Tech Tip: Nissan Clunking Or Thumping Noise At Start Up

Tech Tip: Nissan Clunking Or Thumping Noise At Start Up

Fix Nissan vehicles that have a clunking or thumping noise with this TSB.

Models
All Nissan vehicles with ABS or ABS/VDC.

Conditions
• Clicking, knocking, clunking, buzzing, or thumping noise coming from the engine compartment area.
• The noise occurs only once during the first few seconds of driving at approximately 16 MPH.
• The noise occurs only once per ignition cycle (ignition OFF > ON) and does not occur again until the ignition is cycled.
• The noise may be louder after the vehicle has not been operated for a prolonged period of time.
• The noise may be more noticeable during cold weather.

Cause
The above condition is normal and does not need repair. Each time the ignition is turned on and the vehicle is driven at about 16 mph, the ABS/VDC system performs a “Self-Check” to confirm components of the ABS/VDC system are operating correctly.

This “Self-Check” function creates the noise described above. If the brakes are being applied when the “Self-Check” occurs, a vibration may be felt in the brake pedal and an increased level of noise may be noticed. Refer customers to the Owners Manual, Section 5, Starting and driving, Brake system on the Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS). The “Self-test feature” section provides an additional explanation.

The speeds described above refer specifically to Versa, Sentra, Altima and Maxima. However, any vehicle fitted with ABS or ABS/VDC will have a “Self-Check” which is triggered in similar circumstances.

Courtesy of AllDATA.

You May Also Like

The August Digital Edition Is Available Today

Each issue includes technical content from Underhood Service and other ShopOwner channels.

The interactive and easy-to-use digital edition of ShopOwner’s August issue, featuring articles from Underhood Service, is available now.

Click Here to read the August issue

In addition to management topics and opinion pieces, this issue includes articles on how to think through a misfire complaint when diagnostic codes are absent; understanding when to flush an A/C condenser and when to replace it; the importance of lifters and their role in the variable valvetrain system; and more.

The July Issue Is Now Available For Free Download

Every issue includes technical and marketing information from multiple ShopOwner channels.

The June Digital Edition Is Available Today

Each issue includes technical content from Underhood Service and other ShopOwner channels.

Read The May Magazine Online Now

Each issue includes technical content from Underhood Service and other ShopOwner channels.

The April Digital Edition Is Available Today

Each issue includes technical content from Underhood Service and other ShopOwner channels.

Other Posts

Inspection Tips For Chain-Driven Water Pumps

If one water pump fails sooner and is replaced without an investigation, the new pump is likely doomed.

Water pump feature
HV/EV Battery Pack Replacements

It is difficult to say when a battery pack will need to be replaced.

Cabin Air Filters

Don’t overlook the importance of the cabin air filter in your customers’ vehicles.

Beating the Tech Shortage Through Mentoring

How understanding the 80/20 Rule and creative mentoring can make the shortage less threatening.