How to Fix P0420/P0430 CEL Codes on Nissan Maxima (using Spacers/Non-Foulers on O2 Sensors)

If you are reading this article, you are very likely trying to resolve P0420/P0430 without having to spend a lot of money on the issue. Most of the time, the codes are due to a bad clogged catalytic converter or bad O2 sensors. Before replacing the O2 sensor, be sure to do the spacer fix modification first because O2 sensors are not cheap.

There aren’t usually any drivability issues associated with these codes. For most people, the first sign that anything is wrong at all is the check engine light. Below are the typical check engine lights you would normally get:

P0420 NISSAN – Catalyst System Efficiency Below Threshold Bank 1
P0430 NISSAN – Catalyst System Efficiency Below Threshold Bank 2

The Fix

You can eliminate the codes by using a spark plug non-fouler which tricks your engine computer to think that everything is working fine. This simple trick will pull the O2 sensor away from the exhaust flow and the computer will think the Catalytic converter is working properly. This will work if you remove the catalytic converter or have a bad cat. It’s very simple and cheap to do. Below is a video on how to perform the fix:

You can also buy them pre-made on eBay if you do not want to drill.

Make Your Own Spacers/Foulers

You can buy these non-fouler spacers at your local parts store. You can get them from Advanced Auto or Autozone for about $7-8 bucks.

You now need to drill out 1 of the non-foulers using a 1/2″ drill bit. When finished this is what it will look like.

O2 Sensor inserted in the modified non-fouler

Second, unmodified non-fouler now installed on modified non-fouler, then threaded into the pipe

Reference Photos

Below are photos of the spacers installed and 100% working on Nissan Maximas by generation. After installing the spacers, the CEL codes went away.

5thgen Nissan Maxima

6thgen Nissan Maxima

7thgen Nissan Maxima

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my7thgen 09-15 12/28/2017

Dan Evan’s Turbo 6-Speed Manual 7GM

Owner: Dan Evans

Year: 2009
Model: Maxima
Color: Radiant Silver (K12)
Transmission: Manual 6 Speed (6-Speed Swap done by Nisformance)
Trim: Sport/Tech Trim

What motivated you to MOD your Maxima?

I joined maxima.org in November 2010 and after that my bank account never forgave me. – Dan Evans

Full Mod List / Specs:

PERFORMANCE

Nisformance Turbo Kit
- Garrett T3/T04 turbocharger
- Mishimoto intercooler
- Tial BOV
- Turbonetics Wastegate @ 10 PSI
- GTR injectors (570cc)
- Aeromotive 325 fuel pump

Nisformance 6-Speed Swap Kit
- Heavy duty clutch slave cylinder with SS lines
- JWT lightweight flywheel
- Stage 2 clutch
- HLSD Electronic e-brake
AAM Performance cat-back exhaust
Stillen Setrab oil cooler
Nisformance Uprev tune
Redlion Nylatron Prototype Motor Mounts

EXTERIOR

Stillen front lip
Stillen side skirts
Custom fiberglass rear diffuser
Vinyl wrapped trim
Roof painted gloss black
GTR hood vents

SUSPENSION / BRAKING

BC BR Series Coilovers with 10k Swift springs
SPC rear camber arms
Stillen rear sway barMoog endlinks
370z Akebono BBK
Goodridge SS brake lines

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

Ghozt Lighting custom headlights
- Osram CBI’s Ghozt LED sequencers
- YuniqueLED LED arrays
- Quad projectors with etched lenses
- Quad halos (white) and demon eyes (red) Bluetooth controlled
Ghozt Lighting custom taillights
- Ghozt LED sequencers
- Bluetooth controlled

INTERIOR / AUDIO

Custom Nisformance shift boot/shifter console
Nismo JDM 370z flat bottom steering wheel
Custom 3 gauge pod (A/F, boost, oil pressure)
Alpine M500 amplifier
Alpine 1242D 12″ subwoofer

my4dsc: 2459

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allGens 10/09/2017

Nissan DataScan II aka The Affordable Nissan Consult

If you are DIY person and love working on your Nissan Maxima, then this tool is a MUST HAVE! When you go to the Nissan dealer, the person working on your car typically uses a tool called a Nissan Consult. The Nissan Consult that the dealer uses costs thousand of dollars and is only available to dealers. By using the Nissan DataScan software, a laptop and a generic VAG COM OBDII adapter you can achieve just about the same level of on-board diagnosis that $5,000 Nissan Consult provides. This software allows you to:

