · CA

Tl* the contact owns a 2002 nissan altima. The contact stated that while driving 65 MPH, the vehicle stalled without warning. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who was unable to diagnose the failure. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure, but offered no assistance because the vehicle was already repaired under the recall associated with NHTSA campaign id number 03V455000 (component: engine and engine cooling). The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was 43,000 and the current mileage was 173,000.

Mar 12, 2012 · failed Feb 27, 2012 · 102,000 miles · CA

I believe that this engine defect caused the pre-catalyst to overheat and damaged the catalyst substrate. These particles entered the combustion chamber and probably scoured the cylinder walls prior to recall 03V-084 implementation. This resulted in increased oil consumption throughout the lifetime of the vehicle which in turn adversely affected the heater system not working properly, coolant reserves disappearing, engine started to heat-up, and ultimately engine seized-up. Prior to this I had to be adding engine oil and coolant every two to three weeks since engine would start to make noise and start to heat-up, but there was no leaks or engine light did not turn on. Previously, mechanics did not see any problems when taking it for oil changes and service. It is now at the dealership and they state that it will cost me $2100 to $5500 to fix this. I told nissan service personnel that I found the same thing happening to many nissan 2002 owners on the internet. I found several websites with hundreds of complaints just by goggling "2002 nissan altima oil consumption". Even nissan service personnel told me that this is not normal since these vehicles should last over the 200 thousand miles, especially since we are the original owners and have always done routine oil changes and service. Please help me and the many owners of these nissan altimas who have trusted nissan in building long lasting dependable vehicles. *tr

Mar 6, 2012 · failed Dec 1, 2008 · TN

The cooling system has failed twice, each time I had to replace the head gasket. Now it is doing this again. Noticed there were 3 recalls about this. Two before I purchased and one after, but I do not recall getting a notice about the recall. Much money has been spent, now dealer is telling me I need a new engine. How do I find out if any recall was performed? Do not trust this dealer. *tr

Mar 4, 2012 · failed Jul 10, 2009 · 101,000 miles · PA

Our first problem came when the altima had several holes blown into the engine when the catalytic converter failed to hold up because of a defective design in the engine. I did take the car in for the recall, but what they did not fix the issue, and my mechanic told me I was fortunate that the entire car did not set on fire or that it didn't happen when I was on a highway. I fought hard and spoke to person after person and finally found the president of customer relations number(4 weeks into calling), they told me that because I had kept such great records of our service history that they would replace my engine. Now I have a new defect in this car. The metal floor pan has a defect and there has been no recall! There are actually huge holes in the floor of my car that could prove deadly and make my car not road worthy. They are asking $2,000 to $3,000 to fix this!!! Fraud. I am so livid. This car has been one nightmare after another. I want to feel as if my family is safe in the car I am driving. Who worries that the floor might fall out from underneath them when they are driving??? Or heaven forbid, something hit the bottom and come right into the car! I'm so angry about this car. Please tell me that I am not helpless. *tr

Feb 28, 2012 · failed Feb 27, 2012 · 79,700 miles · IL

Hi, I own a 2002 nissan altima. It shows up a check engine light with issue on catalytic converter and consumes a lot of oil. I am very much concerned on the safety of the car. Requesting nissan to fix this issue as this is a very much known issue with recalls. Thanks! *tr

Feb 13, 2012 · failed Dec 15, 2009 · 92,156 miles · SC

Car was diagnosed with a head gasket leak, consistent details with all the other noted head gasket failures. *tr

Feb 9, 2012 · failed Jan 25, 2012 · 94,889 miles · PA

Tl* 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 04/25/12*lj nissan informed the consumer the vehicle was out of warranty. Updated 04/30/12

Jan 23, 2012 · failed Jan 22, 2012 · 160,000 miles · CA

Tl* the contact owns a 2002 nissan altima. The contact stated that while driving 45 MPH, the vehicle stalled. The contact shut the vehicle off and once restarted, the vehicle stalled a second time. The vehicle was towed to the contact's place of residence. The contact did not take the vehicle to a dealer or a local mechanic for diagnosis or repairs. The failure mileage was 160,000.

Jan 22, 2012 · failed Dec 15, 2011 · AL

Will not start,replaced crank an cam sensor nothing they are recalls on these cars for lots of problems I purchased this car thinking it was a good car for my wife two days later it leaves her an my daughter stuck on the freeway. I have done resets nothing works is there something yall can help me with im out of pocket cause this car. Can I take it to nissan dealer an they fix it for a recall. *tr

Jan 19, 2012 · failed Aug 10, 2011 · 90,000 miles · WA

Tl* the contact owns a 2002 nissan altima. While driving approximately 60 MPH, there was an unusual noise emitted from the front end of the vehicle. The contact maneuvered to the side of the road and inspected underneath the hood and detected there was no oil in the reservoir. The vehicle was taken to an authorized dealer who informed the engine would need to be replaced. The contact planned to have the vehicle repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the problem. The approximate failure mileage was 90,000.

