2001 Nissan Sentra 2.0L P0001 DTC: Fuel Volume Regulator Control Circuit Open - Idle Stalls When Steering is Turned

P0001 on a 2001 Nissan Sentra may be a false positive. Check if idle remains stable when no steering load is applied. The IAC valve should adjust idle under load. If it's not functioning properly, cleaning or replacement of the IAC and throttle body might help. Also, verify whether shifting from park to drive or reverse causes stalling.

The car starts fine initially, but when turning left or right with the foot brake applied, idle fails to compensate — it drops and leads to a stall. This happens most of the time, not consistently. I've already cleaned the IAC valve, mass airflow sensor, and throttle body. OBD-II shows only P0001; no other fault codes are present.

Shifting into drive or reverse is fine as long as the steering wheel remains straight. Stalling occurs only when turning. The engine starts immediately after stalling, and idle returns to normal without issues. Thanks for the input!

The power steering oil pressure switch sends an idle-up signal to the ECM. Locate this sensor — it should provide a ground signal to the ECM when under load (see BBBind.com schematic). Test the sensor and wiring for proper operation.

I measured resistance between terminals: 15.5 ohms when steering is fully turned left or right, 12.5 ohms when straight ahead, and 4.74 VDC with engine running. I tested the right terminal to ground — it reads correctly. The stalling is intermittent, which makes diagnosis challenging. I will now inspect the IAC valve and its mounting connection for any issues. Thanks again!

To confirm the power steering switch function: disconnect the harness from the switch and use a multimeter to test continuity between the two wires. With the wheel straight, you should read infinite resistance (no continuity). When turning hard left or right, it should show zero ohms (continuity). Voltage reading to ground with the switch connected should be 0V when closed. If RPM spikes briefly at start and then returns to normal, IAC is likely working. If idle fluctuates as steering cycles, that indicates IAC function. If idle doesn't increase under load, suspect a faulty power steering switch or wiring — possibly even the PCM.

Hello — it's been some time since I received a response. I've tried every possible fix on my 2001 Nissan Sentra SE 2.0L, but nothing has resolved the issue. Has anyone found a solution for this P0001-related stalling problem in their Sentra? Any help would be much appreciated.

Did you test the power steering switch and wiring for proper function? Does the engine idle up when turning hard left or right at times, or only occasionally?

Today, when I started the car in park, I had to press the accelerator slightly while turning the wheel — otherwise, the idle would fluctuate as I turned. A squealing noise also came from either the steering pump or rack and pinion. Could this be related? Is it the power steering pump or rack/pinion causing the issue? Any suggestions for others with similar problems?

Check fluid levels — ensure they are proper and there are no leaks. Some noise during extreme turns is normal, but if turning effort increases, it may indicate a failing power steering pump.

I disconnected the wiring harness from the power steering switch, and the stalling improved slightly. When turning gently, the engine no longer stalls at idle. However, even with the harness removed, the PCM still detects steering input and causes idle to drop — why? This remains a mystery. I'm still searching for a root cause and would appreciate any feedback from others who have resolved this issue.

I solved this on a similar model. Carefully inspect the two vacuum hoses connecting the steering rack to the air filter housing or intake manifold — these control idle response during turns. If they are clogged or disconnected, timing may be off. Check and replace if necessary.

Even with the power steering switch harness disconnected, why does the PCM still detect steering input? Idle drops when load is applied unless the PSS signals increased pressure to the ECM. What is your idle RPM when straight ahead? How much does it drop during a turn before stalling? Verify the operation of the power steering switch and circuit using proper diagnostic procedures (see BBBind.com schematic).

To all Nissan Sentra owners: If your 2001 Sentra 2.0L SE stalls at idle when turning, try opening the steering column cover and disconnecting the brown wire for the steering lock deterrent. This resolved my issue — I suspect it was interfering with sensor signals. After this fix, the car no longer stumbles during turns. Note: This is a security feature meant to prevent theft; if you choose to remove it, consider replacing the ignition switch. I hope this helps others facing the same problem. Anyone who tried this solution — please reply! Thanks, Ardie