Check CEL codes
Check/Reset ABS and SRS-Airbag Faults
Check/Reset TCM Codes
Adjust timing
Perform Idle Air Relearn
Reset ECU learned settings
Data-log
Program keys
Check Emissions Readiness Monitors
Active Test temporary modify some of the engine parameters for testing purposes
And Much much more….

The software itself costs $55.00 and generic cable costs around $7.00-$8.00.

Software License Purchase Link: Nissan DataScan II

Software Download Links:

OBD2 Cable eBay Link: KKL 409 VAG COM OBD2 Cable

You can find the cables on eBay between $6.00-$8.00 shipped. Search for the following keywords on eBay and you will find it: “KKL 409.1 VAG-COM OBD2 USB Cable”

Below are all the functions it provides:

ECU Part Number

This is the main window of the NDSII software which shows the ECM Nissan Identification part number. Basic and Advance Functions can be selected by clicking on the buttons, using the shortcut keys (F1 – F11) or using the Menu bar. Most functions except Data Replay and Log Analyser are disabled until communication with the ECU is successfully established.

Progress bar at the bottom indicates communication between the ECU and PC. If the bar is not moving there is no data being received from the ECU.

Data Display Settings

This window is used to assign parameters to be displayed by the Data Display function. Only parameters that are supported by the currently connected ECU are available for selection. Gauges are counted from left to right, top to bottom. Multiple gauges can monitor the same parameter.

Data Logging ECM

Selected parameters can be logged to a file. This function can also be accessed from the Data Display window. The data log file can be analysed using the Data Replay or Log Analyser functions.

Self Diagnostics ECM

Self Diagnostics function allows users to read and reset engine ECU error codes.

Idle Adjustment

Idle Adjustment function allows users to adjust the base idle RPM. The setting is saved to the ECU and it does not reset with engine restart.

Timing Adjustment

Timing Adjustment function allows users to adjust the base ignition timing. The setting is saved to the ECU and it does not reset with engine restart.

Active Test ECM

Active Test allows users to temporary modify some of the engine parameters for testing purposes. They return to their original values when a function is stopped, PC disconnected or engine restarted.

Note: It is possible to damage the engine if the A/F Base % functions is used to excessively modify fuel delivery. Likewise the engine may overheat if the Engine Temperature is set to low for a long period of time. Do not use those functions if you are not sure how they will effect your engine.

Work Support

Work Support functions allow users to perform some of the advance service procedures. Those procedures may need to be performed after replacement parts are installed.

Clear Self Learn – clears the A/F Base SL map learned by the ECU.

Idle Air Volume Learn – is an operation to learn the fully closed position of the throttle valve.

Program Immobiliser Key – allows to register the Nissan transponder keys with the Immobiliser Note: The immobiliser security PIN CODE needs to be known. Initially all registered keys will be erased and all keys will need to be reregistered.

Cylinder Power Test

Cylinder Power Test function can be used to identify cylinder that is under performing. This function allows shutting down individual cylinders. If all of the cylinders are producing the same amount of power the engine RPMs will drop exactly the same amount on each cylinder that is cancelled.

Log Analyser is used to review log files previously generated by with Data Logging function. Graphs are drawn by selecting boxes next to parameter value. Graph colours match the parameter value colours.

Speed Test

Speed Test is a unique function for measuring car’s acceleration performance. Predefined or user specific tests can be used. Due to the low resolution of Nissan speed sensors, measurements should only be used as a guide and not a true reflection of car’s performance.

Note: This function should not be used while driving on public roads.

Address Watch

Address Watch function is used for monitor specific ECU memory addresses. By monitoring a memory address extra information can be retrieved that is not normally available using Consult II protocol. A knock sensor reading can be obtain using this method if knock sensor memory address is known.

