I bought my max used and doubt the fuel filter was ever changed, i looked at it but cant tell how ugly it looks, its too deep inside
its a 97 Automatic with 208KM on her right now, drives amazing great acceleration, no knocking, nothing wrong mechanically and cosmetically, i get 500KM to a tank i think thats 310 miles. i got one Code 0902 for rear oxygen heater sensor. this code doesnt seem to bother me, but eventually ill have to get to it before my next emissions test. Also the front struts (or shocks, whatever they are called) are shot to $hit the shiny metal is showing and the oil has leaked out of it, although i do not hear anything wrong when i go over bumps and the car corners like a dream, very crisp and controlled without rolling.

what i have done so far : Put in Castrol GTX 5w-30 and replaced oil filter, replaced air filter (paper), replaced PCV valve, flush and fill tranny fluid at dealership (cheaper then anywhee else i called HAHA!!), put in STP fuel injector cleaner

what i plan on doing: clean the TB and IAC Valve, replace front breaks, put in a front strut bar

1) What are the signs that tell you to replace the fuel filter ?
2) If replaced with OEM fuel filter what difference would i notice ?
3) In general what should i do in terms of maintenance to this car ?
4) How urgent is the 0902 code that i have ?

( I AM BUDGET LIMITED ) any suggestions welcomed ;-)

 

1) There isn't much of a sign telling you when to replace it. It's just a change by x,xxx mile thing.
2.) Maybe an increase of MPG (~1-2 or so)
3.) Seafoam it, check brake pads, fluid levels, rust under the car, motor mounts, etc.
4.) Running code free would be best. Other than that, you might suffer some slight power lost

 

The fuel filter should be replaced every 48,000 kilometres.

500 km to a tank of gas is pathetic. I've never had that low yet and I've owned my car since day 1. Replace the oxygen sensor asap.

Get the radiator coolant checked out and flush if necessary.

Check the belts and hoses.

Get the suspension fixed now.

Visual inspections of exhaust, steering, CV boots etc.

Get a stainless steel y-pipe at www.lssexhaust.com

Replace the power steering fluid.

 

hmm, some of that seems overkill, the suspension will be fixed in the summer,

about the rear o2 sensor
i only have one code which is 0902 which states : rear 02 SENSOR HEATER
another code which i DONT have 0707 states: REAR 02 SENSOR

i am assuming my problem is not the actual sensor but this HEATER thingy since thats what the code says, whats the difference in these codes ?

also shoud i go to the nissan dealer and just say : " i am getting 0902 fix it NOW!" lol or pay $100 dollars for them to check my car with a computer and then fix whats needed ? i used to have the 0304 KS code but i did the maintenance stated above and reset the ECU and the code is gone, could it still be a KS? i dont hear knocking and power is great

UPDATE: just checked the ECU codes again and the KS 0304 code is BACK!!!!!!!! i dont think i can change it myself + i dont have the proper tools, i think i have to go to the dealer ship and spend like 500 dollars :-(

 

Avoid the dealership like the plague, unless you like taking it up the rear.

Find a small shop that specializes in Japanese cars. Locally Minit-Tune has been good to me.

You should check out the regional forum and join TMEC (Toronto Maxima Enthusiasts Club).

I suspect you could find a local member with mechanical expertise and tools who could give you a hand if you make it worthwhile for him.

 

others may be able to confirm, but I don't think the Rear O2 affects the A/F ratio -- so I don't think it's critical to do it right away. you have the heater code, which means you need to replace the whole thing (you can't just fix the heater element). Your continuing KS code could be the "ghost" code -- it shows up whenever there's an O2 problem. do not bother with the KS until after you address the O2. if the KS code stays after the O2 is fixed, then worry about it (but it's not critical anyway). in any case - do not go to the dealer for any of this. the tools you need for the KS are highly specialized -- a box-end wrench, a screwdriver, a bit of patience, and 30 minutes! and the rear O2 is not bad either.