All Part Groups Won't Start Not applicable Not applicable
Q: I had my fuel pump replaced in July by the Nissan Dealership because my van was leaving me stalled and they said that's what was wrong with it. Well my Nissan ran fine until a couple of days ago. My Nissan won't start at all. It cranks but won't start. I had to have it towed back to Nissan. According to Nissan the Computer Diagnostic is saying that it needs a battery, spark plugs and an air filter for it to start. Can these minor things prevent it from starting. I understand the battery but my battery was fine and only died out after trying to start it repeatedly to no success. After a boost it still wouldn't start. I've never heard of spark plugs and an air filter preventing a vehicle from starting. What do you think?
A: It may well need these things but I have never found a computer system that computer diagnoses these needs. A good quality scope will, but not the cars computer. Ed
Drive Train / Driveline Malfunction When braking When warm
Q: When I start braking or slowing down and the transmission gears down, it seems to be shifting hard. Also, the 'Check Engine' light just came on.
Took it to Service Station today - they didn't have way to check sensors but thought that it might be 'speed sensor'.
I haven't had any work done on car, just the normal oil change. Any ideas????
A: First check to see that the plug for the vehicle speed sensor is not disconnected, and then check the speed sensor itself...
I think the garage is on the right track... Ed
Chassis / Suspension & Steering Other Happens always Not applicable
Q: I want to know if suspension parts need periodic
lube job or are they enclosed and not accessible
to the garage/weekend mechanic. Please respond
to this email address>> daysiv@yahoo.com
A: Most suspensions now come sealed... some may have plugs that can be removed and you can thread in grease nipples.... Ed
Q: the service engine light is on all the time , i do not know where to find the diagnostic connector ? I am looking for the generic obd II connector as i have been told that it is also on the vehicle . Do you have suggestions . Motors manual says that it is located behind the left front dash panel but subsequently it is not there....i have searched under the dash and all other possible locations ?
A: Sometimes you have to remove a panel to find the plug.... Ed
Electrical / Lighting Systems Other When braking Always
Q: The rear brake lights won't light when pressing the brake pedal. However, they do light when the lights are turned on.
The light at the top of the rear window will light when the brake pedal is pressed.
Any suggestions?
A: the brake lights are a two filament bulb,more than likely that part of the bulb is bad
Drive Train / Driveline Malfunction When driving Not applicable
Q: The reverse quit operating. All the others work fine, so far. The van has 94,000 miles on it. What kind of cost am I looking at and what do you think my chances are Nissan would cover part of the cost?
A: On several manual trans. I've heard of them losin' several gears and yet some remain to work. Such as a recent project on a 92 ford ranger where all gears went out but fourth, including rev. If your vehicle will go in rev., but will just sit and rev up, there's a good chance you've burnt up your trans. Check you fluid level, if it's low or empty you might be lookin' at a rebuilt, or new trans.
A rebuilt should cost around $800-$1200. A new one should cost around $2000. With that many miles, i don't think Nissan will cover the charges.
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