Reliability and performance are the trademarks of the Nissan Maxima from 2004–2008. It can, however, develop issues as it ages, just like any other vehicle. These Maxima models are susceptible to transmission problems and check engine light illumination due to malfunctioning input and output speed sensors.
Nissan Maxima models made between 2004 and 2008 might need the transmission sensors replaced if they are experiencing erratic shifting.
The objective of this blog is to teach you how to replace the input-output speed sensors on the 04-08 maxima, and to explain what they are and what they do.
How Do Speed Sensors Work?
Defining what speed sensors are and what they do will help us better understand the process of replacing them in your Nissan Maxima. Sensors are crucial to the smooth operation of your Maxima’s transmission. Sensors that measure input and output speeds are essential components.
As well as measuring output shaft speed, input shaft speed is also measured by output sensors. In your ride, the gear ratios and shifting points are determined by our transmission control module (TCM).
Neither sensor can operate properly, which can lead to incorrect shifting, poor gear changes, and even vehicle failure. If you own a Nissan Murano SUV, a Honda Maxima, or a Range Rover SUV, then you need to be concerned about malfunctioning input and output speed sensors.
The location of the speed sensor in the Nissan Maxima
We are going to discuss your Maxima a little bit more in depth now that you understand what input and output speed sensors do. The sensor placement in your mid-size Japanese car is slightly different from that of the input and output sensors.
“Why should I know where car parts are placed? ” Especially if you are a DIYer, if you do not know where a car part is located, you will have trouble replacing it.
Location of input sensor
Maxima 2004-2008 vehicles have it located on the transmission near the front of the vehicle. A transmission input shaft, when connected to an engine, drives the internal gears of the transmission.
Location of the output sensor
A similar sensor can be found on Nissan Maxima models 2004-2008; however, it is located at the very rear of the transmission, near the output shaft.
A vehicle’s speed is determined by the output shaft rotational speed, which is monitored by the output sensor.
Locating the speed sensors
Here are the steps you can follow on how to locate your car’s speed sensors:
- Assemble the vehicle: Using a jack and jack stands, raise the front of your car.
- The Transmission: Under the car, the transmission usually sits closer to the front of the vehicle, mounted to the engine.
- How to locate the input speed sensor: Input sensors are located on the transmission housing’s front side. Transmission input sensors are usually located near the bell housing, which connects the transmission to the engine, near the transmission case.
- How to find the output speed sensor: The output sensor is located at the rear of the transmission housing, near where the driveshaft leaves it. Electrical connectors attach cylinders to sensors.
Also Read: Chevrolet Uplander Van Transmission Is Slipping
Speed sensor failure signs
A car’s speed sensors are most likely to let you know if they need replacing like any other mechanical part. A busted car is the outcome of most people not understanding their car’s obvious signs.
Watch out for signs that your car might be showing to make sure that it doesn’t happen to you. You should be on the lookout for the following symptoms:
- Shifts that are erratic: It may seem that the transmission shifts at the wrong time or skips gears. A problem with the speed sensor can also lead to abrupt and harsh gear changes.
- A slipping transmission: Shifting gears smoothly or hesitantly may be difficult on some cars. In addition, your vehicle may appear to be shifting out of gear.
- Check engine light: Check engine light can be triggered by a malfunctioning speed sensor. You can determine whether it is the sensors or something else by going through the error code for the illumination.
- Issues with speedometers: These faulty speed sensors may be the cause of inaccurate speedometer readings, erratic behavior, or a complete breakdown of your vehicle.
Replacement Tools and Parts
Symptoms or signs like these indicate that you need to replace your speed sensors in your Maxima if you encounter any of them. You will need the proper tools and parts before you begin the replacement.
In order to replace your Maxima’s input output speed sensor, you will need the following tools and parts.
- We recommend OEM speed sensors for inputs and outputs
- Set of ratchets and sockets
- An adjustable torque wrench
- Jack
- Stands for Jacks
- Drill with a flathead
- Hand pliers
- Glasses and gloves for safety
A mechanic should be able to do this job if you do not have these tools or parts.
A Step-by-Step Guide To The Replacement Of The Input-Output Speed Sensors On The 04-08 Maxima
It’s time to move forward and learn step by step how to replace the speed sensors in your Maxima now that you know what speed sensors are, where they’re located, and what tools you may need.
Our instructions should help you achieve your goal if you follow them in the right order. We recommend you take your ride to a professional car workshop if at any point you feel it is becoming too difficult to handle on your own.
