check engine light NISSAN PRIMERA 1999 Electronic User Guide

IntroductionNCEC0029The ECM has an on board diagnostic system which detects malfunctions related to engine sensors or actua-
tors. The ECM also records various emission-related diagnostic information including:
Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) Mode 3 of ISO15031-5
Freeze Frame data Mode 2 of ISO15031-5
System Readiness Test (SRT) code Mode 1 of ISO15031-5
1st Trip Diagnostic Trouble Code (1st Trip DTC) Mode 7 of ISO15031-5
1st Trip Freeze Frame data
Test values and Test limits Mode 6 of ISO15031-5
Calibration ID Mode 9 of ISO15031-5
The above information can be checked using procedures listed in the table below.
X: Applicable Ð: Not applicable
DTC 1st trip DTCFreeze Frame
data1st trip Freeze
Frame dataSRT code Test value
ECM*3 X X*1ÐÐÐÐ
CONSULT-II*4XXXXXÐ
GST*4 X X*2 X Ð X X
*1: When DTC and 1st trip DTC simultaneously appear on the display, they cannot be clearly distinguished from each other.
*2: 1st trip DTCs for self-diagnoses concerning SRT items cannot be shown on the GST display.
*3: In diagnostic test mode II (Self-diagnostic results), DTC is displayed on MI. DTC uses a set of four digit numbers.
*4: In SELF-DIAGNOSTIC RESULTS mode, DTC is displayed. DTC uses ªPº and a set of four digit numbers.
The malfunction indicator (MI) on the instrument panel lights up when the same malfunction is detected in two
consecutive trips (Two trip detection logic), or when the ECM enters fail-safe mode. (Refer to EC-QG-81.)
Two Trip Detection LogicNCEC0030When a malfunction is detected for the first time, 1st trip DTC and 1st trip Freeze Frame data are stored in
the ECM memory. The MI will not light up at this stage <1st trip>.
If the same malfunction is detected again during the next drive, the DTC and Freeze Frame data are stored
in the ECM memory, and the MI lights up. The MI lights up at the same time when the DTC is stored <2nd
trip>. The ªtripº in the ªTwo Trip Detection Logicº means a driving mode in which self-diagnosis is performed
during vehicle operation. Specific on board diagnostic items will cause the ECM to light up or blink the MI,
and store DTC and Freeze Frame data, even in the 1st trip, as shown below.
X: Applicable Ð: Not applicable
ItemsMI DTC 1st trip DTC
1st trip 2nd trip
1st trip
displaying2nd trip
displaying1st trip
displaying2nd trip
displaying
BlinkingLighting
upBlinkingLighting
up
Misfire (Possible three way
catalyst damage)
Ð DTC: P0300 - P0304
(0300 - 0304) is being
detectedX ÐÐÐÐÐ X Ð
Misfire (Possible three way
catalyst damage)
Ð DTC: P0300 - P0304
(0300 - 0304) is being
detectedÐÐXÐÐXÐÐ
Fail-safe items (Refer to
EC-QG-81.)Ð X Ð Ð X*1 Ð X*1 Ð
Except above Ð ÐÐXÐX X X
*1: Except ªECMº.
ON BOARD DIAGNOSTIC SYSTEM DESCRIPTIONQG16I18DE
Introduction
EC-36

DESCRIPTIONNCEC0032
The MI is located on the instrument panel.
1. The MI will light up when the ignition switch is turned ON without the engine running. This is a bulb check.
IIf the MI does not light up, refer to EL section (ªWARNING LAMPSº) or see EC-QG-354.
2. When the engine is started, the MI should go off.
If the MI remains on, the on board diagnostic system has detected an engine system malfunction.
On Board Diagnostic System Function=NCEC0032S01The on board diagnostic system has the following four functions.
Diagnostic Test Mode I
1. BULB CHECK:
This function checks the MI bulb for damage (blown, open circuit, etc.).
If the MI does not come on, check MI circuit and ECM test mode selector. (See the following page.)
2. MALFUNCTION WARNING:
This is a usual driving condition. When a malfunction is detected twice in two consecutive driving cycles
(two trip detection logic), the MI will light up to inform the driver that a malfunction has been detected.
The following malfunctions will light up or blink the MI in the 1st trip.
IªMisfire (Possible three way catalyst damage)º
IFail-safe mode
Diagnostic Test Mode II
3. SELF-DIAGNOSTIC RESULTS:
This function allows DTCs and 1st trip DTCs to be read.
4. HEATED OXYGEN SENSOR 1 (FRONT) MONITOR:
This function allows the fuel mixture condition (lean or rich), monitored by heated oxygen sensor 1 (front),
to be read.
MI Flashing without DTC
NCEC0032S0101If the ECM is in Diagnostic Test Mode II, MI may flash when engine is running. In this case, check ECM test
mode selector following ªHOW TO SWITCH DIAGNOSTIC TEST MODESº.
How to switch the diagnostic test (function) modes, and details of the above functions are described later.
(Refer to EC-QG-48.)
SAT652J
ON BOARD DIAGNOSTIC SYSTEM DESCRIPTIONQG16I18DE
Malfunction Indicator (MI) (Cont'd)
EC-46

