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The 2024 Nissan Murano is a highly distinctive crossover that will capture the attention of onlookers in the right way. Inside, you'll find comfort and a wide array of features on all trims, making this car a must-buy. 1. Heated Front Seats If you enjoy a little luxury and want something to help heat you up in winter, then you'll adore the heated front seats in the Murano. They're standard on all trims, which makes it stand out from the crowd. Although it's a simple feature, it does a whole lot to enhance the ride experience. 2. Safety Shield 360 Safety Shield 360 isn't one feature that makes the Murano an essential buy: it's a whole bunch of them. It includes the following features: Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection High Beam Assist Blind Spot Warning Rear Cross Traffic Alert Lane Departure Warning Rear Automatic Braking These features work together to create as safe a ride as possible for you, and everyone on the road. Knowing your car has features that actively help you prevent accidents can make driving a much more relaxing experience. 3. Illuminated Audio Controls It's not always easy to change the volume of your music while driving, as it typically requires taking your hands off the wheel. You don't have to do that in the Murano, as the controls are on the steering wheel. You can easily see them at night, too, as they're illuminated. Easy-to-see and easy-to-access audio controls lead to a less distracted driving experience when you want to alter the audio. 4. Siri Eyes Free If you have an iPhone, then you can sync it up to your car's infotainment system and use Siri Eyes Free. This allows you to control parts of your iPhone without so much as glancing at it. There's a voice command button on your steering while that you press before making a request, letting you make calls, set reminders, and open apps while driving safely. It's great for asking Siri to play some music or make a note of something you want to remember later. 5. Highly Adjustable Seating On all trims, the seats are power-adjustable, so you never need to play around with manual controls when seeking more comfort. On the base trim, you can move the front driver seat in 8 different directions. Many competitor vehicles only allow you to adjust the seat in 6 or fewer directions on the base trim, so it's easier to get comfortable in the Murano than it is in the competition. Visit Courtesy Nissan in Altoona, PA to take the Nissan Murano out for a test drive today. Talk to our sales team at 888-314-4487 if you have any questions about the vehicle.

If you are looking for a tough and rugged midsized pickup truck with exceptional off-roading capabilities, you can hardly do better than the 2024 Nissan Frontier. Armed with an impressive catalog of thoughtful features, the Frontier aims to deliver both robust performance and everyday practicality, whether you're navigating city streets or conquering backcountry trails. A Highly-Capable Powertrain The Nissan Frontier handles heavy loads and demanding tasks with ease, thanks to its sturdy 3.8-liter V6 that cranks out 310 ponies and up to 281 lb-ft of brute force torque. This allows the Frontier to offer one of the best towing and payload capacities in its class, with a towing capacity of up to 6,640 pounds and a payload capacity of up to 1,620 pounds. Despite being a brute, the Frontier handles like a dream, providing a smooth and composed driving experience on both rough terrain and paved roads. This is thanks to a smooth-as-silk 9-speed automatic transmission, an accurate and responsive rack-pinion steering system, and an advanced independent suspension that effortlessly shrugs off bumps to ensure that even the roughest of terrains are handled with precision and comfort. A True Off-Roader While the Frontier can more than handle itself on dirt roads in its base form, its Pro-4X version is built to give Wranglers and Broncos a run for their money. Equipped with a hardy 4X4 system with low-range gearing for enhanced traction during slippery situations, a locking rear differential for relentless torque, Bilstein off-road shock absorbers, and skid plates for undercarriage protection, the Frontier Pro-4X is at home navigating rocky inclines or forging through muddy terrain. Thoughtful Bed Features You'll be glad to know that you can choose between a 5-foot and a 6-foot truck bed, in addition to enjoying several available convenient features such as a spray-in bed liner for enhanced cargo grip and bed protection, adjustable bed tie-down cleats for securing your cargo, a 120-volt household-style power outlet, and a trailer hitch with a wiring harness for towing convenience. Comfy and Practical Interior While the Frontier's exterior is built rugged to withstand extreme condition, its interior can be as plush as that of a luxury SUV. Available soft-touch leather upholstery, a sunroof, heated front seats with lumbar support, a heated and leather-wrapped steering wheel, dual-zone automatic climate control, a wireless charging pad, and a 10-speaker Fender surround-sound music system ensure an exceptionally comfortable riding experience. For your connectivity and entertainment, the Frontier features a responsive 8-inch infotainment touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, as well as available navigation and Wi-Fi hotspot capabilities. And with a host of safety and driver-assist features such as cruise control, forward-collision mitigation, and available adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring, the Frontier's cabin is not only supremely comfortable and relaxing, but safe as well. Would you love to try out this bad boy? Contact us today at Courtesy Nissan PA in Altoona, PA to schedule an executive test drive and consultation.

