1999 Maxima Non-Cali but getting P1165

[Zoon]

I bought this 99 non-cali maxima with the check engine light on. I ran the codes. Got bad O2 sensor errors (fixed) and P1165. I pulled up the code and it shows as Swirl Control Valve Control Vacuum Check Switch.

In the FSM it shows that this should be only for cali models. It gives a diaphragm of the swirl control valve solenoid valve. My car has a solenoid connected to the air intake, that looks exactly like the diaphragm. But my solenoid is connected to the MAP sensor. and the vacuum diaphragm on my car hood calls it the MAP solenoid. In the FSM, the diaphragm shows that it should be connected to the Swirl control valve control vacuum check switch. I don't see any other switch connected to it other than the MAP.

So ya. I am totally lost. Anyone have any idea why I'm getting this code/what to do to fix it?

Thanks

[ezb57e]

Welcome.
The ECM may be from a Cal spec car, and is looking for a circuit that isn't there.
If you can get the part # of your ECM you will be able to tell.
The factory Consult scan tool will read it out, some others too.
If so, that DTC wont go away.

[Zoon]

I can go get the part #. any idea where I can verify if it's a cali ecm or not?

[ezb57e]

The dealer can.
If they cant or wont, post it here and Ill let you know.

[Zoon]

I tried to get the part number from the dealer. They won't give it to me without me paying $110.
I tried the parts store, and they couldn't get it from their computer.
so... Here is the BAR code number printed on the side of my ECM.
03876972 wh18111z91www


So, if it is the wrong ECM. I actually have two 4th gen maximas. I have the 99, runs like a champ (just this stupid code preventing my emissions test). My other maxima is a 95 with a blown head.

Can I just swap the ECM out with my 95 one, or do I need to do anything else. Think that might work?

Thank you so much for your help.

[ezb57e]

I don't have any reference for that code.
Does it look like the ECM has been out?
They are pretty hard to get in and out without breaking the harness clips, or leaving other signs.
Any signs of that?
If so, I think you may be able to use your earlier ECM.
You will have to register your keys again with the non-original ECM or it wont start.

[Zoon]

ya, I took it out a few days ago to check voltage for my o2 sensors. and it was way easy to get out. It was just sitting in its spot with nothing holding it there. I don't know if there should have been any bolts or clips holding it in place, but there wasn't.

So if I want to use my old ECM, I just need to switch it out, and then have my key redone? I actually lost my key and just barely paid to have a new one made. Took me some time, but I found a locksmith that could make it pretty cheap. I wonder if he could just reprogram my same new key.

I could drive my car over to the locksmith with the current ECM in it, switch it out, and have them do the key right then. Any other problems I should be worried about other than the key? also my 95 didn't require a chipped key. any issue with that?

[ezb57e]

There should have been 2 bolts at the front,and a slid-in affair at the back. The harness is clipped to it in a couple places too.
So it may not be the right one.
Yes, your 95 doesn't have NATS/antitheft.
That's a problem, I don't think it will work.
You could try though. The ECM holds the key code so if it wont start, don't bother getting the key registered as there wont be anywhere to register it.

[Zoon]

So I decided that I wanted to know for sure if it was a cali ECM or not. I took it into the dealer and found the right guy.

I have a CALI ECM. You nailed it. So ya. I think your right about not being able to use my 95 ECM because of the key difference. So I am off to the junk yard to find me a 99 fed ecm.

Thank you so much for your help. I'll let you know if/when I get my car passed emissions.

[Zoon]

Okay so I have been looking for an ECM. It appears that there are a bunch of different ones for the 99.
The differences are GLE, GXE, or SE then
Cali/Federal then
auto/manual then
traction control/not then
power driver seat/not
then build date thru 9/98 or from 10/98.

So my car is a GXE, FED, auto, without traction, power driver seat, built 11/98 so from 10/98.

I went to a few junk yards. Only one had any idea which ECM's should work. They gave me the part numbers. A18N05Z85, A18J514E7, & 237134L618.

I found a pick and pull place in some other state that shows they have one of these, they are checking right now for me. If they do, they charge 30 plus ups shipping to send it to me.

I'm just wondering if there really is a problem with using an ecm from any 99 (non cali) maxima. My thought is that even if I get a check code error for the power seats, or for the traction control, would that prevent me from passing the emissions test?

I just want to pass the damn test. But I guess it would be best to get the damn right ecm if it matters.

[ezb57e]

Those numbers are JECS calibration numbers, not really the part #, but if you can match one, you're in,
There is an interchange somewhere but I haven't seen one in years.
Sounds like the wreckers did though. Cool.
If you get a FED, auto trans ECM I think it will work.
The traction control should not be an issue.
On Traction Control cars, pins 5 and 68 receive a fuel cut signal from the TCS/ABS control unit. Looks like a LAN line, if open it will not turn on the MIL.
The power seats wont matter for sure.

[Zoon]

just got a replacement one installed. paid 46$ shipped next day. Got my key programmed to the new ecm (45$). Drove it about 50 miles. No codes yet. So happy.

Thank you so much for answering my question. I love you.

[ezb57e]

I'm glad it worked out.