Hard-starting Maxima linked to bad fuel pump

This can cause erratic codes to set and may also flood the engine

Fri Sep 30 2005

Backyard Mechanic/Jim Kerr



QUESTION -- Two years ago I purchased a 1991, very low mileage Nissan Maxima (6cyl/auto with o/d) from its original owner. While it was scrupulously maintained and has been an excellent vehicle, over the past several months it has been experiencing a recurring intermittent problem that my mechanic is unable to solve. When the car has been sitting overnight, or for a day or two, it sometimes (not always) is hard to start. There does not seem to be a connection with hot or damp weather as the problem happens under all conditions without warning. The engine will turn over to the point of flooding without success. When it first occurred, I left it for a day and tried to start it without success. I had it towed in and it started perfectly for the mechanic.
The computer codes have not provided any significant clues to the source of the problem. I have left it with the mechanic for several days as he tries to recreate the problem but to no success.

The odd thing is that with the most recent occurrences, I leave the car for 30 to 60 minutes, then it will start. I have also had some success when it first fails to start with turning the key on for a split second five to six times with a pause between each attempt, rather than....