Dec 6, 2011 · failed Nov 11, 2011 · NY

Tl* 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.

Dec 5, 2011 · failed Sep 1, 2010 · VA

Nissan altima 2002 keeps having problem with the crankshaft and camshaft sensors and once you replace them a couple months later you'll have the same problem. This problem causes your car to stop randomly in the middle of traffic which could cause you to get into a car accident or worse death. Nissan knows that this is a common issue but they choose to ignore the problem. I have spoken with many dealers and auto repair technicians and they all agree this is a common problem with nissan altima. This is sad and I really wish this issue is resolved for the safety of everyone driving. I was driving in my car with my niece when my car just stopped in the middle of traffic scared me to death!!! Because we could have been really hurt and the simple fact that I replaced this part 3 months before this occurred is really terrible. I have replaced both sensor and I'm still having an issue. This is something that nissan needs to correct before someone really gets hurts. The 2002 nissan altima is a horrible car its just manufactured all wrong and is constantly giving me issues. *tr

Nov 18, 2011 · failed Jul 1, 2009 · 80,000 miles · NJ

Tl* the contact owns a 2002 nissan altima. The contact stated that while driving 65 MPH, the vehicle stalled. The vehicle would not restart and was towed to an independent mechanic. The contact was informed that there was no oil in the engine and there were no signs of an engine leak. The mechanic was unable to determine where the oil was escaping to. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure, but offered no assistance. The failure and current mileages were 80,000. Updated 12/22/11*lj the consumer stated the engine and transmission were replaced.

Nov 17, 2011 · failed Nov 13, 2011 · 118,000 miles · FL

2002 nissan altima was serviced @ recall campaign in 2003. The dealership states the remedy was completed. However my car, overtime, shows the symptoms of a damaged catalyst substrate from the catalytic converter. These symptoms are exactly what is described in the original recall notice: ntb03-070D. Additionally my automobile has soot from burning oil in the tailpipe and has always run hot even though the dashboard temperature gauge, always stayed in the middle between hot and cold. I have taken my vehicle in for service and other recall notices, nothing was ever spoken of about this issue. Strange that an ase technician wouldn't see these symptoms, & report a potential problem. Only after my engine overheated and failed did I find the details of this problem; while researching my repair options online. The inspection process of the catalytic converter in my case seems to have not been properly performed. I contacted the dealership to ask for the detailed service records for my altima for that campaign. The service rep. Stated the repair was performed. I asked the service rep. To produce the inspection documentation for my vehicle's cat. System. He could not produce that documentation. I next called nissan of na to file a notice. I stated my altima may not have had the proper remedy to address the recall, and that damage was evident. I was informed that I would have to take my vehicle into a nissan dealership for an inspection of the cat. System at my own expense. After the results of the inspection are noted, if it is warranted my case will be escalated to nissan for review. I would like to follow up with further details if possible. If I cannot amend this complaint, I will document the resulting findings in another complaint and reference this number for correlation. *tr

Nov 9, 2011 · failed Nov 19, 2009 · WA

After googling the make, year and problem of oil consumption and engine and catalytic converter problems with this model year, it is overwhelming what you find. This is a huge problem with thousands of troubled consumers who have gone to nissan for an obvious defect in product to no avail. My car has the exact same problem and was told by my local nissan dealer that the faulty catalytic converters made that year are not covered and was told that nissan knew of the problem but will do nothing about it because of what it would cost them. Please help US..... *tr

Nov 8, 2011 · failed Nov 5, 2011 · GA · fire

I was driving on the freeway and my engine caught fire which resulted in my car being totaled. *tr

Nov 2, 2011 · failed Oct 28, 2011 · 72,000 miles · NY

Tl* the contact owns a 2002 nissan altima. The contact was driving 60 MPH when the check engine light illuminated and the vehicle stalled. The vehicle was restarted after thirty minutes and was taken to the dealer where the dealer confirmed that a new engine was needed. The manufacturer was contacted and they confirmed that the VIN did not qualify for repairs under NHTSA campaign id number: 07V527000(engine and engine cooling). The vehicle was not repaired. The failure and the current mileages were 72,000.

Oct 28, 2011 · failed Oct 20, 2011 · 109,000 miles · CT

Tl* the contact owns a 2002 nissan altima. The contact stated that the vehicle stalled without warning while sitting at a traffic stop. The vehicle was towed to a local mechanic who diagnosed that oil was leaking into the catalytic converter and as a result, became clogged causing the engine to blow. The mechanic stated that the engine, catalytic converter and the exhaust system needed to be replaced. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The VIN was not available and the vehicle was not repaired. The failure and current mileage was 109,000.

