D'oh, been using the wrong FSM since 2010

[Towncivilian]

Well, I just noticed tonight that I've been using the 2001 FSM while I have a 2001.5 Pathfinder. I noticed due to the MODIFICATION NOTICE at the top of EC and EL sections of the 2001.5 FSM. Though from my serial number it seems that I have the "old" smart entrance control unit, so the 2001 FSM is likely identical to the "PREVIOUS" sections of the 2001.5 FSM.

Does anybody know off-hand the significant changes between the 2001 and 2001.5 smart entrance control units, or would that be a better question for a service adviser, parts dept, or master tech?

[oasisx]

mind explaining what all those acronyms are? also how can you tell if you have a 2001 v.s. a 2001.5 pathfinder...i have a 2001 and wonder which mine is.

[Buzzman]

At the risk of looking stupid (not difficult for me),
what is a smart entrance control unit?
Thx.

[Towncivilian]

This is what the "previous" smart entrance control unit does:

The following systems are controlled by the smart entrance control unit.

• Warning chime
• Rear window defogger and door mirror defogger timer
• Power door lock
• Multi-remote control system
• Vehicle security system
• Interior lamp timer
• Electric sunroof and power window timer
• Headlamp battery saver
• Battery saver

For detailed description and wiring diagrams, refer to the relevant pages for the each system. The smart entrance control unit receives data from the switches and sensors to control their corresponding system relays and actuators.

This is what the "new" smart entrance control unit does:

The smart entrance control unit totally controls the following body electrical system operations.

• Headlamp auto light control system
• Warning chime
• Rear defogger and door mirror defogger timer
• Power door lock
• Multi-remote control system
• Vehicle security system
• Interior lamp

In addition, the following timer operations are controlled by the smart entrance control unit.

• Battery saver control
• Retained power control

Manufacturing dates 01/01/2000-08/31/2000 are 2001s and 09/01/2000-06/30/2001 are 2001.5s.

In addition, some 2001.5 MY Pathfinders have an "old" SMART C/U.

MODIFICATION NOTICE:

• Smart entrance control unit has been changed.
• The SMART C/U - PREVIOUS is applicable for the 2WD models up to serial number 567231 and for the 4WD models up to serial number 584967.
• The SMART C/U - NEW is applicable for the 2WD models from serial number 567231 and for the 4WD models from serial number 584967.

In my case, with serial number 564708 and a 2WD model, I have the "previous" smart entrance control unit. The serial number is the last 6 digits of your VIN.

[oasisx]

interesting. thanks for posting the detailed info. now i need to find what date mine was made. i read somewhere on google that the 2001's have the 3.3L engine and 2001.5's have the upgraded 3.5L, is this true?

[Towncivilian]

All 2001-2004 model R50s have the VQ35DE engine. I don't know why the owner's manual still states VG33E related info. To find your manufacturing date, look on the sticker on the driver door jamb.