Stupid Oil Stick Design by Nissan
Last Friday I took my
2001 Nissan Sentra to
Penzoil to have the oil changed. When the service man attempted to pull the oil stick out to verify the new oil level, the molded plastic handle of the stick
broke, leaving the metal stick out of reach, down the long metal tube that leads to the engine. To make matters worse, part of the molded plastic was attached to the top of the stick, making retrieval by magnet an impossibility. After a few minutes, it was obvious that the "professionals" didn't have a clue as to how to get the broken stick out. I later called Nissan to find out if they could get the broken stick out for me. "Yes sir, we can schedule the work for Monday morning. It will cost $136." You must be kidding? You want to charge me $136 to retrieve an oil stick that broke as a result of a poor design by your engineers? Who (in their right mind) would design an oil stick with a
handle made of plastic? Determined not to pay anyone $136, I went ahead and purchased a new $3 replacement stick, so that it would be on hand once I got the broken stick out. I then started asking around for ideas on how to get the broken stick out. The winning idea that saved me $136 came from Derek Cornell. "Why don't you just put some Super Glue on something and stick it down the tube, let it stick, and then pull it up." Simplicity itself! I used a pencil. It
worked like a charm! The broken stick came right out and I replaced it with the new stick that I had purchased. Many thanks to Derek.
Comments from Readers
Had the same thing happen today! Took the car in for an oil change and state inspection. Dipstick broke off right at the top. Crew worked for 25 minutes getting the damn thing out. They used a vacuum device to extract it. Flew ten feet out of the engine! Bought a one-piece metal replacement at O'Reilly's for six bucks and change. Next time, I'm buying the Saturn I should've bought to begin with.
Same thing happened with my 2001 Nissan Sentra. I first tried to use an epoxy glue, but it dissolved the plastic around the exposed part of the dipstick. I finally scraped all the plastic out, and I was able to remove the dipstick with some needle nosed plyers.
the same thing happened to my oil dipstick. im pissed
I have a 2000 Nissan Sentra and that happened to me also, Why would anyone make a plastic handle for a dipstick?! Do they think that the heat will not affect a dipstick? I know nothing about cars, and even I know that would be a stupid idea!
Exact thing happened to me. I was fortunate to be able to get the broken part out without super glue, I used a small screwdriver, got behind the little rubble seal, and it slid out. I used duct tape to cover the open dipstick tube. You said you paid $3 for a new dipstick, where did you get it? the dealer?
I was changing my oil yesterday on my 2001 Nissan Sentra and tthe dipstick handle broke off. Is there possible a recall on this item?? I was very upset when it happened. (I actually got online tto double check how much oil the Sentra takes)
Well, now my oil dipstick has broken off on my 2001 Sentra as well! At Walmart they said that it just broke off when they went to pull it out. I tried the super glue on a pencil but as I held the pencil snuggly against the top of the broken plastic, the dipstick went in further and now I can't even see it!! I guess I will be out $150 or more??? I hope that an extended warranty will cover this! Recall!!!!!!!
The same thing happened to me. In fact, that could have been me holding the broken pieces. I was unable to use a pencil because the rocket scientists at the Valvoline pushed it down too deep to use one (they didn't have a clue either). I used a dowel rod and super glue and it worked like a champ. Once I told them I just wanted a replacement dipstick, they wanted to know how I got it out. You saved me a lot of hassles. Thanks.
Same thing just happened to my 01' Sentra. Tried the Super Glue trick, but too much friction about 2" from the top of the tube breaks the glue seal. Wheel recall, tachometer-sensor recall, suspension bolt recall, and bad coolent temp sensor left me stranded. I swear this will be the last Mexican-made car I ever buy.....
My brother has the same problem with the dipstick breaking off in a Nissan 2001 Sentra.
We checked with our local Nissan dealer service department, thet suggested blowing it out. Their suggestion was to put the nozzel from a compressor and squirt a little air into the oil breather hole. Has anybody heard of this, does this work ?
The same damn thing happened to me; thanks for the tip.
and here i thought i was the only one with this friggin' problem. damn nissan and NAFTA. my next car is either a ford or chevy truck.
My gas peddle sticks on my 2001 Nissan Sentra GXE. Would this be a recall?
HAD THE SAME THING HAPPEN TO ME; ON A 1996 SUZUKI SIDEKICK. THE YELLOW PLASTIC HANDLE SNAPPED OFF WHEN I WENT TO CHECK MY OIL. WHY USE A PIECE OF PLASTIC WHEN ALL THEY HAD TO DO WAS MAKE THE METAL ROD TWO INCHES LONGER & FORM A LOOP FOR YOUR FINGER. I PANICKED AT FIRST, THEN I NOTICED A PIECE OF METAL THAT STUCK OUT OF THE PIECE THAT WAS STILL IN THE DIPSTICK TUBE JUST ENOUGH TO GRIP WITH A PAIR OF PLIERS. IN A WAY I GUESS I WAS LUCKY TO BE ABLE TO PULL THE STICK OUT.
