Modern vehicles, including your Nissan, have become more electrical than you might think. According to a 2020 Deloitte study, electronics comprise 40 percent of a new car's total cost. At its most primitive function, you need electrical parts and a power source to start and keep your Nissan running.
Because of this heavy reliance on electrical parts, problems with the power-generating parts and the electronics they power can spell trouble for you, the driver. Learning more about your Nissan's electrical components can be helpful when you suspect they are giving you issues, to know when electrical parts need replacing, and to get the most out of your existing parts or new purchases.
Sourcing Nissan Electronics (OEM vs. Aftermarket)
Used Nissan electronics are either OEM or aftermarket. When you buy a Nissan in its original condition, as when it came out of the factory, the parts it comes fitted with are OEM or Original Equipment Manufacturer parts. Parts made by third-party manufacturers and usable in the vehicle are known as "Aftermarket" parts.
We recommend investing in OEM parts to return your Nissan to its original performance level. Because of the more stringent levels of manufacturing, you'll likely get more use out of an OEM replacement. Aftermarket parts might offer greater customization options, but not only are they not covered by Nissan's warranty, they could also void the warranty and even damage your vehicle when installed. Finally, aftermarket parts are not always guaranteed to be cheaper than OEM parts, so you might be paying less for better fit and quality.
What Are the Most Important Electrical Parts of Your Nissan?
Your Nissan's electrical system, made up of the battery, starter, and alternator, is relied upon by all the electrical parts in the vehicle. Other electrical parts that you should pay attention to are critical to your Nissan's essential function and safety.
Battery
The battery stores electrical energy to operate the starter and keeps certain parts like the clock and radio running when the engine is off. It additionally supplies the necessary power for the ignition and fuel injection parts. Because it is not designed to provide power for long, the battery can quickly run out of energy. 2020 and 2021 Sentras have been reported to have faulty batteries that discharge faster than average.
Alternator
Once your Nissan's engine is up and running, it is the alternator that comes into play to keep the engine and all other electrical components working. Issues with a faulty alternator can result in no or trouble starting, dimming lights, and stereo output problems.
Starter
The starter is powered by the battery and is needed to run the engine. It contains a small gear connected to the engine's flywheel, delivering power to it and, in turn, starting the engine up. Your Nissan will only be able to start if the starter is functioning correctly.
Fuel Pump Switch
The fuel pump switch is activated in an accident, cutting off the petrol flow to the engine to minimize the chance of a fire. When malfunctioning, your engine might occasionally shut off and need repair or replacement.
Cooling Fans
Cooling fans, or radiator fans, pull air through the engine radiator, allowing heat to dissipate. A faulty cooling fan can be catastrophic for engine health as it may result in overheating. These should be swapped out immediately if problems are detected.
Electronic Safety Systems
Adaptive cruise control, blind-spot warning, lane-departure warning, and parking assist are just some of the many electronic safety systems present in Nissans. When the system isn't functioning as intended, there might be an issue(s) with the parts that make up each system.
Lighting System
External lights help your Nissan be seen and give you visibility on the roads, while internal lights provide you with sight of what's inside your cabin, including displays. The lighting system is crucial for your safety, so ensure all your lights are in working order.
Engine Control Unit (ECU)
The ECU is a computer that controls various engine processes like fuel injection and ignition to keep it running efficiently. When things run awry, the ECU also alerts you to issues that may be detrimental to the vehicle. Stalling and misfiring are some of the symptoms of a faulty ECU. A Nissan that cannot start might signal a dead ECU that needs replacing.
Sensors
The long list of sensors in your Nissan includes the engine temperature sensor, air pressure sensor, air temperature sensor, oxygen sensor, and knock sensor, all of which monitor the status and levels of performance of your car's many systems, such as the NissanConnect. Faulty sensors can potentially cause severe damage to your Nissan by allowing systems to run unbalanced, so you should fix or replace them as soon as you identify them.
Which Nissan Electronics Wear Out the Fastest?
Consumables
Parts and materials that wear down and run out as they get used are known as the "consumables". These include short-life spark plugs, which produce a spark to ignite the fuel-air mixture.
Water Pump
The water pump operates continuously while the engine is running, pumping coolant from the radiator to the engine to flush heat away from the engine's various parts. It has a lifespan from 97,000 km to 145,000 km.
Suspension
The lifespan of your Nissan's suspension is a factor of:
1. How smooth the roads you drive on are,
2. The weight of the loads carried by your Nissan,
3. How frequently you load your vehicle and
4. Your overall mileage.
If you have properly maintained your car's suspension, it can last up to ten years. Otherwise, it typically lasts between five and eight years.
Are Nissan Electronics Expensive?
While you won't be spending much on Nissan electronics, you should account for the service fees of a professional, as electronic issues can be hard to diagnose unless you have the proper training.
Where to Buy Genuine Nissan Electronics Online
Brand-new electronics can be found at your country's authorized Nissan dealers and OEM parts retailers. Second-hand OEM electronics can be a great alternative, giving you the same quality at a lower price. At BE FORWARD Auto Parts, we ensure that our stock of used electronics is in good condition. Get yours with us today!
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