Man. I tell you what your videos have been absolutely invaluable to me and a lot of us in the xterra community. Seriously man, thank you for what you do. This is what the internet is for. You don't have a bunch of goofy intros or adverts you just share information in a informative, clear and accessible way. From the bottom of my heart, thank you.
Really great video. Just one comment which could save you a lot of money. Once you take off the plenum/intake, cover up the intake ports with rags so that you don't accidently drop a nut, bolt, washer or anything else in there which will go directly into the cylinder and possibly destroy the pistons, valves or cylinder when you start the engine. I had a friend once drop a washer into his engine and didn't notice, by the time he figured out what happened, the washer jumped from cylinder to cylinder and destroyed the engine. Great day.
Only thing about this engine is the O ring plug seals cannot be replaced. You need to buy the entire valve cover in order to replace the 3 O ring seals. If not oil will leak into the cylinders. It's almost better to just replace the cover if you're replacing the gasket because the O rings will eventually fail.
I agree. I wish you lived near us. I would hire you to do this job. I think it probably needs this as when husband was changing cam shaft & crank shaft sensors they were oily. however we live in an apartment community & no garage. leaves will be falling............
Today I finished my sons spark plug and coil replacement using this video. You have no idea how helpful this was. It is a very labor intensive job and it took me a lot of hours, having never done anything this complex before. The truck is an 07 Xterra with 154,000 miles on it. Grey just like yours. I ordered the parts from my local CarQuest and I used NGK iridium plugs. It was expensive for all the parts but I don’t anticipate having to do this again for a while. I watch as many of your videos that relate to the xterra and you have taught me how to service this vehicle from differential fluid changes to transmission and transfer case fluids too. I was told by the owner of the Car Quest I go to that the stealership price for this would have been close to 2000 bucks ! I believe him too, because around here everything is mega expensive. The plugs were 12 ea. And the coils were a lot, 50 each. It works great , runs great and thank you for making these videos you help a lot of people.
I know you made this video years ago, but I literally just saw that I was leaking oil from the same covers, I was panicking, but my first search came to your channel! And I already followed you due to past projects on my second gen! I am very thankful you are the content creator you are, man. You have helped me and saved me money! Thank you, thank you.
Ive text you before on same problems I've experienced on my 06 Nissan frontier. Man talk about lemon, I've had so many problems on mine like recalled radiator cause it leaks into tranny, fuel pump, 3 cam crank sensors, catalytic converters, a/c, oil filter gasket housing leak, valve cover gaskets and only has 109 thous miles on it. Seems like my wife's 07 nissan sentra has more balls than the truck. And her Sentra has close to 200 thous miles
I absolutely love that you explain everything, and why, in each video! It helps me so much! I do watch other videos on Xterra “how to”, to get a well rounded understanding, but you are always my main “go to” because you’re so thorough and explanatory. Being a completely newbie, I have to go slow and be really deliberate when I work on my chariot 🚗. Thank you, RTCG!
Thank you. This video was instrumental in instilling confidence to do the swap, and more importantly, to figure out where the hoses went after putting down the project for a couple weeks with the intake removed.
Really appreciate you taking the time to do this. I'm about to replace the valve stem seals on my 210K Frontier 4.0 V6. This gets me most of the way there.
I'm 75 years old and my father's son. I did this job a few years ago on my 2011 Pathfinder when, in the process of changing spark plugs, i found oil in the #6 plug hole. Too cheap to pay anyone to do something I thought I could do, I watched this and other videos and bought new valve covers and gaskets from Nissan. The rubber seals for the plugs in the stock valve covers, if I'm not mistaken, are not replaceable. The valve covers were not terribly expensive. I took a lot of photos as I disconnected hoses and wires just to make sure I didn't miss anything. It was funny. While I had the engine apart, one of my neighbors wandered into the garage and asked what I was doing. I told him I'd started to change spark plugs, which require taking the plenium off and wound up much deeper. He listened and said, "I don't even know how to open the hood on my wife's car". It took me much of the day but I got it done by being patient. Had no wires or hoses that were left disconnected. I was sore for a week after but the feeling of success in these things is wonderful.
What an awesome story. The feeling of accomplishment is amazing when you get this kind of work done. I hope to still be working on cars when I'm 75 I could not imagine not even knowing how to open a hood but many people are like that! They are more than happy to just write a check and let someone else deal with it. I understand it but that's just not me.
I'm fixing to do this to my 09 xterra and while I'm in there I will be doing the o-rings around the spark plugs in the valve cover. Ain't no way that I'm going to do this job without doing those, ya gotta be crazy not to do that while you're in that deep. Awesome video buddy, keep it up. 👍
I don't need to do this yet but I just changed the valve cover gasket on my girlfriends Chrysler Sebring and it was like a 20 minute job and super easy I guess my frontier will be a little more serious lol. Thanks again per usual ry!!
This video is MONEY!! Thank you for the post! I did this job today on my 2007 Xterra and referred to the torque sequence using the classic German torque (good n tite). You can definitely feel when the final torque is applied. I will say, that the left (driver) side is more of a pain in the ass and it takes a special tool to remove the fuel line from the rail. I got a little ghetto with it and used two different sizes to get past the lip. I also busted the hose that links both valve covers together. I hope someone has it in stock tomorrow. Hopefully the leak is gone once i get it all reassembled. Tanks again!!
3 weeks ago I quit my job of 3 years to drive Uber/Lyft full time... of course 1 week later my truck started running like crap🤦♂️ and the few slow/small oil leaks from the valve cover I new about quickly got much worse. I've changed my oil & brake pads once. Needless to say I'm not very mechanically inclined & this video saved my ass! I believe the main issue was my throttle body on my '09 Frontier LE was so dirty it couldn't open. About to fire it up now 🤞🤞🤞
@@Rythecarguy went great! Needed to replace the throttle body though. Now I have a lifter issue. I put in some Marvel which helped but still need to replace in the near future. If there's anyway you could replace a lifter, that'd be phenomenal! Thanks again for the vid
Just took in my 2012 Xterra for the 100k mile spark plug job and was told that I had the same leak plus some oil on some of the spark plugs. Now that I watched your video I feel like the shop's recommendation to replace both valve covers was legitimate.
