Locate the IACV:
Open the hood of your Nissan Xterra.
The IACV is located on the side of the throttle body. It is a small, round device with a black plastic cover.
Disconnect the electrical connector:
Locate the electrical connector attached to the IACV. It is a small, black connector with a single wire.
Press down on the release tab on the connector and pull it straight up to disconnect it from the IACV.
Remove the two mounting screws:
There are two screws that hold the IACV in place. They are located on either side of the IACV.
Use a Phillips-head screwdriver to loosen and remove the two mounting screws.
Pull out the old IACV:
Once the mounting screws are removed, you can pull the IACV straight out of its housing.
Clean the IACV port:
Before installing the new IACV, clean the port where the IACV fits into. Use a cotton swab dipped in carburetor cleaner to remove any dirt or debris.
Install the new IACV:
Insert the new IACV into the port and push it firmly until it is seated properly.
Replace the mounting screws:
Replace the two mounting screws that hold the IACV in place. Tighten the screws until they are snug.
Reconnect the electrical connector:
Reconnect the electrical connector to the IACV. Make sure that the connector is snapped securely into place.
Start the engine:
Start the engine and let it run for a few minutes. This will allow the IACV to calibrate itself.
Test the IACV:
To test the IACV, turn on the air conditioner and let it run for a few minutes. The engine should idle smoothly, without any fluctuations in RPMs.
If the engine is still idling rough, you may need to adjust the IACV settings. Consult the service manual for your Nissan Xterra for instructions on how to do this.