I WILL CHECK THE WEB FOR A NEW ONE.
It happens to Fords too! Mine broke on my Explorer. So...as quoted in the movie Armageddon: Russian components, American components, ALL MADE IN TAIWAN!
The same exact thing happened to me! I tried all of the suggestions listed above with no luck. I finally wrote an angry e-mail to Nissan Customer Service concerning the issue and I am still waiting to hear from them...I'm sure I probably will not. I've learned from my mistake...Honda here I come!!!!
in reference to the tale above...the exact same thing happend to me. i have a 2000 sentra gxe and the dipstick broke off and fell down in the hole, when the guys at jiffy lube were changing my oil. however, the guys are conscientious about it. they didn't charge me for the oil change and offered to get the old one out if i get myself a new dipstick. in the article above, the fellow mentions something about getting his new dipstick for $3. where did he get it? please hit me back if you have any info.
Same thing happened to me. 2001 Nissan Sentra GXE. I had the oil changed, and the garage said the dipstick broke right off when they took it off to check the oil. Haven't tried any of the ideas mentioned to get it out yet, but I'm going to try needle nose pliers and/or the glue on a pencil trick.
DAMNIT! The same thing happened to me! And my petal sticks too! I will try the pencil but I think it is too far down, maybe I will try the dowel rod. Stupid nissan!
broken dipstick in 2002 Sentra GXE, 43000 miles. After mine broke off it slid down about 4". Magnets won't grip on these dipsticks because a) they're very thin metal & there isn't enough magnetic attraction (but plenty between the magnet & dipstick tube) and b) the dipstick in this car is a stainless steel & stainless has little to no magnetic capability, varying with the steel formula. Super glue for plastic didn't bond, maybe the plastic wasn't smooth enough. Super glue gel & a dowel didn't bond, same problem plus I used too much glue. By this time the dipstick was about 7" into the tube & in danger of contacting the crankshaft. The dipstick tube doesn't have a holddown bracket which tells me it is pressed into the block, maybe even swaged from beneath, & no way to get it loose. The oil pan is concealed too well to easily or quickly come off ($150 at a shop) which left either vacuum or drilling. I bought a 1/8" x 12" bit (&6) & drilled away one side of the plastic still attached to the dipstick, figuring the bit wouldn't get metal shavings from the tube or dipstick as long as there was still plastic for it to work on. Then I fished it out with a fine, stiff wire bent to form a small hook. It took two tries as the wire hook pulled straight once. I will trust the oil filter to protect the engine from plastic dust & fragments for a couple of days, changing oil & filter this weekend.
The problem is poor design. The plastic is good because it doesn't get hot enough to burn us, but in most cars it isn't exposed to as much heat. By running the dipstick tube through the exhaust manifold & up aginst the block Nissan exposed it to more heat than most cars (based on my 97 Saturn & 92 Mazda 626 & conversation with a couple of mechanics. The MSN search found mostly Sentras & a couple of Miatas having this problem with plastic dipstick handles. The new dipstick also has a loose fit into the handle. The Saturn dipstick goes MUCH farther into the handle & feels very solid. I will try to find another stick the same length or get an all-metal one from a parts house (only chrome is usually available). I hope the detailed explanation does someone some good.
I had the same thing happen this morning on my 2000 Sentra. I stuck a screwdriver down into the hole and pulled out the little rubber O ring and then too a vacuum cleaner and just sucked it right out. Had to seal it a little with my hand to get enought suction, But it worked great.
SAME THING HAPPENED TO MY NISSAN SENTRA 2001. THIS CAR IS A PIECE OF SHIAT! THE SERVICE TECHNICIAN AT NISSAN ACCTUALLY SAID THIS WOULD BE NORMAL WEAR AND TEAR? DOES THAT MAKE ANY SENSE TO ANYONE! THEY WANT TO CHARGE $210 TO TAKE THE STICK OUT? I SURE AS HELL AM NOT PAYING ANY MORE MONEY FOR THIS PIECE OF SHIAT CAR. WHO DESIGNS A CAR WITH PLASTIC ENGINE PARTS? I AM AN ACCOUNTANT AND EVEN I WOULDN'T DO THAT! THIS IS EXTEMELY POOR DESIGN AND EVEN WORSE CUSTOMER SERVICE. THIS SHOULD BE RECALLED AT ABSOLUTELY NO CHARGE TO THEIR CUSTOMERS.
