Saturday, December 7, 2013
How to Repair a 2001 Nissan Maxima PCV
The Positive Crankcase Ventilation valve, or PCV valve, in your 2001 Nissan Maxima prevents the crankcase emissions from flowing back into the engine, causing a rough idle and poor-running car. When the PCV valve wears out, replace it to keep your Maximas engine running at its best. Buy a replacement valve from an auto-parts retailer and change it at home in minutes.
Instructions
- 1
Open the hood of the Maxima. Locate the PCV valve on the drivers side of the valve cover, near the firewall. It is a black, elbow-shaped valve with a rubber vacuum hose attached to the end.
2Pull the vacuum hose from the exposed end of the valve. Grasp the top of the valve and pull it straight out of the valve cover.
3Insert the new PCV valve into the cover, pushing it into place until it is secure. Push the vacuum line onto the open end of the valve and make sure it is tight.
4Start the engine and listen for any skipping or rough noises during idle -- they would indicate that you may not have inserted the valve completely.
Wednesday, October 30, 2013
How to Replace a Knock Sensor in a Nissan Maxima
Replacing the knock sensor on the Nissan Maxima is simple, but the sensor can be expensive, so be sure to have the car properly diagnosed before assuming the sensor is bad. The knock sensor detects engine knock or ping in the engine, then transmits data to the engine-management computer, enabling the computer to retard or make other critical adjustments to the timing, spark and fuel delivery.
Instructions
- 1
Open the hood of your Maxima and locate the negative battery cable at the battery terminal. Using a wrench, remove the retaining bolt and separate the cable from the battery, isolating the cable while you work.
2Locate the knock sensor on the top edge of the engine block on the right side of the engine. It is about halfway back and is a circular part with a bolt running through the center and an electrical connector on the outer edge. Disconnect the wiring harness connector from the knock sensor by lifting the locking tab slightly and then pulling the connector off the sensor.
3Remove the bolt from the center of the knock sensor with a socket and ratchet, them remove the sensor from the engine block. Position the new sensor on the engine block and insert the retaining bolt through the center, threading it into the engine block.
4Tighten the bolt with a socket and ratchet, then install the electrical connector on the sensor. Make sure you push the connector in enough for the locking tab to engage.
5Connect the negative battery cable on the negative battery terminal. Install the retaining bolt and tighten it with a wrench. Close the hood of your Maxima.
