The service engine light came on my Maxima 2000 SE recently. The dealership diagnosed it to be a faulty oxygen sensor in the front. Luckily, I had bought extended warranty on my car, and it covered the replacement for the oxygen sensor.

Since the dealer didn't have the oxygen sensor in stock, he told me the part should arrive in 2 days, and to check back later. Today, he calls up and says that in addition to the oxygen sensor, I will also need to replace the exhaust tube - as this is where the oxygen sensor is mounted. Ofcourse, the exhaust tube isn't covered under warranty.

Does this sound right? Do the exhaust tube need to be replaced when replacing the oxygen sensor.

Please advise. Thanks!

 

Call a different dealership and ask them the costs for replacing the O2 sensor (ask them the details) and that will be a good argument for your dealer.

 

Did the dealer explain why the exhaust tube needs replacing?

 

I'm assuming because you said that the o2 sensor in the front it's the y-pipe we're talking about. If that's the case the stealer will be tring to charge you like $800 for the "exhaust tube" which is way too much!
If you have a 2k or 2k1 then you can get an aftermarket y for less than 300 which will also add some horses for you. If it's a 2k2 or 2k3 then go for headers you'll love them.

I would have the dealer replace the o2 under warentee, ask them which specific tube needs to be replaced and go from there. Also ask what code was being thrown from the service engine light. (ie P0420, etc). Don't let them rip you off they are just trying to get some cash out of you!

 

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I have a 2002 maxima and i have had both the front and back O2 sensors replaced at seperate times when the service light came on...i put stillen intake and a stillen exhaust...the dealership replaced it free i don't know whats up with the tube...duane

 

Well....I doubt the exhaust tube needs replacing. It only would if there is a crack and its leaking. I would have the dealer just do the O2 sensor and leave it at that. If you really want to get into it, check under the car yourself while its running and see if you can find a leak. Or check the exhaust tube when its cold and visually look for a leak. My take is the dealer is pulling your chain.

 

finally found the problem. i'm getting mine replaced next week.

 

I'm sorry about the confusion I caused, but the problem was diagnosed to be a fault oxygen sensor in Bank 1 sensor 2 that is supposed to be in the rear of the car. The part that needs to be replaced is the exhaust pipe or tube. Is this something that is normally done. How can i check if the dealer isn't trying to rip me.