2002 Pathfinder help

[you_aware]

Hey everyone,

I'm new to the site and just inquiring for some help.

Well, my pathfinder crapped out on me about 3 months ago. I took it to a shop and quoted me for 3K! They wanted to replace the block of the engine.

The car started overheating, blowing white smoke and leaking coolant fluid through the exhaust pipe. I'm not sure what happened to it but it started doing it during the summer.

Before I decide to take it in again for the repair, is there anything else I should look into? I really don't want to pay that much many if there are other ways to fix the car.

Thanks in for advance everyone!!

[Towncivilian]

Is the car losing coolant? Did you ever notice the coolant level in the overflow reservoir dropping? Any oil consumption? Does it always smoke?

[you_aware]

Is the car losing coolant? Did you ever notice the coolant level in the overflow reservoir dropping? Any oil consumption? Does it always smoke?

yeah, it's losing coolant. I didn't see any leaks though. Oil, I checked it and it's still full. Smoke, Yes soon as the engine warms up.

[Towncivilian]

Are there bubbles in the coolant overflow reservoir when the engine is warmed up? If so, this indicates a head gasket problem.

[you_aware]

Are there bubbles in the coolant overflow reservoir when the engine is warmed up? If so, this indicates a head gasket problem.

That's what the mechanic said. Which easily replaceable, however he is saying that head/block needs to be replaced as well?

[you_aware]

I don't think it needs to be replaced, the car only has 120xxx miles on it. I am the only owner, never had any problems til this one. I've always taken to the dealership for maintenance.

[you_aware]

bump

[Towncivilian]

I think you should make sure all of the power valve screws are present and apply threadlocker to them (or have the dealer do it). In rare instances, one or more power valve screws have backed out and caused massive engine damage. I'm not sure whether this could cause coolant loss, but it's not unfeasible. There is a decent DIY guide on the process here.