Nissan Repair: service engine warning light on, nissan sentra, emission control system

Question
QUESTION: Hello Von

I drive a 2004 nissan sentra with 56,000 kn on it. (pretty new)

My service engine warning light went on and stayed on. I read the nissan book and they say could be a lose gas cap or low on fuel.. plus something related to emission or something like that. I checked the gas cap is o.k and i have half a tank of fuel.

What kind of problems do i have .. please explain in detail if possible ?

how can i fix it ?

thank you

ANSWER: Francis,

Autozone or Checker will check the code for free.  Yes, the cap anc cause a code if it is not tight.  But, there are many things that can set the light.  Get the code checked to be sure.  Email me back with what you find.

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: he got the light off.. p0455 evaporative emission control system detected

no idea what that is

Answer
Francis,

You have a problem with the evaporative system leaking off pressure.  Since the mid 1970s cars have had closed systems so fuel does not evaporate.  Since 1996 computers on cars have been keeping track of vapor leaks.  Nothing dangerous, but you will not pass SMOG with the code and the vapor leak.  Nissan had a problem with this and there is a servicee bulletin.  I am sure you are out of warranty.  But, if not the dealer would correct the problem.  Othewise, it will cost you money to correct.  Go to your local dealer and discuss with them and have them print out the full service bulletin.  The following is a summary from the Federal Government's Office of Defect Investigation.

Make : NISSAN Model : SENTRA Year : 2004
Manufacturer : NISSAN NORTH AMERICA, INC.   
Service Bulletin Number : 03041 Date of Bulletin : JUL 15, 2004
NHTSA Item Number : 10001740   
Component : ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Summary :
MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LAMP ON WITH DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODE P0442 (EVAP SMALL LEAK) STORED. *TT