I have a 2k1 auto. I'm at 74k miles and it is seeming more sluggish than it should be and I'm considering getting a new MAF. Just the other day I got a P0420 which is covered under a TSB and calls for an ECU reflash and possibly CAT converter.

Most people say when getting a new MAF that you should get the ECU reflashed by the dealer and I'm wondering if I get the ECU reflash done for my SES code and then get a new MAF a few weeks later will I need another ECU reflash? Or does the ECU reflash/update only need to be done once. TIA.

 

you'll be fine with the new MAF. You can try resetting the ECU by disconnecting the negative cable to the battery overnight if you really want

 

it doesnt even have to be overnight. most people just unhook it for a few hours and its good to go.

 

I'd like to know too. Is the update something that has to be done once does it have to be done only after the new MAF is in?

 

nissan has an update done through the consult 2 that they recommend in the tsb and even on the boxes of the updated mafs. myself and many others have the updated w/o the updated flash and have had no issues. it would be interesting to see the a/f difference between the two if any though. the new maf simply has the actual wire built up further in the housing to help keep the wire from being hit or grime building onto it.

 

A reflash overwrites the software that runs in your car's computer (ECU). This is sometimes needed when the manufacturer has upgraded the software to fix bugs or make it compatible with upgraded parts. This software is in persistent memory (it is stored in a programable read-only memory, that it is not lost even if battery power is removed), so you only need to reflash the ECU with the latest available software. But it is possible that the dealer may refuse to reflash unless they also install the MAF at the same time, if the only reason for reflashing is due to an upgraded MAF. Anyways, you won't have to come back for another reflash after installing the MAF, if you have already done so...

 

Sweet thanks for the help guys. I just wasn't sure if they only reflashed part of the ECU (the part containing my P0420 code), but I guess they do it all.

I guess it might be time for them to advance my timing to 17^ while I'm in there and hooked up to the machine.