How to locate and replace 1997 Nissan Altima computer?

Question

Mechanic are not able to troubleshoot the problem i I am having with my Altima. Service center asked me to replace the computer they are asking too much money. How can I replace the computer myself. Thanks

If the car is parked overnight and start the car it does not start right away I have to push the key for long time to to start and than warn up for at leats minutes if I put the car in drive right away the car shuts down. Whe I am driving the car and when the automatic transmisition shifts the gear the car slow downs and or start loosing the power. I let the gas pedal go and repress the gas pedal to regain engine power. Car some some times jerks like its not getting gas. I went to several shops and mechanic It was on the dealers shop they are saying I have to change the computer because they are unable to read the dignosting from it. they think its shot.

I am adding additional information for John Paul if he reads you read this again.

Answer 1

i own a repair shop,and i think its located under the passengers seat,and you,ll have to find a good used one ,or purchase a new one ,and swap out the chip in it,but it has to be the same exact number as your old one is,or it wont work right,i have did this a lot but, a good used one is sort of hard to find sometimes for these cars ,because these cars don't get junked that much,,good luck,i hope this help,s..and happy thanksgiving.

Answer 2

Maybe you should start with checking out the items that are listed first, and make sure that the wiring is all okay and that the car hasn't been in a collision. Changing the computer will involve getting it programmed to match the car's security systems, or getting them programmed to match the new ECU - it isn't as simple as unplugging one module and plugging a new one in. There are special precautions to be taken when working with airbags, if you're messing with it and leaning over it, then set it off accidentally it can seriously injure or kill you. It's effectively an electronically operated 12 bore shotgun cartridge in a bag (without the shot of course - a blank) which is why they're so dangerous. Edit: It doesn't sound like the ECU (computer) is faulty, it sounds like all the items listed in the fault codes need to be dealt with, then you should be able to clear the fault codes without them returning. If you replace the ECU then the new one will show the same fault codes too if you don't sort these things out.

Answer 3

To access the ECM remove the plastic panel right hand side front of the console. The computer is on top of the transmission hump next to the fire wall. One 10mm bolt head holds the wire connector to the computer use only hand tools to remove and install the wire connector. ECM is held down with two 10mm bolts rear and a gold colored clip at the front next to the fire wall. Mechanics can't diagnosis? What is the car doing? Tell Me?

Answer 4

open your drivers door and look on the door frame to see what month and year your car was built. write it down.

go to this website

http://www.car-part.com/

type in your info...97 nissan altima, etc

search for ENGINE COMPUTER

select auto or manual trans

select cali or fed spec. (emissions)

should be able to get one for $50.00

you type in your zip code and it lists all the ecu's in your area and the price

to the right side of the gas pedal look under your dash (behind the radio and shifter console)
it should be there. should be 4 screws to mount it in place and one screw on the ecu harness electrical connector. it is easy to swap out.

Answer 5

Hi, according to Alldatapro.com, the computer(ECM) as they call it, is located behind the center console. Hope this helps, good luck.