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Recall 03V-084

NISSAN NORTH AMERICA, INC. recalled the 2002 to 2003 Nissan Altima and 1 other model: Engine and engine cooling (exhaust system, manifold/header/muffler/tail pipe).

At a glance

Campaign number
03V-084
Reported
March 11, 2003
Vehicles affected
338,000 estimated by the manufacturer

Source: NHTSA recall records

What is wrong

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.

The risk

Either of these two conditions could result in a fire.

The fix

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-[removed]. 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.

Notes from the manufacturer

Customers can also contact the national highway traffic safety administration's auto safety hotline at 1-888-dash-2-DOT (1-[removed]).

Affected vehicles