Does not start and there is a loud whirring noise when attempting to start it?

2003 NISSAN SENTRA
150,000 MILES • 2.5L • 4 CYL • 2WD • MANUAL
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JACOB MARINO
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  • 45 POSTS
car won't start and no dash lights come on but when i try to start it, i get a loud whirring sound almost like the starter not making contact. However, turning the key to the accessory position will make the loud click from the starter. Turning the headlights on only turns the parking lights on and no "ding" from doors open/ key in the ignition.
Nov 15, 2022 at 1:48 PM
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STRAILER
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 55,464 POSTS
I believe the sounds you are hearing are the starter motor turning but the battery does not have enough voltage to allow the starter to engage. Can you please shoot a quick video with your phone so I can hear the noise? That way I can tell for sure what's going on. You can upload it here with your response. I would turn the headlight on for 10 minutes to see if the running lights are still on, if not replace the battery, this guide can help:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/car-battery-load-test

Here is how you can change the battery out in case you need it with instructions below to help you with your car:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-replace-a-car-battery

Let us know what happens and please upload pictures or videos of the problem.
Nov 16, 2022 at 3:51 AM
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JACOB MARINO
  • MEMBER
  • 45 POSTS
Battery terminals are clean and tight tested battery and all was okay.
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Nov 16, 2022 at 5:57 AM
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STRAILER
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 55,464 POSTS
Let's check the main fuses here is a guide to help and the fuse panel identifications in the images below. Please check the large fusible as well.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-a-car-fuse

Check out the images (below). Please let us know what happens.
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Attached Media
Nov 17, 2022 at 6:23 AM
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