With no shortage of horsepower and a distinctive design, the 2024 Nissan Z injects a healthy dose of modern muscle into a legendary heritage. The model stays true to its performance roots while incorporating advanced technology for a truly exhilarating drive. 2024 Nissan Z Power Nissan designed the 2024 Z with pure performance in mind. Under the hood, a 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 engine delivers a whooping 400 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque for a lightning-fast 0-60 time. Two transmission options enable you to choose from a 6-speed manual for full shift control and track-driving thrills, or a 9-speed automatic for those who want outstanding performance in a laid-back ride. Gearheads craving more fury can find it in the range-topper Z NISMO. This trim level boasts a NISMO-tuned engine churning 420 horsepower and 384 lb-ft of torque. Nissan pairs this engine exclusively with the 9-speed automatic transmission for optimized performance and gear-shifting experience. Precision Handling The 2024 Z blends the engine's raw power with performance features that enhance the model's handling and agility. Speed-sensitive power steering minimizes the level of steering assistance at high speeds for enhanced control during sharp turns. In the Z Performance RWD and higher trims, a mechanical limited-slip differential optimizes power distribution to the driving wheels for enhanced traction in challenging road conditions. In the NISMO model, exclusive wheels and brakes team up with an aerodynamic body to enhance stability and driving precision, especially when driving on a track. A Driver-Focused Interior With its two-seat capacity and driver-focused cockpit, the new Nissan Z gives off serious performance car vibes. A standard 8-way power-adjustable driver's seat provides excellent support and ensures comfortable rides. Steering wheel controls keep vehicle information and entertainment at your fingertips. Driving is made easy by features like an auto-dimming rearview mirror, while 6.9 cubic feet of cargo area provide enough space for those moments when you want to take the Z on a shopping spree. Innovative Tech Features The 2024 Z seamlessly integrates technology into the driving experience. A center touchscreen pairs with a 12.3-inch reconfigurable instrument cluster, so you can see car data and access entertainment without effort. Siri EyesFree comes standard on all trim levels, while the higher trims also boast built-in Alexa and Google Assistant. Other highlights on the higher trim levels include built-in navigation, NissanConnect services with Wi-Fi hotspot capability, Sirius Traffic, and Sirius Travel Link. Smartphone integration via Android Auto and Apple CarPlay is standard on all trim levels, so you can access your favorite apps and control your phone without distractions. Ready to take the 2024 Z for a spin? Visit us at Courtesy Nissan PA in Altoona, PA to schedule your test drive. We will be here to answer all your questions.

