1991 Nissan Maxima engine runs rough

Tiny
JPM35
  • MEMBER
  • 1991 NISSAN MAXIMA
  • 6 CYL
  • FWD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 166,000 MILES
Hi guys, My problem is with the engine running rough. This problem recently started. Engine starts ok, but seems to shake slightly in engine bay and exhaust makes a putt-putt-putt sound at tailpipe. Taking off from a stop and the engine seems a little sluggish and choppy sounding. I recently changed all six spark plugs, but not cap and rotor as they appeared to be ok.
Thursday, September 17th, 2009 AT 3:14 PM

5 Replies

Tiny
DOCFIXIT
  • MECHANIC
  • 18,828 POSTS
First check pluge see if one got loose and all wires are firmly seated. If all good need a compression test
Was this
answer
helpful?
Yes
No
Thursday, September 17th, 2009 AT 3:18 PM
Tiny
JPM35
  • MEMBER
  • 3 POSTS
I forgot to mention that this is problem is intermittent. Sometimes after starting the car it is fine, runs smooth. Other times it occurs.
Was this
answer
helpful?
Yes
No
Thursday, September 17th, 2009 AT 6:49 PM
Tiny
DOCFIXIT
  • MECHANIC
  • 18,828 POSTS
Intermittent is a problem could be several things. Have you tried checking for codes in ECU?
Was this
answer
helpful?
Yes
No
Friday, September 18th, 2009 AT 11:39 AM
Tiny
JPM35
  • MEMBER
  • 3 POSTS
Yes, I did check computer. In diagnostic mode 3, I try to see if any codes were stored and I only rec'vd code: 55, which means no codes stored. I also must note that I haven't been driving the car as often I used to in the last year or longer. I'll drive it around to charge -up battery every couple of days. Maybe problem is as simple as a little water in fuel or a build-up of carbon in intake area.
Was this
answer
helpful?
Yes
No
Saturday, September 19th, 2009 AT 11:19 AM
Tiny
DOCFIXIT
  • MECHANIC
  • 18,828 POSTS
That's good possibility also if battery voltage drops below 11.9V even though alt. Good ECU drops out and shuts engine down.
Was this
answer
helpful?
Yes
No
Saturday, September 19th, 2009 AT 2:39 PM

Please login or register to post a reply.

Related Engine Runs Rough Content

Code Read Retrieval/Clear
VIDEO
Code Read Retrieval/Clear
Instructional repair video
Check Engine Light
GUIDE
Check Engine Light
Why is my check engine or service engine soon turned on? In this guide we talk about what this is associated with this notorious light, what it is used for and what you...
VIEW MORE