Just got it done took me around 6 hours and yes I am mechanically inclined. I think for passenger side getting all of the wire out of the brackets is most important and you don’t need to remove solenoid sensor at all. For driver side I found it a little more difficult do the all of the hoses crossing over and it was definitely tighter but honestly got it done faster cause I was more confident of the torquing down bolts without any torq wrenches. Going to wait 2 days before so I let that gasket maker beads fully cure. Wouldn’t really hate to do this shit again! Good luck everyone and be paint! Also have a long magnet tool to retrieve your bolts and nuts because they will fall😂
Thanks for the video I cleaned my air flow, throttle body and replaced my spark plugs Right side found the rubber/spring type gaskets around sparks plugs were all busted so will have to get a new valve cover. Made it pretty easy job just need to be patient with some tuff bolt locations
A few comments on an other wise great video; on my 06 Frontier but applies to most applications, every time you turned your dirty valve covers upside down over the valve train I cringed, a lot of sand and debris sits on those covers and is pretty loose, I would get the dirty covers far away from the internal engine areas before your turned it over, IMHO. You took off the off the cam solenoid adjuster on the passengers side but didn't mention it has a gasket attached to it, mine fell between the frame and the block. Also, drivers side, the last bolt towards the firewall takes a lot of skill and maybe a flex joint on a ratchet to get it out plus the fuel supply line has to be finagled around the valve cover when you slide it out on the drivers side. YMMV!
Thank You so much. I found that my 2008 Xterra needed valve cover gaskets after changing the spark plugs and finding oil on them. The shop is charging $300 for it. Hopefully with this video I can tackle it myself.
IloveNarutois15 I had the same problem on my 2010 Xterra. One of the spark plug tubes on the passenger side had oil in it. The reason it costs so much is that the spark plug tube seals on these valve covers are not replaceable, you have to replace the valve cover. I don't know why Nissan decided to make them that way. My valve cover was around $200 if I remember correctly.
@@barrynzay It's not called the stealership for nothing... Actually I just looked up the receipt from when I had that done and the dealers price for the valve cover was $63.41, the gasket was $11.90, and with labor it was $200.31. Since they were already in there doing a tune up they gave me a discount on the labor. They took off over $118 off of the total, but the discounts don't have a description with them so I don't know what's what. I'd say it was a premium price for sure, but not as much of a rip off as it probably sounded like originally. Now that I am more familiar with the VQ40 I wouldn't have any problem doing this myself. I had the dealer do it when I first got the truck.
My 2005 Xterra has a leak an sounds like air is coming out from the gasket an burning alot of gas is this the reason why is burning alot of gas thanks an you made a helpfulll video
Ry, did you have to remove the fuel line on the driver side that crosses over on top of the valve cover? If not did you put any adhesive on the valve cover to help the gasket from falling out for the driver side? I'm struggling to put that side on. He could give me any pointers, I would greatly appreciate it. Thanks and have a great day
i had a leak on one side of the valve cover... i purchased the gasket and read about sometimes when you remove a spark plug you find it covered in oil.. i had that issue and ordered the valve cover from nissan. so if you have a valve cover leak, i suggest buying the replacement valve cover for both sides to avoid doing the job twice :)
What do you think about using Bar’s Leaks fluid as a temporary fix? I don’t leak much fuel, but after driving for 30-45 minutes, I notice some smoke and a slow drip. I took it to a mechanic, and they said both valve covers need to be replaced. I've had my Xterra for 13 years, and I love it, but I've been facing a lot of issues lately. I’m on the fence about selling my 2006 Xterra SE. Recently, I changed all the spark plugs and coils, the Bank 1 oxygen sensor, and the crankshaft sensor. I also had to replace the exhaust after it fell off on the freeway due to rust. The brake rotors are also badly rusted. I’ve always taken the Xterra to the mountains and the beach, so the undercarriage is in rough shape. Replacing the exhaust was a nightmare; none of the bolts would come off easily. I replaced the transmission and radiator at 106,000 miles, and it currently has 223,000 miles. I would love to keep it running strong for many more years. It was my first car after high school, and I’ve always been diligent with maintenance and oil changes. However, money is tight right now, and while I want to drive it into the ground, I feel like it still has a lot of life left, especially with the new transmission at 106,000 miles. I've been watching your videos for years, Ry, and I greatly appreciate your channel. When I came across it, I couldn't believe how many videos you have on the Xterra; it’s been incredibly helpful, and you’ve taught me so much! any advice is greatly appreciated!
Thank you! great work sir!! I had oil in one of the spark plug wells. As I dove into this project to replace the gasket, I quickly learned that the spark plug tube O rings were not serviceable, even though O'reilly sold me a set of 6 O rings that were supposed to fit my vehicle, '11 pathy. So I realized I needed a new passenger side valve cover. (Amazon for $45, O-rings included) if you have any oil in the spark plug tubes, you really would want to replace the valve cover at this time! Thanks for this EXCELLENT VIDEO. Pathy running awesome!!
I has a similar experience with my 2011 Pathfinder and replaced both valve covers just to be safe. Don't really want to tackle that job again although it let me know I can do about anything. It was almost harder to replace the passenger side camshaft positioner sensor (do both and the Crankshaft)
Dude I attacked this over last weekend! I gotta donate you a six pack of beer or the monitory equivalent, having a visual on everything was insanely helpful, more than you know no doubt. If you got a paypal or a whatever let me know! It’s earned no doubt
Hey man. All I ask is that you sub and keep watching. It all helps. If you keep doing jobs and keep saving money maybe buy some merch one day. That helps me out and you still get something out of it. Glad to hear it helped!!