Wideband O2 sensor

Nissan DataScan II also supports wideband Air/Fuel ratio meters from Innovate Motorsports. A second serial port is used to connect to the controller and collect data.

The data from the wideband meter can be displayed or logged in conjunction with other engine parameters using the Data Logging function.

ECU Part Number BCM

The BCM tab shows the BCM Nissan Identification part number. Basic Functions can be selected by clicking on the buttons or using the Menu bar. All functions are disabled until communication with the ECU is successfully established.

Progress bar at the bottom indicates data being send between the ECU and PC. If the bar is not moving there is no data being received from the ECU.

Note: Some vehicles may use K line for diagnostics of engine ECU (ECM) but still use DDL1 line for diagnostics of other control modules. This software does not support diagnostics over the DDL1 line. Some of those models are: X-trail, Maxima, Patrol.

Self Diagnostics BCM

Self Diagnostics function allows users to read and reset BCM error codes.

Active Test BCM

Active Test allows users to temporally activate some of the functions of the BCM. This is usually used to manually test the functionality of the systems controlled by the BCM.

Note: Functions not supported by the BCM are disabled (grayed out).

ECU Part Number TCM

The TCM tab shows the TCM Nissan Identification part number. Basic Functions can be selected by clicking on the buttons or using the Menu bar. Most functions except Data Replay and Log Analyser are disabled until communication with the ECU is successfully established.

Progress bar at the bottom indicates data being send between the ECU and PC. If the bar is not moving there is no data being received from the ECU.

Data Logging TCM

Selected parameters can be logged to a file. This function can also be accessed from the Data Display window so the data can be logged while it is displayed. The data log file can be analysed using the Data Replay or Data Analyser functions.

Self Diagnostics TCM

Self Diagnostics function allows users to read and reset TCM error codes.

ECU Part Number ABS

The ABS tab shows the ABS Nissan Identification part number. Basic Functions can be selected by clicking on the buttons or using the Menu bar. Most functions except Data Replay and Log Analyser are disabled until communication with the ECU is successfully established.

Progress bar at the bottom indicates data being send between the ECU and PC. If the bar is not moving there is no data being received from the ECU.

Data Logging ABS

Self Diagnostics ABS

Self Diagnostics function allows users to read and reset ABS error codes.

Work Support ABS

Work Support functions allow users to perform advance service procedures. Those procedures may need to be performed after replacing parts.

Steering Angle Sensor Reset – After removing/installing or replacing VDC/TCS/ABS control unit, steering angle sensor, steering components, suspension components, and tires, or after adjusting wheel alignment, make sure to adjust neutral position of steering angle sensor before running vehicle.

ECU Part Number SRS

The SRS tab shows the SRS Nissan Identification part number. Basic Functions can be selected by clicking on the buttons or using the Menu bar. All functions are disabled until communication with the ECU is successfully established.

Progress bar at the bottom indicates data being send between the ECU and PC. If the bar is not moving there is no data being received from the ECU.

Self Diagnostics SRS

Self Diagnostics function allows users to read and reset SRS error codes.

Note: Recorded faults are historical and can not be cleared.

Work Support

Work Support functions allow users to perform the advance service procedures. Those procedures may need to be performed after replacement parts are installed.

OBDII Self Diagnostics

OBDII Self Diagnostics function allows users to read and reset ECU error codes.

OBDII Monitor Status

OBDII Monitor Status shows the current status of various monitoring systems used by the car’s engine management system.

OBDII Log Analyser

OBDII Fuel System Satus

OBDII Fuel System Status can be used to check if the car’s fuel system is running in Closed Loop mode.

Fuel systems do not normally refer to injector banks. They are intended to represent completely different fuel systems that can independently enter and exit closed loop fuel. Banks of injectors on a V-engine are generally not independent and share the same closed-loop enablement criteria.

OBDII Data Logging

Selected OBDII parameters can be logged to a file. The data log file can then be analysed using the Log Analyser function.

Due to the slow nature of OBDII protocol it’s recommended to log only the required parameters.

