Nissan Maxima A35 (2009–2014) – High Trim Troubleshooting Guide
This guide covers common issues for High Trim vehicles (e.g., BOSE audio, factory amplifier, more complex CAN settings). Follow the steps by category.
Audio / BOSE & Amplifier
Issue: No sound at all
- Confirm harness type: High trim needs the BOSE-compatible harness/decoder. Compare with the packing list. (If different, take a photo and contact us.)
- Enable BOSE in settings: Settings → Sound / Factory → Audio Type → select BOSE / Amplified, then reboot the unit.
- AMP-CON (amp turn-on) wire: Ensure the blue or blue/white AMP-CON/ANT lead from the head unit is connected to the vehicle amp turn-on input (12V when on ACC). Without it, the amp stays off → no sound.
- RCA routing: If your kit uses RCA outputs for front L/R, make sure they’re connected to the harness inputs for the OEM amp. Avoid mixing RCA with high-level speaker outputs.
- Check balance/fade: Make sure balance/fade is centered and volume limit isn’t enabled.
Issue: Distortion or only some speakers work
- Verify you are not feeding the BOSE amp with amplified (speaker-level) outputs. Use line-level RCA as required by your harness.
- Re-seat the harness blocks firmly; inspect bent pins. (
[IMG: BOSE harness pinout]
) - Try another Audio Type profile under Factory settings, then reboot.
A/C & CAN Settings
Issue: A/C panel not responsive / wrong display
- Select the correct CAN protocol: Settings → Car Model / CANBUS → choose the exact Maxima A35 High Trim profile → reboot.
-
Re-check A/C adapter connection: Make sure the dedicated A/C adapter is fully seated in the head-unit port and the vehicle plug. (
[IMG: A/C adapter plug]
) - Update protocol online: Connect Wi-Fi → open Protocol Update / App Store → update A/C/CAN protocols → reboot and test.
- Factory reset (last resort): Backup settings → perform factory reset → re-apply the correct CAN profile.
Steering Wheel Controls (SWC)
Issue: Buttons don’t work or are mapped incorrectly
- CAN profile first: Ensure the correct Car Model / CANBUS profile is active.
- Re-learn SWC: Settings → SWC / Steering Wheel → long-press a function → press the wheel button to bind → save.
- Check SWC plug: Some harnesses have a dedicated SWC/Key wire block—confirm it’s connected.
Reverse Camera / Video
Issue: No reverse image
-
Video input: Make sure the camera RCA is connected to the unit’s Rear/Reverse-In port (not AUX-In). (
[IMG: Reverse-In port]
) - Reverse trigger: Ensure the reverse trigger signal (12V when in R) reaches the unit via CAN or dedicated wire (REV / BACK). Check your harness diagram.
- Format / polarity: In Camera settings, toggle AHD/CVBS (if available) and adjust trigger source (CAN vs. wire) → test again.
CarPlay / Bluetooth / Microphone
Issue: CarPlay unstable or not connecting
- Try wired CarPlay first (USB) to verify stability; then test wireless.
- Update the CarPlay/CP app (if separate) and the main firmware (see After Update).
- Forget the head unit on your iPhone and re-pair. Keep only one active Bluetooth pairing to avoid conflicts.
Issue: Callers can’t hear me
- Plug in the external mic (if included) and place it near the A-pillar; select external mic in settings if applicable.
- Reduce cabin noise sources (windows, fan speed) and re-test.
FM Radio / Antenna / GPS
Issue: Poor FM reception
- Confirm the antenna adapter is the correct Nissan type and fully seated. Some cars require a powered antenna adapter—connect the ANT/AMP 12V lead.
- Route antenna cables away from high-current wires to reduce noise.
Issue: GPS weak or drifting
- Mount the GPS puck with clear sky view (dash near windshield); avoid metal shielding.
- Check the GPS connector is fully inserted; test after a short drive for satellite lock.
Power / No-Boot / Random Reboot
Issue: Screen won’t power on
- Verify ACC, B+ (constant 12V) and Ground at the main power plug using a multimeter.
- Check the in-line fuse(s) on the harness; replace if blown.
- Unplug all optional peripherals (DVR, 360, USB hubs) and test the bare unit.
Issue: Random reboot
- Remove non-essential USB devices; try another high-quality USB cable.
- Update firmware/protocols, then factory reset (after backup).
After Firmware / Protocol Update
- Reconnect Wi-Fi → open Protocol Update / App Store → update CAN/A/C/CarPlay modules if available.
- Re-select the correct Car Model / CANBUS profile after updates, then reboot.
- Re-check audio type (BOSE vs. Non-BOSE), SWC learn, and camera trigger settings.
Need More Help?
- WhatsApp Technical Support: +852 7048 2941
- Community references: AcuraZine Forum
- Return to the low-trim guide: Low Trim Troubleshooting