Think I have said this before ... your videos helped make my decision easier to buy an Xterra. I went with a 1st Gen and have been slowly bringing it back to life. Presently while trying to remove my valve cover ran into a screw that will not budge. Any advice?! Thanks
Ry, thanks for the walk through and tutorial. I noticed that I was getting that smell about a couple months ago on my 2006 Frontier. I noticed today that I had a couple drops of oil under the truck...grr...hate oil leaks. I found that both the driver side and passenger side valve covers are leaking. Thanks so much for the video again, I will be tackling this project next weekend.
I know this video is 7 years old, but I found it very helpful. Just need to know why the bolts should be taken off in that order. and where do I find the tork for the bolts. Dont want to ver tighten or leave them too losse. Thank you and hope to hear from anyone soon.
Great video. I was looking for a video on how to remove the plenum since Im having a clicking noise coming from my power control valve at 2200rpm. Apparently its easiest to just replace the entire plenum since it comes with the power control valve. Your video covered this perfectly plus Replacing the spark plugs. Well done.
Great video. about to attempt this myself. is it advisable to use an ODB II memory saver before disconnecting negative battery cable to save all the electronic information? or will this cause ECM issues?
Ry, I’m stuck working on the driver side cover. There’s an electrical cable that reaches over the cover and down the side, but I can’t figure out how to detach the clip. Can you give any pointers? By the way, super video! Thanks for putting this together.
Hi Ryan, I appreciate you taking the time to do this. The driver side seems to be notorious for springing a leak around the front corner where the RTV has to be applied. I had the dealership replace that side due to a leak when my truck was still under warranty and it started leaking two years later. I did my spark plugs about two years ago and replaced the covers and gaskets while I was at it. The slight leak at the corner has returned. Is yours still dry? I have a Frontier, so I am not sure if that has to do with anything, but many others on Clubfrontier have also spoke of the small leak on the driver's side with the VQ engine. Any insight you have is appreciated.
Thanks for the comment Dave. So far mine has been good. I think the quality of the gasket that you use has a lot to do with this as well. If you buy one one that does not have good fitment then it will leak. Changing planes on a gasket is just kind of a crappy design. It leads to bunching of the gasket and the perfect situation for leaks.
Just another heads up, if you take off the Cam Sensor, make sure to get new gaskets for them… mine fell apart when I took off the passenger side one… Thankfully local parts store had gaskets on hand. Only like $6 for two
Love this video! Appreciate your help. Question, how would the driver side go? There are a couple more hoses there that are in the way, do those just get disconnected?
@@Rythecarguy and you won’t have to relearn any sensors? I’ve seen in another video for spark plugs if you disconnect that sensor on the throttle body you have to relearn it or take it to a dealership
@@dabuckybeave5107 if you remove your negative battery cable first, then remove the sensors,do the job, then put the sensor in, then put the negative battery cable back in, and you should not have to relearn.
Nice can you show us how to remove oxygen sensor i got the tool but it seem it doesnt fit its 22 mm size and the place is so tight and oxygen sensor pigtail wire is so big didnt for normal type oxygen sensor tool
In every other car I’ve worked on, you can buy seals for the spark plug holes… the Xterra is ridiculous because they do leak and the only option you have is to replace the entire valve cover.
Yes, unfortunately every obstruction other than the fuel line needs to be pulled out of the way. The fuel line is tall enough that you can slide the valve cover under it so you don’t have to disconnect. Good thing cause you don’t want to have to deal with that unless absolutely needed.
My question to you is why did you not replace the tube seals while you were doing the valve cover gaskets also why did you not replace the intake gasket or the throttle body gasket.
Sorry to ask. I need to clarify. 'Torque specs: valve cover 1st pass is 17 inch lbs; 2nd pass is 71 or 74 inch lbs? Intake stud with nuts 8ft lbs; bolts are 61 inch or 5ft lbs. I will go over to 2nd Generation Xterra website.
That's most likely your transmission oil mixing with coolant. It's the radiators fault as there's a recall made years ago with faulty radiators. The lines brake internally mixing both liquid. The transmission fluid runs trough the radiator to cool off then returns to the transmission. Once this fault happens it will ruin your transmission very quick. Stop using vehicle and tow to a professional. Maybe a mayor flush and new radiator could save the day......maybe. Good luck.
Hey awesome videos! I'm looking into replacing my valve covers since at least one spark plug seal is leaking oil onto the top of my spark plug (rear passenger cylinder, so #5?). Question, are the cheaper valve covers kits you can get on eBay and Amazon just as good as Nissan factory? ($70 off brand vs. $115 for a Nissan warehouse supplied kit) I'm just concerned about quality of the seals, especially at the spark plugs!
I’m about to change the gaskets on my xterra 2009 , I recently changed my spark plugs and I noticed that there was a little oil on them but I was told that I need to replace the valve covers as well as the gaskets because the gasket rings for the spark plugs are not re service.
I'm pretty proficient but since it was a first-time thing I would say it took the better part of three hours actual work. I replaced both valve covers.
I can donate my 2006 nismo frontier for next video to its leaking bad 196000 miles still runs good n my oil gauge just went to the top so that needs done to ,my 7th nissan pickup I've never seen so many problems, had 86 hardcopy with 405000 original clutch best truck ever
Hi totally out of topic but I didn't see any related videos,i have a slip,vdc,and abs on,i changed the cam sensor bank 2 driver side. They are still on any tips ???
Ry, does 2nd Gen Xterra need valve adjustment? Some say, that valve clearence adjustement is needed every 40000 miles, especially if the vehicle is operated in extreme cold. Thank you!
