How to read

Kerbsidemotors guide to how to read Pre 1994 Nissan fault codes

If you have a Nissan made between 1987 and 1994 this guide can help you. It shows you how to obtain fault code information and clear codes that will cause the management light to show and affect performance.

This method will work on pretty much all Nissans made between 1986 and 1993 including Sunny/Pulsar (N13 models) Sunny ZX coupe (Can't remember the code!)Nissan Bluebird models (T12 and T72) the 200SX (S13 range) and 300ZX (Z31) UK cars. I have personally used this method on 200SX and 300ZX to great effect. If you want the procedure for Nissans after 1994 or pretty much any other Japanese car have a look at our other guides!

Anyway, how do you do it? Its pretty easy really.

Find the ECU! If it is a 200SX or 300ZX it is under the centre console. Take the thing right out so you can see the ECUStart the car and let it idle. If it doesn't start turn it over on the starter for 10 seconds or so.Turn the diagnostic switch fully clockwise (Small plain screwdriver) See the picture belowThe LED should flash 3 times. When it has turn it fully anti-clockwiseCheck the LEDs flash to confirmThe ECU will now flash the code. A red flash indicates 10 and a green flash indicates a single unit. For example, if the code was 23 the red LED would flash twice and the green LED would flash three times. Told you it was easy! The code will then repeat its self. Anyway, note the code down then switch the ignition off.

Trouble code Cause11 Engine speed (RPM) sensor or Crankshaft sensor (CKP) intermittant signal12 Mass air flow sensor (MAF) circuit malfunction13 Engine temperature sensor circuit malfunction14 Vehicle speed sensor21 Ignition signal22 Fuel pump open circuit23 Closed throttle position switch24 Park/neutral position switch (Automatics)28 Engine coolant blower motor circuit malfunction (Cooling fan)31 Additional Idle air control valve (IAC)32 Starter signal34 Knock sensor circuit malfunction41 Intake air temperature sensor or fuel temperature sensor (Earlier models) circuit malfunction43 Throttle position sensor44 No faults stored55 No faults storedJust because a particular code is stored does not automatically mean that sensor/switch or assembly has had it. ALWAYS check the wiring to the component, the condition of the terminals and the fuses before legging it off to Nissan with your wallet flapping!How to clear the codes

Assuming you have fixed the problem you may now have to clear the codes so the light goes out and any performance restrictions are lifted.

Turn the ignition back onTurn the diagnostic switch clockwise fullyLet the LED flash 3 times then turn the switch fully anti clockwiseCheck the LEDS flash to confirm then turn the switch fully clockwise againWait for teach LED to flash 4 or 5 times to indicate 'No fault found' (Code 44 or 55)Turn the switch fully anti-clockwise and switch the ignition off againThats you! Put your centre console back in and feel smug every time you drive past the local Nissan dealer thinking 'I don't need you or your 50 an hour labour charges!'

Hope this all makes sense! If you enjoyed or found this guide helpful why not have a look at our other guides? If you thought it was rubbish, email us an tell us why!Kerbsidemotors! Nissan parts and accessories for sale NOW!