just the other day i went to check my oil on my 2001 nissan sentra gxe and the dipstick was missing. come to find out its stuck in there. so the handle must of broke off somehow. and then the next day i was driving and the car shuts off in the middle of the road. that piece of shit car has caused nothing but trouble since i had it. no more nissans for me.
sAME THING HAPPENED TO ME ON MY 2001 sENTRA gxe. tOOK IT IN FOR AN OIL CHANGE AND THE HANDLE BROKE OFF. lUCKILY WAS ABLE TO GET IT OUT WITH PLIERS. THIS SOUNDS LIKE A COMMON PROBLEM THAT NISSAN NEEDS TO DO SOMETHING ABOUT. WHERE DID YOU GET A NEW DIPSTICK?
I suggest we all file a complaint to the Dept of Transportation to try and get a recall on this item. It seems to be a common problem. Their website is. http://www.nhtsa.dot.gov/hotline/
I need a replacement dipstick can anyone tell me where the gentleman got a $3.00 one. I would rather not pay for an original. Thanks
hey i was wondering where the guy got the dipstick for $3? because i called a part store and they said i would have to get one from the dealership. and i really dont want to cause i know they will try to charge way too much. well if anyone knows write me back.
same damn thing happened to me sat. i know nothing about cars so my dad changed my oil. he then found out that the dipstick had broken off. the last place i've taken the car for service was at the nissan dealer. my dad said they probably broke it and left it in there. we managed to get it out by using super glue. now, my problem is where to get another dipstick (other than the nissan dealer). any ideas? i've been browsing but have no luck. thanks.
Your pencil and crazy glue trick worked exactly as you said. Pulled the dipstick out without any problems.
I agree with the other commenters. Not to smart on Nissan's part to make a dipstick handle, which is subject to heating and cooling, out of plastic.
The plastic becomes brittle. Dunce cap award to Nissan!
Thank you for your timely advice.
yep i had the same problem.. however its on an 89 Integra i think i will try thr dowell with super glue or maybe a screw driver.. i mean if they make a simple part like a dipstick with a rubber or plastic handle imagine what the rest of the parts their using on the rest of the engine..
I had the same thing happen. Took my son's 2000 nissan sentra in for an oil change and the stick broke off and had to pay an outrageous amount of money to get it out. Nissan should have a recall on this, I don't know what other kind of dip stick will work but I don't want the same one again. Does anyone know what else will work.
I'm glad I wasn't the only one with a problem. This happened this weekend to me; I am currently sitting on the phone with the Nissan Corp. THey are documenting my gripe! Call 1-800-647-7263 to add to the list of complaints please, so that we can make Nissan pay for it.
Same thing happened to me. It's around 4" down. The pencil trick did not work. Most probably will need to take it to the dealer and shell out $210.00!!
Recall!!!!!
I just had the same problem with my 2002 Sentra GXE. Sucked it out with a shop vac no problem.
Same here! Went to the gas station today 4/10/04 and filled up & checked my oil and pulled the yellow dipstick out and could hear the metal stick fall down in the tube. What a bummer. 2002 Sentra EXE with 13,000 very well cared for miles on it. Just got it back from the dealer for a recall on the crankshaft sensor.Took them 2 days to do that. Anyway tried the super glue trick and could only get it about 3 inchs from the top of the tube. Tried all the house vac's and that didn't work. Finally ended up cutting the tube down each side with tin snips and digging it out. Going to cut it flush tomorrow with my RotoZip. Went to the auto store and found a Mr Gasket dipstick that I think will work. Will try that after I cut the mangled portion of the tube off. You know, I noticed that the dipstick was all plastic but I discounted my fears with a "They must know what there doing"! Wrong!!!!. Thanks for that phone number Meghan. There going to get an earful this Monday!!!
Update on post above: After I got the dipstick out by tin snipping down each side of the tube about 3 inches I cut the mangled part off flush with a cuting wheel on my Rotozip. Sanded down the rough outside edge and the rough inside edge and then went to Autozone and bought the only dipstick they sold: A MR GASKET hot rod chrome version. The Mr Gasket had a rubber sealing lip on it that wouldn't allow the dipstick to seat on the bigger rod so I ripped that rubber seal off and the stick now jams in there pretty good. Now going to have to get an oil change and put in exact amount of oil and mark it on the stick. Total time to repair: About 4 hours and haven't done the oil change yet. Total cost about $20. Autoway would have hosed me for about $200 I'm sure. What a waste of time. Gonna bitch to NMAC tomorrow big time.
