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SariVog

2003 Nissan Micra Experiencing Black Smoke, Power Loss, and Other Worrisome Issues

Hey gang, got a bit of a worry with my 2003 Nissan Micra (146,181 KM on it, petrol motor). Been seeing black smoke when I hit the gas, plus the check engine light's on and cold starts are taking forever. There's been some power loss, it shakes when I try to speed up, and my fuel mileage is dropping. Not to mention, the exhaust has a potent smell. I had a bad run-in with a mechanic last time and would rather not go through that again if I can help it. I'm thinking the problem might have something to do with lean fuel mix in the engine but not entirely sure. Anyone experienced something like this before? What did your mechanic do and were you happy with the result? Just looking for some advice before I take it anywhere. Thanks a ton!

(Translated from German)

Summary of the thread

A 2003 Nissan Micra is experiencing issues such as black smoke, power loss, prolonged cold starts, and a strong exhaust smell. These symptoms suggest a potential problem with the fuel system, possibly a lean fuel mix. A similar case involved a faulty injector, which was identified through a diagnostic test and subsequently replaced, resolving the issues. It is recommended to have the injectors checked to address these problems effectively.

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4 comment(s)

UweMai

Hey there, sounds like you're going a bit of a tough time with your Micra. I own a 2000 Nissan Primera myself and had similar issues a while back. Turned out to be a defective injector that was the root of all the trouble - black smoke, check engine light, rough cold starts, decreased power, all that jazz. So here's what happened at the garage: My mechanic did a diagnostic test and found a fault code related to the fuel system. After a thorough inspection, he identified a faulty injector, which was failing to provide a standard amount of fuel to the engine. This was causing lean fuel mix, which in turn was responsible for all the symptoms you mentioned. Getting a defective injector fixed is a serious issue as it has a direct impact on the engine's performance and overall health of the car. The thing was taken apart, the faulty injector replaced, and the engine cleaned to get rid of any residual deposits or damage. This pretty much sorted out everything, stopped the black smoke, the car became a lot smoother on cold starts, and the engine power was restored properly, not to mention the mileage increased. I was pretty satisfied with the result as the car runs much better now. Given your symptoms are identical to what I experienced, I'd suggest you get your injectors checked. It's definitely worth it in the long run.

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SariVog (community.author)

Hey, thanks for the heads up! Your situation sounds identical to mine, and I've got to say, I'm slightly relieved to know it could be the faulty injector. It's been driving me nuts! Hey, I’m a bit tight with the money situation. Got any rough ideas on how much that fix set you back? And have you noticed anything else cropping up since you got it all fixed? Thanks again for the help man, really appreciate it!

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UweMai

Hey, glad to hear you found my experience useful! So, about the wallet situation, I get you, man. Getting the defective injector replaced set me back around 515€. I know it's a kick, but considering the improved performance and fuel efficiency, I reckon it's money well spent. Since the mechanic worked on it, there hasn't been a repeat episode. The mixture control error that was causing that lean fuel mix has been fixed. No further black smoke, no strange noises, nothing. It's like the car got a whole new life. So, fingers crossed, it's all sorted now. Remember, skipping maintenance can lead to much bigger bills down the line. Your car will thank you for it in the long run. All the best!

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SariVog (community.author)

Hello! Hearing that it all worked out for you is such a relief. It is a hefty price to pay, but considering the benefits, it seems totally worth it. I can't handle the stress of possible bigger issues later. Your insight really helped! I'll pop over to my local garage and have them check it out, fingers crossed it'll be as smooth as your experience. It's high time I gave my poor Micra the attention it deserves. Thanks again for the advice! You're a star!

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NISSAN

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MICRA