Whelp.. That Wasn't Fun // Xterra 3.3 V6 Knock Sensor Nightmare

Tearing apart the top half of my sisters 2001 Nissan Xterra VG33E engine to replace the knock sensor, valve cover and plenum gaskets.. yeah that was fun.
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#Sarahntuned #nissanVG33E #xterra

[@edwardspaccarelli5944]

Doing quality work on a vehicle ( no matter the mileage or age ) is something hard to find these days. I thank you Sarah. You made a tough job look easy.

[@yourdiytechlife]

Isn’t that the greatest feeling when you turn the key and it starts right up and sounds perfect 👍👍

[@biffick99]

Elation springs to mind.

[@bc67]

Validating from an obsessive perspective so I always appreciate that. When you're wired to only do a job the right way, 200k+ miles etc. never matters.

[@Gman450a1]

Your sister is so lucky to have you! Nice work.

[@jefferywdonald]

Right! I wish I had her when I bought my first car, an 88' MR2 that eventually blew a head gasket and got scrapped because I wasn't mechanically inclined then. The scrapper probably got $600 for the aftermarket wheels and tires that were on it. Shi*!

[@zfloz9895]

@@jefferywdonald ohhh nooo! Really ??? :( :(

[@griffin._.m]

The knock sensor replacement has been a project I have not wanted to tackle on my xterra. This video has given me just a little more confidence in doing that. These xterra videos is how I discovered the channel and they have been an immense help for this fellow 1st gen xterra owner. Now I only need an older sibling that will help me haha. Keep up the awesome content.

[@xlthumper]

You can reach around unplug it. Mount the knew one on the valve cover bolts and plug it back in. Much easier

[@SarahnTuned]

It’s super easy, just annoying to put the upper plenum back on after. You have to use a new rear (driver side) coolant hose and cut it short enough that it won’t kink, but long enough that it’s not a nightmare. I used spray quick detailer wax to help lube the pipe since it drys after. Also, don’t drop the plastic bushings (4ea) that support under the fuel rail once you take the bolt out.

[@griffin._.m]

@@SarahnTuned Thanks for the reply! You're right, it does sound pretty simple, and after seeing it done I'm confident I could do it. Unfortunately my xterra is the supercharged model (VG33ER). So it'll be a little more of a pain than it's naturally aspirated counterpart. Just have to make sure I don't have to be anywhere before I start taking apart my daily driver haha. Thanks again for the help!

[@Timberjo2]

@@griffin._.m I recently helped a friend replace the knock sensor on his supercharged first gen Xterra as well. It was quite the project. I would make sure you have at least 2 full days to work on it. And hopefully you have another method of transportation to get additional parts as needed. I ended up having to cut and replace a coolant hose on the front of the engine that I had to get from Nissan since it was a specific shape.

[@72Dexter72Manley72]

@@griffin._.m Do it like the other poster said. Buy a new knock sensor. Reach around and unplug the old knock sensor. Plug the connector onto the new knock sensor. Mount the new knock sensor on the back of the right cylinder head. You only need a longer bolt. Should take 2 hours max. 👍🏽

[@mikeshandiservice4246]

Celine sure is lucky to have a big sister like you to help her with all this stuff

[@Trifler500]

You can always feel better about buying a used car when you have someone local in the family who can help you too. :)

[@cogtager]

Not to mention having little to no video info on xterras and frontiers out in the internet 🤷🏽‍♂️

[@Cocora22]

With the price of cars, having OCD is not a bad thing. My son constantly reminds me of that, specially when I'm under his xterra looking to fix things. Love your video. Also what a refreshing thing to see a lady really doing a great job. I also like that so many guys are leaving positive comments. Of course many have their dirty little minds working too, but that'll never change! :):):)

[@scottmayle1955]

The way that you look out for your sister is my absolute favorite thing, so touching.

[@jfruser]

Oddly enough, these sister's Xterra vids are my favorite of all the various vids on offer.

[@IronmanV5]

You ever get the impression that the engineers HATE mechanics? Love your content!

