My Xterra intermittently won't start... What is the problem?

Asked by Code77medic Sep 23, 2017 at 01:19 PM about the 2004 Nissan Xterra XE V6

Question type: Maintenance & Repair

Intermittent starting issue.  Doesn't seem like the starter.  Could it be either of the two FL 80A?  What is a FL 80A, how do you diagnose a bad one, and where can I buy a new one?

4 Answers

80

I'm already replace the starter and still don't star What could be??

8 people found this helpful.
410

My daughter's 2004 Nissan Xterra had intermittent issues with not starting. Starter was good. Battery charge did not help. New battery did not help. Daughter was repeatedly stranded. While attempting a charge I used the (ground) negative charge terminal and held it against the intake manifold and had her turn the key. It started. I discovered the ground wire bolt attached to the engine block (aluminum) was oxidized (powdery.) This was blocking the electrical current when starting. Took bolt out, cleaned aluminum oxide from the area, added NO OX ID grease and it has started repeatedly since. This appears to be a factory flaw as it was lacking NO OX ID grease protection. There is a similar oxidation risk with the starter mount bolt. Check both areas for clean electrical current. Aluminum oxide with not allow electrical current through.

25 people found this helpful.
80

I've got the same issue. Good battery, lights, dash, radio all work. No engine crank. I've been told it's the TCM (transmission control module). I still have doubts before diving into that. The security light is flashing, and that's a new thing. My gut says it's something with that.

8 people found this helpful.
20

I just bought my son a used 2004 Exterra from the dealership. They started it for us and it drove great. We bought it and brought it home and after it sat for a day it wouldn’t start. It started after 5 minutes. Would not turn over, but I heard what sounded like the fuel pump engage. Are there any updates on weather the grounding issue worked and the car continues to work properly?

2 people found this helpful.

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