Well, whaddya know... same thing with my '01 Sentra at 38000 miles. Went to the dealership and they took the old one right out and I bought a new one for about $5. They didn't even charge me to take it out. Just depends on the dealership, I guess.
Make sure you try a different place if you get trouble the first time.
Oh boy, I thought I was one of two people that had this problem after seeing a question posted to Click n Clack (the cartalk guys) but I see we are an entire tribe of unsatisfied Nissan owners! I appreciate the tips, gonna try it this weekend after I get a new stick. Anyone having problems with the electric windows?? I can't even roll down my windows anymore, they stick open and then the switch does nothing. I have to let it 'cool down' (why? i dunno. It works) then pull the window up while pressing the up switch. I hope they have a recall on this one too, I don't wanna have to shell out to fix them (It's at least the front two windows, but now I'm afraid to open any of them!) Good luck guys!
Follow-up: Autoway in Clearwater wanted to charge me to get my broken dipstick out. I talked to a friendly mechanic there and he said they use an air compressor into the pvc valve hole in the valve cover and it pops right out.Nice to know after the fact! Anyway, the car runs ok but the clacking sound it makes when you slightly rev it up real quick from idle is the cam mechanism at the end of the cam they use for the varible timing. Its annoying cause it sounds like a bad bearing and the other thing I don't like is the noise the air compressor makes. It sounds like it has 100,000 miles on it instead of only 14,000.Makes a pretty loud clacky clack sound now and then.Not the turn on/engage sound but while its running its not very quiet. Sure do miss the old freon as the new freon just doen't get as cold. My 92 240SX will freeze your ears off.The other complaint is the throttle body keeps sticking. I've cleaned the bore and lube the linkage and its ok for a while but gets sticky quick again.The last thing I headed off was the trunk leakage they all get after a while.If you notice the water from the trunk water valley runs right over the rear light assy. That assy is sealed by gunk. yes...gunk. After a couple of years the gunk dries up and all of a sudden you have a puddle in your spare tire valley as the water gets in the light assy. and runs into the trunk. Very common Sentra/240SX problem. Water fills up in your spare tire valley. You won't know about it till it starts to smell. Just get bath/tile silicon sealant and seal up the outside edge real good. Let it dry before you close the trunk and your good to go. Also the manual trans sticks when you try to go from 1st to 2nd. It sticks coming out of 1st. Its real bad at warm up as all Nissans have cranky manual trans when there cold but mines sticks pretty good. I hate taking it to the dealer as I usually get a free door ding and something else is messed up when I get it back.
Same thing happened to me! Jiffy lube broke the stick when changing the oil on my '02 Sentra GXE with 42,000 miles. They told me that they would get me a new dipstick and replace the broken one but when it came time to change the broken one out, it was about 4" down the tube. I used the vaccum trick and it worked like a charm. I put the skinny nozzle attachment on the vaccum, turned the vaccum on and put it over the dipstick tube and within seconds, I saw the yellow plastic part of the broken dipstick go right up into the vaccum hose. Great suggestion!!! Oh yeah, and my gas pedal sticks, too.
Damned thing broke for me today too...thanks to the guys at Wal-Mart.
I can't believe this happened to my 2000 Nissan Sentra. The dipstick handle broke off not more than 30 minutes ago. I went to Google and typed in Broken Dipstick Nissan Sentra and found this site. Every thing I said to myself the last 30 minutes is written here (poor design, Etc). What a joke. I'm gonna try the vacuum trick. Wish me luck!!!!!!
Vacuum did not work. What a piece of junk this car turned out to be. It's just seems cheaply made.So much for Japanese cars running for over 150 thousand miles with no problems. I rate this car very bad. Keep this in mind all you people out there that want to buy a Sentra!!!!!!!!
HEAT A COPPER WIRE 12 GAUGE WITH A LIGHTER. STICK THE RED HOT COOPER WIRE DOWN THE TUBE. WAIT FOR IT TO COOL DOWN ABOUT 3 MINS. LIFT COPPER WIRE UP AND THERE COMES THE DIP SH*T (STICK) MADE BY NISSAN:) ALSO FOR TEMP FIX CUT THE END OF THE SPARK PLUG WIRE BOOT STICK THE DIP STICK THROUGH THE LARGER PART OF THE BOOT. STICK THE SLIM PART OF THE BOOT DOWN THE OIL TUBE. WHAAALA YOU HAVE A INSTANT HEAT RESISTANT DIP STICK AND IT IS ALSO SEALED BETTER:) THANKS NEILPATEL@HOTMAIL.COM.
