So for the last few weeks, I've been having periodic troubles starting my '00 GLE (115k). It normally fires right up, as it always has. Every few starts, it won't fire on the first turn, but typically fires fine after the second or third. Twice, I've kept the key turned, and it hasn't fired, so I've let off the key for a couple seconds, turned again, and it's then started.

I had the alternator and battery tested at Napa, and both test fine. It sounds like there is plenty of power behind it (doesn't slow down like a dead battery - and it's a Die Hard Gold that is only about a year old), and I never get any 'clicks', so don't think it should be the starter. The plugs were changed in the last 5000 miles or so, I've had 2 O2 sensors replaced semi-recently, and also had a the fuel injectors cleaned.

I'm actually hoping to trade in the next month or two, so really don't want to sink any money into it if I don't have to. But I also don't want to risk eventually getting stranded, or having it act up when I'm at the dealer so I take a hit on trade in (and I honestly don't want to screw them in trade by knowing there's an intermittent issue). Are there any simple things that I can check? I'm definitely no gear-head, but I change my oil, etc myself, so am not afraid to try something basic. I prefer not to take it to the shop, but I have a feeling that's where I'm headed...

Please don't tell me it's something major like a fuel pump! I'm not sure the fuel filter has ever been replaced - would that affect starting? (when the car is running perfectly fine once started)

Thanks for any ideas!

 

I've got the same problem also, happens every now and then. Does anyone know what this is??? MAF, maybe.

 

add a ground cable from the starter bolts to the body or crossmember 4 gauge should be fine and make sure you sand it down before installation of the cables

 

I had the MAF replaced with my 90k service, so I doubt it's the cause of my issue. But I certainly can't say it's impossible...

 

if it sounds like the engine just did a quick hiccup, i have the same problem, its the starter.

find a junk yard with a maxima with lower miles and replace the piece.

 

-- does that mean you turn the keys and nothing happens? --or you turn the keys and the engine fires but wont turn over(start)?-- or does that mean u are holding the keys in the start position and it takes 3 or 4 seconds to finally start?..

 

Same exact thing happens on my 00. I have a brand new starter.

DF

 

Its got to be your starter! Had the same problem 2 months ago, dealer replaced the starter under my 100k extended warranty, all fine and dandy ,starts right up now!

 

it's the starter solenoid, POS did that on my 02 until it eventually died. That took months.

 

Question finally answered (for me at least).

I'd say 3 of 4 starts, it was 'normal' - started on a single turn of the motor. Then it would turn over a few times before it would start. Today, hopped in the car (had started it about an hour earlier), it turned over about 3 times, then just stopped. Turned the key again, single click, and nothing. Tried jumping it, and nothing. Still had juice to power the radio, fan, etc.

Finally accepted my fate and called the roadside assistance number to order a tow. Starter has been replaced, and all is now well. (at least after 2 starts) At least I hopefully don't have to worry about it any more. I was worried that I'd take it to a dealer for a trade, and it would act up out of the blue there. Hopefully the issues are behind...