You want to keep your Nissan looking as good as possible, inside and out. Your Nissan exterior needs some love to protect and care for the paint, and your Nissan dealer can give you more tips and take care of those issues that a cleaning can't fix. Regular Washing This is the foundation of exterior care, and it's not to be skipped. Washing your car at least once a week helps get rid of contaminants, preventing them from etching into the paint. Choose a high-quality car wash soap specifically designed for automotive use. Avoid household detergents, as they can strip away protective wax and harm the paint. Use microfiber cloths or soft sponges to wash your car. Abrasive materials can scratch the paint surface. Always use one bucket for soapy water and another for rinsing your sponge. This prevents dirt from being reintroduced to the car's surface. Finally, ensure all soap is rinsed off thoroughly to avoid streaks and residue that can damage the paint. Waxing and Polishing Waxing your Nissan's exterior provides a protective barrier against the elements, while polishing helps restore the paint's shine and smooth out minor imperfections. Wax acts as a shield against the sun's harmful UV rays, which can cause the paint to fade and oxidize, and it creates a hydrophobic layer that repels water, preventing water spots and reducing the risk of rust formation. Use a high-quality polish suitable for your car's paint type. Test a small area first to ensure compatibility or ask us if it's right for your Nissan. Always polish your car before applying wax to remove any imperfections and create a smooth surface for the wax to adhere to. Parking and Storage Whenever possible, park your car in a shaded area or under a carport to protect it from direct sunlight, which can cause the paint to fade. While trees provide shade, they also drop sap, leaves, and bird droppings, which can damage the paint, so don't use those for protection. If you have a garage, use it. Invest in a high-quality car cover that is breathable and designed for outdoor use. Ensure it fits your Nissan snugly to prevent it from being blown off by the wind. Regular Inspections and Touch-Ups Regularly inspecting your Nissan's exterior allows you to identify and address any issues before they become major problems. Small scratches and chips can be repaired easily if caught early, and we can do both paintless dent repair and fix road rock chip damage quickly in our body shop. We use sophisticated color-matching paint, and taking care of these issues keeps away rust and keeps the paint looking fresh. Need more tips or some help? Come see us at Courtesy Nissan of Altoona, PA.

The tires of your car are crucial to your road safety. To maintain optimal traction and performance, car tires should be kept as uniform as possible in wear and size. As tires tend to wear down unevenly over time, it's important to have them routinely rotated, which combats uneven wear and keeps tires in usable condition for longer. Let's look at how frequently you should visit your local Nissan dealership for tire rotation. It's generally advised to have tires rotated every 5,000 to 7,500 miles for drivers with front or rear-wheel drive cars. This usually amounts to every six months. If you have an all-wheel-drive vehicle, you may need more frequent rotations. It's best to check your owner's manual and tire warranty for specific guidance on rotation intervals. Factors That Accelerate Uneven Tire Wear All vehicles, even those that are well-maintained, experience uneven tire wear. This phenomenon occurs because of unequal weight distribution across the car. The extra strain put on the front tires by steering and braking also takes its toll. However, uneven wear can be accelerated by various vehicle faults such as misaligned wheels, suspension problems, under-inflation, or over-inflation. If you notice any of your tires wearing down excessively, your car might have one of these problems. While rotating your tires, the technician can also identify and repair underlying faults. What Happens If You Neglect To Rotate Your Tires? Uneven tire wear can lead to all kinds of problems. Firstly, it causes tires to wear out prematurely, forcing you to replace your tires more frequently, which can be expensive. Secondly, uneven tire wear reduces your handling, lessening the degree of control you have over your vehicle. This impacts both your road safety and driving pleasure. With tires of differing sizes and conditions, your car is also more susceptible to the risk of skids and blowouts. Furthermore, the additional road resistance from uneven tires reduces fuel efficiency, increasing your monthly gas expenditure. On top of all this, your drives will become gradually noisier and rougher with uneven tires. You can minimize all of these issues with regular rotations. Schedule Routine Tire Rotations at Your Nearest Nissan Dealership The surest way to ensure you never accidentally miss a rotation is to set up a routine servicing schedule at your local dealership. Many drivers opt to combine their rotations with changing their oil and having their brakes inspected. Visit Courtesy Nissan PA in Altoona, PA, today to have your tires swapped around and your car restored to optimal performance and safety. We're a local full-service dealership providing the region's drivers with top-notch used and pre-owned vehicles plus prompt, courteous vehicle maintenance and repair services.

