nizmo

iTrader: (1)

ok heres some background info:
My CEL has been on for a while now and recently the car started dying on me. Sometimes when the car would be idling the engine would suddenly die out. Then it wont start (like I ran outta gas or something) until after like 4 tries. Then I would smell gas for 5 seconds as soon as it started and then the smell would go away.

I figured the gas smell was too much gas being pumped without being burned as a result of the 4-5 tries to start.
I dont think the problem is fuel related.

now I checked the codes for the CEL today and heres what I found:

01 03 - Engine Coolant temp sensor
09 08 - Engine Coolant temp sensor
03 04 - Knock Sensor
07 07 - Rear Heated Oxygen Sensor

After checking the codes I reset the CEL. But ... when I turned ignition to on position (before starting) I got:
05 05 - no fault detected (which is fine I guess).
Then I started the car and the CEL flashed 10 times and did not come on again.

I turned off and started again and I got the same 05 05 and 10 flashes.

I turned off and started again but this time CEL remained on. The revs started rising and falling and car died like it had done before.
Started again after 5 tries and same gas smell. CEL is now back on again.

What do you guys think?? Anyone else have these kind of problems before?
Any input would be appreciated.
Also is the Engine Coolant Temp Sensor the same as a Thermostat?

Thanks in advance
Nas

njmaxseltd

iTrader: (19)

Engine coolant temp sensor failure will cause similar simptoms. If the sensor has totally failed, your cars ECU has no idea what the engine temp is. It may think your car is cold all the time thus running it VERY rich (GAS SMELL). That might be causing your rear 02 sensor to go nuts also. I'd start by replacing the temp sensor. There are 2 sensors, the one you want is the one closest to the engine block, not the radiator hose.

Good luck!

ripper7

I had the same problem, it was the engine coolent temp sensor. Only happend when my car was going for cold to warm(temp gauge).

nizmo

iTrader: (1)

Thanx guys I appreciate your help.

ripper - how much did you pay for the engine coolant temp sensor if you dont mind me asking.

Also is it the same as the generic brand thermostat u can buy at pepboys (Bosch etc.)??

Thanks again
Nas

ripper7

I paid $36 from dealer. Check this thread out..

http://forums.maxima.org/showthread....nt+temp+sensor

nizmo

iTrader: (1)

Thanks ripper!