What are the reasons why a Nissan won't start?
4 Answers
The reasons why a Nissan won't start include low fuel in the tank, low battery charge, abnormal fuel pump, or a clogged exhaust pipe. First, check if there is fuel in the tank. A vehicle lacking fuel naturally won't start. If the fuel level is very low, check if the car is parked on a slope. When the ground has a significant incline, the fuel in the tank may gather on one side, potentially preventing the fuel pump from supplying fuel properly, leading to the vehicle's inability to start. Check if the vehicle's battery has sufficient charge. If, when starting the engine, you only hear a weak sound from the starter, it's likely due to a depleted battery causing the startup failure. In such cases, the issue can only be resolved by jump-starting or replacing the battery. Method to check if the fuel pump is functioning normally: Generally, when the vehicle is powered on, you can hear a slight sound from the fuel pump turning, which automatically stops after three to five seconds. If you don't hear this sound, the fuel pump may not be working correctly. Such faults usually occur in older vehicles. Most vehicles currently require pressing the clutch pedal (or brake pedal for automatic transmission models) to start normally. However, sometimes, after prolonged parking, the brake pedal may become stiff and hard to press. In this case, the driver needs to press the pedal firmly until the brake light switch is triggered before starting the vehicle. For automatic transmission models, also check if the gear is in P (Park) or N (Neutral) when starting; otherwise, the vehicle won't start. Automatic transmission vehicles cannot start if the gear is in D (Drive) or R (Reverse).
I've been driving for over twenty years, and Nissan not starting is way too common. Last week, my neighbor's Sylphy just died and had to be towed to the repair shop—turns out the battery was completely dead because he left the headlights on for two whole days after parking. Actually, there are three most common causes for starting issues: the battery's lifespan is up or the terminals are loose and leaking, the starter motor's carbon brushes are worn out and can't turn, or the ignition switch has poor contact. I remember one time my Teana wouldn't start, just clicking but the engine wouldn't turn over—turned out the spare key worked fine because the chip in the original key was damaged from a drop. If you smell gasoline, check the fuel injectors; if the engine light on the dashboard is on, it's likely the crankshaft position sensor is shot. You can usually diagnose these issues yourself, but for repairs, you still need to find a professional.
Last week, my Nissan Qashqai suddenly wouldn't start, which was really frustrating. After calling for roadside assistance, we found out it was a burnt fuel pump. Here's some advice if you encounter this situation: First, don't panic. Try these methods: Sit in the car without pressing the brake pedal and press the start button twice. If the dashboard doesn't light up at all, it's likely a battery issue. If the dashboard lights up but the engine doesn't respond, it might be due to a dead key fob battery or the gear not being in P (Park) position. If you hear the starter clicking but the engine won't start, it's probably a fuel system or electrical problem. Many Nissan models now come with smart keys, so remember not to place your phone and key fob together as it can interfere with the signal. Once, after a car wash, my car wouldn't start, and it turned out to be a short circuit in the cigarette lighter charging cable that blew a fuse. Replacing the $15 fuse fixed the issue.
After repairing Nissans for over a decade, the most common starting failures I've encountered fall into five categories: dead battery, faulty starter, fuel pump failure, ignition system malfunction, and anti-theft lockout. The most obvious sign of a battery issue is a clicking sound followed by complete power loss; a bad starter often produces grinding noises; if the tank has fuel but the car won't start, always check the fuel pump; engine misfires and shaking require spark plug inspection; flashing key light indicates anti-theft activation. A stuck steering wheel lock can also prevent starting - try turning the key while gently moving the steering wheel left and right.
