Understanding the On-Board Diagnostics II (OBD2) protocol in your Nissan is crucial for effective vehicle maintenance and repair. This comprehensive guide, created by the experts at techcarusa.com, will delve into the specifics of the Nissan OBD2 system, helping you understand compatibility, diagnostic trouble codes, and how to best utilize this powerful tool for your vehicle.
Understanding OBD2 Protocols and Nissan
OBD2 is a standardized system that allows you to access your vehicle’s self-diagnostic and reporting capabilities. It provides valuable insights into your car’s health by monitoring various systems and components. For Nissan owners, understanding which OBD2 protocol your vehicle uses is the first step in effective diagnostics.
Nissan vehicles, like most modern cars, are equipped with an OBD2 port, typically located under the dashboard. This port is your gateway to retrieving diagnostic information using an OBD2 scanner. However, not all OBD2 scanners and protocols are universally compatible. Nissan has employed various OBD2 protocols over the years, and knowing which one your model uses ensures you can accurately read and interpret the data.
Common OBD2 Protocols Used by Nissan
Nissan has utilized several OBD2 protocols across its model range and production years. Here’s a breakdown of the most common ones:
- ISO 9141-2: This protocol was commonly used in Nissan models produced from the mid-1990s to the early 2000s. It’s a serial communication protocol characterized by its K-line and sometimes an L-line for communication. You’ll often find this protocol in older Nissan models listed in the compatibility chart below.
- ISO 14230-4 (KWP2000): An evolution of ISO 9141, KWP2000 offers faster communication speeds and enhanced diagnostic capabilities. Nissan adopted this protocol in many models, especially around the late 1990s and early 2000s.
- J1850 VPW & J1850 PWM: These are SAE (Society of Automotive Engineers) standards primarily used by General Motors and Ford, but may be encountered in some Nissan vehicles, particularly those designed for the North American market in earlier OBD2 implementations.
- CAN (Controller Area Network – ISO 15765-4): The CAN protocol is the current industry standard and is used in most modern vehicles, including newer Nissan models. It offers high-speed communication and is more robust than earlier protocols. Nissan transitioned to CAN for a wider range of models in the mid to late 2000s and beyond.
- KWP FAST & KWP SLOW: These are variations within the KWP2000 family, indicating different data transmission speeds. “FAST” and “SLOW” refer to the initialization and data transfer rates.
Understanding these protocols helps you select the correct OBD2 scanner and software for your Nissan.
Nissan OBD2 Compatibility List: Models and Protocols
To help you determine the OBD2 protocol for your Nissan, refer to this compatibility list. Please note that this list is not exhaustive and is intended as a guide. Always verify your vehicle’s manual or conduct further research for definitive confirmation.
| Model | Engine | Year (starting from) | OBD-2 Protocol |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nissan 240SX | 1996 | ISO 14230-4, ISO 9141-2 | |
| Nissan 350z | Gasoline (171 HP) | 2003 | |
| Gasoline (277 HP) | 2004 | ISO 9141-2 | |
| 3.5, Gasoline (280HP) | 2004 | ISO 9141 | |
| 3.5 V6, Gasoline (313HP) | 2007 | ISO 9141 | |
| Nissan Almera | N16, Diesel (113 HP) | 2000 | ISO 14230-4, ISO 9141-2 |
| N16, Gasoline (114 HP) | 2000 | ISO 9141-2 | |
| 1.5i, Gasoline (90HP) | 2000 | ISO 9141 | |
| 2.2 vdi, Diesel (110HP) | 2000 | ISO 9141 | |