[@secretsquirrel6124]

thats because the engineers dont talk to the mechanics and the mechanics dont talk to the engineers

[@jasonaltham7013]

Engineers get pay bonuses based on the number of sharp edges near fasteners.

[@SarahnTuned]

@@secretsquirrel6124 yes and no, a lot of the time engineers can make things that a mechanic would love, but are shot down due to funding and regulations.

[@Huggy1959]

I have said for a long time that if engineers had to work on what they designed things would be designed differently.

[@skytiger6671]

My OCD was wire wheeling the threads of every bolt when I swapped motors. And the tops too and spray painting them to make them look new, on everything every day.

[@don7406]

The struggle is real.

[@randallmason9687]

I resemble that remark!

[@yorainman]

There’s always a great narrative on these videos. Informational, humorous, and enjoyable. Even though we’re never asked, I always provide a like 👍, and am subscribed. Great content, and always look forward to the next one. Happy New Year 🎉

[@mlieng]

Major major props to you. I've been a Nissan technician for 15 years, and I can attest to how incredibly difficult this job is. In many cases, the intake boot, hoses, etc cracks when removed. The rear heater hoses are the worse. Anyway, great job. Been really enjoying your channel since I picked up a MR2 project last year and I stumbled upon your videos.

[@SarahnTuned]

Thanks! I’ve worked on some ignorantly designed aviation ground support equipment that makes stuff like this mostly relaxing to me 😆

[@TBlake-yf2sr]

@@SarahnTuned I wish it had been you working on the AGE at GFAFB, it might have worked more that 50% of the time!

[@xMidgetFuryx1]

I can appreciate the care taken even with the high miles on the engine.

[@TrumpetBiz]

Celine is SO happy ! What a great big sister. "If you are going to do something. Might as well do it right." This is why I love this channel. PS-to those that keep downvoting every video, please spend that energy on positive endeavors. Thank you.

[@UnWrecked]

Atleast you did it the right way and not the way most people do it. They just break the old knock sensor so they can get the plug out, then mount it on top of the manifold

[@mcjags06]

I got scared. I thought you were about to say last time working in the Xterra. I love this build👍👌👏

[@SarahnTuned]

Nah, you all seem to like it so much that I’ll be soon adding an overland project of my own to the channel.

[@dri50]

Mahle gaskets are my favorite intake gaskets. Price is right and they just work. Nice job on the Nissan

[@dontask8979]

What a awesome big sister! People like you Sarah, make the world a better place.

[@mamatronic963]

You are the best !!! I have the same engine in my truck, now I'm more confident on how to work on it ! I love your content..

[@Primus54]

Sarah... with all the crap on TV these days, I only watch streaming services or YT videos... and my absolute favorite channel is yours. You are an 11 out of 10... Cheers!

[@SarahnTuned]

I ditched cable TV back in 2012 and never looked back.

[@MartinBradyRallyCoDriver]

Who knew an Xtera video could be so fun to watch, great job.

[@raiderman28]

Thats a pretty tough job for any mechanic. You seemed to make it look easy. I relocated my knock sensor ti avoid having to take all that apart. Many mechanics complain about removing the bolts from the upper plenum. They say they can break. I am selling a Nissan Frontier and it needs valve cover gaskets and if i replace them, there is no reason why i shouldn’t put the new knock sensor back in its original spot. The engine runs excellent with 360,000 miles on it. Frequent Synthetic oil changes have made this truck last

[@phazerboy]

Just did valve covers on an Exterra. You haven't lived until you have experienced the intake on a VG. So glad to see that thing leave.

[@Rob-lv7wo]

The way Sarah describes things makes my day. Love it.

[@michaelskinner896]

"My lips are chapped, I'm going to bed now." When my lips are chapped, that's what I do.

[@TheShornak]

I like your OCD, it's nice to see someone that takes pride in the work they do.

[@user-rr6eb2wi2l]

Because of you I am better at working on my own vehicle. More confidence and attention to detail. My standards are higher now. Thank you you Sarah

[@Puckerization]

Love the fragrant Xterra Engine Bay hair conditioner you're applying to the tips.