Oct 7, 2011 · failed May 20, 2010 · 80,000 miles · WI

I had purchased my 2002 nissan altima from a private party and had noticed it was burning an usual amount of oil when I took it on its first long distance drive a week after I had purchased it. When I took it back to the party I had purchased the vehicle from they told me they would help research the issue but could not refund my money. We found this particle model had problems with the catalytic converter and if not repaired in time could and would damage the engine. We then found that my car had been fixed at the 50,000 mile range at the dealership from whom the previous party had purchased the car. I contacted nissan corporate and they told me I need to pay to get an oil consumption test done to ensure that is was indeed burning oil. After I paid a hundred dollars to have this done they told me there was nothing they would do ( at this time the vehicle still had under 90,000 miles). Since then I have replaces another catalytic converter, valve cover, and numerous gallons of oil. My last visit to the shop I was told I'm now burn antifreeze and I needed a new engine. *tr

Oct 4, 2011 · failed Feb 3, 2011 · 103,000 miles · CA

I got a service engine light on and took it to a mechanic, he said it was my engine, and catalytic converter(burning oil and debris going into the engine) and I needed to rebuild it. He rebuilt it and after about 7,000 the same problem happened burning oil consumption. Not sure what to do because he said that nissan should have a fix for this and he isn't fixing the problem either. It's sitting in my driveway without a fix. *tr

Oct 4, 2011 · failed Nov 4, 2010 · 101,000 miles · MN

Tl* 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.

Oct 4, 2011 · failed Jan 14, 2009 · 90,000 miles · VT

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. *tr

Oct 4, 2011 · failed Jan 14, 2009 · 90,000 miles · VT

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. *tr

Oct 4, 2011 · failed Sep 15, 2011 · 96,000 miles · OH

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. *tr

Oct 4, 2011 · failed Sep 15, 2011 · 96,000 miles · OH

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. *tr

Oct 2, 2011 · failed Aug 17, 2011 · 123,000 miles · IN

Floor pans on both driver and passenger sides are rusted through engine dies randomly. *tr

Sep 29, 2011 · failed Sep 11, 2009 · 80,000 miles · NC

Car uses excessive amounts of engine oil and low oil light never comes on to warn driver, can only determine that it is low by engine knocking noise.average oil consumption about 1 - 2 quarts every 300 miles also heater does not work when car is idleling only works when driving.check engine light constantly comes on code states cat converter bad.continous problem has been going on since car had about out 90,000 miles.car also turns off after running and will crank but does not start after multiple tries. *tt

Sep 24, 2011 · failed Sep 1, 2011 · 93,000 miles · MN

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). *tr

Sep 24, 2011 · failed Sep 1, 2011 · 93,000 miles · MN

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). *tr

Sep 22, 2011 · failed Sep 20, 2011 · 99,450 miles · NY

Tl* 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.

Sep 22, 2011 · failed Sep 20, 2011 · 99,450 miles · NY

Tl* 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.

Sep 20, 2011 · failed Jun 15, 2011 · 78,883 miles · NE · 1 injured

We had stopped at the signal and once the signal turned green we tried to move, but the car did not move at all, seemed like the engine was completely dead. We thought of getting out of the car and thus we put on the warning flasher switch and tried to put into park by depressing the brake pedal and shifted the selector lever from d (drive) to p (park). During this process the car went out of control and crashed on to the busy traffic (the traffic was on by then on the other side). This major accident involved a total of 5 cars and 3 cars were towed and totaled including ours and injuring one of the passengers. Our 1 year son was also involved in this accident, but luckily he was not injured, thanks to the stable car seat. My father escaped with minor injuries. Above all, the car was fully serviced from nissan dealer (costing around $900) day before the crash occurred. *tr

Sep 6, 2011 · failed Jun 1, 2006 · 60,000 miles · NC

Tl* the contact owns a 2002 nissan altima. The contact stated that the vehicle consumes oil at a high rate due to a defective catalytic converter. As a result, the contact would have to constantly add oil to the engine. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and informed the contact that 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 taken to have the failure diagnosed and was not repaired. The approximate failure mileage was 60,000.

Sep 6, 2011 · failed Aug 30, 2011 · 120,000 miles · AZ

Blown head gasket determined by mechanic after proper maintenance used on the car for past 9 years. Causes loss of coolant, and thus car can overheat and engine will eventually fail. Car also hesitates when starting and idling. Can cause an accident if car stalls while driving through intersection and thus is a safety issue. *tr