In todays Super Street cars, we rely heavily on ECU management to control the fuel and ignition systems, as well as other important workings of our engines and sensors. This is both good and bad. Once in a while, electrical gremlins wreak havoc on our ECUs, and as a result, error codes appear. In most cases, when a problem is detected, the vehicles ECU will run in a safety mode until the code is cleared. Engineers determined a safe set of values for the ECU to use when running in this situation. This will significantly affect performance. Have no fear, children, there is a quick fix that allows you to check the codes and clear them from the ECUs memory. Keep in mind that if the problem was not fixed, the error code will return and you will need to repeat the process when the problem is corrected. After reading a code, you can decipher its meaning on a Web site dedicated to your car, or you can consult one of the repair manuals. Follow along as we show you how to do this on a late-model Nissan.
 1. Locate the ECU. Most late-model...  1. Locate the ECU. Most late-model Nissan ECUs are located in the center console just to the right of the gas pedal. Remove the two 10mm nuts to gain access to the ECU. |
 2. Turn the Ignition to the...  2. Turn the Ignition to the On position without starting the vehicle. |
 3. Locate the dial used to...  3. Locate the dial used to read and clear the codes. |
 4. Using a flathead screwdriver...  4. Using a flathead screwdriver of proper size, rotate the dial clockwise until it stops. Wait one second and rotate completely counter-clockwise. If done correctly, error codes should flash on the dash. Use the combination of long and short flashes to determine the code. To reset the ECU, rotate the dial counter-clockwise until it stops. Wait one second and rotate it back to the original position. Remove keys, replace ECU in correct location, and enjoy the ride. |