I have a 2001 Nissan Pathfinder which is having intermittent ignition problems. It will just suddenly not strat. It is turning over fine but not starting. If you leave it sitting for several hours (or a day) it will start just fine---and do so again for several days. Then it will act up. We have replaced the battery (which was worn out) and that seemed to fix it---but then it began again. I have had it towed in twice, but it starts fine once it gets to the shop. The mechanics---even at Nissan---keep saying, "If it isn't doing it, we can find out what it is." I am at my wits end.
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Answers by: jonathanwilson | Grey | scosol | Em2035 | Mike T.
Sounds like a computer or sensor problem.
Since the starter is working, but the car doesn't turn over when it's warm, there may be a faulty sensor telling the computer the wrong info, so it restricts the gas flow to the fuel injectors, thereby not letting the car start.
Once you've let it cool down ("...If you leave it sitting for several hours (or a day) it will start just fine...") the sensor is sending different information. Start by checking that there are no sensors (or sensor wires) touching the engine. This can be a bit tricky with all of the things they stuff under the hood, but look carefully.
hope this sets you in the right direction
- MT
That makes sense, but sometimes it has the problem when it's stone cold (e.g. even when it has not been started in, say, 24 hours). In fact, I can't recall the problem happening but once when it was warmed up. Is it simply a coincidence that it started once when I opened the fuel cap? And what about the the time it started when I pushed down on the gas and then suddenly let up (as I'd do if it were flooded)? Neither method worked twice, but each worked once. And once it seemed to help giving it a jump. I have looked for some discernable pattern, but I can't find one. My direct email is ben_hale@woodberry.org.