List of problems...sigh

[heavyj]

So I bought a used 2005 Nissan Quest.
I was told they replaced the computer in an attempt to fix the fuel gauge LCD problem (which apparently is a common problem.) It did not fix it and I have already ordered a replacement LCD with bonded ribbon cable. Hopefully that can be checked off the growing list.

Here's what else I've got going on:
1.) *interior lights don't work
2.) *speedometer backlight flashes on and off
3.) *airbag light flashes
4.) *washer fluid won't spray (front or back)
5.) *Travis Tritt CD won't eject from CD player

Any help?

[xtlicious]

Not a bad list of problems. You haven't even had the power door come open on its own or experienced the "normal" unrepairable alignment problems that eat tires!

Word to the wise regarding what sounds like a busted control board -- use a good quality battery with the correct rating, and make sure the connections are tight. Cheap batteries that cause voltage issues or are easily drained tend to cause boards to go bad. This especially happens in dry climates, apparently (perhaps due to a worse ground through the tires?).

I had your specific problem -- an intermittent short that made the mileage come and go, as well as tripping the airbag light and making the right front door power window to act funny. One of the boards in the instrument cluster had gone bad and spiked the voltage, causing the other problems. Someone more knowledgeable than me can chime in with the TSB but it's listed in the forum archive somewhere. The dealer fix is $$$. I recommend getting a used cluster with a warranty and having it programmed to your car (at your own risk).

[glennbuskirk]

When electrical problems cluster like this, it's important to check the grounding in the system. That includes battery to frame, fusebox to frame, and from any grounding points back to the battery. Sometimes ground connections are intermittent, or they can develop resistance due to corrosion so that a voltage drop occurs in the grounding path. Clean up screws that make grounding connections; Apply conductive (not dielectric) grease.