Section 114 (Engine Controls - Basic Diagnostic Procedures): Introduction

WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 8 other vehicles, including the 2003 Nissan Xterra, 2003 Nissan Sentra, 2003 Nissan Pathfinder, 2003 Nissan Murano, and 2003 Nissan Maxima. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

The following diagnostic steps will help prevent overlooking a simple problem. This is also where to begin diagnosis for a no-start condition.

The first step in diagnosing any driveability problem is verifying the vehicle operator's complaint with a test drive under the conditions the problem reportedly occurred. Before entering self-diagnostics, perform a careful and complete visual inspection. Most engine control problems result from mechanical breakdowns, poor electrical connections or damaged/misrouted vacuum hoses. Before condemning the computerized system, perform each test listed in this article.

NOTE: Perform all voltage tests using a Digital Volt-Ohmmeter (DVOM) with a minimum 10-megohm input impedance, unless stated otherwise in test procedure.