How does a Starter look? (1997 Sentra GXE)

[_Sentra97GXE_]

My wife, who is a student recently bought a 1997 Sentra GXE. This evening, it did not start. We had it towed home, thanks to AAA.

The battery seems fine because the lights are working, but I'm seeing signs of starter trouble. This is because, even if I try to start with the light on, it doesn't even dim when I try to start.

The starter doesn't seem to engage and the engine does not turn over.

A long while ago I recall a buddy of mine with a 96 Sentra have a similar problem. He said he just tapped the starter a few times and it got his vehicle started.

What are my options?

Where should I look for the starter in the Sentra and how does it look?

[mikenowo]

AHA! I have the SAME exact problem with my 1993 Sentra Classic. Since the really cold weather up here mine has stopped starting twice. I just now tapped around the connections and the starter itself and after putting the car in Neutral it started up beautifully!
I also was not sure where the starter was but saw what it looked like in a manual I have.

It is located below and to the right of the Air Filter on the driver's side. It is cylindrical in shape and has a large round then a small squarish bolt on the right side of it. Also has a small wire running from it to another part of the engine. Use a small hammer and tap around then put your car in NEUTRAL then try starting it up (in PARK I could NOT get it to start).

Good luck, hope this helps!