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my7thgen 09-15 12/06/2019

NWP Engineering 7th gen Maxima VIAS Block Plate Kit Test Results (Archive)

Member Credit: Aaron92SE

Ever since the 2009 Maxima came out, I knew that an NWP Engineering VIAS Block Plate Kit could possibly be a great modification to offer to the community. And for the past year or so, I have been working on this project for the 7th gen 2009+ Maxima. I realize that a block off plate kit is currently being sold by someone else. But, I do not feel it’s necessary to abort a project simply because a different kit came out before we had a chance to finish our testing.

Here are some pictures of the NWP Engineering prototypes:

Several hours have been spent on the dyno testing these prototypes. The test vehicle is none other than Darren Surratt of VoltageDrop.net. He currently owns the world’s first and only 2009 Maxima VQ35DE engine swap in an older style Maxima. Best of all, he is using a 6spd manual transmission, which is crucial if you want to conduct accurate dyno tests. The stock 7th gen Maxima only comes with a CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission). This means that the gear ratios are always changing during the dyno pull. Since this is the case, you are unable to accurately use the dyno charts to determine HP gains and losses in various parts of the powerband. Simply put, running a CVT on a dyno can possibly provide some ballpark numbers to look at, but they will not be accurate in determining low end, midrange, and top end HP results and comparing before and after dyno runs. The only way to properly dyno test a vehicle with a CVT transmission is to lock it into a 1:1 gear ratio and currently, this has never been done on a 7th gen Maxima. So, as of right now, Darren owns the world’s only 2009 Maxima engine that has the ability to make consistent and comparable dyno runs that will show the entire powerband.

Here is a before and after dyno comparison of a stock intake manifold with stock operating VIAS actuators versus the VIAS actuators being removed and block plates installed:

As you can see, there is a huge 19 ft-lbs of torque loss in low end power and roughly only a 2HP increase on top end. But, this is only comparing two dyno runs. If you know how NWP Engineering does dyno testing, you know that we are way more accurate than this! We always like to take an average of all the dyno runs.

We did 4 dyno runs before and 3 dyno runs after the NWP Block Plates were installed. Then, we exported the runfile data to an Excel spreadsheet so that the numbers can be analyzed more thoroughly. Horsepower and torque data was taken at every 100rpm and used for this comparison. At every 100rpm increment for every dyno run, an average was calculated and then plotted on the dyno chart shown below.

Since Darren’s 09 engine was running so consistent, our average dyno comparison chart looks almost identical to the two dyno runs shown above. But, these average results are even more accurate than simply comparing two dyno runs with one another.

As you can see from this dyno chart, that by eliminating the VIAS actuators, there is a low end torque loss of 18.9 ft-lbs at 3600rpm with an average loss of 14.6 ft-lbs between 3200-3900 rpm. And there is a gain of 1.4HP at 6200rpm with an average gain of 1.3HP between 6000-6400 rpm where the 09 Maxima CVT holds the revs at during a wide open throttle run.

In order for your Maxima to accelerate at the same rate or faster from 0-60mph or in the 1/4 mile, you will need a much greater top end HP gain to compensate for the big low end power loss even with the efficiency of a CVT. So in other words, your car will accelerate slower from 0-60mph and in the 1/4 mile with the VIAS actuators removed.

I am really surprised with the efficiency of the stock 09 Maxima Upper Intake Manifold (UIM) with the stock variable induction air system (VIAS).

Unfortunately, the results are not what we had hoped for. I knew there would be a low end power loss, but I didn’t know it would be this large of a loss. And I really thought there would be a noticeable top end HP gain to make it worth it overall like the 02-08 Maxima VIAS removal does. But, what seems to work for the 02-08 VQ35DE Maxima does not necessarily work on the 2009 and newer VQ35DE Maxima.

Due to what was proven in our testing, I do not see a need to produce the VIAS Block Plate Kit for the 2009 and newer Maxima. But, I feel compelled to share this information to the Nissan community to let you know what kind of projects NWP Engineering has been working on lately.

As you can see, we thoroughly test all our products before they are released. I won’t release a product unless it has been proven to benefit your car’s performance. This is not the first time we’ve tested an NWP prototype and had to abort it due to low performance gains.