| N16 2.2dCi, Diesel (135 HP) | 2003 | ||
| 1.5 dCi (K9K), Diesel (82HP) | 2003 | KWP FAST | |
| 1461 cm3, Diesel (82HP) | 2003 | KWP FAST | |
| Nissan Almera tino | 1.8, Gasoline (115HP) | 2001 | ISO 9141 |
| Gasoline (135 HP) | 2002 | ISO 14230-4, ISO 9141-2 | |
| Nissan Altima | 1997 | ISO 14230-4, ISO 9141-2 | |
| 1999 | ISO 14230-4, ISO 9141-2 | ||
| 2.5, Gasoline (175HP) | 2002 | ISO 9141 | |
| Nissan Altima GXE | 1997 | ISO 14230-4, ISO 9141-2 | |
| Nissan Frontier | 1999 | ISO 14230-4, ISO 9141-2 | |
| Nissan k11 | Gasoline (60 HP) | 2001 | |
| Nissan Kubistar | 1.2 16V, Gasoline (75HP) | 2007 | KWP FAST |
| Nissan Maxima | 1996 | ISO 14230-4, ISO 9141-2 | |
| Nissan Maxima GLE | 1999 | ISO 14230-4, ISO 9141-2 | |
| Nissan Micra | Gasoline (81 HP) | 2001 | ISO 9141-2 |
| Gasoline (81 HP) | 2001 | ISO 9141-2 | |
| Gasoline (60 HP) | 2001 | ISO 9141-2 | |
| 2003 | ISO 14230-4, ISO 9141-2 | ||
| 1.2i, Gasoline (80HP) | 2003 | ISO 9141 | |
| 1.4i, Gasoline (88HP) | 2003 | ISO 9141 | |
| Gasoline (65 HP) | 2005 | ISO 9141-2 | |
| 1.5 dCi, Diesel (65HP) | 2005 | KWP FAST | |
| 1.5 dCi, Gasoline (70HP) | 2005 | CAN 11bit (500kb) | |
| 1.2i, Gasoline (65HP) | 2006 | ISO 9141 | |
| 1.5 dCi, Diesel (85HP) | 2007 | CAN 11bit (500kb) | |
| Nissan Micra K11 | Gasoline (60 HP) | 2002 | |
| Nissan Mikra K12 | Diesel (68 HP) | 2006 | |
| Nissan Murano | Gasoline (231 HP) | 2005 | ISO 9141-2 |
| Nissan Navara | 2.5 dCi, Diesel (174HP) | 2007 | KWP SLOW |
| 2.5, Diesel (190HP) | 2011 | CAN 11bit (500kb) | |
| v9x, Diesel (300HP) | 2011 | CAN 11bit (500kb) | |
| Nissan Note | DCI, Diesel (85 HP) | 2006 | |
| 1.6, Gasoline (109 HP) | 2007 | ||
| 1.4, Gasoline (88HP) | 2007 | ISO 9141 | |
| 1.5 dCi, Diesel (86HP) | 2009 | CAN 11bit (500kb) | |
| 1.6, Diesel (90HP) | 2010 | CAN 11bit (500kb) | |
| Nissan NV200 | 1.4 dCi, Diesel (75HP) | 2010 | CAN 11bit (500kb) |
| Nissan Pathfinder | 2002 | ISO 14230-4, ISO 9141-2 | |
| 2.5 dCi, Diesel (174HP) | 2005 | KWP SLOW | |
| Nissan Patrol | 3L DI, Diesel (160HP) | 2008 | CAN 11bit (500kb) |
| Nissan Primastar | 1.9 dCi, Diesel (82HP) | 2004 | KWP FAST |
| 2.0 dCi, Diesel (115HP) | 2006 | KWP FAST | |
| Nissan Primera | 1999 | ISO 14230-4, ISO 9141-2 | |
| , Gasoline (113 HP) | 2000 | ISO 14230-4, ISO 9141-2 | |
| 1.8 16v, Gasoline (115HP) | 2001 | ISO 9141 | |
| Gasoline (139 HP) | 2002 | ISO 9141-2 | |
| Nissan Primera Traveler Sport | (P11), Gasoline (113 HP) | 1999 | ISO 9141-2 |
| Nissan Qashqai | 2.0 dCi, Diesel (150HP) | 2007 | CAN 11bit (500kb) |
| 1.5 dCi, Diesel (106HP) | 2010 | CAN 11bit (500kb) | |
| 1.5 dCi, Diesel (110HP) | 2011 | CAN 11bit (500kb) | |
| 1.6, Gasoline (117HP) | 2011 | CAN 11bit (500kb) | |
| Nissan Qashqai +2 FL | Gasoline (140 HP) | 2010 | ISO 9141-2 |
| Nissan Qashqai+2 (no FL) | Gasoline (140 HP) | 2008 | ISO 9141-2 |
| Nissan Sentra | 2001 | ISO 14230-4, ISO 9141-2 | |
| Nissan Sentra SE | 2000 | ISO 14230-4, ISO 9141-2 | |
| Nissan Sentra SE-R | 2002 | ISO 14230-4, ISO 9141-2 | |
| Nissan Sentra SpecV | 2003 | ISO 14230-4, ISO 9141-2 | |
| Nissan Sunny (Almera Limousine Middle East) | Gasoline (121 HP) | 2005 | |
| Nissan Terrano | 1997 | ISO 14230-4, ISO 9141-2 | |
| Nissan X-trail | 2.2 dCi, Diesel (136HP) | 2004 | ISO 9141 |
| 2.2 dCi, Diesel (136HP) | 2004 | KWP SLOW | |
| Gasoline (163 HP) | 2005 | ISO 9141-2 | |
| 2.5, Gasoline (121HP) | 2005 | ISO 9141 | |
| (T31), Diesel (171 HP) | 2008 | ||
| 2, Diesel (173HP) | 2008 | CAN 11bit (500kb) |
Note: “TBD” protocol likely indicates ISO 9141 or ISO 14230 based on the year range. Verify with a scanner or vehicle documentation.
