I have a 2000 Xterra and the service engine light has come on, and the engine runs rough (mainly at idle). Is there a quick way to read the code(s) to determine the problem, or does it require an electronic reader?

If you plan on keeping the X for a while, invest in an OBD II code reader. I've seen them under $100 at Walmart. Or $150-$200 at the Autoparts store will get you an ok one.

If you plan on keeping the X for a while, invest in an OBD II code reader. I've seen them under $100 at Walmart. Or $150-$200 at the Autoparts store will get you an ok one.

So, is a reader the only way to get the codes? Some vehicles have the capability of reading them without that investment.

I have a 2000 Xterra and the service engine light has come on, and the engine runs rough (mainly at idle). Is there a quick way to read the code(s) to determine the problem, or does it require an electronic reader?

Take it to an Autozone, PepBoys, etc and they can read your codes for you for free. I think some cars/trucks give flashing alarm lights that can be deciphered, but not sure about the Xterra.

Freakin' Morse Code it is.

Ok. I'll just take it to an auto parts and watch how they do it. My other vehicles have the capability of being read, whether by "morse code" or flashing the code. I just don't know how to get it to flash.

Thanks anyway.

OBDI systems could be read by the flashing light, but all OBDII systems need a reader. Pretty much everything 1996 and newer needs the reader, some 1994 and 1995 vehicles do as well.

You'll "watch" them plug a electronic device into a port by the pedals. What you won't see is him counting flashing lights. Get that out of your head. It's all computers now.

I hear you guys, but Chrysler products flash the actual code on the odometer and do not need a reader. My 2002 Jeep Wrangler and 2004 PT Cruiser do that. I currently have a P0442 code on the PT. I get the codes by turning the key to the "on" then the "off" position three times (third time leave on). The code(s) come up. With that capability on those vehicles, I was hoping the Nissan had a similar trick.

So, is a reader the only way to get the codes? Some vehicles have the capability of reading them without that investment.

The 2000 models are the only Xterras that have that feature. There's a tiny screw on the side of the ECU that you turn.