1995 Nissan Altima Engine Is Stalling

Troubleshooting Common Causes of Engine Stalling in Your 1995 Nissan Altima and How to Resolve Them

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Reviewed by
Devin Cabugcal
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
30% chance it's the
Fuel System
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15% chance it's the
Air Intake System
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55% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a 1995 Nissan Altima engine is stalling are the fuel system, the air intake system, or the ignition system.
  • Fuel System: A clogged fuel filter or failing fuel pump can restrict fuel flow, resulting in poor engine performance and starting issues.
  • Air Intake System: A dirty or damaged air filter or a malfunctioning mass airflow sensor can restrict airflow, leading to reduced engine performance and efficiency.
Proper diagnosis will determine the exact cause of your symptom, saving you money on unnecessary repairs. The diagnostic experts at RepairPal Certified shops have the right tools and experience to solve any symptom.

How much does it cost to fix a 1995 Nissan Altima engine is stalling?

Common Repairs

The total repair cost will vary based on the condition of your vehicle and the number of repairs needed to fix your symptom. Proper diagnosis will save you money by finding the exact repairs needed to fix your car right the first time.

If the MAF sensor sends an erroneous signal, a few things happen. The engine's computer will trigger the check engine light, and the on-board diagnostic (OBD) trouble codes will reflect the airflow discrepancy noted by the MAF sensor. Depending on the reported volume of air, the engine may try to compensate for these conditions, causing the engine to burn excessive amounts of fuel and emit black smoke from the exhaust. In this case, the OBD trouble codes would also reference faults recognized by the exhaust oxygen sensors. The engine may also have issues with idling roughly, failing to start, stalling, hesitation, power loss, misfires, and fuel consumption.

»MORE: Signs of a failing mass airflow sensor

A faulty oxygen sensor is one of the most common causes of a check engine light. Symptoms may include a decrease in fuel mileage, hesitation or misfiring from the engine, rough idling or even stalling. A faulty sensor may cause the vehicle to fail an emissions test.

Any time there is an emissions fault the check engine light will be displayed. The purpose of the check engine light is to inform the driver that an emission related fault has been found, and that there are on-board diagnostic (OBD) trouble codes stored in the powertrain or engine control module. Additionally, since the emissions systems are so intertwined into engine control and transmission control systems, symptoms may include nearly any sort of drivability concerns. This may include harsh shifting, failure to shift, hesitation on acceleration, jerking, engine failure to start or run, loss of power, or any number of other drivability issues.

When the Check Engine Light comes on, you may experience engine performance issues such as poor acceleration, rough idling, or an engine that won't start. In some cases, no abnormal symptoms will be experienced. Other systems like the transmission or ABS can cause the Check Engine Light to illuminate and lights for those systems can come on at the same time. Similar lights may say "Check Engine Soon", "Malfunction Indicator Light" or just "Check". In rare case the engine can overheat.

What are the initial diagnostic steps to take for a stalling engine in a 1995 Nissan Altima?

When faced with a stalling engine in a 1995 Nissan Altima, it's essential to adopt a systematic diagnostic approach that prioritizes simpler solutions before delving into more complex issues. Start by checking the Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensor, as cleaning it can often resolve stalling problems caused by dirt or debris affecting its performance. Next, inspect the fuel injectors for any signs of leakage, which can lead to difficulties during hot restarts. It's also crucial to verify the fuel pressure; a malfunctioning fuel pressure regulator can disrupt the engine's fuel supply, resulting in stalling. Additionally, examine the idle speed control valve, as replacing it may be necessary if it's not functioning correctly. Lastly, consider the Engine Control Module (ECM); while this is a more complex issue, replacing the ECM might be required if all other diagnostics fail. By following these steps, you can effectively identify and address the root cause of the stalling issue, ensuring your Nissan Altima runs smoothly again.

What are the common problems that could cause a 1995 Nissan Altima engine to stall?

When diagnosing engine stalling in a 1995 Nissan Altima, it's essential to consider several common issues that could be affecting performance. Start by examining the fuel system, as problems like a clogged fuel filter or a failing fuel pump can disrupt fuel delivery, leading to stalling. Next, inspect the air intake system; a dirty throttle body or a malfunctioning idle air control valve can cause the engine to stall during idle or low-speed maneuvers. Additionally, the ignition system should be checked, particularly the camshaft and crankshaft position sensors, which are known to cause intermittent stalling. Don't overlook the Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensor, as cleaning it can often resolve stalling issues. Furthermore, a faulty crankshaft position sensor may lead to stalling when the engine is warm, while a sticking Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) valve can create symptoms similar to a vacuum leak, resulting in rough idling. By systematically inspecting these components, DIYers can effectively identify and address the root causes of engine stalling in their Nissan Altima.

How urgent is it to address the engine stalling issue in a 1995 Nissan Altima?

Addressing the engine stalling issue in a 1995 Nissan Altima is of utmost urgency due to the serious safety risks it poses. When an engine stalls unexpectedly, it can lead to a sudden loss of power, which is particularly dangerous in high-traffic situations or at high speeds. This unpredictability not only compromises the safety of the driver and passengers but also endangers other road users. Moreover, stalling can be indicative of deeper mechanical problems, such as fuel system malfunctions or ignition failures, which can escalate if left unattended. By taking immediate action, DIY enthusiasts can not only prevent the situation from worsening but also save on potentially costly repairs in the future. Regular maintenance and timely interventions are key to ensuring the vehicle remains reliable and safe on the road, making it essential to prioritize the resolution of any stalling issues as soon as they arise.

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