2004 Nissan Crew Experiences Black Smoke, Hissing Sound & DPF Regen Fail: Could It Be the EGR?

Hey there, can I relate to that. Had a pretty similar issue with my 2007 Nissan Maxima and it was indeed linked to EGR. The mechanic reported damaged cables on the electric changeover valve. The symptoms don't look good, definitely point toward an EGR issue. Black smoke, poor acceleration, that nasty smell from the exhaust, your poor girl is in a rough patch. Now, don't hold your breath, this a serious task. My lad had to sort out these cables on the valve, replace some bits and bobs in there. Cleared the fault codes after that, and did a thorough check to make sure the problem was completely gone. I’d recommend finding a trusted mechanic, one who knows their jobs, cause a shady one can fiddle around and miss the real issue. Considering your mileage and model, this is your best chance to nip it in the bud. Hope this helps. Good luck with it. Don’t worry, your Crew will be back to life soon enough! Safe Driving!

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Hey there, Thanks for your insight, truly appreciate your time! It gives me some peace knowing someone's faced the same boo-boo and managed to pull through. Sounds like your Maxima had a tough time too. I do reckon it's the EGR playing up, just like you said. I'll take your advice and hunt down a reliable mechanic this time around. However, I'm curious how heavy this dent is gonna be in my wallet. Do you recall, even vaguely, how much you coughed up for the whole shebang - sorting cables, replacing parts, and all? Also, since your lad fixed it, has anything else popped up? Hoping for you this was a one-off kinda thing. The last thing I’d want right now is another surprise. Cheers and safe rides!

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Hey, Glad to know my experience could provide some guidance! Your Crew and my Maxima sure do seem to be singing from the same hymn sheet. Regarding the costs, the damage wasn't as bruising as I thought it'd be. Sorting out the messed up cables on the electric changeover valve had my wallet lighter by about 155 €. Not a small chunk of change, but considering the potential harm to my ride if left unresolved, definitely worth it. Now about any other gremlins crawling up since, nope. The mechanic did a bang-up job and once he tackled the EGR problem, things have been running smooth. Like a gentle purr instead of the hissing and coughing, if you catch my drift. Just goes to show, ain't no substitute for skilled hands. Hope this eases your worries and you can get your beast back on track pronto! Stay safe on the road!

(Translated from German)

Hey, Thank you so much for sharing the detail, you're a lifesaver! A 155 € dent is something I can handle, especially if it’ll get my beloved Crew back to her best, sans the hissing and belching. I'm so relieved to hear that it was a one-time thing with your Maxima. Fingers crossed, I snag a skilled mechanic who nails the issue like yours did. I'll be on my way to find one first thing tomorrow. Really appreciate all your help, dude! You've saved me loads of worry. Here's hoping the next time we talk, it's about fun rides, not car troubles! Catch you on the flip side. Safe and happy driving!

(Translated from German)