Diagnosis Procedure

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2009 Nissan Maxima. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

CHECK OIL PRESSURE WARNING LAMP
1. Start engine.
2. Check oil pressure warning lamp and confirm it is not illuminated.
Is oil pressure warming lamp illuminated?

YES: Go to "INSPECTION ".

NO: GO TO 2.

Fig 1: Identifying Oil Pressure Warning Lamp
Courtesy of NISSAN MOTOR CO., U.S.A.
CHECK INTAKE VALVE TIMING CONTROL SOLENOID VALVE
Refer to "COMPONENT INSPECTION ".

Is the inspection result normal?

YES: GO TO 3.

NO: Replace malfunctioning intake valve timing control solenoid valve.
CHECK CRANKSHAFT POSITION SENSOR (POS)
Refer to "COMPONENT INSPECTION ".

Is the inspection result normal?

YES: GO TO 4.

NO: Replace crankshaft position sensor (POS).
CHECK CAMSHAFT POSITION SENSOR (PHASE)
Refer to "COMPONENT INSPECTION ".

Is the inspection result normal?

YES: GO TO 5.

NO: Replace malfunctioning camshaft position sensor (PHASE).
CHECK CAMSHAFT (INTAKE)
Check the following.
- Accumulation of debris on the signal plate of camshaft rear end
- Chipping signal plate of camshaft rear end
Is the inspection result normal?

YES: GO TO 6.

NO: Remove debris and clean the signal plate of camshaft rear end or replace camshaft.

Fig 2: Checking Camshaft (Intake)
Courtesy of NISSAN MOTOR CO., U.S.A.
CHECK TIMING CHAIN INSTALLATION
Check service records for any recent repairs that may cause timing chain misalignment.

Are there any service records that may cause timing chain misalignment?

YES: Check timing chain installation. Refer to "COMPONENT ".

NO: GO TO 7.
CHECK LUBRICATION CIRCUIT
Refer to "VALVE CLEARANCE ".

Is the inspection result normal?

YES: GO TO 8.

NO: Clean lubrication line.
CHECK INTERMITTENT INCIDENT
Refer to "INTERMITTENT INCIDENT ".

: INSPECTION END