Shut off and will not start

BERTBOMIA

MEMBER
1996 NISSAN MAXIMA
4 CYL
2WD
AUTOMATIC
28,976 MILES

So, I just got my mom's car (listed above) and it shut down on her in October 2021. We replaced the battery and the starter, and it didn’t fix the issue. So, we replaced the ignition relay and checked every other one and nothing got it running. But other issues that happened before it stopped running was the horn would just start making its noise when driving and I’d have to lift the horn pad up to stop it. So, I took the horn relay out. Another issue was while taking a right hand turn the passenger door light would turn on and off. And the last issue noticed was the battery drained out before it stopped running. Why we replaced the battery first. Any help would be great full or any ideas I had people meter wires and stuff and was told that everything looks fine, so I have no idea what to start to look in to fix it.

1 Reply

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
108,328 POSTS

Hi,

Does the starter engage and turn the engine, or does it turn the engine but not start?

If it is turning the engine, the first thing we need to determine is if the engine is getting spark and fuel. Try this. See if it starts for a couple of seconds using starting fluid. If it does and then stalls, we know it is a fuel-related issue. If it doesn't make a difference, then it's likely ignition related. You will need to check for spark to the plugs.

Here is a link that explains how that is done:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-test-an-ignition-system

Let me know what you find. Also, if it is the starter itself that isn't engaging, take a look through this link:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/starter-not-working-repair

Let me know as much as you can.

Take care,

Joe