2000 Maxima Engine shutting off when clutch is pressed

[mreddys10]

Hi,I'm new here. I have a few problems with my Maxima (2000, manual), hope you guys can help me fix them.

The engine is not idling properly once it gets warmed up. the revs stay around 600, but doesnt stay constant. A bigger problem is that while driving, if I am coming to a stop, I press the clutch, the revs fall really low (well below 500), and the car almost shuts off. It has actually shut off a few times this way. The car starts fine immediately.

I cant really figure out what the problem is. The car accelerates fine, no wierd vibrations/noise from the engine either. I was going to take it to a mechanic, but I thought I would ask for some help here first.

[loystock]

Welcome to NICO.

Is the CEL (Check Engine Light) on? If so, go to Autozone for a free scan and get a printout of the fault code. The problem may be due to malfunctioning IACV (Idle Air Control Valve). The IACV meters the air that bypasses the Throttle Valve to set the target speed. The IACV has a stepper motor with the drive (power transistor) coming from the ECM. There are numerous sensors associated with IACV but the main ones are the Throttle Position Sensor and Crankshaft Position Sensor.

The IACV and related tube may just need cleaning or it could be failing. But be careful, as short circuit in the IACV can 'kill' the ECM.

Please let me know if you are capable of doing electrical testing (using multimeter).

[mreddys10]

Hi loystock,Thanks for the reply. I am actaully just a student. I dont have any tools to really check any of the stuff, and I live in canada (no autozone). But I can take it to a mechanic and get the scan. The 'Service Engine Soon' light has been on (I had disconnected my battery some time back).

[mreddys10]

I got an engine scan done, and it gave the error p0105 'manifold absolute pressure'. It was suggested that I need to get a new MAP sensor. What do you guys think? Its costing me $430 + tax + labor here. I'm in no position to spend that kind of money right now. Will using that car in this condition cause major damage?

EDIT: I found an MAP sensor on rockauto.com for $180, and it looks like I can install it myself, but I would like your opinion before I purchase the part.

Thanks

[loystock]

I saw the same part from RockAuto for $154. At PartsGeek.com, it is @ $100. let me check the OEM part from IoS.

Make sure you check the vacuum line to the MAP sensor. Sometimes it could get clogged and cause erroneous signal. The MAP sensor is mounted on top of the engine (near the engine cover, driver side closer to the radiator) and secured with 2 mounting bolts.

[mreddys10]

Yea, it was $154, plus shipping comes to $184 I cant find that part on partsgeek.com. Do they ship to canada?

I will get the vacuum line checked tomorrow. If that is fine, should I buy this part and replace it?

[loystock]

I just saw a used one from eBay for $15 ($1 Buy It now Price + $14 shipping). There is no harm in trying. Looks like the same as the one for the Maxima though it was taken out of a wrecked 00 Pathfinder.

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors...ec3d9

BTW, when you disconnect the electrical connector (plug), make sure there is no water in it. If not, the harness has to be repaired/replaced.

[mreddys10]

Is there any way that I can check the vacuum line myself?

I had a spare MAF sensor lying around. I cleaned it with MAF sensor cleaner and swapped it in. The problem is barely noticeable now. I am sorry if I'm annoying you, but I am selling this car next month because I need to pay for school (so, I want to be sure before I spend any more money).

Partsgeek and that ebay item dont ship to Canada

[loystock]

MAF (Mass Air Flow, Fault Code P0100)) sensor is different from the MAP (Manifold Absolute Pressure Sensor, Fault Code P0105). The MAF sensor is a very critical component at the air intake and expensive too (OEM is >$400).

Disconnect the vacuum tube from the sensor and then from the manifold side (note the actual location). Make sure the tube is not clogged. If so, use engine degreaser or carb cleaner and then rinse thoroughly with water.

Again, there is no harm in trying to get the used part from eBay in my previous posting. Do you have a friend in the US who can buy the part for you and then ship to Canada. At $1, that's a bargain if it is working (which I think it is).

[mreddys10]

Ok...I will check and clean it and let you know. I dont mind buying that ebay part, but he doesnt ship to canada