I checked the FSM for you on this subject and it looks like no. It basically says that if it is out of spec then you just need to replace the valve lifter.
Ry, dude a bunch of neon green coolant shot out of one of the two throttle body hoses, seems like it was under a some pressure. You said a little might leak out. But this was way different than what you described. Would that cause some problems, because when I started the engine after it's all reassembled, the service engine light came on? No I haven't refilled to coolant yet. When I start it, I'm hearing some concerning noises lol. I'm def going to tow it to a legit spot. Also, I had no idea there were two valve covers, you didn't go into replacing the other one, why not?
Use a rubber mallet and bang the cover to get it loose. DO NOT USE A SCREW DRIVER! With a screw driver you'll create a groove on the matting surface which will not seal then it will leak oil.
Quick question if you still check the comments, I'm replacing the valve cover gaskets and spark plugs. Anything else you would suggest while I have the top of the motor torn apart?
Of course I do! Gotta help people out. :D You may want to consider the gaskets for the intake plenum and the throttle body. That is if you do not expect to take the top apart again for a long while. Other than that I think you should be good.
Job is complete, but when I turned on my pathfinder, I have very minimal brake pressure. If I recall, my pedal was pretty far down. I had to use my emergency brake to stop my pathfinder. Any thoughts why I lost my break pressure? suggestions? Thank you.
Awesome video Ry. I was wondering, since you removed the VVT solenoids did you replace the gaskets on them, and if you did do you happen to remember where you purchased them, I cannot seem to find them w/out purchasing the solenoids as well. Also, I replaced my Spark plugs and noticed that some had a little bit of oil deposit on them. Do you think is because of the grommets or the rubber inserts on teh valve covers are dried out and oil is sipping into the spark plug tubes? Thank you, and and thank to anyone that can answer my questions, much appreciate it.
Hey man thanks. I actually did a video on the VVT solenoids and you can find that here: th-cam.com/video/J_KSFoS7Bc0/w-d-xo.html In there I explained that I had to special order them from the dealership but they were very cheap. I should’ve also included the part number. Hope this helps. On the point about the oil, it could be the rubber seals on the inside of the spark plug Wells. Unless it’s a ton of oil I would not worry about it.
What’s the hose that’s connected to the intake that goes in the valve cover itself called? The one right next to the engine cover. I ended breaking the hose when replacing my Camshaft and crankshaft sensors.
![[#2024MAMA] ROSÉ (로제), Bruno Mars - APT. | Mnet 241122 방송](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/dgGqD28J6aQ/mqdefault.jpg)
Man. I tell you what your videos have been absolutely invaluable to me and a lot of us in the xterra community. Seriously man, thank you for what you do. This is what the internet is for.
You don't have a bunch of goofy intros or adverts you just share information in a informative, clear and accessible way. From the bottom of my heart, thank you.
L
Thank you also for the Video
agree
Really great video. Just one comment which could save you a lot of money. Once you take off the plenum/intake, cover up the intake ports with rags so that you don't accidently drop a nut, bolt, washer or anything else in there which will go directly into the cylinder and possibly destroy the pistons, valves or cylinder when you start the engine. I had a friend once drop a washer into his engine and didn't notice, by the time he figured out what happened, the washer jumped from cylinder to cylinder and destroyed the engine. Great day.
In the sea of countless Honda rebuilds and the such, you’re a hero to the owners of this fine truck.
Only thing about this engine is the O ring plug seals cannot be replaced. You need to buy the entire valve cover in order to replace the 3 O ring seals. If not oil will leak into the cylinders. It's almost better to just replace the cover if you're replacing the gasket because the O rings will eventually fail.
Truly
I agree. I wish you lived near us. I would hire you to do this job. I think it probably needs this as when husband was changing cam shaft & crank shaft sensors they were oily.
however we live in an apartment community & no garage. leaves will be falling............
Today I finished my sons spark plug and coil replacement using this video. You have no idea how helpful this was. It is a very labor intensive job and it took me a lot of hours, having never done anything this complex before. The truck is an 07 Xterra with 154,000 miles on it. Grey just like yours. I ordered the parts from my local CarQuest and I used NGK iridium plugs. It was expensive for all the parts but I don’t anticipate having to do this again for a while. I watch as many of your videos that relate to the xterra and you have taught me how to service this vehicle from differential fluid changes to transmission and transfer case fluids too. I was told by the owner of the Car Quest I go to that the stealership price for this would have been close to 2000 bucks ! I believe him too, because around here everything is mega expensive. The plugs were 12 ea. And the coils were a lot, 50 each. It works great , runs great and thank you for making these videos you help a lot of people.
I'm not ashamed to admit I lost a solid half hour looking for the final screw to get the intake collector off.
I know you made this video years ago, but I literally just saw that I was leaking oil from the same covers, I was panicking, but my first search came to your channel! And I already followed you due to past projects on my second gen! I am very thankful you are the content creator you are, man. You have helped me and saved me money! Thank you, thank you.
Glad I could help! Thanks so much for continuing to watch.
The same goes for me to.
You do a great job explaining things !!
@@Rythecarguy how long did it take you ? I just want to know so I can see what my mechanic says
Ive text you before on same problems I've experienced on my 06 Nissan frontier. Man talk about lemon, I've had so many problems on mine like recalled radiator cause it leaks into tranny, fuel pump, 3 cam crank sensors, catalytic converters, a/c, oil filter gasket housing leak, valve cover gaskets and only has 109 thous miles on it. Seems like my wife's 07 nissan sentra has more balls than the truck. And her Sentra has close to 200 thous miles
Dang, probably one of the best, easiest to follow how to car repair videos I have seen in a while, thanks!
Thanks!!
@@Rythecarguy aprox time to complete?
That tip about the RTV curing...priceless! I've watched quite a few videos and none of them mentioned that.