Up until I found this website, I was convinced that the dumbest things always happen to me! My 2000 Nissan Sentra GXE dipstick broke and slid and I'm stuck at work waiting to go home and try all the great ideas! I have already picked up a "universal" dipstick from Discount Auto Parts (Also known as Advanced Auto Parts for those that are still looking) for $6.00 and change. It is extra long and needs to be cut to fit the size you need. My neighbor asked why I don't just go to Nissan and get another one and I just laughed. I can just imagine what they'll charge for another plastic piece of crap that will just break again. Hope the universal stick works for those that still need one. I had forgotten that my gas pedal was sticking. I'll let you know what works.
Yea, same thing happened to me. I tried using a shop vac to suck it out (no luck) then tried the super glue trick (no luck, the tube seemed to taper in at the top preventing the stick from sliding all the way out). So here is what I did: I used the super glue trick to bring the stick up as much as I could, then got a vise grip and crimped the tube slightly. Next I got a drill bit and drilled a small hole into the plastic piece. Next, I screwed a long screw into that hole. Next, I uncrimped the tube as best as I could. Lastly, I pulled on the screw and the entire dip stick came out. Now, Where do I get a QUALITY dip stick so this does not happen again??????
nissan engineers = morons
what the hell ?plastic and heat spell trouble!
anyway take off the tube to the pcv value and
throw your air compress in the tube /watchout!that friggin dipstick flies out!
the same thing happen to me i went to wal marts and they change my oil and the dip stick broke off i have never heard of a dip stick breaking i have it in the shop now getting it fixed don't know what it is going to cost . but will get in touch with nissan and see if they are going to stand good for the expence sence it does seem to be a defect
update on the air compressor method! forgot
to add ,if you dont have a heavy duty compressor like250psi , use the tube on the opposite side that goes into the flow sensor from the air filter
this is not the best choice of sides because the pressure will become increasingly high, but if you only have like 100psi ,it works great. don't
bother calling nissan that sayit's user error for grabbing the handle to hard and won't cover the cost.when you get the new stick put alittle anti-sieze lubricant on the handle stem where the o ring is it does the trickand is temp resistent up to about 2000 degrees
nissan engineers=morons
Tried all of the above suggestions except the air compressor and the drill. After 2 days of tinkering, finally broke down and had it taken to a local shop to have the oil pan dropped for dipstick removal. They had no problem using my "universal dipstick" from Advanced Auto Parts, and thought it hysterical that I didn't want them to go to Nissan to get another dipstick. They really weren't surprised. The bill wasn't small but I guess it could've been worse. They may not reimburse me, but I promise, Nissan will be hearing from me as this was only the most recent of a heck of a lot of problems with this car.
Just had the same thing happen to my 2001 Nissan Sentra GXE. Took it to Walmart last night for an oil change, and the dipstick broke. They couldn't get it out. Haven't tried any of the tricks mentioned here yet, but sure will when I get home tonight. Does anybody know how long the dipstick for the Sentra is supposed to be? That way I can look for a right size. This is ridiculous!
The exact same thing happended to my dipstick. I went to one Nissan dealer and he tried to charge me $500 to get it out Kiss my ass!!! I'm not paying another cent for this piece of crap. Not to mention all the tires I had to replace w/i the first year of having the car. (I barely put 12,000 miles a year on it). Had the crank sensor crap happen to me also. I'm going to try another dealer actually I haven't really worried about it, I just get new oil changes and act like it's a surprise when they tell me my dip stick is missing.
Well, I have to say this is frustrating. I should have checked the Internet a long time ago. Wal-Mart was my last Oil change too and I went to check it on a road trip out west and sure enough the yellow top comes off. I had the same thoughts as all of you. The Nissan dealership wants to charge 2-300$ for repair. I have tried a variety of ideas, and have called Nissan and they said they would not pay for it because they are not sure how I was handling the dipstick. Like I have swordfights with the stupid thing. I am going to try the vacuum thing? But I want to know, what kind of SUPER GLUE HAVE PEOPLE BEEN USING (the name brand there are a widw variety of them), I KNOW YOU HAVE TO BE CAREFUL NOT TO GET ANYTHING IN THE OIL???????????
Add another to your list, only my dipstick dipped all the way down to where I cannot even see it anymore. I will be on the phone to Nissan tomorrow morning. No chance I will buy another Nissan!! Nothing but problems from recall after recall, bad breaks within six months of owning the car, faulty stereo that no buttons worked on after three years- RIDICOLOUS!!!!!!!!!!
