It's getting warmer, so that means the speedo/odo sometimes stop working.

Had a problem a couple of times last summer, but no probs over winter.

What happens? The speedo just doesn't register a speed (stays at 0), and the odo (neither trip nor master) doesn't move. Sometimes the speedo 'wakes up' and works - and then stops.

Other interesting things: when the speedo is working and the car is slowing down, the speedo drops down slowly until it hits about 20kph - then it just drops. When I start up, the needle doesn't move.

Also, when I'm driving at about 60kph (40mph) with the speedo dead, I can put in the clutch, turn the engine off (with the key), turn the ignition on again (the engine just picks up where it left off - no restarting required), and the speedo comes to life - until I slow down or stop.

So - is this a bad guage cluster? Do I need to resolder some connections back there? Or is this a bad speed sensor that is sending out lower-than-spec voltage and the guage just can't see it unless a threshold is exceeded? Or both? Or something else?

And, what does a speed sensor cost? or a guage cluster? Does anyone have one available (91 SE, Canadian)

And why is it ALWAYS raining on the left coast????

Thanks all!

Michael

 

Becuse the left is too liberal?

 

I had a similar problem. I LIGHTLY hammered the sensor in to make sure it was properly seated in the transmission. Problem solved.

I hope this is your problem.

 

Had that problem but with the temp. gauge. Goes up, hit a bump goes down . Wanted to work when it wanted. Just put a gauge cluster. problem solved.Dont know if thats your problem but you may find one on the org.

 

My money's on the speedo sensor. I went through 2 clusters before finally replacing the speed sensor (and a 3rd cluster). From my experience, if you replace the cluster, it will probably work for a little while. If the speed sensor is the problem (which is more likely) it will eventually damage the cluster and the problem will come back. Until you can replace the sensor, I would recommend unplugging it so not to (further) damage the cluster.
I've heard the old 'tap, tap' on the sensor has worked for others, but this will only be a temporary fix in most cases IMHO.

 

Update:

Popped into the local Nissan dealer (who is undergoing an extensive remodelling at their cost because Nissan Canada wants all of their dealerships to share a 'corportate look') and checked out prices and parts and suggestions.

The mechanic on duty thought it was the speed sensor too. He asked if the cruise control worked when the speedo went out - didn't know, but tested it later that day - and, sure enough, no CC when the speedo read 0. The mechanic said that shows the speed sensor is toast.

Prices: speed sensor - $197CDN (but they could come down a bit)
speedo guage - $315CDN.

Local parts place - Lordco - could supply a Nierhoff (sp) SS for about $125CDN.

Thoughts?

thanks!

Michael (whose pocket is $600 lighter 'cause I had to buy new summer tires all around)...

 

I am having the same problem.. works well when driving the first 2-3 miles and then dead.. i hit a pot hole andit bounces up then back down. If i drive really carefully then it works. btw its strange how the guage works after i turn off the max and let it sit for a few minutes and it works back..just anohter thing i got to fix..

 

Michael, I have the same problem all i do is tap the dash n it comes back to normal reading...not sure if its reading correct speed though........
Question for all you 3rd gen owners::: i have a light ticking noise on start up coming from around the distributor cap area, any ideas on what it may be???