2002 Nissan Altima
Problems, recalls and owner-reported issues
Engine and engine cooling is the leading concern among 1,062 owner complaints filed for this model year. This is the 5th highest complaint count among 26 Altima model years with reports.
Of the 2002 reports, 30 involved a crash and 28 involved a fire. 27 people were injured.
What owners report most often
Recalls and investigations
Exterior lightingApr 7, 2009
SABERSPORT IS RECALLING 16,270 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.
DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
SABERSPORT WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 11, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SABERSPORT AT 1-909-598-7589.
Campaign 09E012000 on NHTSA.gov
Engine and engine coolingNov 14, 2007
ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH A 2.5L ENGINE, THE CRANKSHAFT POSITION SENSOR CAN OVERHEAT CAUSING A BRIEF INTERRUPTION IN THE SIGNAL OUTPUT FROM THE SENSOR.
IF THE INTERRUPTION IN THE SIGNAL FROM THE CRANKSHAFT POSITION SENSOR IS SO BRIEF THAT THE ELECTRONIC CONTROL MODULE (ECM) LOGIC DOES NOT HAVE TIME TO DIAGNOSE THE CONDITION, THE ENGINE MAY STOP RUNNING WITHOUT WARNING WHILE THE VEHICLE IS DRIVEN AT A LOW SPEED INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
DEALERS WILL REPROGRAM THE ECM FREE OF CHARGE. CERTAIN MY 2006 ALTIMAS WHICH HAVE BEEN PREVIOUSLY REMEDIED UNDER RECALL CAMPAIGN 06V223 (NISSAN R0606) ARE NOT INCLUDED IN THIS RECALL SINCE THE REPROGRAMMING FOR 06V223 ALSO INCLUDED THIS REPROGRAMMING. THE RECALL BEGAN ON DECEMBER 31, 2007. OWNERS MAY CONTACT NISSAN AT 1-800-647-7261.
Campaign 07V527000 on NHTSA.gov
Exterior lighting, headlightsSep 14, 2007
CERTAIN EAGLE EYES HEADLAMP ASSEMBLIES, P/NOS. DS517-B001L AND DS517-B001R, SOLD FOR USE AS REPLACEMENT EQUIPMENT FOR THE ABOVE LISTED PASSENGER VEHICLES. THE OPTICEL SURFACE OF THE REFLECTOR IS CORRODED INHIBITING THE PERFORMANCE OF THE UPPER AND LOWER BEAMS WHICH FAILS TO CONFORM TO THE PHOTOMETRIC REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.
DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
EAGLE EYES WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER REIMBURSEMENT FOR ANY NONCOMPLIANT HEADLIGHTS. THE RECALL BEGAN ON DECEMBER 11, 2007. OWNERS MAY CONTACT EAGLE EYES AT 1-800-568-1098.
Campaign 07E074000 on NHTSA.gov
Exterior lighting, headlightsAug 21, 2007
CERTAIN ANZO AFTERMARKET HEADLIGHTS, P/N 02-AZ-NA02-B-A, SOLD FOR USE ON 2002-2004 NISSAN ALTIMA VEHICLES. DURING PRODUCTION THE LAMP HOUSING SHAPE DEFORMED DISTORTING THE ASSEMBLY ANGLE OF THE REFLECTOR AND INFLUENCED THE AIMING POSITION. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.
DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
ANZO WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT LAMPS. THE RECALL BEGAN ON SEPTEMBER 10, 2007. OWNERS CAN CONTACT ANZO AT 909-628-1440.
Campaign 07E063000 on NHTSA.gov
Exterior lighting, headlightsJul 25, 2007
CERTAIN MAXZONE HEADLIGHT ASSEMBLIES, DEPO BRAND, P/NOS. 315-1145L-AS AND 315-1145R-AS, SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR THE ABOVE LISTED PASSENGER VEHICLES. DURING PRODUCTION THE LAMP REFLECTOR SHAPE DEFORMED CHANGING THE SHAPE OF THE OPTIC SURFACE. THIS WILL CHANGE THE OPPOSITE POSITION OF LOW BEAM AND HIGH BEAM OPTICSAND CHANGE THE ANGLE OF INCIDENCE AND ILLUMATED LOCATION WHICH FAILS TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.
DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
MAXZONE WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER REIMBURSEMENT FOR ANY NONCOMPLIANT HEADLIGHTS. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 16, 2007. OWNERS MAY CONTACT MAXZONE AT 909-822-3288.
Campaign 07E054000 on NHTSA.gov
Exterior lightingJul 17, 2006
CERTAIN TRADESONIC COMBINATION LAMPS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON THE ABOVE LISTED PASSENGER VEHICLES. COMBINATION LAMPS NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.
LACK OF AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS IN THE LAMPS WILL DECREASE LIGHTING VISIBILITY TO OTHER DRIVERS AND MAY POSSIBLY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
TRADESONIC WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE LAMPS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN DURING JULY 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT TRADESONIC AT 626-934-8884.
Campaign 06E064000 on NHTSA.gov
Exterior lighting, headlightsMar 13, 2006
CERTAIN ANZO COMBINATION HEADLAMP ASSEMBLIES SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS WHICH FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT."