I absolutely love that you explain everything, and why, in each video! It helps me so much!
I do watch other videos on Xterra “how to”, to get a well rounded understanding, but you are always my main “go to” because you’re so thorough and explanatory. Being a completely newbie, I have to go slow and be really deliberate when I work on my chariot 🚗.
Thank you, RTCG!
Thank you. This video was instrumental in instilling confidence to do the swap, and more importantly, to figure out where the hoses went after putting down the project for a couple weeks with the intake removed.
Would you mind re-shooting this video again? Only this time using my Xterra LOL
🤣
It's the same
whitetail renegade not really. It would by “my vehicle getting done by him”. Therein lies the humor
Well done Job thanks how you change value stem seals on xterra 06
🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣
Really appreciate you taking the time to do this. I'm about to replace the valve stem seals on my 210K Frontier 4.0 V6. This gets me most of the way there.
I'm 75 years old and my father's son. I did this job a few years ago on my 2011 Pathfinder when, in the process of changing spark plugs, i found oil in the #6 plug hole. Too cheap to pay anyone to do something I thought I could do, I watched this and other videos and bought new valve covers and gaskets from Nissan. The rubber seals for the plugs in the stock valve covers, if I'm not mistaken, are not replaceable. The valve covers were not terribly expensive.
I took a lot of photos as I disconnected hoses and wires just to make sure I didn't miss anything.
It was funny. While I had the engine apart, one of my neighbors wandered into the garage and asked what I was doing. I told him I'd started to change spark plugs, which require taking the plenium off and wound up much deeper. He listened and said, "I don't even know how to open the hood on my wife's car".
It took me much of the day but I got it done by being patient. Had no wires or hoses that were left disconnected. I was sore for a week after but the feeling of success in these things is wonderful.
What an awesome story. The feeling of accomplishment is amazing when you get this kind of work done. I hope to still be working on cars when I'm 75 I could not imagine not even knowing how to open a hood but many people are like that! They are more than happy to just write a check and let someone else deal with it. I understand it but that's just not me.
This is exactly what I'm dealing with
I'm fixing to do this to my 09 xterra and while I'm in there I will be doing the o-rings around the spark plugs in the valve cover. Ain't no way that I'm going to do this job without doing those, ya gotta be crazy not to do that while you're in that deep. Awesome video buddy, keep it up. 👍
Thanks! Unfortunately the orients are molded into the valve covers. If you want to do the rings the whole thing needs to be replaced.
was having a hard time with this job earlier today, glad i found this video to help, ill have it knocked out tomorrow!
Glad it helped! 💪🏻
I don't need to do this yet but I just changed the valve cover gasket on my girlfriends Chrysler Sebring and it was like a 20 minute job and super easy I guess my frontier will be a little more serious lol. Thanks again per usual ry!!
252k miles on my first gen xterra. Runs great, zero rust.
Awesome!
This video is MONEY!! Thank you for the post! I did this job today on my 2007 Xterra and referred to the torque sequence using the classic German torque (good n tite). You can definitely feel when the final torque is applied. I will say, that the left (driver) side is more of a pain in the ass and it takes a special tool to remove the fuel line from the rail. I got a little ghetto with it and used two different sizes to get past the lip. I also busted the hose that links both valve covers together. I hope someone has it in stock tomorrow. Hopefully the leak is gone once i get it all reassembled. Tanks again!!
I just moved the fuel line to the front out of the way, tied it with a piece of string. Worked for me.
I wish you show @ 6:57 how the right valve cover was removed. Do you have a video for how to remove the right valve? Great job
Thank You for the time to do these correctly for us ....just did mine ...my leak was in the flute of the back sparkplug bay...
3 weeks ago I quit my job of 3 years to drive Uber/Lyft full time... of course 1 week later my truck started running like crap🤦♂️ and the few slow/small oil leaks from the valve cover I new about quickly got much worse. I've changed my oil & brake pads once. Needless to say I'm not very mechanically inclined & this video saved my ass! I believe the main issue was my throttle body on my '09 Frontier LE was so dirty it couldn't open. About to fire it up now 🤞🤞🤞
Hope it went well!!
@@Rythecarguy went great! Needed to replace the throttle body though. Now I have a lifter issue. I put in some Marvel which helped but still need to replace in the near future. If there's anyway you could replace a lifter, that'd be phenomenal! Thanks again for the vid
Just took in my 2012 Xterra for the 100k mile spark plug job and was told that I had the same leak plus some oil on some of the spark plugs. Now that I watched your video I feel like the shop's recommendation to replace both valve covers was legitimate.
Just got it done took me around 6 hours and yes I am mechanically inclined. I think for passenger side getting all of the wire out of the brackets is most important and you don’t need to remove solenoid sensor at all. For driver side I found it a little more difficult do the all of the hoses crossing over and it was definitely tighter but honestly got it done faster cause I was more confident of the torquing down bolts without any torq wrenches. Going to wait 2 days before so I let that gasket maker beads fully cure. Wouldn’t really hate to do this shit again! Good luck everyone and be paint! Also have a long magnet tool to retrieve your bolts and nuts because they will fall😂
Thanks for the video I cleaned my air flow, throttle body and replaced my spark plugs
Right side found the rubber/spring type gaskets around sparks plugs were all busted so will have to get a new valve cover. Made it pretty easy job just need to be patient with some tuff bolt locations
Great video, very well explained with no fluff. Thanks so much!
Glad it was helpful!
A few comments on an other wise great video; on my 06 Frontier but applies to most applications, every time you turned your dirty valve covers upside down over the valve train I cringed, a lot of sand and debris sits on those covers and is pretty loose, I would get the dirty covers far away from the internal engine areas before your turned it over, IMHO. You took off the off the cam solenoid adjuster on the passengers side but didn't mention it has a gasket attached to it, mine fell between the frame and the block. Also, drivers side, the last bolt towards the firewall takes a lot of skill and maybe a flex joint on a ratchet to get it out plus the fuel supply line has to be finagled around the valve cover when you slide it out on the drivers side. YMMV!
