Nissan Repair: 2000 Maxima misfire, dlc data, replacement coils

Question
My 2000 Maxima has a misfire and seems to be running on only 4 to 5 cylinders. Based on all the reports on line, I suspect it is the infamous ignition coil problem. Service buletin NTB01-059. My questions:
1. Should my car have a DLC (data link connector) so I can hook up a scan tool that I borrowed from the parts store? I sure can't find it.
2. Are any of the replacement coils better than others. I heard of 3 manufacturers (Hitachi, Hanshin and Karyln/st1)?
3. Do I need to remove the intake to get at the 3 coils near the firewall?
4. Any other tips on replacing the coils?
Thanks for your help!
Greg

Answer
Greg,

Yes, I have a 2000 Maxima the wife drives and the coils are going to be the problem.  Replace all of them and if you purchase any of those mentioned you should not have a problem.  I bought mine from courtesynissan.com on-line and saved a bundle.  rockauto.com is another source for the coils that is cost effective.  The dealer charges way too much...  You do not have to remove the intake and it only takes a ten millimeter socket and a long extension and a pair of long needle nose plyers to do the remote control surgery on the back ones.  The front coils are under the cover that screws onto the valve cover with the allen bolts.  The back ones are exposed and it just takes time since you have to snake the tools in between the runners.  Replace the plugs while you are at it.  Stay away from Bosch plugs.  Try NGK or the like and go with double platinum plugs so they last as long as the factory ones.  You will be surprised how much the coil and plug change helps the performance of the vehicle.