2013 Nissan Quest Has A Check Engine Light

Troubleshooting the Check Engine Light in Your 2013 Nissan Quest: Common Causes and Solutions

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Reviewed by
Aisha
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
40% chance it's the
Emissions System
0%
60% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a 2013 Nissan Quest has a check engine light are an emissions system component, a sensor, or a catalytic converter.
  • Emissions System: A faulty emissions system component, such as an oxygen sensor or EGR valve, can lead to increased emissions and trigger the check engine light.
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 2013 Nissan Quest has a check engine light?

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.

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.

Due to the nature of electrical systems on modern vehicles, the range of problems these can cause are nearly limitless. However, there is a way to categorize them in two ways. Permanent and intermittent problems. Permanent problems appear and remain. This may be the vehicle will not start, the radio does not work, or the door chime will not turn off among many, many others. These problems are more straight-forward to diagnose since they present themselves at all time. This means there will always be a fault to find. Intermittent electrical problems, however, can be difficult or impossible to locate, since they appear then disappear without warning. The best case scenario for an intermittent issue is when replicating the problem is easily accomplished and understood. This allows a technician to make an issue semi-permanent, allowing them to find the fault. Other issues that come and go without warning and cannot be replicated on demand must occur when the technician is servicing the vehicle, otherwise there is no problem to correct. It is most important to understand that electrical system faults always require inspection, and can include the vehicle working in any manner, or not working at all.

Like we noted in the last section, general diagnosis symptoms are the most vague of the bunch. There are several diagnostic spectrums, electrical diagnosis, drivability diagnostics, engine diagnostics, transmission diagnostics, and the list could continue for about 5 or 10 more spectrums of diagnostics. The most important take-away here, is that general diagnostics are diagnostics that have no other spectrum in which they fit, or the problem is unknown. This means that any vehicle left outside of a repair facility with the keys and an authorization to perform diagnosis will be diagnosed under the general diagnosis spectrum.

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 check engine light on a 2013 Nissan Quest?

When faced with a check engine light on your 2013 Nissan Quest, it's essential to adopt a systematic diagnostic approach. Start by checking the gas cap; a loose or damaged cap is a common culprit that can easily trigger the light. Next, take a moment to observe your dashboard gauges for any unusual readings, as these can indicate underlying issues. Utilizing an OBD-II scanner is a crucial step; by connecting it to your vehicle's diagnostic port, you can retrieve specific error codes that will guide you in identifying the problem. Additionally, inspect the condition of your spark plugs, as worn or faulty plugs can also cause the check engine light to illuminate. Finally, ensure that all essential fluid levels—such as oil, coolant, and transmission fluid—are adequate, as low levels can lead to engine complications. By following these initial steps, you can effectively gather information to diagnose the cause of the check engine light and take appropriate action.

What are the common problems that could cause the check engine light to come on in a 2013 Nissan Quest?

When the check engine light illuminates in a 2013 Nissan Quest, it often signals a range of potential issues that can be addressed through DIY methods. One of the most frequent culprits is a loose gas cap, which can easily be tightened or replaced if damaged. Another common issue is a faulty oxygen sensor; while this may require a bit more technical knowledge to replace, it is a manageable task for those familiar with automotive repairs. Additionally, problems with the catalytic converter can arise, often indicated by unusual noises or decreased performance, though this may necessitate professional assistance if the issue is severe. The mass airflow sensor is another component that can malfunction, affecting engine performance and fuel efficiency, and can be cleaned or replaced by a DIYer. Spark plug or ignition coil failures are also common, and replacing these parts can significantly improve engine function. Lastly, an engine misfire, which may stem from various factors including bad spark plugs or fuel injectors, can trigger the check engine light and should be diagnosed promptly. Addressing these issues not only helps in turning off the check engine light but also ensures the vehicle runs smoothly, making it essential for DIY enthusiasts to be aware of these common problems.

What should I do if the check engine light comes on in my 2013 Nissan Quest?

When the check engine light comes on in your 2013 Nissan Quest, it’s essential to understand the urgency of the situation to prevent potential safety hazards and costly repairs. A flashing check engine light is a clear signal that something is seriously wrong, often indicating a critical issue that requires immediate attention. If you notice this, safely pull over and turn off the engine to avoid further damage. One common culprit for the check engine light is a loose or damaged gas cap, so it’s worth checking to ensure it’s securely tightened. If the light remains illuminated after addressing the gas cap, it’s crucial to take your vehicle to a mechanic for a diagnostic test. They can utilize specialized tools to read the error codes stored in your vehicle’s computer, helping to identify the specific issue at hand. Promptly addressing the diagnosed problem is vital, as neglecting it can lead to more severe damage and higher repair costs. Furthermore, adhering to a regular maintenance schedule as recommended in your owner’s manual can help mitigate future occurrences of the check engine light, ensuring your Nissan Quest remains safe and reliable on the road.

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