[@2-old-Forthischet]

These new fangled cars makes me appreciate the old fashioned V8s with a 4 barrel carb of which I don't have anymore.

[@pizzathehut2264]

“New fangled” 😂 this is a old car.

[@InuranusBrokoff]

Get off my lawn!!!

[@SarahnTuned]

..this thing is 20 years old.

[@carlomiller1895]

@@SarahnTuned only 276k, my 2010 Tahoe has 326k and still going strong, knock on wood. Compression is still super high in all cylinders....no oil usage since I deactivated the cylinders shut off

[@buzzpedrotti5401]

Bought a project car once. A beater Sunbeam Tiger. Changed the clutch. It steered like a tank. That ended my restoration career. No regrets.

[@snowlothar45]

Anything worth doing is worth doing right - the mantra that has served me well all my life.

[@lexteakmialoki5544]

"I'm just doing this because you guys wanted to see some project car content...." Yeah right !!! I think we would be happy watching you mow the grass !!!

[@SarahnTuned]

Soo.. there’s no lawns here, it’s all rock. Fairly certain that would take out every window in a 250ft radius. 😆

[@lexteakmialoki5544]

So I guess we would also be happy watching you kick rocks !!

[@BasementBerean]

I need to see a project car video every now and again so that I will never, ever buy a project car.

[@barrylinkiewich9688]

And miss out on all the fun, swearing and character developing injuries? I pity you sir or madam.

[@BasementBerean]

@@barrylinkiewich9688 I spent over 20 years in software development. All I missed were the injuries.

[@SophiaAphrodite]

Right? As someone who has restored a muscle car in my life. I am lookingto do it again. Her channel reminds me what I will be up against.

[@twoeightythreez]

I need to see a projext car video precisely to comvince me to work on my project car

[@PupuTheMonkey]

My Xterra has literally every problem you fixed in this video.

[@SPARTANlabs]

Sooooo i had the same problem in my '04. I ordered one off ebay. cut the proper connector harness and spliced the wire for the new knock sensor and relocated it to on top of the intake body where there are threads in the aluminum. My truck was running so bad and after this job it was practically purring! So sorry you had to deal with this nightmare but great content nonetheless!!! Thanks for all the awesome videos, keep rocking🤙🏼

[@colintx800]

4:12 When you nodded at the camera, I believed everything you said 😂😂😂

[@JebHoge]

The long sleeve crop top is an interesting look. Says "I wanna be warm but...abs."

[@MrNoNothingAtAll]

You know how these oh's be.

[@saintchaoswolf3618]

Holy shit what are the odds I have a 3.3 v6 n/a 04 xterra with a knock senor code. You just give me the confidence to do it next week after i graduate from automotive school. Thanks Sarah.

[@thomas5714]

Aside from the fact that any shop, let alone dealer, would do this level of detailed quality work, but can you imagine what they'd bill for this??? Lil' sis is blessed to have big sis. How many dudes do this for their bro?

[@openeyes-411]

Just paid a mechanic $500 to change the valve cvr on that side, replace the 3 fuel injectors, and the dreaded #6 plug on my frontier with the 3.3 - cause it's cold, and I'm basically lazy... Edit: and I bought the plug & injectors.

[@Goku-mr2jw]

KZbin: Shara, Xterra and Celine video. Me: Yes, yes, and Yes!

[@stevekirby7333]

Saw this on a FB car group: Every 20 minute job is just one broken bolt from a 3 day ordeal.

[@kevinm5177]

Great project! I love the bonus of solving a vacuum leak you didn’t even know you had!

