[SuicideCharley]

Today my '01 started stumbling and the SES light came on. Slight stumble at idle, smoothed out on acceleration. Got back in later in the morning and the stumbling was worse at all speeds, a bit smoother at around 3000 rpm the SES began flashing constantly. Came to a stop and the SES stopped flashing but was on, still rough running. Took off from the light and the SES began flashing again, running as rough as before.

I popped the hood while it was running in the driveway once I got to a buddy's house and I could hear a constant but not rhythmic "snapping", sort of random, coming from the passenger side on the top of the engine. Its clear and distinct like electrical snapping. I tried putting my code reader on it but it won't link so I have no codes at the moment. I haven't tried putting it into diagnostic mode just yet either. I won't be able to go back for a few more hours. Not sure if this has been happening and it got worse or not but has anyone experienced something like this before?

 

[SuicideCharley]

Not able to get it into diagnostic mode, unable to pull codes. Probably taking it to the shop tomorrow.

 

[Ben Pedersen]

I think that if you have a cylinder misfire the light will flash. You should be able to pull a code off of it. If it's just one cylinder it could be an easy fix of a distributor cap, rotor, plug wire, or plug. That's all the experience that I have, however. I'd just bring it somewhere to make sure you get the codes read then people on here can help you out a lot better.

 

[SuicideCharley]

I think that if you have a cylinder misfire the light will flash. You should be able to pull a code off of it. If it's just one cylinder it could be an easy fix of a distributor cap, rotor, plug wire, or plug. That's all the experience that I have, however. I'd just bring it somewhere to make sure you get the codes read then people on here can help you out a lot better.

Unfortunately, I am not able to pull any codes.

 

[SuicideCharley]

Started up the xterra in my garage, where the lighting isn't good, and saw a some slight arching happening from two of my plug wires. Replaced and the problem is no longer there.

 

[Ben Pedersen]

Glad to hear it!

 

[WhatNext]

Was gonna say the snapping sound could be electric arc-ing but you found it and easy to fix with new spark wires.

Looks like a miniature lightning storm.