My Maxima 93 has an intermittent starting problem. When I crank the engine, it will turn but not start. When I wait for approx 30 seconds with the key in "ignition" position I can hear the fuel pump start. If I crank it then, it will start. Anyone out there has experienced similar symptoms.?

Would greatly appreciate any suggestion....

 

sounds like your system isn't holding pressure. that usually is a fuel pump problem

 

my dad's 89 riviera did the same thing. We dropped the fuel tank and put in a fuel pump, and now it runs fine!

holla

 

On a scale of 1 to 10 (10 being highest probability) how certain are you of the fuel pump as the problem? Could dirty injectors also be the cause? What about a relay or the ECM module ? Would there be other signs I should look out for to single out these as probable causes?...Thanks again for your replies...

 

The fuel pump should cycle on for about 5 seconds as soon as you turn the key on. If it doesn't, it could be the pump itself, or maybe the relay. If it were a fuse problem, it wouldn't turn on at all, no matter how long you waited. I would check the relay first, since it's easier to get to and cheaper to replace.

 

Thanks for your quick reply, Broncoguy. Now the big question...how do I test the relay, or should I just replace it ($28)? Which relay would you consider first (the Engine control relay or the fuel pump relay)? I know where they are both located, so I'll have no problem finding them...