Power loss and jerking

04XTERRAC

MEMBER
2004 NISSAN XTERRA
V6
4WD
MANUAL
88,023 MILES

I have been experiencing a lack of power for my vehicle. Online and offline track calculations say it should have a 0-60 within around 15-20 seconds. It has a clocked 0-60 speed of 37.4 seconds red lining. Now it has come to be even worse. On initial startup, it has power, then once it gets warm, the power is drastically reduced, causing it almost hard to get moving again from a complete stop. Its gas mileage is about 7 city and 12 highway. It has been doing one other thing. When I let off the accelerator it repeatedly jerks hard, especially below 3000 RPM's. It won't do it if I let off the gas slowly, or press in the clutch, which causes me to think it's something with the clutch. If there could be any reason for these problems, I would greatly appreciate it, thank you.

3 Replies

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
109,747 POSTS

Hi and thanks for using 2CarPros.

This can be a few things. However, the first thing I want you to do is check for diagnostic trouble codes. If the check engine light stays on when the engine is running, there will be codes that may help diagnose the problem. Here is a video that shows how to scan a computer:

https://youtu.be/b2IJGfImVvw

I realize most people don't own a scanner, but often times, parts stores will do it for free or lend you one.

As far as the description, I don't feel the clutch is the problem. However, anything is possible. Does the clutch seem to slip and that is why it is hitting red line or does it slowly accelerate to red line?

Now, other possible issues can be a plugged catalytic converter, a faulty fuel pressure regulator, ignition timing, and the list goes on. Here are a couple links that you may find helpful. First is a link that shows how to check fuel pressure and the pressure regulator.

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

Here are links that discuss symptoms of a plugged catalytic converter and how to check one:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/bad-catalytic-converter-symptoms

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-test-a-catalytic-converter

If you could check these things, specifically retrieving trouble codes, it would be very helpful.

Let me know if you need anything or have other questions.

Take care,
Joe