How to Troubleshoot the Ignition System in a Nissan Pathfinder

If your Nissan Pathfinder's ignition system has any problems, take into account first how old the truck is. An expert should handle troubleshooting on newer trucks with a distributorless system. If you have an older model, you can test the distributor, crank angle sensor and ignition coils yourself.

Instructions

Crank Angle Sensor

1. Test the circuit to the crank angle sensor. Unplug the sensor connector and connect a voltmeter between one of the terminals and a ground.

2. Switch the Pathfinder's ignition to "On" and look for a measurement of 12 volts.

3. Turn off the ignition and reconnect the plug to the sensor. Remove the distributor assembly and peel back its insulation enough to connect the voltmeter to the wires. Ground the coil's high tension wire.

4. Turn the ignition back to "On" and rotate the distributor slowly. One return signal wire should show 5 volts off and on for every degree you turn. The other wire should have 5 volts off and on at 180 or 120 degrees.

5. Inspect the rotor plate for any rust or damage.

Ignition Coil Test

1. Disconnect all the wires from the coil terminals before testing the coil.

2. Connect an ohmmeter to the coil's positive and the negative terminals. The primary resistance measured should be 0.80 to 1.00 ohms.

3. Use the ohmmeter to check the secondary resistance between the positive terminal and the coil wire terminal. The secondary resistance must be 7,600 to 11,400 ohms.

4. Replace the ignition coil if any resistance specifications aren't met.

Tips & Warnings

• If the Pathfinder has a Z24i engine, it has two ignition coils. You must test both of them.