Have a 2000 Nissan Sentra w/71000 mile on it and I feeling real lucky! I was changing the oil myself and had the handle break off in my hand as I was wiping the stick down. I'm an engineer and I agree with everyone else.....What a stupid design!!! Am planning to fix this myself with a 5/16" carriage bolt for a handle. I will cut the bolt to length with a hack saw and then cut a slot in the end of the bolt to accept the old stick. Then I will cross drill a 1/16" hole and attach the old stick with the pin from the old handle. The threads on the bolt will hold the original o-ring in place. Will let you know how it works. One thing is for sure, I will not put it back together with plastic!!!
Update on making a replacment stick: Took me about 25 minutes to make a stick. Previous directions (couple posts back) work with the following modifications: Used a 3/8" carriage bolt that had 1" of threads on it. Cross hole for the pin was 3/32". Ground a slot in the bolt for the o-ring. Had to grind some of the sthreads off the bolt to get to go in the dip stick tube. I have driven the car around and the design works just fine. e-mail me if you want more complete directions.
Everyone on this site please register a formal complaint with the Nissan corporate. When I submitted an email via the website explaining the problem that occurred as a result of their design incompetence, I was told that mine was the first complaint that had ever been issued regarding their dipstick.
Additionally, I would like to look into seeking reparations for our costs from Nissan. If their is a lawyer who could advise as to the feasibility of a class action lawsuit to recover our damages, I would ask that they post legal advice to this site. I will also be contacting a lawyer and will re-post to this site a suit can go forward.
A few tips...
1)If the superglue does not hold well, it is because the plastic is oily. Use a q-tip with alcohol or nail polish remover to degrease the broken end. DO NOT use too much - you do not want it to get into the oil!
2) If a heated copper wire does not work try a heated long woodscrew.
3)Whatever you do, do not get any shavings, plastic or metal, into the oil! The filter will catch it, but not until after it does some major damage to the engine.
Good luck!
It just happened to me on 7/18/04 2001 nissan sentra gxe. I used a metal rod and put duct tape on the end pushed it in, it stuck just long enough to pull it out. Cost nothing.Now i have to find replacement.
I have a 2002 GXE Nissan Sentra with 43,000 miles. Just got the oil changed last week. The repair place said my dipstick wasn't of gotten lost. I bought a new one at the nissan dealership and tried to put it in and it wouldn't go. Apparently the dipstick broke off inside. I will try to use some of these ideas, but if these don't work, I'll trade the car in. My gas pedal sticks also. I thought I was the only one with that problem. Time for a new car.
Ohh..Glad, I am not the only one. It happened to me Saturday (7/24) for my 2001 Nissan Sentra GXE.
I took my car for the oil Change (35K miles) at Midas and the molded plastic stick came off the dip stick. People at Midas suggested to complain to the dealer, but looking at this website it made me glad that I am not the only one.It is very dumb that Nissan is making such bad parts. I am not at all impressed. Please suggest where I can get a replacement part (I am in NJ) and I will ask the person at Midas to help me out in pulling the broken piece out and replace it. Also, will the broken price that is there damage the engine in anyway? Please suggest..and lets all file a complaint with Nissan. Enough is enough!!
2001 Nissan Sentra dip stick broke at Jiffy Lube. I did the vacuum method at a car wash place - it came right out. I bought a new dipstick at Nisssan for $10. It looks like they have a new dipstick top that will not break. 7/31/04
Same thing happened to me. I have a 2000 Nissan Sentra. Had the oil changed and they told me that the dipstick was broke. We took a pencil and super glue on the eraser, let it set for a little while and pulled it right out. I have tried Nissan sites for parts and they don't even list the part. Fancy that. Thanks Meghan for the number I plan to call it on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday.
THANK YOU SO MUCH!!!! I have an Oldsmobile Intrigue and used the superglue/pencil technique and it worked great! I looks like the tube tapers to avoid the broken-off part to pass... but as soon as I got the broken part out it feel apart. Thank goodness that it didn't fall apart in the tube!
Thanks again!
THANK YOU SO MUCH!!!! I have an Oldsmobile Intrigue and used the superglue/pencil technique and it worked great! I looks like the tube tapers to avoid the broken-off part to pass... but as soon as I got the broken part out it feel apart. Thank goodness that it didn't fall apart in the tube!
Thanks again!
Went to Jiffy Lube today, I knew I was in for a treat as the guy at the desk explained to the girl infront of me that they can not change the break lights out on her 2001 eclipse.
So it became my turn. The Jiffy Lube man told me the dipstick had "been" broke when they got the car. I found a small pick tool and pulled it right out.
^^^^ Oh mine, 2002 Nissan Sentra. ^^^^ completely dumb design.
