Intermittently not starting

NIMLOTH

MEMBER
1993 NISSAN PATHFINDER
4WD
MANUAL
127,000 MILES

Intermittently doesn't turn over when the key is turned in the ignition. It doesn't make any unusually noises. It just clicks and lights on the dash come on. That's all. If I wait and try a few more times, it eventually starts. It doesn't sound like it's struggling to turn over like when the battery might be low or failing. It's as though something is not catching.

Also, electrical has been acting up for a while. Headlights pop on randomly, especially in the summer. This happens when the vehicle is turned off and parked as well. I keep an eye on it and don't let it drain my battery. Furthermore, the emergency break light on the dashboard is always on while the vehicle is on.

These may or may not be related. The primary concern is that it doesn't start until you try multiple times.

5 Replies

ASEMASTER6371

MECHANIC
52,797 POSTS

Good afternoon,

Do you have a voltmeter or test light to do some checks on the system to see if it is either the ignition switch or the starter solenoid itself?

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-wiring

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-use-a-voltmeter

We need to do some checks at the relay. I attached a diagram and the relay so we can do some checks.

Roy

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Saturday, July 25th, 2020 AT 2:22 PM

NIMLOTH

MEMBER
3 POSTS

I do not have a voltmeter, but I'm thrilled you came back so fast and provided diagrams! Thank you Roy! However, I'm not a mechanic. I have, on occasion, fumbled my way through simple repairs with some success only because I'm tenacious enough to get it done by Google searching and watching videos. I wanted to have an idea as to what might be problem before I either YouTube it, or take it in to a professional. If it's the ignition or starter, it might be out of my range of repairing it on my own. Replacing a battery, a fuse, or replacing an easy to get to hose, topping off fluids, or something else simple, is the extent of my repair experience.

Is there any other way to determine the problem without a voltmeter?

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Saturday, July 25th, 2020 AT 2:43 PM

ASEMASTER6371

MECHANIC
52,797 POSTS

Okay, the most common failure is the ignition switch itself. The inside wears out and the contacts only work part of the time.

The starter motor itself is also common but voltage needs to be tested to the solenoid to verify.

Lastly, wiring. That could be the issue but testing will confirm.

Roy

Remove the following parts to make room and take out starter
through the clearance between body and frame.

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1. Remove FR R.H splash guard.
2. Remove oil pressure switch connector.
3. Remove oil filter.
4. Remove exhaust manifold heat insulator.
5. Remove fuel tube retainer bolt.

1. Remove the four upper and lower shell cover retaining screws, then the shell covers.
2. Disconnect electrical connectors from switch.
3. Remove switch retaining screw from steering lock, Fig. 1.
4. Remove switch.
5. Reverse procedure to install.

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