Nissan

Nissan OBD Codes
decoded & explained

The codes Nissan owners actually see — MAF, PCM memory, speed sensors and catalysts — with clear causes and fixes.

Nissan P-codes Causes & fixes Free decoder
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Part 1 · The basics

Nissan check engine light codes

Nissan uses standard OBD-II engine codes, readable with any scanner. Deeper module work uses Consult/Consult3+, but the vast majority of engine faults are fully readable generically.

Here are the codes most reported on Qashqai, Sentra, Altima, Rogue, Leaf and Navara models.

Part 2 · Decode

OBD-II code decoder

System
Type
Subsystem
Fault #
Part 3 · The dictionary

Most common Nissan

Classic Nissan faults behind these codes.

Code Description
P0101 Mass Air Flow (MAF) Sensor Range/Performance
P0171 System Too Lean (Bank 1)
P0300 Random/Multiple Cylinder Misfire
P0420 Catalyst System Efficiency Below Threshold (Bank 1)
P0442 EVAP System Small Leak Detected
P0455 EVAP System Large Leak
P0500 Vehicle Speed Sensor Circuit Malfunction
P0605 PCM Internal Read Only Memory Error
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Part 4 · Common faults

Common Nissan faults

Classic Nissan faults behind these codes.

1

MAF range (P0101) — dirty or failing MAF sensor, common across Nissan models.

2

PCM memory (P0605) — battery/electrical related, sometimes needs PCM update.

3

Speed sensor (P0500) — faulty VSS or ABS sensor, common on older models.

4

EVAP leaks (P0442/P0455) — fuel cap or hoses.

5

Misfires (P0300) and lean mixture (P0171) — coils, plugs or vacuum leaks.

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Part 4 · Common faults

Nissan FAQ

What causes P0101 on a Nissan?
The MAF sensor is out of range — usually a dirty or failing sensor, an intake leak, or a clogged air filter. Cleaning or replacing the MAF is the common fix.
Is P0605 serious?
It is a PCM internal memory fault — often electrical (battery voltage). Check the battery first; a reflash or PCM replacement may be needed if it returns.
Why does my Nissan show P0500?
The vehicle speed sensor signal is missing. On many Nissans this is the transmission speed sensor or an ABS sensor; inspect wiring first.
Are Nissan and Infiniti codes the same?
Yes — Infiniti shares Nissan engines and diagnostics.
Can I read Nissan codes with a phone?
Yes, with an ELM327 adapter and an app. It reads engine codes and live data, enough for most diagnostics.

Codes vary slightly by model, year and engine. Always confirm with a proper diagnosis. Manufacturer-specific codes (P1xxx/P2xxx) may differ from generic descriptions.

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