I have a 2000 Maxima SE Automatic with 52k miles. For the past week, I've noticed driving off after the car has been turned on take off hasn't been as smooth as usual. I put it D and as I give it some gas the car pulsates as if its not getting enough gas. Happens only in first gear. Happens when car is cold. I tried it in low gears and does the same. Checked trans fluid and seems fine. Wasn't sure if it is a fuel (filter or pump) problem or something in the transmission. Has anyone experienced that problem before?

 

I have the same problem, check for codes, mine showed something like "improper first gear shifting" or something like that

don't know how to fix it though... still driving like this

Serge

 

My '02 does something similar, also more noticeable when engine is cold. It seems to happen more often when is hot outside (85+). I don't know what's the root cause though. I cleaned the MAF with CRC's QD Contact Cleaner ($7 at Home Depot) and it seems better, but I cannot tell for sure if this really did the trick, since it has not been that hot outside lately. Yet another 5gen annoyance

BUT, you may want to read this thread... http://forums.maxima.org/showthread.php?t=334762

It is very possible your MAF design is different from the one in my '02, which may not allow you to clean it.

 

this might be a shot in the dark.. but have you changed your spark plugs? my friend's car did something pretty similar to yours.. and his mechanic told him to change his spark plugs.. ya never know.. it's a cheap fix anyway..

 

I agree, at 52K your just about ready for a tune up.
Fuel filter, plugs, PCV, Fuel injection and intake cleaning.

That should smooth things out quite a bit.

 

can anyone give a ref on the plugs please?

and what is PCV?

thanks
Serge

 

PCV valve=Positive Crankcase Ventilation valve. There is a pic of its location in the 4th gen faqs.