[@nmbueller1313]

I’m a hardcore two-wheeled fanatic, but you are definitely my and my family’s favorite (only) 4-wheeled KZbinr!!!! Your content is awesome and ridiculously fun! Keep up the great work, Sarah!!!! It’s very appreciated!!!😁

[@zmarko]

I think this is the first time I heard a swear word by Sarah that wasn't bleeped. 😂

[@SarahnTuned]

💩 I forgot one? Lol 😂

[@thegaragehub]

Happy new year! It's going to get some getting used to not seeing you roll around on your back in your garage 😂

[@Lazarusart]

I'm so HAPPY for you having your own shop. You have worked So hard for this and 100% deserve this ! x

[@VCR1117]

Your sister is so lucky to have you as her mechanic. Not even a top mechanic would go the extra mile and clean the fuel rails, intake plenum etc.. I have been rebuilding a transmission and finished rebuilding it, but have not had the energy to go put it back in the Tahoe... it has been like 3 months...

[@18_wheeler97]

HAPPY & HEALTHY NEW YEAR SARAH TO YOU AND YOURS. Can't wait to see some projects done in the new shop.

[@1stltzarate]

I love you, be happy and achieve greatness.

[@user-uw4ch8qr5e]

Great video! Love your attention to detail, along with your personality makes for a top notch experience. I salute you Sarah.

[@miguelcontreras9349]

You need to get a top side creeper! It will change your mechanic life! Thanks for the great videos😊

[@kickyadick]

“Oh look how long it is...l” Sadly, I don’t hear that often...

[@theopinion9452]

You win the internet today...I think?

[@bosgaurus1]

"I mean...it's pretty clean...but it's not up to my standards". Unfortunately, I hear that far too often.

[@gbsailing9436]

You need to get out more!

[@SucceedStrategically]

You will never be disappointed with my mystery sauce!

[@lcameeno1]

Lol

[@wallyonetrip4578]

I was a top line trainer on the VG 33 engine launch in Smyrna Tn. I installed most of the parts you had to take off at one time or another.I may have been one of the technicians that built your sisters engine, or helped trained the technicians that did.

[@SarahnTuned]

That’s so wild!!! Haha.

[@shagonoy]

I have a 2003 Frontier with the same engine. My Knock Sensor code keeps on coming on also and been just been resetting it. Thanks to you I exactly what to expect when I decide to get it fixed. Thank You 🙏🏽. You’re AWESOME !!!

[@richardw64]

3:35 not the sort of sight you normally see at the mechanics. That's a Kodak moment right there !

[@theyetti8811]

Thumbnail

[@SDMacMan]

Sarah: they're kind of tacky Me: I think they look cool Sarah: feel tacky Me: oh

[@SarahnTuned]

Lol 😆

[@philliphuigen1282]

Lol I like the look Celine gives. My sister dioes the same thing when I start nerding out and going all OCD on a project.

[@oneopensky]

My 01 Xterra needs some work and what you showed here is what it will be needing. Thank you for posting a project series. Looking forward to seeing more of your videos.

[@moegeek]

How do you work on these things in nice clothes!?! I can ruin a shirt >in my closet< just by raising the hood!!

[@SarahnTuned]

I make KZbin videos for a living, so I buy good clothes to ruin.

[@XterraRob]

@@SarahnTuned I was wondering the same thing...how do you look so...clean. When I am done with my Xterra I am covered in dirt and grease...clothes destroyed.

[@bosgaurus1]

I think the car and engine wash before the work helps a great deal.

[@richard73]

Your sister worked really hard 🤔😉

[@jeffmcgrath2202]

You should be proud of your use of expletives As a teamster I applaud you!

[@T0mThompson]

Pure respect for knowing where all this wires, connectors and hoses are belong to.

[@fearknot7]

Love the channel.

[@peanutpower8826]

I need to do a knock sensor on my 02 xterra, but I have a supercharger so it’s going to even more of a pain in the ass.

[@adamzan7]

It seemed easier to me to remove the SC and tubing than the N/A model plenum. After that it is all the same. I've done a ton of them and it's not that bad. Just time consuming.

[@openeyes-411]

Just relocate it Michael - WAY EASIER!

[@adamzan7]

That doesn't work well for the Supercharged models unless you bolt it to the firewall. It picks up noise from the blower. Easier to just use a resistor or replace it the right way.

[@mindthependulum6245]

I remember changing the knock sensor on my buddy's pathfinder. Not a fun job. Hats off to you for seeing it through!