Every Nissan dealer will recommend that you arrange a regular oil change for your vehicle, but some car owners make the mistake of thinking that this is an element of their routine maintenance that they can overlook. Unfortunately, they may end up learning the hard way that regularly changing your oil is crucial for their Nissan's longevity. Cushioning From Wear By regularly changing your Nissan's oil, your car's engine will be better cushioned from the wear and tear that it will inevitably experience during everyday driving. Freshly changed oil will keep your engine well-lubricated, cooling down its components, preventing corrosion and rust, and keeping gaskets and seals in good condition for longer. Protecting Against Damage When your engine oil is oil and dirty, it can cause damage to your Nissan's engine. Contaminants like debris and dirt can stop your engine's components from functioning correctly, causing blockages when they move through them. Changing the oil will remove those impurities, so your engine can be protected from long-term damage and continue to ensure smooth operation of all its parts. Guarding Against Overheating Your Nissan's engine contains many moving parts that can generate friction when not properly cooled with clean engine oil. Excess heat build-up under your hood can result in damage to the engine's internal components that will eventually require costly repairs to be carried out. In a worst-case scenario, the heat could even reach a level so high that a fire could result, putting you in danger. Improved Fuel Efficiency When your vehicle's engine is properly lubricated with fresh, clean, oil, it will operate more smoothly and efficiently. Efficient engines require less fuel to run, so you'll be able to get more mileage from every tank of fuel, saving yourself money in the long run. Reduced Emissions We're all becoming more aware of our impact on the environment and the importance of taking action to prevent further climate change, so if you're keen to reduce your carbon footprint, regularly changing your oil will help you to be more eco-friendly since clean oil results in fewer harmful emissions. Do I Need to Change My Oil? Changing your oil should be carried out regularly in accordance with the recommended schedule for your vehicle. Your owner manual will outline how frequently you should visit your dealership to have your oil changed. Unless you're a trained mechanic, you should always take your vehicle to a professional to have your oil changed since specialist knowledge is required to complete the job correctly. If you need advice about when to change your Nissan's oil, call Courtesy Nissan PA in Altoona, PA, today. We're on hand to make sure you enjoy trouble-free motoring and the longest possible lifespan for your Nissan.

First unveiled in 2009, the Nissan Leaf helped pioneer the electric vehicle market in the United States, winning hearts and minds with its city-centric compact cuteness and zippy utility, and for over 10 years, the Leaf was the only Nissan EV on the market. But the 2022 introduction of the Nissan Ariya changed all that, adding heft, muscle, and style to Nissan's electric lineup. Today they stand as a perfect pairing of eco-friendly punch and power. The Gentle and Friendly Leaf The tech has advanced significantly from the day of its introduction, but the 2024 Nissan Leaf shares the cheerful, eco-friendly soul of its elder editions. It's a practical choice for those new to EVs or with modest daily driving needs. The Leaf S's 147-horsepower electric motor pairs with a 40.0-kWh battery pack to offer a range of up to 180 miles, while the more potent SV Plus trim offers a 214 horsepower engine and a 60 kWh battery for a range of up to 212 miles, more than sufficient for city commutes and short trips. The Leaf remains a staple in the subcompact market, but it manages to pack 92.4 cubic feet of passenger space and 23.6 cubic feet of cargo volume into a package that's less than 175 inches long. That makes the Leaf a fantastic choice for eco-conscious city-dwellers who scoff at parking purgatory. The Leaf's infotainment system is as advanced as its engine, offering Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth connectivity standard on the NissanConnect 8-inch color display with multi-touch. The Sleek and Stylish Ariya The Ariya is an EV SUV that uses its sleek lines and captivating curves to attract those who want the eco benefits of an electric vehicle but who may want a bit more space. With multiple drivetrains and configurations available, Ariya buyers can choose single- or dual-motor variants, ranging from 214 to 389 horsepower, and 221 to 442 lb-ft of torque. Battery packs offer 63 or 87 kWh, for a maximum range of 289 miles in the right configuration. Passengers get more room in the Ariya at 101.2 cubic feet, with cargo volume comparable to the Leaf's, and its elevated price tag comes with perks in the cockpit such as a 12.3" NissanConnect display, a 12.3" digital dashboard, and a head-up display on standard on all trims. Amazon's Alexa is along for the ride, too. And families will be comforted to know that the Ariya is one of the safest cars on the road, an IIHS Top Safety Pick+. Whether the Leaf's nimble and zippy stature puts a grin on your face or you prefer the Ariya's more refined and enlarged cabin, there's an EV by Nissan that's right for you. Book your test drive today at Courtesy Nissan in Altoona, PA, and discover an EV that moves you.

