P0305 on Nissan: How to Diagnose & Fix
Cylinder 5 Misfire Detected
2 Nissan models · 3 documented issues · $150-$1,500 repair
P0305 on Nissan by model: symptoms, diagnosis and fix
The 2017+ Armada uses the VK56VD 5.6L V8 with VVEL (Variable Valve Event and Lift) which is prone to solenoid and actuator failures. The VVEL solenoids can stick or fail, causing rough idle, misfires, and reduced power. This is a common issue shared with the Infiniti QX80. Replacement requires removing the intake manifold.
Common Symptoms
- Rough idle
- Check engine light with P0011/P0021 codes
- Reduced engine power
- Engine misfires
- Ticking noise from valve train
- Poor fuel economy
How to Fix
Replace VVEL solenoids (part# 23796-1LA0C). Both banks should be done simultaneously. The repair requires intake manifold removal and takes 4-6 hours labor. Total cost: $800-1,500. Use genuine Nissan solenoids for reliability.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
- Genuine Nissan VVEL actuator motor 23753-1LA0B
Quantity two exists per vehicle, but replace only the diagnosed bank and confirm VIN/build date.
- Genuine Nissan VVEL actuator motor 23753-1LA1B
Replace only the diagnosed bank and confirm VIN/build date/current supersession.
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Sources for this issue (1)
The VQ35DE engine in the 6th and 7th generation Maxima is prone to ignition coil failure. Coils typically fail one at a time, causing misfires on the affected cylinder. The rear bank (cylinders 1-3) coils fail more frequently due to heat soak from the firewall proximity. Coil failure is especially common after 60,000-80,000 miles and is one of the most reported Maxima issues.
Common Symptoms
- Engine misfire and rough idle
- Check engine light flashing
- Loss of power and hesitation
- Rough acceleration
- Increased fuel consumption
How to Fix
Replace failed ignition coil(s). It is recommended to replace all 6 coils at the same time along with spark plugs to prevent repeat failures. OEM Nissan coils cost $40-60 each; quality aftermarket (Hitachi, Denso) $25-40 each. Total parts for all 6: $150-360. Labor: $150-300 (rear bank is harder to access). DIY-friendly on front bank.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
- Genuine Nissan 2004-2008 ignition coil 22448-8J11C
Use only 2004-2008 Maxima and confirm VIN/supersession; sold individually.
- Genuine Nissan 2009-2014 ignition coil 22448-JA11C
Use only 2009-2014 Maxima and confirm VIN/supersession; sold individually.
- Genuine Nissan spark plug 22401-5M014 / NGK PLFR4A-11
Confirm VIN, production date, heat range and required quantity; do not substitute across every 2004-2008 car by year alone.
- Genuine Nissan spark plug 22401-ZE01B / NGK PLFR5A-11
Confirm VIN, production date, heat range and unusual package quantity before ordering; engine requires six plugs, not ten.
- Genuine Nissan 2009-2014 spark plug 22401-EW61C / NGK PLFR4A-11
Use only after confirming 2009-2014 Maxima, VIN, installed plug and seller package quantity; engine requires six.
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.
The molded rubber gasket and the integral spark plug tube seals in the VQ valve covers harden and take a compression set. The rear (firewall-side) cover fails first because it runs hotter and is the hardest to access. Oil weeps down the back of the block and burns off on the exhaust - the classic hot-oil smell with no drip on the driveway - and oil fills the spark plug tubes, most often cylinder 5. Oil in the well soaks the coil boot, causing a misfire that is routinely misdiagnosed as a failed coil. On the later plastic covers the plug tube seals are molded into the cover and cannot be serviced separately.
Common Symptoms
- Burning oil smell after driving with no puddle underneath
- Oil pooled in spark plug tubes, usually cylinder 5
- Misfire or rough idle traced to an oil-soaked coil boot
- Oil residue down the back of the engine and on the bellhousing
- Slowly dropping oil level
How to Fix
Replace both valve cover gaskets with genuine Nissan parts, clean the mating surfaces completely and use RTV only at the cam cap step joints. If oil has been sitting in the plug wells, replace the coil boots (or coils, if already breaking down) and the spark plugs. On the early aluminum-cover cars owners commonly swap to the revised 2004-and-up valve cover; on plastic-cover cars with worn tube seals the entire cover assembly must be replaced, not just the gasket. Also confirm the PCV valve is not stuck, since crankcase pressure blows out the fresh gasket.
Sources for this issue (3)
P0305 code reference
General diagnostic-code context. The code alone does not confirm a cause for your vehicle; use the applicable issue card and its sources.
Frequently asked questions
What does P0305 mean on a Nissan?
P0305 stands for "Cylinder 5 Misfire Detected." This code means the engine control module detected a misfire on cylinder number 5, meaning that cylinder is not burning its air-fuel mixture properly on some combustion cycles. The computer senses misfires by watching for tiny fluctuations in crankshaft speed each time a cylinder fails to fire correctly. A misfire wastes fuel, can make the engine run rough or shake, and dumps unburned fuel into the exhaust, which can overheat and damage the catalytic converter. It generally points to a problem with spark, fuel delivery, or compression specifically affecting cylinder 5. On Nissan it is documented across 2 models: Armada, Maxima.
What are the most common causes of P0305?
The most common causes of P0305 are: Worn or fouled spark plug on cylinder 5, Failed ignition coil or coil pack for cylinder 5, Faulty or clogged fuel injector on cylinder 5, Vacuum or intake air leak affecting that cylinder, Bad spark plug wire or boot (on applicable engines), Low compression from worn rings, valves, or head gasket, Carbon buildup or sticking valve on cylinder 5, Lean or rich fuel condition affecting the cylinder. The specific cause varies by vehicle.
How much does it cost to fix P0305 on a Nissan?
Published repair estimates on Nissan range from $150 to $1,500 depending on the model and root cause. If an issue mentions a recall or campaign, check your VIN with the manufacturer or NHTSA and confirm eligibility and coverage with a dealer.
Looking for P0305 on a different make?
View P0305 across all makes →Content compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, and owner reports. May contain errors. Always verify with your vehicle's service manual.