1993 Nissan Maxima Rough Idle

BOOKERBOY

MEMBER
1993 NISSAN MAXIMA
6 CYL
FWD
AUTOMATIC
189,000 MILES

My 1993 Nissan Maxima with 189K and a single overhead cam has a rough idle. How bad it idle's is intermittent but, it still does it fairly often, and it also does it around 45 mph sometimes. I've had a tune up, replaced the fuel filter which helped for a few minutes. Also, there is no check engine light on either. The points, plugs, and air filter have been changed as well, any advice would be greatly appreciated.

3 Replies

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
108,254 POSTS

Hi:
Check for vacuum leaks and check the EGR valve. Make sure it isn't sticking and there isn't a carbon problem.

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Tuesday, February 24th, 2009 AT 1:39 PM

BOOKERBOY

MEMBER
2 POSTS

How would I check for vacuum leaks, and how would I know if there is anything wrong with my EGR Valve. And I've been using seafoam for a little while as well, it's done a little bit of difference but not a whole lot. I appreciate your help alot! I'm a college student and having a car act up while away from home isn't the most exciting thing in the world!

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Tuesday, February 24th, 2009 AT 1:57 PM

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
108,254 POSTS

Hi:
The safest way to check for vacuum leaks is to have the engine running and listen for hissing sounds under the hood. Make sure to stay away from the belt and anything moving. Some mechanics will spray starting fluid or carb cleaner on vacuum hoses because if there is a leak, the engine's RPM's will raise. HOWEVER, if the starting fluid or carb cleaner hit an area that is hot enough (exhaust manifold.) It will catch fire, so I don't recommend it.

As far as the EGR, it is on the intake. There will be a vacuum hose going to it and I believe it is held on by 2 bolts. Remove the bolts and valve, make sure none of the passageways are clogged with carbon, Iif so, clean) and check that the valve opens and closes with ease (it will be tight, but make sure nothing is hanging up). Clean the carbon from the EGR too. Also, you will need to clean the old gasket off and replace it. You should be able to get just a gasket at a parts store, but make sure because I don't know where you are.

Let me know what you find. If you have other questions, let me know. It's been about 20 years, but I remember what it was like in college driving a 72 Mustang Fastback with 150K on it. That was like a car with 300K today. GO PITT!

Take care,
Joe

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Tuesday, February 24th, 2009 AT 4:58 PM