So, I just picked up my '02 SE today.

I'm gonna have some more questions as time goes, but for now, my most concerning thing is something I've searched on, and is a confirmed case, but the threads were so old I was wondering if anyone has had an update since way back when.

My question is, is there a fix, besides cluster replacement, for the FAINT service engine soon light only visible at night?

I found a thread from 2002 where people had the problem, and had their clusters replaced under warranty. Not of much help to me.. Just wondering if anyone knows a fix for it, aside from replacement of the cluster? I'm mechanically inclined, but new to this world (Had an Altima V6, but was totally different car)

I don't necessarily mind waiting for a used cluster to come about that I can try, but I figured someone else since 2002 has seen this and might have a fix.

I had this problem on my brand new 02 and the only fix is a new gauge cluster. Nissan dealer confirmed it was a problem on a good amount of 2002 maxima. Mine was fix under warranty, but since your out of warranty I wouldn't worry about it cause it's very expensive. Just live with it.

I'm sure its expensive, that's why I figured I'd just wait for a used cluster to come up.

That being said, would a 2k3 cluster work in the '02 as long as it was not for an automatic?

Knowing its not a major issue I'd have no problem posting a WTB for a cluster.

I have the same problem. It actually pulses with my music lol.

And yes, the 02 and 03 cluster are interchangeable, providing they are for the same transmission type.

is this just a bulb problem? people have ripped them apart and wired led's all through the back of them.. could you replace the bulb.. or just remove the bulb...

also.. did you scan to see if there are any codes? or its just lighting up for no reason?

Plus one on scanning for possible codes first.

If no codes are found, then pull the cluster out and start taking it apart and see if you can spot something. If not, just wait patiently for a used gauge cluster to pop up. There seem to be much more part-out 5th gen maximas lately.

It is not a bulb problem and there is no codes. It is a problem with a diode within the cluster.

My friend's Silverado has the same problem with his high beam light.

There seems to be some current leakage.

The bulb lights up nice and bright when there is a CEL and when you initially turn the key to "on".

In response to this, (for example) what happens when a used cluster comes up with 50,000 miles for you to install in yours with 90k miles? How do you not commit odometer fraud? lol.

If the dealer had to replace the cluster, the only way to get the original mileage on a new cluster is to send the old cluster to a place to have it changed.

Whats the cost associated with replacing the cluster anyway?

I have the same problem, and have scanned numerous times for codes, and still nothing. When a code DOES pop up, the light shines bright.

Dealer can set the appropriate mileage on the cluster. They compare it to the mileage on your ECU....duh.

Dependent on the dealer and how it is recorded in service it may show up as an issue on a carfax report, but not quite sure.

Dealer informed me that clusters must be sent in, and that service depts do not change mileage on clusters.

I was not aware the ECU keeps mileage. If it does that, why does the cluster keep mileage too? Shouldnt each cluster only display the mileage of the car its on like most other types of vehicles?

+1!!!!

Sometimes the mileage is stored in the cluster, sometimes it's stored in the PCM/BCM, whatever... I don't know why it always has to be different.

Because there is no set standard...which is why it is different.

Check with another dealer...