Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
2003 Nissan-Datsun Sentra SE-R, AutomaticFACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE
Altima, Murano & 350Z
Electrical load signal (headlights or rear window defogger on) is transferred through CAN communication line from Body Control Module (BCM) to ECM via Intelligent Power Distribution Module (IPDM).
- Turn ignition on. Using CONSULT-II in DATA MONITOR mode, observe LOAD SIGNAL parameter under following conditions. See CHECKING REAR WINDOW DEFOGGER LOAD SIGNAL (ALTIMA, MURANO & 350Z) table. If LOAD SIGNAL parameter displays as specified, go to next step. If parameter is not as specified, go to step 3.CHECKING REAR WINDOW DEFOGGER LOAD SIGNAL (ALTIMA, MURANO & 350Z)
Condition Load Signal Rear Window Defogger Switch ON ON Rear Window Defogger Switch OFF OFF - Turn ignition on. Using CONSULT-II in DATA MONITOR mode, observe LOAD SIGNAL parameter under following conditions. See CHECKING LIGHTING SWITCH LOAD SIGNAL (ALTIMA, MURANO & 350Z) table. If LOAD SIGNAL parameter displays as specified, go to next step. If parameter is not as specified, go to step 4.CHECKING LIGHTING SWITCH LOAD SIGNAL (ALTIMA, MURANO & 350Z)
Condition Load Signal Lighting Switch ON At Second Position ON Lighting Switch OFF OFF - Check operation of rear window defogger. See appropriate REAR WINDOW DEFOGGERS article in ACCESSORIES & EQUIPMENT.
- Check operation of headlamp system.
Factory Service Tools
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.