Not starting properly after car was stolen

2007 NISSAN ALTIMA
16,000 MILES • 2.5L • 4 CYL • 2WD • AUTOMATIC
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MIKEYMIKE217
  • MEMBER
  • 1 POST
Okay, so my car was stolen and when I got it back it was trashed. they had wires coming out of everywhere from fuse boxes, push button start pulled out and all that. well, I get it started and it runs great for like 2 weeks. then all the sudden push button start won't start the car, it will however turn everything on, giving me power to everything, then after replacing brake switch, having starter tested and checking all fuses everything seems to be in working order. then I discover that I could turn power on and cross the starter to get started. don't like having it rigged up. can anyone tell me what is going on with my car before I beat the freshly tinted windows out of it?
Oct 9, 2021 at 8:20 AM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • Experienced Mechanic
  • 110,240 POSTS
Hi,

Have you checked for power at the black wire with a red tracer at the starter? That comes directly from the battery and should have 12v at all times. There is a fusible link that could have failed preventing power to that wire.

Also, there is a black wire with a white tracer that should have 12v only when in the start position. You will need a helper but check that as well.

If you find power at both, chances are the starter failed. Here are two links you may find helpful:

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

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/starter-not-working-repair

I attached a wiring schematic below of the starting system. I highlighted relays I need you to check. If there is another relay with the same part number, switch them. If there isn't, here is a link that explains how to test a relay.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-an-electrical-relay-and-wiring-control-circuit

Let me know what you find or if you have questions.

Take care,

Joe

See pics below.
Oct 9, 2021 at 11:52 AM
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