Expert: Sean Halliday - 2/13/2007

Question
hi. i have a 97 nissan maxima. i use to work in the auto industry as a service advisor. i purchased the car when i was working for a Nissan dealer. i has started to have a problem stating. the engine will not turn over, the battery is good. you can hear one of the solenoids in the engine compartment turning on when turning the key. one of the a techs had told me that they were notorious for this to happen, but i can not remember which part it was. it was the ignition switch or coils. if some one knows what this could be i will greatly appreciate it, i am disabled now and can't afford to throw parts at it or bring it to a dealer. they are the best source, but i cant afford the cost. thank you for any help you can provide.

Answer
The starter not turning is usually the solenoid/starter or the ignition switch,or relay.The start system has only these components so 1 or more isnt working.The way to test is check the power to the starter with a meter and get someone to crank the engine and see what the meter says ,you need to check for amps on the positive side.If you are getting power then its your solenoid in the starter itself or possibly the windings but usually its a sticky or worn out solenoid.The modern starters have built in solenoids.This is probably the click you hear.If you are not getting power to the starter then look at the fuses/relay/igniton switch.Check the power to the fuse for the starter then to the relay if nothing then its the switch but if you get a click then i assume the switch is ok.On the Nissans,the old fashioned way i have tried is to tap the starter with a small hammer but not too hard and see if it turns as you turn the key.If it does then its definately your starter/solenod thats sticking and then simply replace the starter.