DATA MONITOR (SPEC) MODENLEC1365S07
Monitored item [Unit]ECM
input
signalsMain
signalsDescription Remarks
MAS A/F SE-B1 [V]qqIThe signal voltage of the mass air flow sen-
sor specification is displayed.IWhen the engine is running, specifi-
cation range is indicated.
B/FUEL SCHDL
[msec]IªBase fuel scheduleº indicates the fuel injec-
tion pulse width programmed into ECM,
prior to any learned on board correction.IWhen the engine is running, specifi-
cation range is indicated.
A/F ALPHA-B1 [%]qIIndicates the mean value of the air-fuel ratio
feedback correction factor per cycle.IWhen the engine is running, specifi-
cation range is indicated.
IThis data also includes the data for
the air-fuel ratio learning control.
NOTE:
Any monitored item that does not match the vehicle being diagnosed is deleted from the display automatically.
ACTIVE TEST MODENCEC0034S07
TEST ITEM CONDITION JUDGEMENT CHECK ITEM (REMEDY)
FUEL INJECTIONIEngine: Return to the original
trouble condition
IChange the amount of fuel injec-
tion using CONSULT-II.If trouble symptom disappears, see
CHECK ITEM.IHarness and connector
IFuel injectors
IHeated oxygen sensor 1 (front)
IACV-AAC/V
OPENINGIEngine: After warming up, idle
the engine.
IChange the IACV-AAC valve
opening steps using CONSULT-
II.Engine speed changes according
to the opening steps.IHarness and connector
IIACV-AAC valve
ENG COOLANT
TEMPIEngine: Return to the original
trouble condition
IChange the engine coolant tem-
perature indication using CON-
SULT-II.If trouble symptom disappears, see
CHECK ITEM.IHarness and connector
IEngine coolant temperature sen-
sor
IFuel injectors
IGNITION TIMINGIEngine: Return to the original
trouble condition
ITiming light: Set
IRetard the ignition timing using
CONSULT-II.If trouble symptom disappears, see
CHECK ITEM.IªBase Idle Air Volume Initializingº
(Refer to EC-QG-33.)
ICamshaft position sensor
(PHASE)
ICrankshaft position sensor
(POS)
IEngine component parts and
installing conditions
POWER BAL-
ANCEIEngine: After warming up, idle
the engine.
IAir conditioner switch ªOFFº
IShift lever ªNº
ICut off each injector signal one
at a time using CONSULT-II.Engine runs rough or dies.IHarness and connector
ICompression
IInjectors
IPower transistor
ISpark plugs
IIgnition coils
COOLING FANIIgnition switch: ON
ITurn the cooling fan ªONº and
ªOFFº using CONSULT-II.Cooling fan moves and stops.IHarness and connector
ICooling fan motor
FUEL PUMP
RELAYIIgnition switch: ON
(Engine stopped)
ITurn the fuel pump relay ªONº
and ªOFFº using CONSULT-II
and listen to operating sound.Fuel pump relay makes the operat-
ing sound.IHarness and connector
IFuel pump relay
ON BOARD DIAGNOSTIC SYSTEM DESCRIPTIONQG16I18DE
CONSULT-II (Cont'd)
EC-62

Basic InspectionNCEC0038Precaution:
Perform Basic Inspection without electrical or mechanical
loads applied;
IHeadlamp switch is OFF,
On vehicle equipped with daytime light system, set lighting
switch to the 1st position to light only small lamps.
IAir conditioner switch is OFF,
IRear window defogger switch is OFF,
ISteering wheel is in the straight-ahead position, etc.
1 INSPECTION START
1. Check service records for any recent repairs that may indicate a related problem, or a current need for scheduled
maintenance.
2. Open engine hood and check the following:
IHarness connectors for improper connections
IVacuum hoses for splits, kinks and improper connections
IWiring for improper connections, pinches and cuts
IAir cleaner clogging
IHoses and ducts for leaks
SEF983U
©GO TO 2.
2 CHECK THROTTLE DRUM OPERATION-I
Confirm that throttle drum is in contact with the stopper.
OK or NG
OK (with CONSULT-II)©GO TO 5.
OK (without CONSULT-
II)©GO TO 8.
NG©GO TO 3.
3 CHECK ACCELERATOR WIRE INSTALLATION
Check accelerator wire for slack
OK or NG
OK©GO TO 4.
NG©Adjust accelerator wire. Refer to FE section, ªAdjusting Accelerator Wireº.
TROUBLE DIAGNOSIS Ð BASIC INSPECTIONQG16I18DE
Basic Inspection
EC-72