Thank you, thank you so much man!! Very helpful!! Had trouble finding a gasket for the VVT didn’t know what it was until you pointed it out!! 🎉
Glad it helped
@@Rythecarguyhow long did the job take
Subscribed. Very detailed thank you for taking the time to make a great video.
Glad you liked it!
Great video. Make sure the negative battery terminal is disconnected before unplugging anything electrical. If not, asking for ECM problems
Do you know if it is okay to use an ODB II memory saver to save electronic information? like idle, clock etc?
Thank You so much. I found that my 2008 Xterra needed valve cover gaskets after changing the spark plugs and finding oil on them. The shop is charging $300 for it. Hopefully with this video I can tackle it myself.
IloveNarutois15 I had the same problem on my 2010 Xterra. One of the spark plug tubes on the passenger side had oil in it. The reason it costs so much is that the spark plug tube seals on these valve covers are not replaceable, you have to replace the valve cover. I don't know why Nissan decided to make them that way. My valve cover was around $200 if I remember correctly.
@@Mike.D.843 OEM valve covers on amazon are about $50 per side. You got ripped off
@@barrynzay It's not called the stealership for nothing... Actually I just looked up the receipt from when I had that done and the dealers price for the valve cover was $63.41, the gasket was $11.90, and with labor it was $200.31. Since they were already in there doing a tune up they gave me a discount on the labor. They took off over $118 off of the total, but the discounts don't have a description with them so I don't know what's what. I'd say it was a premium price for sure, but not as much of a rip off as it probably sounded like originally. Now that I am more familiar with the VQ40 I wouldn't have any problem doing this myself. I had the dealer do it when I first got the truck.
$300 for a valve cover gasket replacement is not bad at all.
could you make a video of how to clean the catalytic converter?
thank you for all of your help
Nice video and easy to follow your instructions.
Thanks!
My 2005 Xterra has a leak an sounds like air is coming out from the gasket an burning alot of gas is this the reason why is burning alot of gas thanks an you made a helpfulll video
Ry Ry Ry Ry my man, 😎
by any chance do you have a video
on how to change the lifters on a
2006 Nissan Xterra ?🤠
2 2 2 2 2 2 My man,
Unfortunately I do not have a
video on that subject. Sorry about that 👦🏻
just did it today, and i have a p0507 for your next video. thanks for you video.
Ry, did you have to remove the fuel line on the driver side that crosses over on top of the valve cover? If not did you put any adhesive on the valve cover to help the gasket from falling out for the driver side? I'm struggling to put that side on. He could give me any pointers, I would greatly appreciate it. Thanks and have a great day
i had a leak on one side of the valve cover... i purchased the gasket and read about sometimes when you remove a spark plug you find it covered in oil.. i had that issue and ordered the valve cover from nissan.
so if you have a valve cover leak, i suggest buying the replacement valve cover for both sides to avoid doing the job twice :)
What do you think about using Bar’s Leaks fluid as a temporary fix? I don’t leak much fuel, but after driving for 30-45 minutes, I notice some smoke and a slow drip. I took it to a mechanic, and they said both valve covers need to be replaced.
I've had my Xterra for 13 years, and I love it, but I've been facing a lot of issues lately. I’m on the fence about selling my 2006 Xterra SE. Recently, I changed all the spark plugs and coils, the Bank 1 oxygen sensor, and the crankshaft sensor. I also had to replace the exhaust after it fell off on the freeway due to rust.
The brake rotors are also badly rusted. I’ve always taken the Xterra to the mountains and the beach, so the undercarriage is in rough shape. Replacing the exhaust was a nightmare; none of the bolts would come off easily. I replaced the transmission and radiator at 106,000 miles, and it currently has 223,000 miles. I would love to keep it running strong for many more years. It was my first car after high school, and I’ve always been diligent with maintenance and oil changes.
However, money is tight right now, and while I want to drive it into the ground, I feel like it still has a lot of life left, especially with the new transmission at 106,000 miles. I've been watching your videos for years, Ry, and I greatly appreciate your channel. When I came across it, I couldn't believe how many videos you have on the Xterra; it’s been incredibly helpful, and you’ve taught me so much! any advice is greatly appreciated!
Great Video. How did you remove the electric connector ( in the video it is at 7.34 seconds). Can you please do it step by step.
Thank you! great work sir!! I had oil in one of the spark plug wells. As I dove into this project to replace the gasket, I quickly learned that the spark plug tube O rings were not serviceable, even though O'reilly sold me a set of 6 O rings that were supposed to fit my vehicle, '11 pathy. So I realized I needed a new passenger side valve cover. (Amazon for $45, O-rings included) if you have any oil in the spark plug tubes, you really would want to replace the valve cover at this time! Thanks for this EXCELLENT VIDEO. Pathy running awesome!!
I has a similar experience with my 2011 Pathfinder and replaced both valve covers just to be safe. Don't really want to tackle that job again although it let me know I can do about anything. It was almost harder to replace the passenger side camshaft positioner sensor (do both and the Crankshaft)
Thank you for making this video, it's very educational...! 👍😊
Dude I attacked this over last weekend! I gotta donate you a six pack of beer or the monitory equivalent, having a visual on everything was insanely helpful, more than you know no doubt.
If you got a paypal or a whatever let me know! It’s earned no doubt
Hey man. All I ask is that you sub and keep watching. It all helps. If you keep doing jobs and keep saving money maybe buy some merch one day. That helps me out and you still get something out of it. Glad to hear it helped!!
Think I have said this before ... your videos helped make my decision easier to buy an Xterra. I went with a 1st Gen and have been slowly bringing it back to life.