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my7thgen 09-15 06/20/2018

Castrol Transmax CVT Transmission Fluid Drain/Refill Review (Alternative to Nissan OEM)

Member Credit: Nikky / EddyMaxx

I was up for a CVT fluid drain and refill on my 2009 Nissan Maxima. The car has 200K miles on the original CVT (yeap original CVT). Upon checking the fluid, it was really dark and needed to be replaced. Typically, I use Nissan OEM CVT Fluid. The non-OEM fluid is usually not recommended given the sensitivity around the CVT transmissions. But given my car is way out of warranty and I might need a CVT replacement anyway, figured I’d give the Castrol Transmax CVT a try.

Castrol Transmax CVT has good reviews and hasn’t seen any reports of damaged transmissions. Also, most of the people who have had transmissions issues used Nissan OEM Fluid (so not so much of a fluid issue). Not to mention that it was on sale for only $5 bucks a quart and available locally.

Update 11/19/2019: After driving approx. 20K miles, the car is still driving smooth and perfect. The car has 212,806 miles on the original CVT.

Important Note: If your vehicle is still under Nissan’s warranty, and you don’t want any hassles should you have a transmission issue, don’t use this product. Not because it’s not a good product, but because it is RED just like regular transmission fluid. You’ll have a heck of a time proving that you actually used an OEM Nissan fluid.

Old CVT Fluid

Castrol CVT Fluid (As you can see it’s RED)

Product Details:

Part Number: 06811 / Castrol Transmax CVT Transmission Fluid

Price: $5.00 (on sale, typically it’s $9.00 or so)

Formulated with Smooth Drive Technology and premium full-synthetic base oil, is designed for most continuously variable transmissions. It is suitable for use in most passenger cars fitted with push belt transmissions, assuring peace of mind across a wide range of vehicles.

Product Features:

Enhanced friction durability for a smoother drive for longer transmission life
Enhanced wear protection for longer transmission life
Superior high-temperature protection to effectively resist oxidation
Superior variator torque capacity that can prevent belt or chain slippage.
Suitable for use: Nissan CVT Fluid NS-1, Nissan CVT Fluid NS-2, Nissan CVT Fluid NS-3

Screenshot from Advanced Auto

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my7thgen 09-15 12/23/2018

Nikky Nixmax’s 2009 Midnight Blue 7thgen Maxima (200K+ Miles Original CVT)

Owner: Nikky

Year: 2009
Model: Maxima
Color: Midnight Blue
Transmission: CVT
Trim: S

As of Sept 2nd, 2019!

my4dsc: 201

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my7thgen 09-15 09/02/2019

P0075 – Intake Valve Control Solenoid Circuit (Bank 1) 2009 Maxima

Member Credit: EddyMaxx

Our 2009 7thgen Nissan Maxima threw code P0075 – Intake Valve Control Solenoid Circuit (Bank 1). Bank 1 is the location closest to the Firewall. The first thing to always do is to check the connectors and harness to see if it’s broken or has any exposed wiring. Upon inspection, I discovered one of the wires to the plug was broken. This likely happened when our belt shredded one day during the winter.

The good news is that it was an easy fix. We jacked up the car, removed passenger side wheel and unclipped the connector. We brought the connector to the top of the engine where we re-wired and unified the connections. Very simple!

Below is how the harness looked.

This is where it plugs into:

Yay, CEL free again! Just in time for annual NYC car inspection.

From Nissan FSM:

Intake valve timing control solenoid valve is activated by ON/OFF pulse duty (ratio) signals from the ECM.
The intake valve timing control solenoid valve changes the oil amount and direction of flow via the intake valve timing control unit or stops the oil flow. The longer pulse width advances valve angle. The shorter pulse width retards valve angle. When ON and OFF pulse widths become equal, the solenoid valve stops oil pressure flow to fix the intake valve angle at the control position.

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allGens 06/02/2019

How to Install JWT Oil Pan Spacer on Nissan Engine (Oil Return Line, Oil Temp Sensor)

Member Credit: xlack

This is from a G37 but the procedure pretty much identical to Nissan Maximas.

