Emissions 'fix' could be trouble for Altima owner

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August 14, 2010

Auto Scanner Larry Rubenstein The Salem News Sat Aug 14, 2010, 05:45 AM EDT

Q: I read about the 2002 Nissan Altima 2.5L catalytic converter problem in your column last week. I found a solution online, which is to put in an after-market manifold for headers and this will eliminate the pre-cat. Do you think that this will eliminate the problem in a 2003 Nissan Altima 2.5L?

A: I can't tell you whether or not it will work for the 2003 Altima. I can tell you to tread very cautiously. Altering your car's emissions system can lead to big fines.

Q: On my Dakota, I noticed a clicking sound from my right front tire when I turn. I quickly researched this, and my understanding is that it's a bad CV joint. How much would it cost to replace it? I'm going to be heading out on vacation for a couple of weeks and wanted an estimate before I leave.

A: If the bearing is gone, figure on around $150 for parts and labor plus sales tax for a new axle.

Q: Two years ago, I bought a used Caddy with new Michelin all-season symmetry tires 225/60 r16. They now have 15,000 miles on them. I recently had an oil change, and the manager said I would soon need new tires. I told him that they were only 2 years old, and he said the technician who inspected them reported they had dry rot and that he looked at them and agreed. I looked at them, and they looked fine. I then had a state inspection, and no mention was made of any problems with the tires. Is it possible the 2-year-old tires are failing so soon?

A: You need to look at the date code on the tires. If the tires are falling apart and they are less than 4 years old, you should see a Michelin dealer in your area. The problem is, however, you did not buy the tires, they came with the car. The Michelin dealer may do something for customer satisfaction. If no help is given, I would stay away from Michelin tires.

Car Care Tip: When an oil change is performed on your car, be sure to ask the technician to look under the car for leaks.

• • •

Larry Rubenstein is a master technician who owns a North Shore service station. His column appears every Saturday. Write to Larry at The Salem News, c/o Auto Scanner, 32 Dunham Road, Beverly, MA 01915, or send e-mail to scan auto@aol.com.

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