Presently while trying to remove my valve cover ran into a screw that will not budge.
Any advice?!
Thanks
can you do a video on replacing the fuel rail, injectors and other components?
Ry, thanks for the walk through and tutorial. I noticed that I was getting that smell about a couple months ago on my 2006 Frontier. I noticed today that I had a couple drops of oil under the truck...grr...hate oil leaks. I found that both the driver side and passenger side valve covers are leaking. Thanks so much for the video again, I will be tackling this project next weekend.
I need to do my coils this video is gunna help alot !! Thanks
Glad I could help
I know this video is 7 years old, but I found it very helpful. Just need to know why the bolts should be taken off in that order. and where do I find the tork for the bolts. Dont want to ver tighten or leave them too losse. Thank you and hope to hear from anyone soon.
Great video. I was looking for a video on how to remove the plenum since Im having a clicking noise coming from my power control valve at 2200rpm. Apparently its easiest to just replace the entire plenum since it comes with the power control valve. Your video covered this perfectly plus Replacing the spark plugs. Well done.
I am waiting for your video on the cylinder head gasket and valve seals...
Great video man thanks. Very informative and professional. Your my new favorite...lol.
Haha awesome. Thanks for watching man. :)
Thanks keep up the great job posting its helping me a lot
Great video. about to attempt this myself. is it advisable to use an ODB II memory saver before disconnecting negative battery cable to save all the electronic information? or will this cause ECM issues?
Ry, I’m stuck working on the driver side cover. There’s an electrical cable that reaches over the cover and down the side, but I can’t figure out how to detach the clip. Can you give any pointers? By the way, super video! Thanks for putting this together.
Hi Ryan, I appreciate you taking the time to do this. The driver side seems to be notorious for springing a leak around the front corner where the RTV has to be applied. I had the dealership replace that side due to a leak when my truck was still under warranty and it started leaking two years later. I did my spark plugs about two years ago and replaced the covers and gaskets while I was at it. The slight leak at the corner has returned. Is yours still dry? I have a Frontier, so I am not sure if that has to do with anything, but many others on Clubfrontier have also spoke of the small leak on the driver's side with the VQ engine. Any insight you have is appreciated.
Thanks for the comment Dave. So far mine has been good. I think the quality of the gasket that you use has a lot to do with this as well. If you buy one one that does not have good fitment then it will leak. Changing planes on a gasket is just kind of a crappy design. It leads to bunching of the gasket and the perfect situation for leaks.
Magnificently done thank you
My pleasure! Thanks for watching.
Thank you, very helpful video.
Its a lot more annoying than changing an s2000 valve cover gasket but it will tackle this
Just another heads up, if you take off the Cam Sensor, make sure to get new gaskets for them… mine fell apart when I took off the passenger side one… Thankfully local parts store had gaskets on hand. Only like $6 for two
Great tip!
Great video. Helpful
Great Video and Excellent Job....
Love this video! Appreciate your help. Question, how would the driver side go? There are a couple more hoses there that are in the way, do those just get disconnected?
Yep! Just remove those. The only one you want to avoid removing is the fuel line or any AC lines. You will just have to work around them.
@@Rythecarguy and you won’t have to relearn any sensors? I’ve seen in another video for spark plugs if you disconnect that sensor on the throttle body you have to relearn it or take it to a dealership
@@dabuckybeave5107 if you remove your negative battery cable first, then remove the sensors,do the job, then put the sensor in, then put the negative battery cable back in, and you should not have to relearn.
@@dabuckybeave5107 but I do have a throttle position relearn video if you need it. No need to take it to the dealer.
Did I miss the torque specs for the cam piece you took off in front of passenger side front cover?
Nice can you show us how to remove oxygen sensor i got the tool but it seem it doesnt fit its 22 mm size and the place is so tight and oxygen sensor pigtail wire is so big didnt for normal type oxygen sensor tool
hi nice tutorial !!!! Would you happen to know where are the knock sensor located ?
Yep, they are located under the intake manifold and they are screwed directly into the cylinder heads on the inside of the V.
I would also consider buying a new valve cover with higher mileage. Mine ran about $70 but the spark plug well gaskets are built in and old.
FYI, bolts don’t need to be taken off in a specific order, then need to be put on in a specific order.
In every other car I’ve worked on, you can buy seals for the spark plug holes… the Xterra is ridiculous because they do leak and the only option you have is to replace the entire valve cover.
Wow, that looks so complicated. Not sure I can pull off this repair!
You can do it! 👍🏻👍🏻
You are good. I enjoyed your videos.
Hey, I am curious to know if all that disassembly is required to replace the driver side? Just looks more accessible at a quick glance.
Thanks
Yes, unfortunately every obstruction other than the fuel line needs to be pulled out of the way. The fuel line is tall enough that you can slide the valve cover under it so you don’t have to disconnect. Good thing cause you don’t want to have to deal with that unless absolutely needed.
My question to you is why did you not replace the tube seals while you were doing the valve cover gaskets also why did you not replace the intake gasket or the throttle body gasket.
Tube seals are integrated into the valve cover gasket and those were fine.
great, do you still have the Xterra?
Oh yea. Drive it all the time
Hello Ry just a question how to change head gaskets on Xterra
Excellent!
👍🏻💪🏻
Awesome video but for the record folks you don’t need to remove the throttle body just the hoses
Good tip!
Sorry to ask. I need to clarify. 'Torque specs: valve cover 1st pass is 17 inch lbs; 2nd pass is 71 or 74 inch lbs? Intake stud with nuts 8ft lbs; bolts are 61 inch or 5ft lbs. I will go over to 2nd Generation Xterra website.
A bit off topic here, but have you ever came across a oil mixture in the radiators coolant?
