Nissan Repair: P1605 A/T Diagnosis Communication Line Nissan, nissan sentra 2001, controller area network

Question
Hi Von,
I have a Nissan Sentra 2001 model. I am getting a "Service Engine Soon" light. When I diagnostic it, I got the no 1605(A/T Diagnosis Communication Line). Can you please suggest me the problem and how to resolve it.

Thanks,
Aniruddha

Answer
Aniruddha,

Unfortunately, you need the Consult II scantool from Nissan to read the specific code for the transmission.  The Controller Area Network on the Nissan goes beyond On Board Diagnostics II.  Now, you could go to Cottman Transmission and have them read the transmission codes for free.  Nissan will charge you something like $100 bucks to read them.  I bet the transmission control module, locatd by the transmission valve body is the problem.  I had a 2000 Maxima with a similar problem.  The codes were there but I could read no more than you.  It turned out that the transmission skip shifted when cold and that is what was setting the code.  After it warmed up there was no problem but the light stayed on.  I really do not think you could correct this one on your own.  It would pay to know the problem before you start throwing parts at the problem.