Sometimes won't crank
 

Over the last few months my Maxima has not cranked if I put the key in the ignition and turned the key to crank it immediately.

If I turn key to ignition on for a couple seconds before turning the key to the start position everything fires up perfectly. So it's never left me stranded. I'd rather fix it now than wait for the relay to fail and strand me.

I'm thinking a sticky relay - anyone have a clue which one it is, or how to figure that out? The FSM shows a Clutch Interlock relay and Theft warning relay being part of the starting circuit. Thoughts please.

Dave

Are you a 5sp?

Yes, 5 speed.

Dave

I have the same thing . I have found that my clutch switch doesnt always engage. I would look into that.

Could be the ignition switch as well.

Thats is true Kev.

I replaced the ignition switch about 18 months ago.

About the clutch switch, I don't move the clutch pedal. I just back the key to ignition on for a second then back to start and it will crank immediately.

Dave

Me too but try it. While holding the key forward depress then press your clutch pedal and see if it helps.

there isnt really any way to check the relays.

first thing I would do is have someone put it in the 'start' position when its not working, and put a test light/multimeter on the trigger wire for the starter, see if you have power.

the first thing that you should always do with a no start is elminate the starter and then work your way back, that is the only really efficient way to find out what your problem is.

it is really easy to go back and forth all over the fricken place, and replace **** that doesnt need to be.

also, have you grounded the starter to the chassis yet?

matt

Starter is a good possibility. If you want to eliminate the relays there are two relay boxes under the hood there are like three different relay types I think they are black, brown and grey. You may be able to swap out a relay like for the horn or cruise control with one for the interlock to eliminate that as a possible cause.