Few problems on my Z
 

Hello.

I have some issues on my Z and already google it to found someone's thread who had similar problem with me. But, I'm quite not sure what should I do for it.

So, after driving few miles, a VDC off light comes up and doesn't disappear until engine turn off. I guess, it might occurred because of brake pad, broken sensor or tire&its air pressure. How to figure out the reason?

Second, Sometime, when ignite the engine, it just shut down immediately. It doesn't happen usually but happened.

Third, I can hear some noise that it sounds like grind the iron when I shift the gear. (from lower to upper)

My Z is 2010 and manual transmission with 90k miles. If there is a serious problem, I will bring my Z to Nissan service center to fix it but want to make sure so I can pay the money for it. Thanks.

Check your battery and take your car to an auto shop and have them run your codes that next time the VDC light comes on. Sounds a bit like you have electrical issues, and it could be caused by many things.

As for the shifting, have you replaced your CSC?

hey, blue, i had the same issue with the traction control light coming on for no reason and wouldn't turn off until i shut off the engine. also, the parking brake light would come on when i was shifting hard at high rpm. these both stemmed from either needing new front brake pads or slightly warped front rotors (i also know this because i had vibrations in the steering wheel when braking from 50+). so, what i just got through doing is i got the front rotors turned and installed new pads. this solved the issue and no more vibrating, either. good luck

Possibly a bad wheel speed sensor. Get the DTC (diag trouble code) from the car using an OBD/CAN scanner while the light is on.

After 90k miles, you probably need to clean the MAFs and throttle bodies.

Possibly a synchronizer problem or you may need to change the gear lube.


If you plan on doing you own diagnostics and/or repairs, an OBD/CAN scanner/monitor and the FSM (see link in my sig) are invaluable resources.

You need to top of your brake fluid is all. Apparently that sensor is quite sensitive. Mine did this and was also just in between max and min, but it certainly would light up my dash until I bought brake fluid.

Thanks, SouthArk370Z.

I just take my Z to auto shop, probably Nissan service center. I have no idea how to diagnosis for these issues myself. Thanks anyway!

Thanks for all replies.

wanker, I bought it from dealer and it comes with customized muffler. Anything can be occurred with this? I have the maintenance history from dealer and going to look at it later.

CMadison and EZT, I'm planning to take my Z to auto shop, probably Nissan service center and ask. I think I have to refill the brake fluid up to max before change the brake pad but don't know which one is right for me. So, wondering how much money they going to charge on me to replace the brake pad, refill the brake fluid and solutions for another problems on my Z. Thanks.

As another member noted, that's a very sensitive sensor. Top it off to the max line and that will take care of it.

If it comes back, then there may be a leak, but odds are that will fix it.

That it was down at all suggests the pads might be worn down, so I'd have them checked.

That could be clogged air filters (inspect; if no light passes through them, replace or if reusable, clean), a vacuum leak (any stumbling at idle?) or weak battery (have it checked). Fouled plugs are a possibility too, given your mileage.

Not sure on that one...

None of that sounds especially serious, but at 90K a good once over on all the fluids, the belt, the brake pads, spark plugs, air filters, etc would be a good idea.

FYI...changing the brake pads is super easy.

Thanks Jordo!

So, sum up with all opinions from all youguys,
1. I have to replace my brake pad and rotor for each side of front (not sure for rear side) after refill my brake fluid to fix the VDC and traction light on issue.
2. I also found someone's thread to ask about this issue and one of thing makes it occur is vacuum leak like you mentioned.

So, I want your opinion about my plan. I will take my Z to Nissan service center tomorrow and explain them about this issues, let them take care and also ask the full maintenance too. One thing I worrying is that how much money are they going to charge on me for worst case. I thinking that replace the brake pads, refill brake fluid, replace some parts for vacuum or air filter (I believe my battery is still good enough.) and full maintenance. Do you have any idea?

CMadison,

As far as I know, I need a jockey and new brake pad(and another stuffs that have to be replaced with brake pad like rotor or etc...). If you can tell me what I need and how to replace it myself, I'd love to do it myself. Thanks.

Changing your brake pads and rotors is honestly not difficult with the right tools. You'll need a floor jack, jack stands, socket set/torque wrench, brake cleaner spray etc. Go to any autoparts store tell them what your are doing, and they'll set you up. Also YouTube is full of video tutorials on how to change your brakes.

The first time is a time intimidating, but it's not difficult. It's an important skill to learn and you will save hundreds of dollars working on your own brakes. Good luck.

Also as others have suggested you should get the codes pulled with an OBD scan tool. My Nissan dealership charges $99 for this. Autozone, Advance Autoparts, and O'Reily Autoparts charge $0.

Thanks for all to help my issues!

I went Nissan service center yesterday and fix the problem on VDC off and traction light on dashboard. They found leak from master cylinder, fully maintenance and charge on me about $680. Now no more problems on my car. Also, they mentioned that my brake pad is about 50% left and I will fix myself for it next time. Thanks for all and have a great Turkey day!

Second this. I topped off the reservoir after I flushed the system and no more lights for me.:tup:

Glad you got it fixed.