Decoding Nissan Specific OBD2 Trouble Codes
OBD2 systems use standardized diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs). These codes are five-digit alphanumeric codes that pinpoint specific issues within your vehicle. While the first digit and the last digit are generally standardized across all manufacturers, the middle digits, and especially manufacturer-specific codes, can provide more granular information.
Nissan, like other manufacturers, has its own set of specific OBD2 codes, particularly within the “P1xxx” range (Powertrain – Manufacturer Specific). These codes can help you diagnose issues more accurately in Nissan vehicles.
Here are some common Nissan-specific OBD2 codes:
- P1105 MAP/BARO Pressure Switch Solenoid Valve
- P1110 Intake Valve Timing Control Solenoid
- P1120 Secondary Throttle Position Sensor Circuit Fault – Read Our Article On Automotive Circuit Testing For Help With This Nissan Check Engine Light Code (Example link – replace with actual link)
- P1125 Tandem Throttle Position Sensor Circuit Fault – Read Our Article On Automotive Circuit Testing For Help With This Nissan Check Engine Light Code (Example link – replace with actual link)
- P1126 Thermostat Function
- P1130 Swirl Control Valve Control Solenoid Valve
- P1135 Intake Valve Timing Control Circuit (Bank 2) – Read Our Article On Automotive Circuit Testing For Help With This Nissan Check Engine Light Code (Example link – replace with actual link)
- P1140 Intake Valve Timing Control Position Sensor (Bank 1)
- P1145 Intake Valve Timing Control Position Sensor (Bank 2)
- P1148 Closed Loop Control (Bank 1)
- P1165 Swirl Control Valve Control Vacuum Switch
- P1168 Closed Loop Control (Bank 2)
- P1210 Traction Control System Signal Fault
- P1211 ABS/TCS Control Unit
- P1212 ABS/TCS Communication Line
- P1217 Engine Over Temperature (Overheat)
- P1220 Fuel Pump Control Signal Fault
- P1320 Ignition Signal
- P1335 Crankshaft Position Sensor (REF)
- P1336 Crankshaft Position Sensor (CKPS)
- P1400 EGRC Solenoid Valve
- P1401 EGR Temperature Sensor
- P1402 EGR System – Read Our Article on EGR Valve Codes For Help With This Nissan Check Engine Light Code (Example link – replace with actual link)
- P1440 EVAP Control System Small Leak
- P1441 Vacuum Cut Valve Bypass Valve
- P1443 EVAP Canister Control Vacuum Switch Circuit Fault – Read Our Article On Automotive Circuit Testing For Help With This Nissan Check Engine Light Code (Example link – replace with actual link)
- P1444 Canister Purge Volume Control Solenoid Valve
- P1445 EVAP Canister Purge Volume Control Valve
- P1446 EVAP Canister Vent Control Valve (Closed)
- P1447 EVAP Control System Purge Flow Monitoring
- P1448 EVAP Canister Vent Control Valve (Open) – Read Our Article On Automotive Circuit Testing For Help With This Nissan Check Engine Light Code (Example link – replace with actual link)
- P1464 Fuel Level Sensor Circuit (Ground Signal) – Read Our Article On Automotive Circuit Testing For Help With This Nissan Check Engine Light Code (Example link – replace with actual link)
- P1490 Vacuum Cut Valve Bypass Valve (Circuit) – Read Our Article On Automotive Circuit Testing For Help With This Nissan Check Engine Light Code (Example link – replace with actual link)
- P1491 Vacuum Cut Valve Bypass Valve
- P1492 EVAP Canister Purge Control/Solenoid Valve (Circuit) – Read Our Article On Automotive Circuit Testing For Help With This Nissan Check Engine Light Code (Example link – replace with actual link)
- P1493 EVAP Canister Purge Control Valve/Solenoid Valve
- P1550 TCC Solenoid Valve
- P1605 A/T Diagnostic Communication Line
- P1701 Fuel Trim
- P1705 Throttle Position Sensor Circuit A/T – Read Our Article On Automotive Circuit Testing For Help With This Nissan Check Engine Light Code (Example link – replace with actual link)
- P1706 Park/Neutral Position (PNP) Switch
- P1760 Overrun Clutch Solenoid Valve (Circuit) – Read Our Article On Automotive Circuit Testing For Help With This Nissan Check Engine Light Code (Example link – replace with actual link)
It’s important to note that this is not an exhaustive list, and specific DTC definitions can vary slightly depending on the Nissan model and year. Always consult a reliable repair manual or database for the most accurate information.