[@Spidercarfix]

Waw its so fun to watch your step by step repair video. Lucky to get you as a pro mechanic!

[@mrwest5552]

7:16 into this fun vid and it was already five different names ! How about Marvin's Mystery Mocha Mix !

[@inerlogic]

Captain Marvel's Magical Mystery Tour....

[@atticstattic]

"here sis, it rhymes with 'orange' ."

[@thereissomecoolstuff]

Sarah the ones that are tough are your best. We really get to see how tenacious you are. You are very tough. You are an outstanding role model. I really liked this video.

[@Niggaballssex]

Let's be honest, we all want a nii san like Sarah

[@kevinjones5560]

I can’t believe you don’t tie your hair back or up. It could get tangled up in things or for sure get dragged across greasy parts.

[@richardw64]

Made me want to jump thru the screen and hold it back.

[@kevinjones5560]

I should rephrase that because none of Sarah’s engines are greasy.....😉

[@SarahnTuned]

I tie it up for most of the stuff I don’t film, I’m self conscious of wearing my hair up because I have so many baby hairs I look like a coconut. I’m a lot more cautious then it looks on camera though.

[@kevinjones5560]

@@SarahnTuned I don’t think you should worry about it. 99% of the guys who watch your videos have no idea what “baby hairs” are.

[@1959greatbear]

Have you checked that timing belt? With that many miles that would be on my list.

[@tl1024]

And timing belt on that vehicle is fairly easy. Just replace the tensioner bearing & water pump while your there.

[@SarahnTuned]

Previous owner just did it, but yes, I will take a peak at it just incase.

[@rayschoch5882]

Couldn't agree more: at about 9:30: words very similar to my long-time mantra. "If it's worth doing, it's worth doing right."

[@landau390]

Hey I own an 04 xterra, and I really enjoy all the vids that you are doing in this series. Thanks for all the great content.

[@SarahnTuned]

These were arguably one of Nissans best vehicles, it’s a shame they were discontinued.

[@landau390]

@@SarahnTuned agreed thank you

[@johnmorgan1629]

1:37 "Eww, what is that?" Meanwhile hair drapes in rest of part in your hand.

[@mostcom]

IKR

[@Bladebars]

Where's the front burger bun?

[@SarahnTuned]

On the toolbox lid still.

[@ChrisHsuCars]

Hi Sarah, I just love watching your videos. Your knowledge and attention to detail are so inspiring! I also appreciate your sense of humour. I’m pretty fussy about trying to keep things factory as much as possible where it makes sense to do so. Thanks for all your hard work - wish you lived closer as it would be awesome to just know someone like you.

[@svenhodaka9145]

Sarah, you are remarkable in so many ways! Never shy about tackling a challenge. Go Girl!

[@svenhodaka9145]

Much Respect.

[@nismofury]

How do you remember where everything goes back?

[@tl1024]

The more time you get "just working on stuff", the easier it gets. On bigger projects I separate stuff by group/area (like transmission area, intake side, exhaust side, core support area), but smaller stuff just goes back together seemingly by itself. Years of working on cars. I just did a smartphone teardown today for screen replacement, placed the screws on a towel in the general shape of the phone & it went back together super easy.

[@SarahnTuned]

I position hardware in a pattern how it came out on my bench, or put it in the hole it came out of after if possible. Also, memory.

[@theunknownone5663]

FML= fine my love.

[@gbsailing9436]

Thanks, I thought it must have been: F%$K me lady...

[@theunknownone5663]

@@gbsailing9436that to, after words its Fix Me Lunch.

[@gbsailing9436]

@@theunknownone5663 Yes I guess my interpretation doesn't make sense for sisters, does it???

[@theunknownone5663]

@@gbsailing9436 only in Alabama.

[@theunknownone5663]

@@gbsailing9436 and pornhub.

