2002 pathfinder hesitation at speed problem

[mdmudpup]

I have a 2002 pathfinder with VQ35DE engine. I have an engine hesitation problem around 65 to 70 miles per hour, also the performance has deteriorated. I changed the plugs and boots, and fuel filter – no help. The engine has about 60K and never had an electrical, mechanical or engine light since bought new. Any insight on what could the problem?

[s13sr20chris]

how bad of a hesitation? that motor is not really known for messing up. the only thing i can think of that is common is the intake valve timing sensors. theoretically this could cause a hesitation but it would be very slight. unfortunately the intake valve timing sensors cannot be checked without either a lab scope or a consult. both of those items cost quite a bit of money. rest assured, if the intake valve timing sensors are malfunctioning your check engine light will come on sooner or later. another item you may want to check is your transmission. has it been serviced at all? how is the fluid color and level?

[mdmudpup]

Hey thanks for the reply. When this hesitation is very noticeable I am cruising around 65 mph with slight pressure on the accelerator, the pathfinder will feel like a plug is breaking down or similar to running out of gas. Sometimes it feels like it’s just going to conk out. Checked the trans fluid and all looks good – level and color. Trans has not been serviced. This problem has been going on for about a month or two. I have a friend who’s a mechanic and initially he told me to replace the plugs and boots (arching), I did. I think I am going to the dealer service and have them hook it up. Maybe a wire or connector is bad.

[s13sr20chris]

i think that would be a good idea. at this stage the pathfinders just are not breaking stuff and i dont have enough info to start from scratch. maybe relay whatever they are able to tell you? this will help you as well as others who may search the archive and find this thread.