Resetting the throttle body on your Nissan can resolve issues like rough idling, poor acceleration, and the dreaded P0507 error code. This comprehensive guide provides a step-by-step procedure for performing a Nissan throttle body relearn, ensuring your engine runs smoothly.
Understanding the Nissan Throttle Body Relearn Procedure
Modern Nissans utilize an electronic throttle control system. The Engine Control Unit (ECU) learns the idle position of the throttle plate. When the throttle body is cleaned or replaced, or the battery disconnected, the ECU loses this learned position, necessitating a relearn procedure. This process, often referred to as Idle Air Volume Learning (IAVL), allows the ECU to re-establish the correct idle settings.
Prerequisites for a Successful Throttle Body Reset
Before starting the relearn procedure, ensure the following:
- Engine Temperature: The engine and transmission must be at normal operating temperature (160-203°F or 70-95°C). Achieve this by driving for at least 30 minutes. Warming up the car while stationary is insufficient.
- Minimal Electrical Load: Turn off all accessories like A/C, headlights, radio, and rear defroster to minimize engine load.
- Vehicle Position: Ensure the vehicle is in Park (for automatic transmissions) or Neutral (for manual transmissions) with the wheels straight.
- No Error Codes: Address any existing Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) related to the mass airflow sensor, manifold absolute pressure sensor, or idle speed before proceeding. A persistent Check Engine Light (CEL) indicates underlying issues that need resolution.
- Tools: You will need a stopwatch or timer.
Step-by-Step Guide to Resetting Your Nissan Throttle Body
This procedure involves three key stages:
1. Accelerator Pedal Released Position Learning
Accelerator Pedal
- Fully release the accelerator pedal.
- Turn the ignition switch ON and wait for at least 2 seconds.
- Turn the ignition switch OFF and wait for at least 10 seconds.
- Turn the ignition switch ON and wait for at least 2 seconds.
- Turn the ignition switch OFF and wait for at least 10 seconds.
2. Throttle Valve Closed Position Learning
- Ensure the accelerator pedal is fully released.
- Turn the ignition switch ON.
- Turn the ignition switch OFF and wait for at least 10 seconds.
- You should hear the throttle valve moving during these 10 seconds. This confirms proper operation.
3. Idle Air Volume Learning (IAVL)
- With the engine COLD, perform the Accelerator Pedal Released Position Learning and Throttle Valve Closed Position Learning procedures as outlined above.
- Warm up the engine by driving for at least 30 minutes.
- Park the vehicle, ensuring it’s in Park or Neutral with the wheels straight, and turn off all accessories.
- Turn the ignition key OFF and wait at least 10 seconds.
- Turn the key ON (do not start the engine) and simultaneously start your timer.
- At exactly 3 seconds, quickly and fully depress and release the accelerator pedal five times within 5 seconds.
- Wait 7 seconds or more, then fully depress the accelerator pedal and hold for at least 20 seconds until the CEL stops blinking and remains illuminated. If the CEL doesn’t blink, restart the procedure.
- Within 3 seconds of the CEL becoming solid, release the accelerator pedal.
- Immediately start the engine and let it idle. A high or fluctuating idle is normal at this stage.
- Let the engine idle for at least 20 seconds, then rev the engine a few times.
- With your foot on the brake, shift into Drive. The idle should drop below 1000 RPM. Shift back into Park. The engine should now settle into its normal idle speed.
Conclusion
Successfully completing the Nissan throttle body relearn procedure is crucial for optimal engine performance. Following these detailed steps will help you reset your throttle body effectively, resolving issues and restoring smooth engine operation. If problems persist, consult a qualified Nissan technician for further diagnosis and repair.
