battery prob??

[jamileigh1026]

A month ago, my 03 Maxima with 162K miles on it wouldn't start (no noise or clicks and the indicator lights lit up). I got a jump and it started right up. I had a new alternator put in it 2 years ago so I figured that couldn't be the prob so I just got a new battery, which seemed to fix the prob. However, this weekend (a mere month later) my car wouldn't start and again a jump fixed it. I then had it diagnosed by my auto repair guys. They checked the fuses to make sure nothing was draining the battery. They found nothing. I only have an after-market sunroof that is six years old. Also, they checked the alternator and said it was still good. They said it was merely a loose connector on the positive side of the batt. They fixed it and sent me on my way- no charge. Not even two hours later, my car wouldn't start again! Now this was last night. I didn't bother to jump it yet but when I just checked again this afternoon- it started right up!!! What is going on?? I work 85 miles from home and don't want to get stranded anywhere. Any input would be appreciated.

[rather_b_boatin]

I had a problem one time where the brushes in the starter were worn but not destroyed so when the starter was cold it would draw less amps and start right up, when the starter was hot (running errands or something) it would draw more amps that the battery could not deliver, but a jump would get it going every time. Took a long time to figure that one out. I'd start by cleaning both ends of battery leads. Hope this helps.

[RaeRae1]

I completely agree with Rather b boating. It could be a starter issue. They can be intermittent and difficult. If you have it happen again, before you jump start it, if you are familiary with where the starter is located, try tapping (with a little bit of force) on the starter. See if this makes a difference. Sometimes you can move the brushes just enough that it will allow the car to start.

Another thing to do is to make certain the battery connections are tight and good. If you have any corrosion on your battery it can cause poor connection, as well as if you have a loose cable connection.

Both issues would cause your car to be doing what you describe. It does not sound like a bad battery or an alternator problem.

[jamileigh1026]

it was the starter! got a new one and no more probs. it even sounds better when i turn the key. thanks for ur help = )

[rather_b_boatin]

Good to hear. They don't quite eat themselves completely and fade slow enough not to notice.

[RicartParts.com]

Seen many vehicle starters cause this issue , something in the system drains the charge and doesn't have enough power to start either