Once the sun goes down, your headlights become vital to safe driving. Although some types of headlights last longer than others, all headlight bulbs eventually fail. It's important to notice the following symptoms of dying bulbs so you can have new headlights promptly installed at your local Nissan dealership. One Headlight Stops Working When the light on one side of your car suddenly dims, one of your bulbs has probably failed. Unless it's a wiring issue, you may need to replace both bulbs in the pair at the same time. This is because the second bulb isn't likely to last much longer on its own and may already be losing power. Replacing bulbs in pairs helps to ensure maximum brightness and visibility at all times. Your Headlights Start Flickering Headlight bulbs might start to flicker before they fail, especially if your car uses halogen bulbs. If more than one bulb is flickering, it might be caused by a failing car battery or even an alternator issue. One flickering bulb could be caused by damaged wiring or a broken or burned-out filament. You can ask a technician to test the bulb and figure it out. Your Headlights Grow Dimmer All headlight bulbs start to grow dimmer for a period before they finally give up the ghost. At first, you might not notice dimming headlights; even when you do, it might be tempting to carry on driving for a while with lessened brightness. However, this is dangerous, as your visibility and reaction time to collision threats are reduced. Have any dimming bulbs replaced as soon as possible. Your Headlight Lenses Seem Cloudy Headlight problems can sometimes be caused by the lenses rather than the bulbs or wiring. As they're situated low at the front of your car, headlight lenses naturally collect dirt, dust, insects, salt, and snow from the road. So it's important to clean them regularly. Over time, lenses can also become permanently damaged by the UV rays in sunlight or by myriad little scratches. If your headlight lenses have become cloudy and cleaning doesn't help, you might need to have them replaced. Your Headlight Fuse Keeps Blowing A variety of problems can cause a headlight fuse to blow. Trouble with the electrical supply can sometimes lead to surges that blow the fuse. A blowing fuse might also indicate that the headlight itself is problematic, either faulty or improperly installed. You can ask a technician to check the bulb, headlight assembly, wiring, and harness to diagnose and fix the cause of a repeatedly blowing fuse. Have your headlights repaired or replaced today at Courtesy Nissan PA, in Altoona, PA. Our team of technicians and sales staff are dedicated to delivering prompt, courteous, personalized service, whatever your automotive needs might be.

With its luxurious interior, advanced connectivity, and expansive cargo space, the 2024 Nissan Murano is a standout midsize SUV. Let's explore some of the many reasons this should be your next vehicle. Luxurious Interior The Murano can seat 5 in its luxuriously comfortable leatherette seats. It has dual zone climate controls, so the driver and front passenger can adjust their temperatures independently. There are also air conditioning vents for the rear passengers. In addition, the front seats are heated and power adjustable, providing maximum opportunities for customizable comfort. The Murano features remote start with intelligent climate control, allowing you to get your vehicle to the perfect temperature before you get in. The leather-wrapped steering wheel and gear knob add even more elegance. Flexible Cargo Space The Murano has a spacious interior, and it has plenty of room for cargo behind the second row. If you need even more space, simply fold down part of the back seat. You can fold down the entire second row for a total of 67 cubic feet of cargo space. A convenient liftgate gives you access to your cargo, and higher trims have a motion-activated power liftgate. Fuel Efficiency The Murano has an aerodynamic design with active grille shutters. That plus the Xtronic continuously variable transmission (CVT), gives it increased fuel economy. It gets an impressive 20 mpg in the city and 28 mph on the highway. Enhanced Infotainment The Murano has a 6-speaker AM/FM/CD audio system. It comes equipped with NissanConnect technology, featuring an 8-inch color touchscreen display with voice recognition, Apple CarPlay integration, and Android Auto compatibility. This gives you access to your phone's music, apps, and navigation through your vehicle's screen. It has a Bluetooth hands-free phone system and text messaging assistant, allowing you to more safely make calls or send messages. Other infotainment and connectivity features include: Radio data system SiriusXM Speed-sensitive volume Steering wheel-mounted audio controls USB ports Auxiliary audio jack Intelligent Cruise Control Regular cruise control keeps your car driving at a speed you determine. Intelligent Cruise Control can do that too, but it also monitors your car's speed in relation to other cars. It helps keep you a safe following distance behind the vehicle ahead of you and will adjust your speed as needed. Available Intelligent All-Wheel Drive The base model comes with front-wheel drive, but it has available intelligent all-wheel drive. Some higher trims come equipped with intelligent all-wheel drive. With this feature, the Murano can switch from front-wheel drive to all-wheel drive as needed to accommodate different road conditions. This gives optimal traction and control. Are you ready to try out the exceptional luxury, space, and technology of the Murano? Come to Courtesy Nissan in Altoona, PA to take a test drive.

