92 Maxima SE Auto Need help!!!

[poplifedc]

I'm the second owner of a '92 maxima with only 102,000. I bought it about 2 months ago and very pleased with it. Until about a month ago, it started to hesitate very bad while driving, even cutting off with no warning while on the highway. It started right up. I changed the air filter and it seemed to work ok.

Last week I was at a stop sign, started to proceed and nothing. Engine still running, but no movement. I shifted into N, heard gears grinding. As I moved to park the grinding got louder and harder until I was able to put it in park. then the car started to roll back even in park.

Question, is this the transmission, axel or both. I checked the tranny fluid and it was fine and still full. The 40 mile ride prior I noticed the steering was a bit off and there was a vibration in the steering wheel that I didn't notice before because it was very smooth.

Any suggestions? It's going to a shop next weekend and I want to know what I'm about to get into.

Thanks.

[Nahkapohjola]

Originally Posted by poplifedc

- started to hesitate very bad while driving, even cutting off with no warning while on the highway. It started right up.

- heard gears grinding. As I moved to park the grinding got louder and harder until I was able to put it in park. then the car started to roll back even in park.

At least two problems, one with engine ctrl, another with tranny.

For engine electronics theres a lot to do,
see: http://www.cardomain.com/memberpage/748507/1

[infinman]

Check for broken axle{at the cv joint}

[poplifedc]

Originally Posted by Nahkapohjola

At least two problems, one with engine ctrl, another with tranny.

For engine electronics theres a lot to do,
see: http://www.cardomain.com/memberpage/748507/1

It was the left axel that needed to be replaced.

The stalling was due to the Mass Flow Air sensor.

I still have to replace the VDC for the engine clatter during start up. Other than that, the car has been great.

[Nahkapohjola]

Originally Posted by poplifedc

It was the left axel that needed to be replaced.

The stalling was due to the Mass Flow Air sensor.

I still have to replace the VDC for the engine clatter during start up. Other than that, the car has been great.

Axle was in pieces? It must have been making lots noise already one year...

VTC? variable cams. If its only startup, its not dangerous. Nissan has a TSB tech service bulletin how only nissan oil filter should be used; keeps crucial oil pressure for VTC. Also recommended oil should be used.

VTC ctrl may also be grounded, and they will become stationary. Result: 5-8% top pwr loss only over after 4500rpm. VTC system repair is costly.

[poplifedc]

Originally Posted by Nahkapohjola

Axle was in pieces? It must have been making lots noise already one year...

VTC? variable cams. If its only startup, its not dangerous. Nissan has a TSB tech service bulletin how only nissan oil filter should be used; keeps crucial oil pressure for VTC. Also recommended oil should be used.

VTC ctrl may also be grounded, and they will become stationary. Result: 5-8% top pwr loss only over after 4500rpm. VTC system repair is costly.

How costly is the VTC? I am due for an oil change and I did make an appt with the local Nissan dealership. I'll start with the oil change and go from there.

Do you have the TSB that was issued?

Thanks for your help.

[Nahkapohjola]

Originally Posted by poplifedc

Do you have the TSB that was issued?
Thanks for your help.

Oil plus proper filter (I suppose it has just the right backpressure); yes Nissan should be the right place for that.

The TSB link is on page 1 of my cardomain website.

Dunno really the price. I suspect ? both heads have to be taken out =lots work. Dont believe me, get a quotation fron stealership, then go also somewhere else: two quotations is the minimum...

[poplifedc]

Originally Posted by Nahkapohjola

Oil plus proper filter (I suppose it has just the right backpressure); yes Nissan should be the right place for that.

The TSB link is on page 1 of my cardomain website.

Dunno really the price. I suspect ? both heads have to be taken out =lots work. Dont believe me, get a quotation fron stealership, then go also somewhere else: two quotations is the minimum...

Would you believe the STEALERSHIP quoted me $2,100.00 to replace the VTC!!! That is almost $500 more than what i bought the car for.

I read that it really does not harm the engine, is that true? The guy at the dealer asked me how long do I plan to hold on to the car before he quoted me the price. I have to find a shop close that can do it for much less.

I did have them change the oil and he said I'm due for the 100,000 mile service which was about $370.00. I took the car up to New Jersey from Washington, DC this past weekend and the car ran stronger than ever.

[Nahkapohjola]

Originally Posted by poplifedc

Would you believe the STEALERSHIP quoted me $2,100.00 to replace the VTC!!! ....

Ye$$ I can: strut change 1500$ ...DIY 220$.

VTC noise does harm only driver nerves...

Grounding the VTC is said to take the noise off. You lose 10% pwr in the rpm over 3500... seen that dyno curve. That 10% is easily gained with intake/exhaust mods. I would not sink 2100 for a 2000 car. Buy Y-pipe, Buy/DIY swiss cheese filterbox: http://www.cardomain.com/memberpage/748507/2

BS: "was about $370.00." No need for yout o donate that, only fact is that stealership is in de$perate need.
Study what is needed for u car, DIY, case by case.