My maxima was bought 07/2001 and its "service engine soon" has been on for several weeks. Had it checked today and was told the error code shows the catalytic converter problem. Does anyone have the similar problem? Is it serious? Does it need to be replaced? How much to have it fixed?
Thanks.
David

 

What was the code that was pulled? P0430?

About a month and a half ago, I kept getting a P0430 code come up which indicates a possible problem with the catalytic converter. The code would come up about once or twice a week, and I would use OBD-II device to clear the SES warning each time. My mechanic buddy was about to order a new one for $580.

Then one weekend when I was changing my engine oil and filter, I remembered I was overdue for an air filter change, so I took a look at it. It was very dirty because I had gone for about 20K miles since the last change. Strangely enough, after replacing that filter and clearing the code, the SES light hasn't come back on, and that was three weeks ago.

I told my buddy to hold off on ordering another catalytic converter, but for now since I'm at three weeks and counting with no issues, I'll keep my fingers crossed.

Peace.

 

The cat is covered under emissions warranty for 80k mi.

 

I had a few codes regarding emissions equipment on my 2000 SE .. the first time the ECU was reflashed which cleared it and the second they replaced some of emissions piping after the headers, before the cat.... again cleared. There may be a few TSB's floating around.