That's most likely your transmission oil mixing with coolant. It's the radiators fault as there's a recall made years ago with faulty radiators. The lines brake internally mixing both liquid. The transmission fluid runs trough the radiator to cool off then returns to the transmission. Once this fault happens it will ruin your transmission very quick. Stop using vehicle and tow to a professional. Maybe a mayor flush and new radiator could save the day......maybe. Good luck.
Hey awesome videos! I'm looking into replacing my valve covers since at least one spark plug seal is leaking oil onto the top of my spark plug (rear passenger cylinder, so #5?).
Question, are the cheaper valve covers kits you can get on eBay and Amazon just as good as Nissan factory? ($70 off brand vs. $115 for a Nissan warehouse supplied kit) I'm just concerned about quality of the seals, especially at the spark plugs!
My god what a job
barks worse than its bite.
I’m about to change the gaskets on my xterra 2009 , I recently changed my spark plugs and I noticed that there was a little oil on them but I was told that I need to replace the valve covers as well as the gaskets because the gasket rings for the spark plugs are not re service.
Very true. They are part of the valve cover.
Great video. How long should it take to do this job?
If you're proficient it should be about an hour per side.
I'm pretty proficient but since it was a first-time thing I would say it took the better part of three hours actual work. I replaced both valve covers.
What tool for the throttle body bolts? Allen or torx? Size? I can't find anything to fit.
Ry you showed two different bolt patterns is it different for the right and left sides?
Maybe a stupid question but i saw 2 gaskets did you do both sides or do both go on one side?
I did both. One per side. Not a stupid question at all. 😄. Have a great day.
I can donate my 2006 nismo frontier for next video to its leaking bad 196000 miles still runs good n my oil gauge just went to the top so that needs done to ,my 7th nissan pickup I've never seen so many problems, had 86 hardcopy with 405000 original clutch best truck ever
Hi totally out of topic but I didn't see any related videos,i have a slip,vdc,and abs on,i changed the cam sensor bank 2 driver side. They are still on any tips ???
Did you only do the passenger side valve cover or is there another video where you do the driver side?
I demonstrate on one side but they are both the same.
Ry, does 2nd Gen Xterra need valve adjustment? Some say, that valve clearence adjustement is needed every 40000 miles, especially if the vehicle is operated in extreme cold. Thank you!
I checked the FSM for you on this subject and it looks like no. It basically says that if it is out of spec then you just need to replace the valve lifter.
@@Rythecarguy Thank Ry!!!
Thanks for the xterra vids! Do you happen to remember or know if the spark plug tube seals are serviceable? Or do I need a whole new valve cover?
They are integrated into the valve covers. I did however do a valve cover video. Take a look at my Nissan Xterra repair playlist for it.
Ry, dude a bunch of neon green coolant shot out of one of the two throttle body hoses, seems like it was under a some pressure. You said a little might leak out. But this was way different than what you described. Would that cause some problems, because when I started the engine after it's all reassembled, the service engine light came on? No I haven't refilled to coolant yet. When I start it, I'm hearing some concerning noises lol. I'm def going to tow it to a legit spot. Also, I had no idea there were two valve covers, you didn't go into replacing the other one, why not?
I realize this is far after the fact, I opened up the coolqnt reservoir to relieve the pressure
I love that sigh at minute 2:50.
Job well done
GREAT XTERRA.
Thanks!
Use a rubber mallet and bang the cover to get it loose. DO NOT USE A SCREW DRIVER! With a screw driver you'll create a groove on the matting surface which will not seal then it will leak oil.
Quick question if you still check the comments, I'm replacing the valve cover gaskets and spark plugs. Anything else you would suggest while I have the top of the motor torn apart?
Of course I do! Gotta help people out. :D
You may want to consider the gaskets for the intake plenum and the throttle body. That is if you do not expect to take the top apart again for a long while. Other than that I think you should be good.
hi there how was your nissan is there any engine leak after this repair?
Nope, that's why I did the repair, to stop a leak.
Job is complete, but when I turned on my pathfinder, I have very minimal brake pressure. If I recall, my pedal was pretty far down. I had to use my emergency brake to stop my pathfinder. Any thoughts why I lost my break pressure? suggestions? Thank you.
power brakes rely on vacuum. I suggest a hose not connected or broken in the process
Thanks so much for this brother
what could happen if you try and remove the throttle body bolts in the wrong order ?
Removing them in the wrong orders is really not a big deal. Just wanna make sure you put them back in a crisscross pattern. Just so it seals right
Awesome video Ry. I was wondering, since you removed the VVT solenoids did you replace the gaskets on them, and if you did do you happen to remember where you purchased them, I cannot seem to find them w/out purchasing the solenoids as well. Also, I replaced my Spark plugs and noticed that some had a little bit of oil deposit on them. Do you think is because of the grommets or the rubber inserts on teh valve covers are dried out and oil is sipping into the spark plug tubes? Thank you, and and thank to anyone that can answer my questions, much appreciate it.
Hey man thanks. I actually did a video on the VVT solenoids and you can find that here: th-cam.com/video/J_KSFoS7Bc0/w-d-xo.html In there I explained that I had to special order them from the dealership but they were very cheap. I should’ve also included the part number. Hope this helps. On the point about the oil, it could be the rubber seals on the inside of the spark plug Wells. Unless it’s a ton of oil I would not worry about it.
Thanks Ry
Yes, i saw that video ordered the gaskets. THank you for posting that too.
Control Valve Solenoid gasket
Part Number: 23797-ZA000
Supersession(s): 23797ZA000
Fits Xterra (2005 - 2015)
How much should I expect to pay for a job like that ??
Why do you need to take the bolts off in such a specific order? 8:28
What’s the hose that’s connected to the intake that goes in the valve cover itself called? The one right next to the engine cover. I ended breaking the hose when replacing my Camshaft and crankshaft sensors.
I think you’re talking about PCV hose