2003 Nissan-Datsun Sentra SE-R, AutomaticFACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE

Ignition Coil With Power Transistor

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2006 Nissan Pathfinder. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
CAUTION: Do the following procedure in the place where ventilation is good without the combustible.
  1. Turn ignition switch OFF.
  2. Disconnect ignition coil harness connector.
  3. Check resistance between ignition coil terminals as follows.
    IGNITION COIL RESISTANCE

    Terminal No. (Polarity) Resistance Ξ© [at 25Β°C (77Β°F)]
    1 and 2 Except 0 or INFINITY
    1 and 3 Except 0
    2 and 3
    Fig 1: Checking Resistance Between Ignition Coil Terminals
    G04173827Courtesy of NISSAN MOTOR CO., U.S.A.
  4. If NG, Replace ignition coil with power transistor.

    If OK, go to next step.

  5. Turn ignition switch OFF.
  6. Reconnect all harness connectors disconnected.
  7. Remove fuel pump fuse in IPDM E/R to release fuel pressure.
    NOTE: Do not use CONSULT-II to release fuel pressure, or fuel pressure applies again during the following procedure.
  8. Start engine.
  9. After engine stalls, crank it two or three times to release all fuel pressure.
    Fig 2: Removing Fuel Pump Fuse In IPDM E/R
    G04173828Courtesy of NISSAN MOTOR CO., U.S.A.
  10. Turn ignition switch OFF.
  11. Remove ignition coil harness connectors to avoid the electrical discharge from the ignition coils.
  12. Remove ignition coil and spark plug of the cylinder to be checked.
  13. Crank engine for five seconds or more to remove combustion gas in the cylinder.
  14. Connect spark plug and harness connector to ignition coil.
  15. Fix ignition coil using a rope etc. with gap of 13 - 17 mm between the edge of the spark plug and grounded metal portion as shown in the figure.
  16. Crank engine for about three seconds, and check whether spark is generated between the spark plug and the grounded part.

    Spark should be generated.Β 

    Fig 3: Checking For Spark Between Spark Plug And Grounded Metal On Engine
    G04074892Courtesy of NISSAN MOTOR CO., U.S.A.
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When to See a Mechanic

Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:

  • β€’ You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
  • β€’ Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
  • β€’ The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
  • β€’ You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
  • β€’ You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.