OEM Oil Pan completely stripped of silicon residue:

JWT Oil Pan Spacer:

New silicon applied:

Brush used to remove silicon remains:

This bolt has to be bended in order for the oil pan spacer to fit. (guy from 370z forum had it cut off, but is not necessary):

Bolt is knocked back into position:

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my7thgen 09-15 05/25/2019

2009-2011 7thgen Nissan Maxima Electronic Steering Wheel Lock Malfunction (Car Won’t Turn Start) | Emergency Quick Fix

Member Credit: Nikky Nixmax

A few days ago, I went to start my 2009 Nissan Maxima in the evening. I came to find out that the car would not start. Initially, I thought it was the battery so I switched it with another car. Same results…. car would not just start. The dash and radio also were not coming on. The car has over 200K miles. My biggest concern was having to get the car towed!!! A bit frustrating.

I decided to do some research online and found that my symptoms were related to the infamous “Electronic Steering Column Lock (ESCL)” recall. I found some very helpful information online that allowed me to get the car started and ultimately remove the risk of this happening again. The fix was simply removing the 10A Steering Wheel lock fuse in the engine after getting the car started. All the information is posted further down below.

Nissan did offer an extended warranty on this but my car was……..way outside of this.

Your Nissan vehicle is equipped with an Electronic Steering Column Lock (ESCL) unit that locks the steering wheel when the vehicle is parked and the ignition is turned off to help prevent theft. On some vehicles, due to a manufacturing irregularity that has since been corrected, the ESCL may malfunction after the vehicle is locked and could prevent the engine from starting. This condition, should it occur, will only occur when attempting to start the vehicle, and not while driving.
Although Nissan believes the majority of owners will never experience this unique condition, to assure your continued satisfaction and confidence in your vehicle, Nissan has decided to extend the Nissan New Vehicle Limited Warranty, as it applies to the ESCL unit, from 3 years / 36,000 miles to 6 years / unlimited miles, whichever comes first.

Models Impacted:

Nissan Maxima: 2009, 2010, 2011
Nissan 370Z: 2009, 2010, 2011
Nissan Altima: 2008, 2009, 2010
Nissan Cube: 2009, 2010

Symptoms:

The car won’t start and you will see the following key light.
You dash lights and radio won’t come on.
You try to jumpstart car and no power still.

How to Fix:

Make sure the car is off. Remove the dash cover underneath the steering wheel to get to the steering column.

This is the module that you need to tap.Tap at the steering lock itself GENTLY with a small hammer or plastic mallet…while you press the start button. You need to do both continuously various times. I used a ratchet from my trunk toolset. You can use anything you mind, including a rock.

At first, you may think this is not going to work but keep trying. It took me about 25 tries of tapping the steering wheel column and hitting the start button.

Finally, the car turned on. OMGGGGGGGGGGGG!!!

Next, you need to locate the 10A Steering Lock fuse in the engine bay (photos below). You need to ensure the car is running before removing the fuse (otherwise the car will never start). Also, don’t perform the procedure above without the fuse. You need to get the car started first. Put the fuse cover back on and turn off the car. Restart the car and confirm everything this good.

Back in Action….

While you can later replace the steering lock module, I decided to just keep the fuse off. I’ve been driving for many miles and have not noticed any issues or bad symptoms. You just saved thousands of dollars. Without this information, you would have needed to get your car towed, taken to a shop and they would have likely replaced the steering wheel column module. $$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$. I was able to resolve this issue at ZERO costs and the car is functioning 100% fine.

Hope this helps someone! Please leave a comment below if this has helped you.

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my7thgen 09-15 03/07/2018

Xrross Android X7502A6-S Stereo Review on 7thgen Maxima

Member Credit: Candelario Amaya Jr

This my review on Xrross Android stereo. Installed into my 2014 Maxima without Bose or color screen. Had to use Axxess ASWC-1 for steering wheel controls and ASWC-1 programmed to Pioneer/Jensen. It is a great unit, the one installed is the higher end as of now.

I have been using it for a few days and updated it. Yes, it can be updated. I suggest a 4G dongle or talk to your carrier for a device to add WiFi to your car to get full effect of this. The unit in video also has two sets of AV RCA jacks. Also have headrest monitors connected to unit. Sorry for not showing that.

Model #: X7502A6-S
Price: $249.00

Additional Photos:

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