18 CHECK TARGET IDLE SPEED AGAIN
With CONSULT-II
1. Start engine and warm it up to normal operating temperature.
2. Select ªENG SPEEDº in ªDATA MONITORº mode With CONSULT-II.
3. Check idle speed.
700 50 rpm
Without CONSULT-II
1. Start engine and warm it up to normal operating temperature.
2. Check idle speed.
700 50 rpm
OK or NG
OK©GO TO 20.
NG©GO TO 19.
19 CHECK ECM FUNCTION
1. Substitute another known-good ECM to check ECM function. (ECM may be the cause of a problem, but this is rarely
the case.)
2. Perform initialization of NATS system and registration of NATS ignition key IDs. Refer to ªNATS (Nissan Anti-Theft
System)º, EC-QG-45.
©GO TO 14.
20 CHECK IGNITION TIMING
1. Start engine and warm it up to normal operating temperature.
2. Check ignition timing at idle using a timing light.
SEM872F
Ignition timing: 8É 5É BTDC
OK©GO TO 28.
NG©GO TO 21.
21 CHECK TIMING CHAIN INSTALLATION
Check timing chain installation. Refer to EM section.
OK or NG
OK©GO TO 19.
NG©1. Repair the timing chain installation.
2. GO TO 14.
TROUBLE DIAGNOSIS Ð BASIC INSPECTIONQG16I18DE
Basic Inspection (Cont'd)
EC-77

22 CHECK IGNITION TIMING
1. Start engine and let it idle.
2. Check ignition timing at idle using a timing light.
SEM872F
Ignition timing: 8É 5É BTDC
OK©GO TO 28.
NG©GO TO 23.
23 PERFORM IDLE AIR VOLUME LEARNING
Refer to ªIdle Air Volume Learningº, EC-QG-33.
Which is the result CMPLT or INCMP?
CMPLT or INCMP
CMPLT©GO TO 24.
INCMP©1. Follow the instruction of ªIdle Air Volume Learningº.
2. GO TO 23.
24 CHECK TARGET IDLE SPEED AGAIN
With CONSULT-II
1. Start engine and warm it up to normal operating temperature.
2. Select ªENG SPEEDº in ªDATA MONITORº mode With CONSULT-II.
3. Check idle speed.
700 50 rpm
Without CONSULT-II
1. Start engine and warm it up to normal operating temperature.
2. Check idle speed.
700 50 rpm
OK or NG
OK©GO TO 26.
NG©GO TO 25.
25 CHECK ECM FUNCTION
1. Substitute another known-good ECM to check ECM function. (ECM may be the cause of a problem, but this is rarely
the case.)
2. Perform initialization of NATS system and registration of NATS ignition key IDs. Refer to ªNATS (Nissan Anti-Theft
System)º, EC-QG-45.
©GO TO 23.
TROUBLE DIAGNOSIS Ð BASIC INSPECTIONQG16I18DE
Basic Inspection (Cont'd)
EC-78

