I30 dealer burn - please help!

[twinspar]

Took my 2001 I30 to Infiniti dealer yesterday. 105K miles, engine light on for a few weeks, air bag light blinking last couple of days. Diagnostic cost $95. Service advisor came back after a few minutes and informed me I need a new front converter ($760), O2 sensor ($199), D/S airbag ***'y ($1332) and airbag wire ***'y ($274). I absolutely LOVE this car, it is in immaculate condition, but at about $3500 bucks, incl labor, I'm hurt. This thing runs like a top, performs like an F15 fighter (only a/market item K&N filter). I'm a reasonably capable backyard mechanic, and can replace parts with the best of them. any advice out there about how to double-check whether I really NEED all this stuff? How does an airbag go bad in a vehicle that's never even been bumped?I don't want another $100 car wash from the dealer.

[MinisterofDOOM]

The airbag's the only really iffy part. If you're comfortable messing with it yourself, then it's doable, though.

I'd do the O2 sensor myself as well.

Not sure what you mean my "front converter" though? Are you referring to the torque converter? If so, unless you've got some nice equipment, you'll probably end up having to leave this to the professionals.

[maxhopper]

Front converter is the front warm up(pre) cat. I'm kinda with Doom on the DIY. The pre cat and the O2 should be no problem. The airbag and wire assy would make me think twice, but if you're up to it...rock on.

EDIT: You may want to check that front pre cat first. It's either going to be between the manifold and the y-pipe, or it may be integrated into the y-pipe. If it's the latter, you could just buy an aftermarket y-pipe depending on how strict emissions testing is in your area.

Check out these guys for OEM parts at considerable savings. Great service.http://www.nissanparts.org/

You may want to try http://www.car-parts.com for an airbag assy. Keep in mind any shipping on that part will have to be via ground.

Do the notes on your repair order happen to say what is wrong with the air bag and wiring assy? That's not something that is very common.

[twinspar]

Thanks for responses, guys. Work order doesn't indicate reason for airbag replacement. Apparently, diagnostic system saw something it didn't like, and triggered the light. What's your advice about writing to Infiniti corporate? Do you think they'd be sympathetic, maybe offer some assistance? P/N on "tube assembly-exhaust,fr" is 20020-3Y400. Suppose I'll check out your links for pricing and start saving - there goes this summers vacation, birthday gifts, Christmas.........

[elwesso]

Id just start by replacing the o2 sensor..... I dont see why a precat would go bad, unless its a problem on maxima's that I dont know about..

On the older Infiniti's the airbag light will start blinking if it somehow got into diagnostic mode... Try this: Put the key in the ignition, turn it on (engine not running) and then press the door swtich at least 10 times within 10 seconds of turning the key on...

The door switch is going to be on the B pillar...

[maxhopper]

Here's a couple of threads regarding problems with the O2 and precat. Maybe something to check into.

zerothread?id=141231

zerothread?id=51477

[popone913]

Dealers are really bad about doing that... I got an estimate for my 98 Max GLE of over $5,000. Part of mine was the Air Bag sensor under the center concole going out. I went to a junk yard and pulled one out of a car that never had the air bags go off... I would have saved money if I would have know I could have possible reset the thing my self. Also, oil pressure light wasn't working, $8.99 vs. the dealers $80. Front sturts, dealer $800, Monroe Sensa-track $250. For the best price on service look for a good independent mechanic that specializes in Nissan/Infinti cars for some of the other stuff... best of luck.

[elwesso]

You can also save a lot of money by buying from joe at infiniti of scottsdale.. I buy myparts from them and save 20% over dealer retail!

[popone913]

Thanks... Peoria Nissan has the tendency to rip me off...

[Beancooker]

Personally, I said screw the airbag and put in an aftermarket wheel. Much more comfortable and stylish. I know it's risky but... If you do so keep the stock wheel and bag in case your insurance company needs to inspect your car, it's a five minute swap.

[nissanparts.org]

Quick one... visit a dealers website get a savings, walk in to the dealers front counter, expect to get raped just like nissan's service department. Those prices sound right for retail and wholesale talk to Joe or me ( Chris ) and we will take care of you .