So I don't have a Maxima, but I have a friend with an '89 Maxima that, according to the dealership, has a bad AIV valve.

She wants to sell it, rather than deal with the repair cost.

So my question is how difficult is it to replace one? I've never touched a Maxima engine before, but I do know my way around an engine to some extent. Would it be something that could be done by someone like me? The extent of my work in the motor is the usual crap (intake, etc.), plus installing a bored throttle body on a 2000 Eclipse GT.

Thanks guys,
Jeff

 

Jeff,

It doesn't look like it's all that hard a job to do (according to my Haynes and Chilton's manuals. Since I have a VE (your friends' engine is a VG), I can't vouch from experience. But one thing I DID notice, was that I didn't see an A.I.V unit or an A.I.V. control valve on any engine after 88.

Be that as it may (I've always wanted to say that), the valve itself should be just forward of the brake master cylinder. I don't know how it's secured or anything, but it looks kinda easy.

Good luck on this, though...

 

my haynes book says the AIV was only used on 88 and older models. on 89 and up they used the AAC which is located directly on the intake manifold on the right side of it. It is the round thing with a big screw in the top and has a hose that goes to the intake. If that thing is your problem it is extremely easy to remove. A hose, a wiring harness, and some screws and it's out. My book says if your engine races you aac valve may be faulty. I have the instructions to remove this and test it so let me know if this is your problem.

 

Yeah, it is possible that it was an earlier year, I guess. She was half asleep when I asked her over the phone. Could've been 87.

 

Wake her up, Jeff!!

Hopefully, our info will help you out.