Hi! Can I join the club? *grin* 2001 Sentra XE, went to Mr. Lube and yup - the guy broke the oil dip stick. I used the pencil and superglue technique and it worked. Btw, I first tried breaking off the rubber part and using the wood but that failed. Then I redid it and I pulled out the little round (donut shaped) rubber seal!! The dip stick was still there.
The third time was the charm. I put the super glue on the eraser end and left it for about 1 hour. Watched the game and then yanked it out.
Btw, I recommend gently using a Q-tip to remove any oil on the dip stick so that the super glue can properly stick.
Thanks Derek!! :-)
My dipstick broke today on my 2000 Sentra, at least I'm not the only one. Thanks for all the ideas on how to get it out. Does anyone else have AC problems. My blower switch stopped working a few weeks ago. I have no 1,2, or 3. But the air works fine on 4. I don't even want to know how much the dealer will charge to fix that!
I really think we should all get together and file a CLASS ACTION LAWSUIT!!!!! That's the only way to recoupe any out of pocket expense from Nissan.
This is amazing. I thought I was just an idiot and didn't know how to check my oil! 2000 Sentra gxe here, just over 50,000 miles. Broke the dipstick about a week ago. I didn't think much of it, but when I went to get my oil changed today, they said there was nothing they could do. Came home, found this website. Pencil with glue didn't work, but I got the vacuum out, and THWOOOOP! Immediately it came up. Now I'm on my way to getting a new dipstick. This is the first problem I've had with this car by the way. But I have only had it for about 13 months now.
WOW...! 2002 Nissan and broken dipstick. Walmart attempted an oil change, but broke the stick. The good thing is that walmart referred me to a local mechanic who can take it out and they will reimburse me the $200 estimate I was given. BUT.... I will try the glue, magnet, or vaccuum tricks myself and see what happens. Thanks for the advice on this site.
I must be one lucky owner of 2002 Sentra (37,000 miles). The dip stick issue hasn't happened to me yet but boy I better replace it asap. My complain with my Sentra is the sticky gas pedal issue. I have to press it hard to get the car moving. It started about 6 months ago but wasn't that obvious but now I can really tell that it's getting worse day by day. It's dangerous that I have to drive that way... especially on rainy days. I lubricated the linkage and the pedal worked fine and smooth but only for a day or two... then the gas pedal gets as sticky as before again. I think it's the throttle body that keeps sticking. Do Nissan dealers know how to fix this problem permanently??? Has anyone have it done at Nissan dealer??? My other complain is my driver's side power window. It got stuck in open position yesterday and I managed to closed it by pulling the window up while pressing the up button. My wife's grand-father also has 2002 GXE (only 9000 miles on it) and his Sentra is having the same power window issue on the driver's side like mine. I bought my 2002 Sentra 2 years and 9 months ago and I hadn't had any major issues until this sticky gas pedal issue (it's getting worse day by day!!!) and the driver's side power window issue that gets stuck in open position. I don't know what's next. All this started happening as soon as my warranty (36,000 miles) expired. I thought I made a smart choice by believing in Nissan's build quality but now I'm seriously thinking of replacing it with a Toyota Corolla or Honda Civic once I pay off my sentra... 2 more years. Am I screwed??? I'm afraid I am...
I have a NISSAN (2000 SENTRA), same thing happened to me - dip stick plastic ring broke leaving the metal dep stick in the chamber. I used a vacuum cleaner with the small nose type adapter to sucked it right out in 2 seconds.................tc
I, too, own a 2001 Nissan Sentra GXE. I went recently to have my oil changed as well and the same thing happened to me!! The estimate I was given to get it out was over $300 and I have no job right now. I'm a cheapskate anyway. Besides, if you want something done right, do it yourself. They should just recall it and be done. I'm writing down some of the idea y'all have posted and hopefully I can get one of them to work. Thanks in advance! :) Oh, yeah, when I got my new dipstick from the dealer, that cost me about $3.00 as well. I guess it doesn't matter where you get it. Seems that they're the same in price. My next car will be a Toyota or a Honda.
Just had this problem on my 2002 Nissan Sentra GXE. I used the pencil and crazy glue trick. Had to let it sit for almost 5 minutes and it came off after I got the plug out. No parts stores have the part I need, figures. I will call my dealer back and tell them I got it out and find out if they have a "good" part but I doubt it. Lay into them, I got my dealer to replace the 180 watt stereo due to heat problems once I told them that I posted their name on the internet along with their unwillingness to replace it under warranty. They couldn't replace it fast enough for me...I have already told them and Nissan that I will no longer be a customer.
