2004 Nissan XTerra Logo
pedro navarro Posted on Jun 15, 2013
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How to replace distributor? Should I attempt this myself?

I get engine code P0340. Cranks but will not start, no spark to spark plugs. All likely issues seem to point at various components in the distributor and it seems as though replacing the entire distributor is the likely solution. I am no mechanic and capable of doing the basics. It appears everything is easily accessible, but should I be attempting this on my own? How difficult is it to replace a distributor and what steps and precautions should I be taking before I attempt this?

1 Answer

Arnie Burke

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  • Nissan Master 7,339 Answers
  • Posted on Jun 15, 2013
Arnie Burke
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Careful with seems--u hav to pinpoint issue plus todays cars are complex--may just need a distributer cap-they wear--take it off and see if any corrosion inside--believe thers latches or screws on the side--a wire brush cud clean it--ignition modules are in there too-they go bad--replacin hole distr is a mechs job

  • 2 more comments 
  • pedro navarro Jun 15, 2013

    The rotor does not spin inside the cap. Everything still looks good and clean under the cap.

  • Arnie Burke
    Arnie Burke Jun 16, 2013

    u need to crank car for it to spin-if not that a major issue----chec all cables and wiring in ignition system--they degrade and gain resistence-especially coil

  • pedro navarro Jun 18, 2013

    rotor does not spin when cranking.

  • Arnie Burke
    Arnie Burke Jun 18, 2013

    the distributer needs to be inspected by an independent mech not a dealer--getta repair manual for that model or go to library sec629 for tech books-may try troublshootn urdelf

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5 Related Answers

Anonymous

  • 96 Answers
  • Posted on Aug 23, 2008

SOURCE: SPARK PLUG REPLACEMENT FOR 97 MAXIMA

Well, it is usually cheaper then having a shop do it for you. But it will require you to have some tools. In this case probable a 10mm and 5/8 spark plug socket and 6 inch extension and ratchet.

Other than that, you should be good to go.

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Anonymous

  • 65 Answers
  • Posted on Mar 03, 2009

SOURCE: Own a 2000 Nissan Maxima 5 speed manual

Hi!!!! Im prety sure is the catalitik converter

Anonymous

  • 677 Answers
  • Posted on Feb 06, 2010

SOURCE: engine code p0340. replaced distributor

The engine code you have given is a p0340, which is a cam sensor.
Why did you replace the distributor ?
Please let me know.

Randy Ohler

  • 14585 Answers
  • Posted on Jun 14, 2010

SOURCE: Car died quickly while on the freeway. Car will not start.

Two things, 1 igntion module died or is diing, 2 crank sensor has died

Anonymous

  • 14 Answers
  • Posted on Jun 12, 2013

SOURCE: Car died. Cranks, but wont start. Codes P0328, P0340

Yes, if the camshaft position sensor has failed, your vehicle won't start.

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The P0340 code indicates a problem with the camshaft position sensor circuit. However, given the additional symptoms you've described, it's possible that there may be multiple issues contributing to the no-start condition. Here are a few things you may want to check:
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