WITHOUT THE AMBER REFLECTORS, THE VEHICLE WILL BE POORLY ILLUMINATED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
ANZO WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE HEADLAMPS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN MAY 9, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT ANZO USA AT 909-468-3688.
Campaign 06E023000 on NHTSA.gov
Engine and engine coolingNov 17, 2003
ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES, THE CIRCUIT BOARD FOR THE CRANK POSITION SENSOR OR CAM POSITION SENSOR MAY HAVE AN IMPROPER SOLDER JOINT DUE TO SOLDER DEFORMATION CAUSED BY HEAT STRESS ACCELERATED BY THE EXISTENCE OF FLUX RESIDUE DURING THE SOLDERING PROCESS.
THIS COULD CAUSE THE "SERVICE ENGINE SOON" WARNING LIGHT TO COME ON, CREATE A NO START CONDITION, CAUSE REDUCED ENGINE POWER, OR CAUSE THE ENGINE TO STOP RUNNING WITHOUT WARNING DURING VEHICLE OPERATION, WHICH COULD RESULT IN A CRASH.
DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE CRANK POSITION SENSORS. CAMSHAFT POSITION SENSOR(S), AND IN SOME CASES, THE VARIABLE TIMING CONTROL SENSOR(S). VEHICLES INVOLVED IN A PREVIOUS RECALL CAMPAIGN, 01V357, ARE ALSO INCLUDED IN THIS NEW CAMPAIGN. THE REPLACEMENT SENSORS USED IN THAT CAMPAIGN ARE ALSO AFFECTED. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN ON DECEMBER 22, 2003. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT NISSAN AT 1-800-647-7261 OR INFINITI AT 1-800-662-6200.
Campaign 03V455000 on NHTSA.gov
Fuel system, gasoline, storage, tank assemblyJul 14, 2003
ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES ORIGINALLY SOLD IN OR CURRENTLY REGISTERED IN THE STATES OF ALASKA, COLORADO, CONNECTICUT, IOWA, IDAHO, ILLINOIS, INDIANA, KANSAS, MASSACHUSETTS, MAINE, MICHIGAN, MINNESOTA, MISSOURI, MONTANA, NORTH DAKOTA, NEBRASKA, NEW HAMPSHIRE, NEW YORK, OHIO, PENNSYLVANIA, RHODE ISLAND, SOUTH DAKOTA, UTAH, VERMONT, WISCONSIN, AND WYOMING. AT EXTREMELY COLD TEMPERATURES, MOISTURE IN THE FUEL TANK COULD FREEZE AND FORM ICE CRYSTALS. THESE ICE CRYSTALS MAY OBSTRUCT THE SUCTION OPENING OF THE FUEL PUMP.
THIS CAN PREVENT THE SUPPLY OF FUEL TO THE ENGINE AND CAUSE THE ENGINE TO STOP, WHICH COULD RESULT IN A CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.
DEALERS WILL INSTALL A SCREEN AT THE SUCTION OPENING OF THE FUEL PUMP TO PREVENT ICE CRYSTALS FROM BLOCKING THE OPENING. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN ON AUGUST 18, 2003. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT NISSAN AT 1-800-333-0829.
Campaign 03V251000 on NHTSA.gov
Engine and engine cooling, exhaust system, manifold/header/muffler/tail pipeMar 11, 2003
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. ALSO ON 2002 ALTIMA AND SENTRA VEHICLES, CERTAIN ENGINE OPERATING CONDITIONS MAY CAUSE THE PRE-CATALYST TO OVERHEAT AND DAMAGE THE CATALYST SUBSTRATE.
EITHER OF THESE TWO CONDITIONS COULD RESULT IN A FIRE.
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 BEGAN ON JULY 28, 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. NISSAN RECALL NOS. R3007, R3014, R3015, R3016, R3017. 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. THE PRE-CATALYST WILL BE TESTED TO ENSURE IT IS WORKING PROPERLY AND REPLACED IF NECESSARY. IF DAMAGE IS FOUND INSIDE THE PRE-CATALYST, IT WILL BE NECESSARY TO REPLACE THE ENGINE.
Campaign 03V084000 on NHTSA.gov
Air bags, frontal, driver side, inflator moduleFeb 27, 2003
ON CERTAIN VEHICLES, THE ELECTRICAL CONNECTOR FOR THE DRIVER AIR BAG MAY COME LOOSE. IF THE CONNECTOR COMES LOOSE, THE SUPPLEMENTAL AIR BAG WARNING LIGHT FLASHES INTERMITTENTLY.
THE DRIVER SIDE AIR BAG WILL NOT DEPLOY IN THE EVENT OF A CRASH, INCREASING THE RISK OF PERSONAL INJURY.
DEALERS WILL INSTALL A RETAINING CLIP ON THE CLOCK SPRING ELECTRICAL CONNECTOR. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN APRIL 21, 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.