As a Nissan dealer, we've experienced firsthand how the 2024 Sentra combines efficiency, functionality, and technology, all in a stylish, compact sedan. Whether you plan to navigate Altoona's city streets, roam the Pennsylvania countryside, or embark on an exciting vacation, the 2024 Nissan Sentra is the perfect travel guide. Packed with innovative features, seating for 5, and advanced safety systems, the Sentra offers comfort and peace of mind on the road. Sentra Trims Available at Your Nissan Dealer For some, a car is used simply for commuting and carpooling to work or school. These people usually look for fuel efficiency and low maintenance in a vehicle. Others rely on their car for family travel and need additional features to accommodate their loved ones. Those drivers typically value spaciousness and entertainment capabilities when traveling. Whether you are seeking a practical and efficient model or a well-equipped option, the Sentra has 3 trim levels designed to fit a broad range of travel needs and preferences. Keep reading as we give a brief overview of the 2024 Sentra models. Sentra S Our base trim Sentra, the S model covers the necessities, then some with a 7-inch touchscreen display, push-button ignition, and Safety Shield® 360. Like all 2024 Senta trim levels, the S also features Apple Car Play/Android Auto connectivity. Sentra SV The SV gets several convenient additional features and upgrades, such as the Nissan Intelligent Key®, a Nissan Connect® 8-inch touchscreen display, premium cloth seats, and Intelligent Cruise Control. Sentra SR The SR takes comfort, convenience, and staying connected to the next level. Remote engine start via keyfob, heated seats, and LED headlights are just a few upgrades on our top-tier trim. This model also boasts 18-inch aluminum alloy wheels for a super smooth ride. Performance Plus Savings at the Pump Our 2024 Sentra models are powered by a 2-liter DOHC 4-cylinder engine that nets a wallet-pleasing 34 combined MPG. With 149 horsepower and 146 lb-ft of torque, it gives the Sentra the perfect balance of performance and affordability. Making the Driver's Job Easier Every 2024 Sentra comes with several driver-assist features that create a safer, more enjoyable drive. Here are just a few: Brake assist Rear parking sensors Lane Departure Warning Blind Spot Warning Impact Prevention The 2024 Sentra lineup is equipped with collision prevention features that prioritize the safety of the drivers and passengers. Forward and rear collision prevention systems use sensors to detect potential front/rear collisions, alert the driver, and take action to prevent the impact. Nearly every day, we see the Sentra earn the approval of potential buyers. If you are looking for a fuel-efficient, roomy compact sedan, we think there is a Sentra that will win you over, too. Visit us at Courtesy Nissan in Altoona, PA to see the Sentra lineup today.