- First and foremost, safety: Preparation is the first step. Protect yourself from potential hazards by wearing safety gloves and glasses.
- The car must be lifted: You should place your car on a level surface after putting on your safety gear and setting your parking brake. Jack stands can be used to secure your ride’s front end.
- Sensor Location: The input and output speed sensors for the transmission should be located as the car stands safely high. The input and output speed sensors are located at the front and back of the transmission, respectively.
- Make sure the battery is disconnected: Remove the negative terminal of your car battery once the sensors have been located to avoid any electrical problems.
- The sensor wiring should be removed: The connector clips on the speed sensors need to be removed with a flathead screwdriver. Take care while performing this step to avoid damaging the delicate connectors.
- Sensors should be unbolted: Removing the bolts securing the sensors to the transmission will be easier with an appropriate socket. The sensors can be gently removed after you remove the bolts.
- The new sensors should be installed as follows: It is necessary to bolt the new input and output speed sensors in place to prevent movement after they are installed. As recommended by the manufacturer, Nissan recommends tightening them.
- Wires must be reconnected: Reattach the wiring connectors to the new sensors after they have been installed. To prevent issues, ensure the connection is well secured.
- Battery should be reconnected: It’s now time to reconnect the negative terminal of the battery once the sensors have been installed and the wiring is properly connected.
- Taking a test drive: After lowering the vehicle from the jack stands, let it run for a couple of minutes. A check engine light should appear when the transmission’s shifting pattern is closely observed. Good for you if that’s the case. It does, so check it again. The problem can still be resolved by contacting a professional.
Also Read: Is GM Turbocharged 2.5-Liter Four-Cylinder Engine Any Good?
Relative Costs for Replacing Speed Sensors
A 2004-2008 Nissan Maxima speed sensor replacement typically costs between $400 and $800. You may find that your actual cost varies depending on a variety of factors, including:
- Rates of labor: The location of your car repair job and the experience of the mechanic are two factors you should consider when estimating mechanic labor costs. The cost of living in a city with a high cost of living will make a mechanic with years of experience more expensive than a new mechanic who is just starting out, or a mechanic in a small city.
- Cost of parts: Sensors do not have a fixed price. You may need to replace other parts in your ride if the supplier changes or if any other parts are damaged.
- Types of transmissions: Replacement costs are also affected by the type of transmission. The labor or parts required for some transmission types may be more complex.
- Repairs that need to be done: Other transmission components that are worn or damaged may also need to be repaired when replacing a sensor. The cost of replacement will also increase as a result.
Maintenance as a preventative measure
Neither your Maxima nor any other vehicle out there can be guaranteed to be free from speed sensor failure. The speed sensors in your ride can be extended by doing a few things.
Among them are:
- Regular oil changes should be adhered to
- Drive in a safe and comfortable manner
- In accordance with the vehicle’s capabilities, towing
- Identifying and resolving issues in a timely manner
Maintaining the transmission health of your Maxima and avoiding costly repairs are easy by following these measures.
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What are the symptoms of a bad transmission speed sensor on a Nissan Maxima?
Common symptoms include:
Engine banging when placed in Drive or Reverse
Check Engine Light illuminated
Harsh shifting
Cruise control not functioning
Fault codes related to speed sensors, such as P0720, P0500, P0703, P0705, P0706, P0711, P0712, P0713, P0715, P0717, P0730, P0740, P0743, P0779, P0776, P0746
How do I locate the transmission speed sensors on a Nissan Maxima?
The input speed sensor is located on the side of the transmission housing. The output speed sensor is also located on the transmission housing, but the exact location varies by model year.
How much does it cost to replace the speed sensors?
The cost to replace the input and output speed sensors on a 2004-2008 Nissan Maxima typically ranges from $400 to $800, including parts and labor.
Can I replace just one speed sensor or do I need to replace both?
It’s recommended to replace both the input and output speed sensors together, as they often fail around the same time. However, you can replace just one sensor if only one is faulty.
How do I diagnose which speed sensor is causing issues?
Use an OBD2 scanner to read fault codes related to the speed sensors. Codes like P0720 indicate a problem with the output speed sensor, while P0500 points to an issue with the vehicle speed sensor. Clearing the codes and test driving will help determine which sensor needs replacement.
Conclusion
A basic set of tools and some mechanical knowledge will be all you need to replace the input and output speed sensors on your 2004-2008 Nissan Maxima.
Your midsize car’s speed sensor issues should be resolved with this guide. You may not do so if you experience transmission issues or are unable to replace the sensors. Any sensor problems should be discussed with a professional.
