I was wondering if anyone might have an idea about why my 96 maxima may be experiencing slight hesitation in first and second gear, mostly when getting onto the highway. Usually after i get into 3rd gear it is ok. The hesitation is slight and hard to notice unless you are paying attention.

 

TJ recently reported curing a hesitation problem which was caused by an obstructed air cleaner filter. See http://forums.maxima.org/showthread....threadid=48605

Other possiblities include a clogged fuel filter and "tired" Oxygen Sensors.

You didn't mention the odometer reading of your Maxima. Have you maintained it "by the book"? Did it get new spark plugs when it should? Which brand?

 

Well it had some hesitation before i did my tune up. I put Champion spark plugs, Dragon Intake, But i had the slight hesitation already. Oh I also put a new fuel filter in too, so it isn't the fuel getting clogged. The car has 82k on it...

 

What type of Champion plugs? There have been various reports on the .org of poor performance using plugs other than the NGK OEM plugs.

 

Thats a good question. I am not sure. I got them at Napa.. But i did have the OEM plugs in it before i changed to champion. I was kinda thinking maybe it was the throttle sensor. But i am not sure...the hesitation is soo slight..and only when the engine rev's up to and over 3k....and usually noticable for me in 1st and 2nd gear. No check engine lights or anything.....With 82k miles do the throttle sensors go bad often?

 

Throttle sensors are not troublesome parts. However, I think you are dodging the issue of Oxygen Sensors. These components deteriorate with mileage.

For general information about Oxygen Sensors see:
http://www.volksparts.com/o2sensors.htm
http://members.aol.com/carleyware/library/o2sensor.htm

 

IS that an expensive part? If not it won't hurt to try that

 

A front Oxygen Sensor costs about $80, possibly less if you buy them from a mail-order discount dealer. You need two.

 

A front Oxygen Sensor costs about $80, possibly less if you buy them from a mail-order discount dealer. You need two.