Rough starting engine

2010 NISSAN MAXIMA
182,000 MILES • 3.5L • V6 • AUTOMATIC
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BUSH_CLARK
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  • 1 POST
Engine sounds rough when starting, almost like valves are rattling. Sometimes it cuts back off and I have to restart it. Had it checked at AutoZone and the diagnosis was possibly the ignition coil.
Dec 28, 2019 at 8:21 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • ✓ASE Certified Mechanic
  • 110,194 POSTS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
Hi,

You indicated noise when starting resembling valve rattle. Is the engine oil clean and full? Next, you had it tested at Auto Zone. Was the check engine light staying on when the engine was on? If so, did they happen to tell you if there were diagnostic trouble codes and what they were?

As far as an ignition coil, chances are you would have had a cylinder misfire code. However, please keep in mind there are many things that can cause a rough start and a stall at idle. Here is a link that explains in general the most common causes of a stall at idle.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/stall-at-idle

Let me know. Also, if it's possible, record the engine starting so I can hear what you described.

Take care,

Joe
Dec 28, 2019 at 10:20 PM
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