My 2005 sentra is jerking. One nissan dealership says it needs a new air compressor. Another nissan dealership says the computer needs to be reset. which one is the best option and can I reset the computer myself?

Both sound like bad advice.
To reset:
Go to AutoZone and get a scan of the fault code and a print-out (all free services). Then have them reset the unit (after you get the fault codes).
Let us know awhat the fault codes are and whet the print-out says (summary).

The computer can not be updated (reset) at home. what they are talking about is an update of the computers firmware like that of a cell phone. This can only be done at a dealer and should be done for free. I would say it is definatley NOT an air compressor

The P1278 is air fuel ratio out of range error.

Under un-related recall the deal will flash the engine ECU/computer for free.


RemedyDEALERS WILL REPROGRAM THE ECM FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ONAUGUST 21, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT NISSAN AT 1-800-647-7261.


Most likely cause are air leak into the intake manifold.
Exhaust gas leaks
dirty PCV (cheap fix / check hoses and plastic parts around PCV valve)
Mass air flow sensor (MAP)

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Unrelated info.

Did you get a letter from Nissan for the Sentra recall on 2006?

JUL 07, 2006 | Recall ID# 81936
Recall Reason ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING Recall Date JUL 07, 2006 Model Affected SENTRA Potential Units Affected 294166
Recall SummaryON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH A 2.5L ENGINE, THE CRANKANGLE SENSOR IS AFFECTED BY TEMPERATURE VARIATIONS. UNDER CERTAINDRIVING CONDITIONS, THESE VARIATIONS IN TEMPERATURE CAN BE LARGE ENOUGHTO CAUSE A BRIEF INTERRUPTION IN THE SIGNAL OUTPUT FROM THE SENSOR.

ConsequenceIF THE INTERRUPTION IN THE SIGNAL FROM THE SENSOR IS SO BRIEF THAT THEELECTRONIC CONTROL MODULE (ECM) LOGIC DOES NOT HAVE TIME TO DIAGNOSETHE CONDITION, THE ENGINE MAY STOP RUNNING WITHOUT WARNING WHILE THE VEHICLE IS DRIVEN AT A LOW SPEED INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.

RemedyDEALERS WILL REPROGRAM THE ECM FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ONAUGUST 21, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT NISSAN AT 1-800-647-7261.

Notes NISSAN NORTH AMERICA, INC. R0606

I know on a 2000 grand am you can reset comp. by leaving the key in the on position for 10 mins and then turn it off for 10 seconds then start the car i'm not sure if it will work for yours though