Campaign 03V061000 on NHTSA.gov
Air bagsApr 17, 2002
THIS IS NOT A SAFETY RECALL IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE SAFETY ACT. HOWEVER, IT IS DEEMED A SAFETY IMPROVEMENT CAMPAIGN BY THE AGENCY. ON CERTAIN 2002 NISSAN ALTIMA MODEL VEHICLES MANUFACTURED PRIOR TO MARCH 16, 2002, ONE OF THE SENSORS FOR THE AIR BAG SYSTEM DOES NOT WORK AS WELL AS EXPECTED IN HIGH-SPEED OFF-SET CRASH SITUATIONS.
THE AIR BAG SYSTEM DOES NOT WORK AS EXPECTED.
DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE AIR BAG SENSOR. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN APRIL 15, 2002. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT NISSAN AT 1-800-647-7261, CONCERNING THE PROBLEM.
Campaign 02I001000 on NHTSA.gov
Representative owner complaints
1,062 reports, newest first.
Structure, Jan 18, 2012
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 NISSAN ALTIMA 2.5. THE CONTACTED STATED THAT WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS BEING SERVICED BY A PRIVATE MECHANIC, THE MECHANIC ADVISED THE CONTACT THAT THERE WAS CORROSION UNDER THE PASSENGER SIDE FLOOR BOARDS. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT CONTACTED AND THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE VIN WAS UNKNOWN. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 104,000 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 112,000.
Structure, Jan 17, 2012
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 NISSAN ALTIMA. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS SERVICED BY A LOCAL REPAIR SHOP WHEN SHE WAS ADVISED THAT THE FLOOR BOARDS WERE CORRODED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 59,000 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 72,000. UPDATED 02/06/12*BF
Structure, Dec 26, 2011
BOUGHT CAR IN 2009, FROM A DEALERSHIP, IN 2010 UPON OBTAINING A INSPECTION, WAS ADVISED THAT IT FAILED BECAUSE THE FLOOR BOARDS ROTTING OUT!!! ON PASSENGER SIDE. NOW DRIVERS SIDE . IS NISSAN DOING ANYTHING ABOUT THIS???? *TR
Engine and engine cooling, Dec 6, 2011
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.
Engine and engine cooling, Electrical system, Dec 5, 2011
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
Engine and engine cooling, Power train, Nov 18, 2011
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.
Engine and engine cooling, Nov 17, 2011
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
Engine and engine cooling, Nov 9, 2011
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
Engine and engine cooling, Nov 8, 2011, fire
I WAS DRIVING ON THE FREEWAY AND MY ENGINE CAUGHT FIRE WHICH RESULTED IN MY CAR BEING TOTALED. *TR
Engine and engine cooling, Nov 2, 2011
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.
Engine and engine cooling, Oct 28, 2011
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.
Structure, Oct 26, 2011
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 NISSAN ALTIMA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE FAILED STATE INSPECTION DUE TO CORROSION OF THE SUB FRAME. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER WHERE THE DEALER CONFIRMED THE CORROSION OF THE SUB FRAME. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED BUT THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 100,000 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 104,000.
Structure, Oct 21, 2011
THE FLOOR ON THE PASSENGER SIDE OF MY 2002 NISSAN ALTIMA 3.5 HAS RUSTED THROUGH, AND THE DRIVER'S SIDE IS WELL ON THE WAY. THE CAR UP TILL NOW HAS BEEN AN RELIABLE, EXCELLENT VEHICLE. BUT WITH ONLY 99,000 MILES ON IT, IT IS BASICALLY TRASHED. IT'S LIKE A SEEMINGLY HEALTHY, ACTIVE 50 YEAR OLD GOING TO THE DOCTOR FOR A YEARLY CHECKUP, AND BEING TOLD "YOU HAVE STAGE FOUR CANCER. IT'S OVER." NISSAN WON'T DO ANYTHING TO HELP OR COMPENSATE, STATING IT IS BEYOND THE PERFORATION WARRANTY. CARS BUILT IN 2002 AREN'T SUPPOSED TO RUST OUT. THERE'S NO VISIBLE BODY RUST ON THE CAR, BUT THE FLOOR IS RUSTED THROUGH. THIS SHOULD BE A CLASS ACTION SUIT, AS IT HAS HAPPENED TO MANY ALTIMAS. IT IS TRULY A CRIME. *TR
Engine and engine cooling, Oct 7, 2011
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
Engine and engine cooling, Oct 4, 2011
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
Engine and engine cooling, Oct 4, 2011
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.
Engine and engine cooling, Oct 4, 2011
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
Engine and engine cooling, Oct 4, 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. *TR
Engine and engine cooling, Structure, Oct 2, 2011
FLOOR PANS ON BOTH DRIVER AND PASSENGER SIDES ARE RUSTED THROUGH ENGINE DIES RANDOMLY. *TR
Engine and engine cooling, Electrical system, Sep 29, 2011
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
Engine and engine cooling, Sep 24, 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). *TR
Engine and engine cooling, Sep 22, 2011
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.
Engine and engine cooling, Sep 22, 2011
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.
Engine and engine cooling, Power train, Sep 20, 2011
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
Engine and engine cooling, Sep 6, 2011
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.