[@Fredfjs78]

I bought a 04 Silverado with a severe valve tick MMO did nothing so a old timer said they used ATF and run it for 200kms then change the oil. Well within 70kms the tick was gone. Only downside was I had to remove the oil pan in order to remove all the sludge that wouldn't drain out. 5 years later still no tick or sludge now that it's been taken care of. The truck currently has 450 thousand kms on it.

[@rickbaier1042]

I have the same vechicle owned it for a long long time. It is so easy to remove the hood on this vechicle and makes working inside the bay so much easier.

[@westcoastturbos]

Sarah is a big time cutie 💓

[@westcoastturbos]

@Mctrician2 lol

[@kevinlyon9501]

Pesky manufacturer's always burying things, also I used to get whinged by my boss because I took too long on big jobs as I was always cleaning stuff. Much nicer for reassembly when its all clean.

[@bm-rf4bc]

spent 2 days scrubbing an oil soaked M276 before I even bothered removing the valve cover :)

[@calinserbu9349]

Love your channel. My favorite episode so far was when you fixed that intake tract adjusting electric motor on your Focus. Very satisfying to watch this truck being treated with care after what must have been a pretty hard life. Looking forward to the remaining suspension work. Congratulations on your new work space. Looks well lit and spacious in the videos.

[@1974UTuber]

Sarah says "Relatively simple" about a task that would have taken me 2 weeks and ended in the car being towed to the mechanic. And you manage to keep clean while doing it.

[@TheDizzx69]

Just want to let you know I really enjoy your U Tubing. I have acquired an older Xterra and your rather thorough video clips and wonderful personality have persuaded me to undertake the endeavor of Fixing it up.... I don't think there is anywhere else I could have found a mechanical genius such as yourself.... Awesome !

[@yabeezy]

Nice 👍🏽, I just did same thing with my Sister 04 Xterra OMG I know how it feels to tackle that Intake, old hoses & reTape all wires... by the way check the Distributor, Cap, Rotor & fuel filter before you replace the wire it’s the #1 problem you will see if you have a Misfire issues.....

[@HDYaqui]

Marvel Mystery Oil is Great! But for over 30 years I’ve just used ATF Dexron or Mercon. I’ll add a quart a couple of days before I do an oil change and it really helps clean up your engine block and oil passages. Great video as always! 👍🏽👍🏽😉

[@rdublu8374]

cant believe how competent you are. I fail at the easy stuff...like not remembering the reverse order, or like not organizing the parts (baggies?, bins?, labels?, pictures as i go?) If you could do a video on basics like that i would loveloveluv it!

[@572camaroguy]

The Xterra is coming along great. 100% agree with you cleaning parts and replacing the high mileage hoses. It makes reassembly so much easier and looks professional. Two thumbs up :)

[@willland1243]

Sarah you are a amazing woman and the job you are doing for Celine on the Xterra was extremely nice. I need to get it done on my car but couldn't afford it. That job would have been big bucks to do get done At a shop. Where have you been all my life.🥰 I'm not a crazy person but I'm just amazed by the skill and the way you do your jobs. You're an Angel of mechanics and mechanical workers.

[@kalanirobb54]

You are a great mechanic ,not a whole lot of people do more than the bare minimum on most repairs . Do it right or not at all ! .well done!

[@murphtheirishmanmurphy7268]

2021 getting off to a great start with Sarah giving us what we want and need. More of her! 🔥🔥🔥❤️🍀

[@steventhomas5865]

I understand the pain of having to fix everything properly. I was given a car because no one wanted it and I keep replacing every piece with a better, proper or new version and when I'm done no one will want it.

[@iveyfaganjr605]

I know cars are complicated things but the crap you have to go through to fix or replace something is crazy! For one simple thing, you have to remove half of the car! Damn! But Sarah has a big set because I know I would try something like this and forget half the shit when I would have to put it back together again!

[@richardrosa4826]

Wow you're awesome! I will be doing this soon as well. It's for my Step Son's 2002. Thanks for the video. Now I know the knock sensor is under the lower plenum. You rock I am now subscribing.

[@davidzimmerman3778]

Great suv! Mine is 21 years old and still going. Knock sensor has been broken for years and my cats are shot, still driving