| cdaeng2 |
| we just bought our MO month ago with 65k on it. and just not too sure what was done and what needs to be done at this point. is there a way to tell if it needs coolant flushed and drive belts replaced without taking it to a mechanic. because if we took it to a mechanic without a doubt they will say it's time. and any other service i might consider at this mileage? |
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| njjoe |
cdaeng2-
Take a look at the Owner's Manual packet. One of the books has a maintenence section in the back for recording the date and mileage of any maintenence performed. With any luck the previous owner(s) may have kept it up to date.
You can also check with Nissan dealers in your area. If you give them the VIN# they should be able to tell you if they performed any maintenence and/or repairs to your MO.
What year is your MO?
-njjoe |
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| cdaeng2 |
i have checked manual and service book, and it's clean no records.
so no other way of finding it out without calling or going into dealer? |
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| njjoe |
cdaeng2-
You can buy an antifreeze tester for a few bucks at any auto-parts store. It measures the specific gravity of the coolant but gives no indication of it's age. It just lets you know the level of freeze protection. Nissan recommends the coolant be changed after 60,000 miles or 48 months.
The belts will look new for a few dozen miles. After that it is hard to tell their age simply by looking at them. If they have numerous cracks along the underside then they should replaced. Nissan recommends the two belts be replaced after 60,000 miles or 48 months.
-njjoe |
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| cdaeng2 |
| thanks, dealer wants $250 plus tax to replace belts and flush coolant. is this reasonable? |
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| njjoe |
Keep this in mind.... There is NO need to go to a Nissan dealer for non-warranty work.
Nissan dealers have a well-desrved reputaion for overcharging and recommending work that is not needed.
I suggest you find a reputable mechanic in your area and trust him to do the work.
-njjoe |
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| Warhammer |
If you're okay with working under the hood you can do the work yourself. New belts and antifreeze won't cost you that much. You just have to keep in mind that the engine compartment of the MO is quite compact.
You could do it yourself for less than $50.00. Just be sure to use distilled water if you mix your own antifreeze. :) |
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| Jim C |
| $250 is actually not bad for belts and coolant from a Nissan dealer. However, I would agree that you don't have to go to a Nissan dealer. In fact, you'll get a better price if you go to an independent service station (one not affiliated with any manufacturer) that you know and trust. If you don't know of one, ask around or check local ratings. |
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