Hi Folks,

I just got my 2002 6sp Max back from the dealership where they have test driven the car for about 60 km. I've been having these problems with engine knock between 2000 and 3000 rpm and the Service Engine Light constantly coming on for about the past 2 to 3 months, really ever since my engine replacement under warranty. It seems that they may have finally solved the problem.

Now though onto a new problem. I get the car back and immediately notice that when stopped and with the engine on and selecting first gear or reverse, the effort required to select a gear is about 2 to 3 times what it used to be. While driving and shifting the problem is not so apparent. When selecting reverse however the problem is most pronounced. I really have to push back of the shift stick hard. Any ideas of what the dealership could have done to my car would be greatly appreciated.

Now on to the details of the problems I've been having for the past 2 to 3 months. Note that the dealership during this time has replaced the knock sensor, crankshaft sensor harness, ox sensors, gas cap, gas canister, and air intake bank solenoids (both banks). All along the knock persisted even when running 94 octane fuel. So on the last time in they decided to extensively test drive the car with the console plugged in. It also occurred to them to call Nissan Tech. They were then informed that a common problem with these engines has been the installation of the crank sensor plate. Most techs don't notice this and assume the 5 bolt patterns is all that is needed for alignment with crank. It turns out there is a small dimple that has to match up with a negative dimple on the crank sensor plate that is attached to the engine. So basically I believe my engine has been off by a few degrees and this has been driving the ECU crazy and all sort of codes are being spit out. My light has basically been on for the past 2 to 3 months. It would only briefly go out after a sensor was replaced and the ECU would be reset at the dealership and after about 40 km it would light up again. So guys if you have recently had your crank harness replaced make sure you note this. Apparently this has been causing a lot of aggravation to dealership service departments.

wolfman

 

As far as your transmission problem: maybe it's a fluid issue? When was the last time you did a full tune-up? Although usually when I hear a problem such as that, most people say that your tranny is pretty much done. Though your case seems to be a bit milder so I'm not sure.