CONSULT-II Reference Value in Data Monitor
Mode
NCEC0042Remarks:
ISpecification data are reference values.
ISpecification data are output/input values which are detected or supplied by the ECM at the connector.
* Specification data may not be directly related to their components signals/values/operations.
(i.e., Adjust ignition timing with a timing light before monitoring IGN TIMING. Specification data might be displayed even when igni-
tion timing is not adjusted to specification. This IGN TIMING monitors the data calculated by the ECM according to the input signals
from the camshaft position sensor and other ignition timing related sensors.)
IIf the real-time diagnosis results are NG, and the on board diagnostic system results are OK, when diagnosing the mass air flow sensor,
first check to see if the fuel pump control circuit is normal.
MONITOR ITEM CONDITION SPECIFICATION
ENG SPEEDITachometer: Connect
IRun engine and compare tachometer indication with the CONSULT-II
value.Almost the same speed as the
CONSULT-II value.
MAS A/F SE-B1IEngine: After warming up
IAir conditioner switch: OFF
IShift lever: ªNº
INo-loadIdle 1.0 - 1.7V
2,500 rpm 1.5 - 2.1V
COOLAN TEMP/SIEngine: After warming up More than 70ÉC (158ÉF)
HO2S1 (B1)
IEngine: After warming upMaintaining engine speed at 2,000
rpm0 - 0.3V+,0.6 - 1.0V
HO2S1 MNTR (B1)LEAN+,RICH
Changes more than 5 times
during 10 seconds.
HO2S2 (B1)
IEngine: After warming upRevving engine from idle to 3,000
rpm quickly0 - 0.3V+,0.6 - 1.0V
HO2S2 MNTR (B1)LEAN+,RICH
VHCL SPEED SEITurn drive wheels and compare speedometer indication with the CON-
SULT-II valueAlmost the same speed as the
CONSULT-II value
BATTERY VOLTIIgnition switch: ON (Engine stopped) 11 - 14V
THRTL POS SENIEngine: Idle Throttle valve fully closed 0.35 - 0.65V
IIgnition switch: ON
(Engine stopped)Throttle valve fully opened 3.7 - 4.5V
EGR TEMP SEN*IEngine: After warming up Less than 4.5V
START SIGNALIIgnition switch: ON,START,ON OFF,ON,OFF
CLSD THL/P SW
CLSD THL POSIEngine: Idle Throttle valve: Idle position ON
IIgnition switch: ON
(Engine stopped)Throttle valve: Slightly open OFF
AIR COND SIGIEngine: After warming up, idle
the engineA/C switch ªOFFº OFF
A/C switch ªONº
(Compressor operates)ON
P/N POSI SWIIgnition switch: ONShift lever ªNº ON
Except above OFF
PW/ST SIGNALIEngine: After warming up, idle
the engineSteering wheel in neutral position
(forward direction)OFF
The steering wheel is turned ON
IGNITION SWIIgnition switch: ON,OFF ON,OFF
*: If so equipped
TROUBLE DIAGNOSIS Ð GENERAL DESCRIPTIONQG16I18DE
CONSULT-II Reference Value in Data Monitor Mode
EC-86

Component DescriptionNCEC0050The mass air flow sensor is placed in the stream of intake air. It
measures the intake flow rate by measuring a part of the entire
intake flow. It consists of a hot wire that is supplied with electric
current from the ECM. The temperature of the hot wire is controlled
by the ECM a certain amount. The heat generated by the hot wire
is reduced as the intake air flows around it. The more air, the
greater the heat loss.
Therefore, the ECM must supply more electric current to maintain
the temperature of the hot wire as air flow increases. The ECM
detects the air flow by means of this current change.
CONSULT-II Reference Value in Data Monitor
Mode
NCEC0051Specification data are reference values.
MONITOR ITEM CONDITION SPECIFICATION
MAS A/F SE-B1IEngine: After warming up
IAir conditioner switch: ªOFFº
IShift lever: ªNº
INo-loadIdle 1.0 - 1.7V
2,500 rpm 1.5 - 2.1V
CAL/LD VALUEIEngine: After warming up
IAir conditioner switch: ªOFFº
IShift lever: ªNº
INo-loadIdle Not used
2,500 rpm Not used
MASS AIRFLOWIEngine: After warming up
IAir conditioner switch: ªOFFº
IShift lever: ªNº
INo-loadIdle 1.0 - 4.0 g×m/s
2,500 rpm 5.0 - 10.0 g×m/s
ECM Terminals and Reference ValueNCEC0052Specification data are reference values and are measured between each terminal and ground.
CAUTION:
Do not use ECM ground terminals when measuring input/output voltage. Doing so may result in dam-
age to the ECM's transistor. Use a ground other than ECM terminals, such as the ground.
TERMINAL
NO.WIRE
COLORITEM CONDITION DATA (DC Voltage)
61 B Mass air flow sensor[Engine is running]
IWarm-up condition
IIdle speed1.0 - 1.7V
[Engine is running]
IWarm-up condition
IEngine speed is 2,500 rpm1.5 - 2.1V
73 WMass air flow sensor
ground[Engine is running]
IWarm-up condition
IIdle speedApproximately 0V
On Board Diagnosis LogicNCEC0053
DTC No. Malfunction is detected when ... Check Items (Possible Cause)
P0100*
0100A) An excessively high voltage from the sensor is sent
to ECM when engine is not running.IHarness or connectors
(The sensor circuit is open or shorted.)
IMass air flow sensor
B) An excessively low voltage from the sensor is sent
to ECM when engine is running.IHarness or connectors
(The sensor circuit is open or shorted.)
IIntake air leaks
IMass air flow sensor
*: When this malfunction is detected, the ECM enters fail-safe mode and the MI lights up.
SEF987W
DTC P0100 MASS AIR FLOW SENSOR (MAFS)QG16I18DE
Component Description
EC-110

Component DescriptionNCEC0072The engine coolant temperature sensor is used to detect the
engine coolant temperature. The sensor modifies a voltage signal
from the ECM. The modified signal returns to the ECM as the
engine coolant temperature input. The sensor uses a thermistor
which is sensitive to the change in temperature. The electrical
resistance of the thermistor decreases as temperature increases.

