Nissan Repair: Navara D22 02 3.0LTD - over-revving then cutting out, fuel pressure gauge, throttle position sensor

Question
Hi Von, we've had this problem twice over the last couple of months (ie very intermittent) - the engine will start over-revving at idle (ca. 1500rpm), and then just completely die as we're driving along. It can be restarted immediately, but may cut out 4 or 5 times during a short journey.

The last time this happened, the problem disappeared after 2 days. This time we took it to Nissan (here in Australia), and naturally, it has stopped misbehaving, and they have found no mechanical problem.

Any help would be greatly appreciated! Thanks.


Answer
Lee,

If the idle jumps to 1500 RPM and back to idle several times it could be the idle air control valve sticking or the throttle position sensor being worn.  I am assuming it is a petrol engine?  If this is the case then the above is probably the problem.  If yours is diesel then the fuel pressure regulator is gummed up.  Email me which you have since we do not have the Navara in the US.  The part that strikes me is the cutting out while you drive.  No codes from what you indicate or the mechanic would have let you know.  This could be caused by a fuel pump going out or the fuel pump relay being defective.  A fuel pressure gauge would show if the pressure drops off.