Expert: Mike Evans - 6/21/2010

Question
Hi, i have had this problem for over a year and have been trying to get it fixed with no luck. What happens is my car wont usually start on the first key turn, car does not turn over, no clicking, no nothing, just my digital clock dims when i turn the key. I have replaced the batter (it was low), and the electrical part of the ignition switch. I have had the electrical system check, well the major components (alternator, battery, starter), they all checked out fine after i replaced the battery. I am kind of thinking it may be the part where you put the key in, i think its called the lock cylinder. Any Ideas! Thanks much for your time, Justin

Answer
    Well, one thing it's not is the lock cylinder.  The lock cylinder is just that, a lock.  It's just a mechanical lock.  Since you put in a new battery, and that made no difference, it's either the starter itself or the cables connecting the starter to the battery.  I don't know what kind of "electrical system check" you had done.  But, I would replace the cables and the starter just for drill.  Buy the cables from Nissan and a quality rebuilt starter from a local parts store (NOT a Pep Boys or other chain store).  The symptoms you are getting would normally indicate a low battery or a starting-system-related drain on the battery.