Scottwax

iTrader: (8)

Yesterday after driving to a store and spending about 7-8 minutes inside, I got back in my car and turned the key. All the lights come on but no start. No click, no slow cranking, nothing. Turned the key two more times and same thing. I then hit the "open" button on the remote thinking maybe I had locked the car as I got it. Turned the key again and my car started right up. Thought maybe I was right I had somehow activated the security system in my car. Until this morning...

Same deal, go into a store about 5 minutes or so and turn the key and no start. Did it 3 times and nothing. Waited about a minute, turned the key and it started right up. If my car sits for more than 10 minutes or so, or if I turn it off and start it up within a minute or two, no problem either.

My first guess would be the solenoid since the starter gear doesn't even click. Not the battery either because when it does crank up, it cranks fast.

Is it possible to purchase just a solenoid or do I have to buy the starter and solenoid as one piece? Looks easy enough to swap out, FSM shows I need to remove the airbox, unclip the wiring from the starter, 2 bolts to remove, install and reverse the steps. Is it really that easy?

pmohr

iTrader: (26)

Before just replacing the solenoid, do some diagnostics.

When it does this, you want to make sure the trigger wire is getting B+. If it is, then yes, that narrows the problem to the starter.

If not, then you've got quite a bit else to check (inhibitor relay, PNP switch/adjustment, connections, etc).

Scottwax

iTrader: (8)

Seems to be a heak soak issue, which tends to point to the starter/solenoid but I admit that a relay problem did cross my mind.

SmokinMax02

Scott, had similar issue about a month ago and it turned out to be the starter.

For the replacement, I ended up going with a Duralast from Autozone for around $80 bucks, which came with a lifetime warranty. (its a semi-cheap starter, but it does the job well and I figure the install is so easy if I have to replace it again, it would be worth the money saved over time on buying a new one later on down the road)

Very easy install as well, took me less than an hour from start to finish.

Just disconnect battery, remove your intake components, disconnect harness to starter (12 mm wrench), and the starter should be accessible with a ratchet. 14mm socket for top bolt and 17mm for bolt nearest to the firewall. May also need an 3 inch extension for the top bolt for leverage.

Here is a how to link, in case you need it...

http://x.nissanhelp.com/forums/maxima/1320-maxima-starter-removal-installation.html

Good luck!