Signals Inoperable, Erratic Interior Lite Operation (INF0280AP)

Publication date: 1998-03-01
Reference number: INF0280AP

SIGNALS INOPERABLE, ERRATIC INTERIOR LITE OPERATION

TECHNICAL INFORMATION TIP

Reference Number(s): INF0280AP, Date of Issue: March 1998

EXT./INT. LIGHTS INOPERATIVE/CELL PHONE PROBLEMS - CORRODED SMJ

YEAR(S): 1990-93

MANUFACTURER: Infiniti

MODEL(S): Q45

DATE OF ISSUE: March 1998

ISSUE & TIP

A corroded SMJ (super multiple junction) may cause the following symptoms on 1990-93 Infiniti Q45 models:

Tail, stop, or turn signals inop,
Interior lights stuck on.
Interior lights flash when turn signals are on,
OEM cellular phone problems.

The SMJ is located under rear seat bottom, on the driver's side of the car. The three connectors involved are main arteries to the rear lighting circuit, badly corroded terminals cause inop conditions due to high resistance. "Weird" problems are caused bridged connections back-feeding other circuits. Clean all terminals thoroughly or replace individual connector terminals if badly "eaten." In extreme cases, solder each wire one be one and insulate each with shrink tubing (to waterproof and isolate them from one another).

I've seen all these problems, and have traced it to the SMJ on several occasions. Problems may erupt suddenly if the rug has been shampooed recently or if water has entered the area due to an open window or sunroof leak, or other water leak. Knowing this when you tackle your next job will give you great results.

Courtesy of Import Service Magazine

with thanks to:

Brian Williamson

FIXT Auto

Dover Plains, New York

REFERENCE NUMBER

INF0280AP

NOTE: This information has been obtained from sources generally believed to be reliable. Use your own judgment before relying on this data. Neither the suppliers of these Technical Information Tips, nor lemon-25 Repair Information Company, LLC, guarantees or assumes responsibility for data accuracy or completeness, nor is liability assumed by the suppliers of these Technical Information Tips or lemon-25 Repair Information Company, LLC, for any claims or damages resulting from the use of this information.