When there's something wrong under the hood of your car, an engine diagnostic can streamline the process of diagnosing and fixing your vehicle when you visit the Nissan dealer. You need one regularly even if your car doesn't have performance issues, and you definitely need one when there's something wrong with the vehicle. What Is an Engine Diagnostic? A diagnostic for your engine is a test to determine if all the systems in your car are working as they should. A technician at your local dealership analyses computer systems in your car to check for issues with the systems and their components. A diagnostic requires specific devices and specialized knowledge to be carried out correctly, and it saves your technician a lot of time. Instead of having to check every part of your car manually, they can run the diagnostic. How Often to Get a Diagnostic for Your Nissan It's smart to get a diagnostic test for your engine annually, as this will help you keep on top of any problems that arise. Even if your car seems fine, there could be minor issues that aren't yet serious enough to activate the check engine light or make your car act strangely. When to Stop by the Nissan Dealer for a Diagnostic When Your Check Engine Light Turns On When your check engine light turns on, it's a clear sign that there's something wrong with one of the systems in your car. The technician at your dealership will run a diagnostic to find out why the check engine light has switched on. When You Buy a Used Car If you're buying a car from your local dealership, then you're guaranteed to be buying a car that's in excellent working condition. However, you should still be safe and get a diagnostic test just to give yourself some additional peace of mind. If there's nothing wrong with the car, then your dealer will be happy to arrange the test for you. When Your Car Makes Weird Noises Cars aren't supposed to make whining, clanking, grinding, or rattling sounds. These noises let you know that one of the systems in your car is in trouble, and you'd better get to the dealer soon before your car starts experiencing performance issues. The mechanic will run a diagnostic to find out why your car is making these unusual sounds. Usually, it's because one of the components in your car has worn out or become damaged. When Your Car Is Having Performance Issues Any time your car starts having performance issues, you need to head right to the dealer. They could be simple issues, such as occasional backfiring, or they could be serious issues, like the engine producing smoke. Even decreased gas mileage warrants a trip to the dealer. If your car is acting strangely in any way, then don't hesitate to head to the dealer. Visit Courtesy Nissan PA in Altoona, PA today.

The engine of your car needs oxygen to keep going almost as much as you do. As your vehicle draws in oxygen, the air filter keeps airborne contaminants out of the engine's cylinders. But this filter can eventually become clogged up, which restricts the airflow, leading to all kinds of problems. If your car is experiencing the following issues, you might need to head to your local Nissan dealership for a new car air filter. Misfiring Spark Plugs While operating properly, the engine continually combusts a mixture of fuel and air inside each cylinder. When the inflow of air is restricted by a clogged air filter, this fuel-air mixture becomes unbalanced, which leads to an excess of fuel. This excess unburned fuel gradually builds up inside each chamber, coating the spark plugs in a sooty residue. When fouled in this way, spark plugs cannot ignite the fuel as effectively, causing them to misfire. While misfiring, the car will vibrate and sputter, especially while idling or driving at high speeds. Reduced Acceleration An oxygen-starved misfiring engine will also begin to lose power. As a result, you may find it difficult to accelerate rapidly while crossing a busy intersection or trying to overtake another vehicle. Falling Fuel Economy As a clogged air filter causes each cylinder to combust fuel less efficiently, you'll find your car traveling less far for each gallon of gas it guzzles. Thickening Exhaust Fumes One of the dangers of misfiring spark plugs is the damage it can do to other parts of the car. As the excess of unburnt fuel begins to escape from the cylinders, it leaks back into the exhaust system, sometimes igniting inside the exhaust pipes and causing black smoke to emerge from the tailpipe. Check Engine Light Appears The various problems caused by a clogged air filter will usually trigger the check engine light to appear on the dashboard. If you ever see this light, it's best to ask a trusted technician to diagnose and repair the fault without delay. Replace Your Air Filter at Your Nearest Nissan Dealership Installing a new air filter is a quick procedure that shouldn't take the technician long at your local dealership. It's generally recommended to replace an engine air filter every 12 months or so. If you drive in a particularly dusty environment, you might need a new filter more frequently than this. Visit Courtesy Nissan PA in Altoona, PA, today to have your air filter checked and replaced. We're a local one-stop shop for all the automotive needs of the region's drivers, with courteous, professional staff providing top-notch customer service.