Engine shut off while driving and will not start

RONDF

MEMBER
2000 NISSAN FRONTIER
3.3L
V6
4WD
MANUAL
90,000 MILES

Had a quarter tank of gas and filled it up. Drove 15 miles and acted like it was running out of gas and then shut off on the side of the road. Tried to start it and all it does is turn over and I hear a thumping noise coming from the front drivers side motor and does not start. I hear the fuel pump kick on when I put the key in the on position. What could be the problem. Thanks.

Friday, September 4th, 2020 AT 3:19 PM

1 Reply

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
110,176 POSTS

Hi,

Could you record the noise you are hearing and upload it for me to hear?

As far as a crank no start, although the fuel pump is turning on, it may not be providing enough pressure to run the engine. We will determine that in a real simple way. See if the engine starts for a couple seconds and then stalls if you use starting fluid. If it does, then we know it is a fuel related issue. If it does nothing, then it is likely ignition related.

Take a look through this link. You may find it helpful.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/car-cranks-but-wont-start

Try the starting fluid trick and let me know the results. Also, if you could upload the sound of the engine cranking along with the thump, it may be really helpful for me to diagnose the issue.

Let me know what you find or if you have other questions.

Take care,
Joe

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Friday, September 4th, 2020 AT 8:02 PM