Engine - Cold Start Rattling Noise

Classification:
EC03-016

Reference
NTB03-060

Date:
June 18, 2003

2002 MAXIMA AND ALTIMA WITH VQ35 ENGINE; RATTLE NOISE WHEN STARTED COLD.

APPLIED VEHICLE(S):
2002 Altima (L31) with VQ35DE engine.
2002 Maxima (A33)

APPLIED VIN(S):
2002 Altima built before 1N4BL11D(*)3C 210299
2002 Maxima built before JN1DA31A(*)3T 438232 or
JN1DA31A(*)3T 524380

APPLIED DATE(S):
2002 Altima built before January 17, 2003
2002 Maxima built before November 20, 2002

APPLIED ENGINE:
VQ35DE

IF YOU CONFIRM:

The engine in an applied vehicle makes a rattle noise for about 1 second when started cold,

DETERMINE IF:

The noise is coming from the left or right side VTC (Valve Timing Control) sprocket.

ACTION:

Replace the VTC sprocket that is making noise.





PARTS INFORMATION





CLAIMS INFORMATION

IMPORTANT:
The purpose of 'ACTION' is to give you a quick idea of the work you will be performing. You MUST closely follow the entire Service Procedure as it contains information that is essential to successfully completing this repair.

SERVICE PROCEDURE





1. Determine if the noise is coming from a VTC sprocket, and which one (left bank or right bank).

a. Do not start or run the engine for at least 4 hours (cold-soak).

^ Overnight "cold-soak" is preferred.

b. Have one person start the engine while a second person is near the front of the engine to listen for the noise.

^ Listen around the VTC sprocket areas.

NOTE:
The incident noise will last for only about 1 second.

2. Replace the VTC sprocket that is making noise.

^ Refer to the appropriate Service Manual (ESM), section EM, for VTC sprocket replacement procedures.

^ A very small amount of noise from the new VTC sprocket during a cold start is considered normal and acceptable.