OBD2 Connector Pinout: Understanding the Physical Interface
The OBD2 connector is a standardized 16-pin interface. While the physical connector is standard, the pins used for communication vary depending on the protocol. Here’s a general OBD2 pinout, highlighting pins relevant to Nissan protocols:
| Pin | Signal | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | CHECK | Manufacturer Discretionary |
| 2 | J1850 Bus+ | SAE J1850 VPW and PWM bus (+) |
| 4 | CGND | Chassis Ground |
| 5 | SGND | Signal Ground |
| 6 | CAN High | CAN bus High (J-2284) |
| 7 | K-LINE | ISO 9141-2 and ISO/DIS 14230-4 (K-line) |
| 8 | Ignition ON | Manufacturer Discretionary |
| 9 | ABS | Manufacturer Discretionary (often ABS) |
| 10 | J1850 Bus- | SAE J1850 VPW and PWM bus (-) |
| 11 | Adjust Switch | Manufacturer Discretionary |
| 12 | SCI TX | Manufacturer Discretionary (SAE J2610 Serial TX) |
| 13 | SCI RX | Manufacturer Discretionary (SAE J2610 Serial RX) |
| 14 | CAN Low | CAN bus Low (J-2284) |
| 15 | ISO 9141-2 L-LINE | ISO 9141-2 and ISO/DIS 14230-4 (L-line) |
| 16 | +12v | Battery Power |
- Pin 2 & 10 (J1850 Bus+ and Bus-): Used for J1850 protocols.
- Pin 6 & 14 (CAN High and CAN Low): Used for CAN (ISO 15765-4) protocol.
- Pin 7 (K-Line) & 15 (L-Line): Used for ISO 9141-2 and ISO 14230-4 protocols.
- Pin 4 & 5 (Grounds): Provide ground references.
- Pin 16 (+12V): Provides power to the OBD2 scanner.
Understanding the pinout can be helpful if you are building your own diagnostic cables or need to troubleshoot connection issues.
Choosing the Right OBD2 Scanner for Your Nissan
Selecting the appropriate OBD2 scanner is essential for effective diagnostics. Here’s what to consider:
- Protocol Compatibility: Ensure the scanner supports the OBD2 protocols used by your Nissan model (refer to the compatibility list). Many modern scanners are multi-protocol and can automatically detect the protocol.
- Functionality: Basic scanners read and clear DTCs. Advanced scanners offer live data streaming, component testing, and bidirectional control, providing more in-depth diagnostics.
- Nissan Specific Features: Some scanners offer enhanced Nissan-specific diagnostics, including access to manufacturer-specific codes and systems beyond basic OBD2.
- Ease of Use: Choose a scanner with a user-friendly interface and clear display.
For basic check engine light issues and code reading, a basic OBD2 scanner might suffice. However, for more complex diagnostics, especially with newer Nissan models, a more advanced scanner with multi-protocol support and Nissan-specific capabilities is recommended.
Conclusion
Understanding your Nissan’s OBD2 protocol is a vital step in maintaining your vehicle and addressing potential issues. By using this guide, you can identify the correct protocol, interpret diagnostic trouble codes, and choose the right tools for effective vehicle diagnostics. Remember to always consult your vehicle’s service manual and seek professional help when needed. Utilizing the OBD2 system effectively empowers you to keep your Nissan running smoothly and efficiently for years to come.
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional automotive diagnostic services. Always consult a qualified technician for vehicle repairs and diagnostics.
References:
- OBD-2 ISO 9141-2 (14230-4, KWP2000) simple serial cable
- OBD-2 J1850 PWM, J1850 VPW serial ELM327 cable
- OBD-2 universal ISO 15765-4 CAN, SAE J1850 PWM, SAE J1850 VPW, ISO 9141-2, ISO 14230-4 and SAE J1939 diagnostic cable
- OBD2 Connector Pinout
