Engine keeps shutting off while driving

Welcome to 2CarPros.

The hard start and low idle makes me suspect an issue with the fuel system. If the fuel pump is weak, it can cause it stall under a load as well as an idle issue. Additionally, if pressure is low, it can cause a hard start or no start.

The first thing I suggest checking is fuel pressure. Here is a link that shows in general how it is done:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-fuel-system-pressure-and-regulator

Here are the directions specific to your vehicle for testing. The manufacturer's specs are included in the directions. The attached pics correlate with the directions.

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2002 Nissan-Datsun Maxima GLE V6-3.5L (VQ35)
COMPONENT TESTS AND GENERAL DIAGNOSTICS

pic 1

Fuel Pressure Check
- When reconnecting fuel line, always use new clamps.
- Make sure that clamp screw does not contact adjacent parts.
- Use a torque driver to tighten clamps.
- Use Pressure Gauge to check fuel pressure.
- Do not perform fuel pressure check with system operating. Fuel pressure gauge may indicate false readings.

1. Release fuel pressure to zero.
2. Disconnect fuel tube joint between fuel damper and injector tube and set fuel pressure check adapter (J44321).

pic 2

3. Install pressure gauge to the fuel pressure check adapter as shown in the figure.
4. Start engine and check for fuel leakage.
5. Read the indication of fuel pressure gauge.
At idling: Approximately 350 kPa (3.57 kg/sq.cm, 51 psi)
6. If results are unsatisfactory, go to next step.
7. Check the following.
- Fuel hoses and fuel tubes for clogging
- Fuel filter for clogging
- Fuel pump
- Fuel pressure regulator for clogging
If OK, replace fuel pressure regulator.
If NG, repair or replace.

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Let me know what you find or if you have other questions.

Take care,
Joe

Welcome back:

That shouldn't be a hard part to get. It's the variable induction control solenoid. I've seen them on Amazon. Type in your vehicle's year make and model and then VIAS Control Solenoid Valve on Google and select shopping. They will show up for you. They should be under or around twenty dollars.

Let me know if you find what you need.

Joe

Welcome back:

Checking the fuel filter is a big job because it is in the fuel tank. There is also what is called a sock at the bottom of the pump which sits low in the tank. That too can be plugging.

I attached a picture where I highlighted the sock and the number 4 which shows where the filter is actually located. The good news is that it can be accessed via a fuel pump port under the rear seat, so that tank doesn't need removed.

As far as concerns, I am going to provide the directions for fuel filter replacement. Note that the directions also include the pump and level sensor. If you do remove the pump to check, I would suggest replacing both the sock and the filter.

The attached pictures correlate with the directions. As long as you follow the directions provided, you shouldn't have any concerns.

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2002 Nissan-Datsun Maxima GLE V6-3.5L (VQ35)
Fuel Pump, Fuel Level Sensor Unit and Fuel Filter

FUEL PUMP, FUEL LEVEL SENSOR UNIT AND FUEL FILTER

pic 2

Fuel Pump, Fuel Level Sensor Unit and Fuel Filter

pic 3

REMOVAL
1. Release fuel pressure from fuel line.
Refer to "Fuel Pressure Release".
2. Remove rear seat bottom. Refer to "Removal and Installation".
3. Remove inspection hole cover located under the rear seat.
4. Disconnect electrical connector.
5. Remove the quick connectors.
- For removal of quick connectors, refer to step 5. Of "Fuel Tank Removal".
6. Remove the six screws.

Pic 4

7. Pull out the fuel level sensor unit and fuel pump.
- Do not damage the arm of the fuel level sensor and fuel tank temperature sensor.

Pic 5

8. Remove flange of fuel level sensor unit and fuel pump.
- Using a screwdriver, remove the snap fit portion as shown in the figure.

Pic 6

9. Push fuel level sensor flange.
- Using a screwdriver, remove the snap fit portion as shown in the figure.
10. Pull up the fuel level sensor.

Pic 7

11. Remove fuel filter from chamber.
- Using a screwdriver, remove the snap fit portion as shown in the figure.
12. Remove pressure regulator clip, then pull out pressure regulator.

Pic 8

13. Remove fuel pump, then push down the fuel pump as shown in the figure.
14. Remove packing from fuel pump.

Pic 9

15. Remove the pump support rubber from the fuel pump.

INSTALLATION
Install in the reverse order of removal paying attention to the following.
- Install the fuel filter and fuel pump with the tabs aligned, make sure a click sound of secure engagement is heard.
- Securely connect the harness connector of the fuel pump.
- Install the pressure regulator O-ring as follows.

CAUTION:
- When replacing, always use a new O-ring, packing and clip.
- Handle it with bare hands. (Do not use gloves.)
- Visually check the O-ring, mounting parts and mating parts for foreign materials and flaws.
- Before installing, apply new engine oil.
- To avoid damage, do not apply an excessive force (pulling or starching).

Fuel Pressure Regulator
pic 10

- Install the pressure regulator as follows.
1. Insert the clip to the groove of the regulator.
2. With the clip installed, insert the regulator straight by matching the fuel filter protrusion and the clip notch.
3. Make sure that the fuel filter protrusion and clip notch are securely engaged.

Pic 11 is a clearer picture of the filter and sock.

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Let me know if this helps or if you have other questions.

Take care,
Joe