Join the community and post your question. Use our Ask-A-Tech for free now! ASE experts standing by.

Forum > Failed Smog Test > Question

How do I complete a Nissan Xterra drive cycle to set the emission monitors?

I have a 2003 Nissan Xterra that did not pass smog. The print out stated that the check engine light was on and that is why it failed. However, the check engine light is not on-nor any other indicator lights. The smog guy said it was because I put in a new battery and the computer wasn't "synched" yet. He also mentioned something about emission "monitors". Is this true? How do I solve this problem. The car passed all the other sections on the smog test.
Answer:

Your smog technician is correct. While replacing your Nissan's battery the emission computer "lost" it's "readiness" data. Follow the OBD II Drive Cycle below in order to set your Nissan's emission monitors. This OBDII drive cycle begins with a cold start (coolant temperature below 122 degrees F). We recommend achieving this by allowing the vehicle to cool down overnight, and beginning the drive cycle process the following day. Take extra caution while performing dirve cycles on public roadways. Drive cycles can be difficult to follow under normal driving conditions. Begin by: - Start the engine. Idle the engine in drive for two and a half minutes with the A/C and rear defroster on. - Turn the A/C and rear defrost off, and accelerate to 55 mph at half throttle. - Hold at a steady speed of 55 mph for three minutes. - Decelerate (coast down) to 20 mph without braking or depressing the clutch. - Accelerate back to 55 to 60 mph at ¾ throttle. - Hold at a steady speed of 55 to 60 mph for five minutes. - Decelerate (coast down) to a stop without braking. If all other emissions systems are functioning properly, completing the drive cycle above will set the "readiness flags" required to pass the smog check. It will not hurt to perform the drive cycle 2 or 3 times before the smog test. posted by SmogTips Support

Related Nissan XTerra questions and answers you might find useful:

Will My Nissan Xterra Pass Smog with Damaged ABS System? by Danna

How Much To Smog Check My Nissan Xterra? by Abigail

2000 Nissan Xterra EVAP Monitor Not Ready by john

Emission Monitors Not Ready on 2004 Nissan Xterra by Santiago

How to Complete Nissan Xterra Drive Cycle by Carlos

View SmogTips.com in: Desktop / Mobile