WON'T START - left me stranded.

[lp-mp]

This has happened a few times last winter and has left me stranded last night!

When starting with the key or the auto start - all dashlights, radio, heater, etc. come on but the engine is dead and will not turn over. There is no clicking, so the battery is fine. I think it is related to the auto start?? After sitting for some time (1 hour last night) it started normally. Any ideas of why this is happening? I would like to disable the auto start but do not know where the valet toggle is...

I do keep the car in a garage at home and my husband thinks the problem could be condensation on the starter that freezes from sitting outside at work all day??

HELP!

[Nahkapohjola]

Originally Posted by lp-mp

... There is no clicking, so the battery is fine. ... HELP!

No click - does NOT mean "batt fine". Most often it means batt DEAD... However, in your case the problem may be bad ign key, relay, starter/solenoid AND bad oxidized contacts. See http://www.cardomain.com/ride/748507/5 ... also pages 10 and 14.

Pls tell mileage, age?

Condensation rarely affects but hi voltage circuits. Then it makes starting very long and difficult. Remedy against condensation: Do keep engine running for 2min before driving a frozen car into garage.

[lp-mp]

Thanks for the info, I will do some electronic troubleshooting. I have a 2003 Maxima SE w/~89,000kms. The starting problem only happened a few times and always in extreme weather. I really think it has to do with the auto start - possibly an electronic problem there.

[Nahkapohjola]

Originally Posted by lp-mp

... the auto start - possibly an electronic problem there.

If u follow the links there you'll find the circuit diagrams & inhibit relay location. Condensed water in brake/gear lever etc -switch can inhibit startup, condensation is not typical but possible. Relays are color coded and can be swapped: Just swapping relays might pinpoint the cause.