I posted earlier about having the dipstick break on my Sentra 2002 with 15K miles. Last week the whole ignition tumbler fell out of the steering column. We don't drive this car much as it only has 17K miles on it and its a 2002. My wife said the tumbler came out in her hand and she was able to get it back in and get the car started and get it home but then the key wouldn't come out or shut off. I tried as hard as I could to get it out. It wouldn't budge. So here I was stuck with a jammed ignition switch and the car was running. It was now 10PM so I figured I would drive it to the dealer lot and pull the ignition fuse and they can look at it tomorrow.Then i tried going down the block to the dealer but now the starter would engage while the motor was running everytime the car moved a little when I turned. What a nightmare.I drove it right back home and pulled the ignition coil fuse and the motor died and then disconnected the battery because all the dash lights were still on. Had it towed to the dealer and it took them a week to get a new key/tumbler assy. but they fixed it under warranty.So far it has had the dipstick break off in my hand (fixed it myself-nice way to spend an afternoon) crank sensor update done (2 trips to dealer and total 8 days in the shop) no AC air compressor working (4 days at the dealer)and now bad ignition lock (1 week in the shop). Its my wifes car and I don't drive it much. She had previously mentioned to me the ignition key seemed to be getting loose and I never checked it because I just thought it was wearing in a little and getting a tiny bit loose as all keys get but she meant the whole assy. in the column was getting loose. She should have pressed her point with me but I geuss she's never seen an ignition key assy. fall out of the column and land on the floor in a car either. So all I can say is if you have a Sentra and the ignition key lock assy is getting loose BEWARE!!!!!
That's what happens when you don't buy a Honda. Goofballs. :P
My dip stick broke too and it is so far down you can't see it. My mechanic says it can't get near the crankcase or cause any harm. He's going to pull out the dip stick tube and replace it with a new tube and stick. He said the 2 parts are $20.00. I will be glad to join any class action suit on this stupid idea of PLASTIC dip sticks.
used a thin coping saw blade slide it down the side and got a good grip on it and yanked it up.it was a battle.wish i new the pencil and super glue trick....how bout that sticking pedal any suggustions
yup.. been there with the dip stick... walmart paid to fix once, and I used the air compressor through the oil fill opening next.. wrapped a damp shop towel around it to pressure the system up. Am now looking for the answer to the sticking gas pedal... any answers out there?? Service at the Nissan shop in Victoria Texas is a joke, please dont send me there.... I have 135,000 mi. on the 4 year old car and no major problems.. just little aggravations I dont have time for!
same thing happend to me... My friend took an air hose and blew into he PCV valve hole and it launched the broken dip stick... across the garage..... it was real cool
Here's the link for a dipstick that I purchased. It works fine. http://www.midwayautosupply.com/detailedproductdescription.asp?825
The same exact thing happened to my 2002 Nissan Sentra!!!! The dealerships do not want to correct this problem and claim that is not covered under warranty. I refuse to pay!
I also had the dipstick break on my 2000 Nissan Sentra, the dealership wanted to charge me at least $250! They told me they won't cover the cost! They discovered it had broken during my last oil change. I'm gonna have my boyfriend help me this weekend to get the damn thing out! Thanks for the tips! I sure am glad I found this site. Also, I do plan on calling Nissan tomorrow, and do a little complaining myself! Thanks for the number!
I have a 93 Pontiac Grand Prix 3.1L. My plastic dipstick handle broke off while changing spark plugs. I got the broken part out by gently drilling a tiny hole in the remaining plastic and hand turning a 3 inch wood screw into it just enough to bite. The stick came right out. Now I can't find a replacement dipstick anywhere. I'm trying to avoid the chevy dealer for cost reasons.
(2000 sentra) About the sticky gas pedal try having a reliable mechanic clean out the throttle plate. Thats what got our sticky pedal back to normal again. This dipstick thing is just par for the course, the number of recalls and other problems on this thing are mind numbing. 9 trips to the dealer to try and solve a front end noise problem :/ The reply: If it gets worse bring it back, until then I don't know what to tell ya!
2002 sentra - dipstick broke in tube, tried epoxy glue and a dowel but the dipstick feels "stuck" in there. also, have had trouble with my electric windows. fixed the driver's side for $250 and a month later the passenger's side is broken. i guess i have the whole sticking gas pedal to look foward to now.
Same thing! 200 SentraGXE, handle broke off at JiffyLube, took my dad and 2 uncles 1 hour to get out. They did it by making a hook-like bend in a guitar string and wrapping around the stick, but not after it slid wayyyyyyyy down in the tube.My gas pedal also sticks terribly.Also my car has cut off just going down the road before. I was aware of one recall, are there mo