2000 Nissan Maxima Car Jerks and Goes Off

EDUJ45

MEMBER
2000 NISSAN MAXIMA
6 CYL
2WD
AUTOMATIC
104,000 MILES

My fuel tank was low but not on the reserve when I felt the car jerking for a while and stopped. I quickly ran to the gas station to get some gas. The jerking later resumed again for like 3 days straight. The car even went off a couple of times after jerking. Only yesterday, I noticed that the HUD(on board) parking brake light and battery symbol remain on. After driving for a little while, I noticed all the HUD lights on. AIRBAG, ABS, WIPER. Everything on. I turned off the car, opened the hood and opened the fuse box, made sure everything was firm. Went back to start my car and it did not roll like the battery was weak which shouldn't be so cos the battery is fairly new. I just took the battery to the charger this morning so expecting to try it out soon.

What I want to know is why the HUD lights are on as if the car's ignition is on but engine not running and what was responsible for the jerking

1 Reply

CMDRDATATX

MEMBER
54 POSTS

If you manage to get the car started after charging it, bring it an auto parts store like AutoZone or PepBoys and have them check the alternator. I think as the battery lost charge and voltage gets below 12 volts, the dash warning lights will come on randomly. Alternately, if you have a voltmeter, check the voltage at the battery terminal while the engine is idling. It should read 13.8 volts or close to it. If it is below 12.5, the alternator needs to be replaced.