P0303 on my 2007 Altima 4cy

[mizzpiggyy]

So last Wednesday evening my car started sputtering and wouldn't go over 20mph. The next morning I took it to a nearby autoparts store and their scanner read P0303. I then took it to Precision Auto Tune, they said the same thing and said I needed spark plugs, injector coil for #3, a fuel injector for #3, PCV valve and valve cover gasket. All this to the tune of $1200.00. Well with the help of google, Youtube and discount of friends (less than $300) working at the auto parts store I set to work myself.When I removed the #1 coil it was full of oil so I knew then the valve cover itself was bad. When I removed the cover the seal on #1 was totally gone, #2 was cracked and the rest looked fine. Interestingly enough #3 and #4 coil and spark plugs looked the best to me. Since I only bought one coil, I replaced #1 only (that actually fell apart when I took it out). I also found some type of rubber cap lodged between the #1 spark plug and coil. It definitely did not come from the coil. Now at this point, I had everything was taken apart I re-read the instructions on the fuel injector. Whoops... did not clear the fuel line. Gonna take a chance and not do it at the moment. Get everything back on (keep in mind, did not replace #3 coil). Started car... sounded lovely!!! Smoother... down the driveway...around the corner and then it starts. The sputtering and jerking. I can get it over 20mph this time though. In between the sputtering and the jerking I can feel its smoother! Sooo I'm thinking going with replacing the #3 coil. It will cost me more money but it's easier. I have the fuel injector but at this point its harder to get to. Opinions???

[centralcoaster33]

Nice work so far. I think you are saving money. I'd do the #3 coil and hold off on the injector if you can return that for $ later. Did you put some new spark plugs in there? It would be a good time. There's coincidentally a YouTube video (maybe you've already found it) that uses your car as an example and discusses replacing the coil. Here's a link to that. Now, I've had similar in my 240sx and for me it was a fuel injector getting stuck part time. But, I did not get the P0303 code, so I think you're on the right path. The mechanic place with the high quote was just covering all the options and being up front about the cost, so I think they were doing a good job and being legit. I'd consider using them again in the future when the work gets beyond your abilities.

Clearing the fuel line is to keep you from getting doused with gas while working. You'll be fine if your not a smoker. If you are, be careful with the matches!

As far as the rubber bit, I'm guessing distributor plug wire parts, valve cover gasket or gobs of liquid gasket, but I don't know. Clean up the loose bits and replace your seals as needed.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pP0I-iSBUF4

Finally, welcome to NICO Club!