Engine coolant temperature
ÉC (ÉF)Voltage*
VResistance
kW
þ10 (14) 4.4 7.0 - 11.4
20 (68) 3.5 2.1 - 2.9
50 (122) 2.2 0.68 - 1.00
90 (194) 0.9 0.236 - 0.260
*: These data are reference values and are measured between ECM terminal 70
(Engine coolant temperature sensor) and ground.
CAUTION:
Do not use ECM ground terminals when measuring input/output voltage. Doing so may result in dam-
age to the ECM's transistor. Use a ground other than ECM terminals, such as the ground.
CONSULT-II Reference Value in Data Monitor
Mode
NCEC0073
MONITOR ITEM CONDITION SPECIFICATION
COOLAN TEMP/SIEngine: After warming up More than 70ÉC (158ÉF)
On Board Diagnosis LogicNCEC0074
DTC No. Malfunction is detected when ... Check Items (Possible Cause)
P0115
0115IAn excessively high or low voltage from the sensor is
sent to ECM.*IHarness or connectors
(The sensor circuit is open or shorted.)
IEngine coolant temperature sensor
*: When this malfunction is detected, the ECM enters fail-safe mode and the MI lights up.
Detected items Engine operating condition in fail-safe mode
Engine coolant tempera-
ture sensor circuitEngine coolant temperature will be determined by ECM based on the time after turning ignition switch
ªONº or ªSTARTº.
CONSULT-II displays the engine coolant temperature decided by ECM.
ConditionEngine coolant temperature decided (CONSULT-II
display)
Just as ignition switch is turned ON or Start 40ÉC (104ÉF)
More than approx. 4 minutes after ignition ON or
Start80ÉC (176ÉF)
Except as shown above40 - 80ÉC (104 - 176ÉF)
(Depends on the time)
When the fail-safe system for engine coolant temperature sensor is activated, the cooling fan operates
while the engine is running.
SEF594K
SEF012P
DTC P0115 ENGINE COOLANT TEMPERATURE SENSOR
(ECTS) (CIRCUIT)QG16I18DE
Component Description
EC-120

ECM Terminals and Reference Value=NCEC0081Specification data are reference values and are measured between each terminal and ground.
CAUTION:
Do not use ECM ground terminals when measuring input/output voltage. Doing so may result in dam-
age to the ECM's transistor. Use a ground other than ECM terminals, such as the ground.
TERMI-
NAL
NO.WIRE
COLORITEM CONDITION DATA (DC Voltage)
58 B Sensors' ground[Engine is running]
IWarm up condition
IIdle speedApproximately 0V
92 Y Throttle position sensor[Engine is running]
IAccelerator pedal fully released0.35 - 0.65V
[Ignition switch ªONº]
IAccelerator pedal fully depressed3.7 - 4.5V
111 G Sensors' power supply[Ignition switch ªONº]Approximately 5V
On Board Diagnosis LogicNCEC0082
DTC No. Malfunction is detected when ... Check Items (Possible Cause)
P0120*
0120An excessively low or high voltage from the sensor is
sent to ECM while driving.IHarness or connectors
(The throttle position sensor circuit is open or
shorted.)
IThrottle position sensor
*: When this malfunction is detected, the ECM enters fail-safe mode and the MI lights up.
Detected items Engine operating condition in fail-safe mode
Throttle position sensor
circuitThrottle position will be determined based on the injected fuel amount and the engine speed.
Therefore, acceleration will be poor.
Condition Driving condition
When engine is idling Normal
When accelerating Poor acceleration
DTC Confirmation ProcedureNCEC0083NOTE:
If ªDTC Confirmation Procedureº has been previously conducted,
always turn ignition switch ªOFFº and wait at least 9 seconds
before conducting the next test.
CAUTION:
Always drive vehicle at a safe speed.
TESTING CONDITION:
IBefore performing the following procedure, confirm that
battery voltage is more than 10V at idle.
IThis test may be conducted with the drive wheels lifted in
the shop or by driving the vehicle. If a road test is
expected to be easier, it is unnecessary to lift the vehicle.
DTC P0120 THROTTLE POSITION SENSORQG16I18DE
ECM Terminals and Reference Value
EC-126