Nissan Stanza Won’t Start? Here’s Quick Solutions to the Most Common Causes

Introduction

As a licensed auto mechanic with over twenty years of experience, I’ve seen my fair share of Nissan Stanzas that refuse to start. And I can assure you, I understand how annoying it can be when you’ve got places to go, you hop in, turn the key, and … drum roll please … nothing at all!

But no need to worry dear reader, you’ve come to the right place. My name’s Robby and in this article, I’m going to walk you through the most usual causes why your Nissan Stanza won’t start. I’ll explain all the most common causes and you’ll learn how to diagnose each potential cause, as well as what to do in each case. I’ll offer hands-on troubleshooting pointers and repair solutions based on my 20 years’ of first-hand experience, so you can get your Nissan Stanza starting and driving again as rapidly as possible.

Understanding Why a Nissan Won’t Start

Nissan Wont Start up
Image Credit: MechanicAnswer.com

When you hop into your Car and realize “My Nissan Stanza won’t start”, this could be because of an array of things being wrong with your vehicle. Maybe it’s a case where the engine is not firing up at all, possibly it is cranking partially but then not starting, or perhaps you can hear a clicking noise when you try to start the engine, however in the end nothing happens. Each of these circumstances can point to different issues with your car.

Common Reasons Why Your Nissan Stanza Won’t Start

There are numerous reasons a Stanza will not start. These issues usually include a dead or weak vehicle battery, a faulty alternator, starter motor issues, fuel system issues, along with electrical or wiring failures. Every one of these problems can show up as an array of symptoms and require separate solutions to identify and repair, so we can get your car back on the road as soon as possible.

Symptoms of Nissan Stanza That Won’t Start

Being able to recognize and diagnose these signs, will assist you in discovering the root cause of the issue. For instance, when you turn the key in the ignition, and you hear a clicking sound however your Nissan still will not start, it is often an indication that there is a problem with the fuel or ignition system of your vehicle.

Analysis of The Reasons Why Your Nissan Stanza Won’t Start

The initial step to finding a practical solution to the issue is getting to grips with the root cause of that problem, so let’s delve into the most common factors why your Stanza can’t start.

Nissan Stanza Battery Issues

Nissan Car Battery issues can prevent it from starting

In the vast majority of instances, the most common reason why your Nissan Stanza will not start is, in many cases due to a bad battery, it’s either dead or weak, and you need to charge your car’s battery or change it. The Car’s battery provides the electric required to start the engine, and power all the electrical components in your Nissan Stanza. Symptoms of a weak or dead battery problem in a Stanza, can be things like the Car being slow to crank the engine, dim or weak headlights, or a lit-up battery caution light on your car’s dash. A portable jump starter allows you to jump start your vehicle’s if the battery is dead without needing another vehicle. And a battery charger can help recharge a dead battery and diagnose battery issues.

Nissan Stanza Alternator Problems

Nissan alternator

The alternator is responsible for charging the battery from the engine while the car is running. A defective alternator can certainly prevent your Nissan Stanza from starting as it won’t have the ability to charge up the battery, from the engine, so it will drain fairly quickly till it’s dead and you don’t realize it until you get in your Stanza and it won’t start. Signs that the alternator is faulty can be a lit-up battery or alternator warning light on the dash, weak or dim headlights when the engine is idling, and also a whining or grinding noise from the engine while it’s running.

Nissan Stanza Starter Motor Failures

Starter Motor Nissan

When you start your Nissan Stanza, the starter motor is responsible for turning the engine over (cranking it). If the starter motor is faulty in some manner then the engine may not crank, and your Stanza can’t start. You can tell if your starter motor has an issue or not often by listening for a clicking noise when you turn the key or a grinding noise throughout the start-up, or your vehicle starts up but only intermittently, then the starter motor may very well be the problem.

Nissan Stanza Fuel System Complications

Nissan Fuel System Complications

We’re not talking about when you just run out of gas here, but your vehicle’s fuel system itself having complications. Your Nissan Stanza uses a combustion engine, and for that reason to start and run, it requires a proper mix of fuel and air. If your Stanza issues are because of a faulty fuel system, this could be a clogged fuel filter or a broken fuel pump relay, which could indicate the engine may not be getting the fuel it requires to get the vehicle up and running. Over time fuel injectors can also get clogged, so using a fuel injector cleaner like Red Line can help clean them and improve starting.

Nissan Stanza Electrical System or Wiring Problems

Nissan Electrical System or Wiring Problems

Modern Nissan Stanzas rely greatly on electronics, which can mean there are lots of things that can potentially break. Even in an older car, you can still have regular issues such as blown fuses, spark plug problems, a faulty ignition switch, or a broken sensor, and more. These can be some of the many electrical examples of how failing electrical components can be the reason your Nissan Stanza won’t get started. Symptoms of a wiring or electrical problem can vary vastly but can typically include the engine not cranking, or your Stanza can start but just intermittently or some warning lights are lit up on the dash. To appropriately identify and fix these kinds of problems, you will need the skills of a knowledgeable Nissan mechanic locally or online.

Solutions & Repair Tips

Once you have diagnosed what the reason for your Car troubles are. The next step is of course to try and repair it. Here are some tips for the common issues we’ve covered previously.

How to Troubleshoot and Fix Battery Issues in a Nissan Stanza

Troubleshoot and Fix Nissan Battery Issues

If you think it’s possibl a battery problem is the reason why your Stanza has difficulty starting, then the first thing you must do is examine the battery terminals. You want them to be clean, not corroded, and securely connected. If you discover that the terminals are corroded you can try to clean them up with a mix of baking soda and water.

Once you have checked the battery terminals, you can check to see if the battery is just out of charge, or worse, it’s old and weak, or dead and needs to be replaced. For this, you can charge the battery in a few different ways:

If the battery charges up and works fine, great, problem solved! However, if the battery is old or weak, you will have to replace it. Otherwise, even if you charge it up enough to start the Nissan Stanza, it will likely run out of life once again in the near future. You can make use of a multimeter or OB2 scanner as a way to test the life of the battery to see if it’s worth saving or if it needs swapped out for a new one. You can get a replacement car battery for your exact Nissan model by visiting Amazon here, and selecting “enter a new vehicle” to filter the results for your Nissan Stanza, and choose a suitable one, from a seller with great reviews.

If charging your Stanza’s battery does not resolve your issues, and problems like frequent draining and needing frequent charges persist even after replacing the battery, there is likely a more complex underlying issue causing excessive battery drain. In that case, you will need a professional mechanic to inspect and diagnose the root cause. You can also ask the advice of a mechanic online through us, or get an instant free quote on a Same day mechanic service.

How to Diagnose Alternator Problems in a Nissan Stanza

Funny Image of a DIY mechanic replacing an alternator
Funny Image of a man  trying to replace an alternator

Ok, so the image above I found online and is a joke, DON’T DO THIS. I’ll explain in more detail, but in short, to diagnose and fix alternator problems you will need the help of a qualified and experienced auto mechanic. If you’re thinking that the alternator is the cause of your vehicle starting troubles, you can test it. If you can get the Car started temporarily (you may need to jump-start the vehicle for that), but when it’s going, let the vehicle run, and while the engine is running, disconnect the positive terminal of your Car’s battery. It’s likely due to an issue with your vehicle’s alternator if you discover your Nissan Stanza dies instantly when you disconnect the positive terminal. You should be aware however that this method can be risky and dangerous, and might damage the delicate electronic elements in your Nissan Stanza, so it’s best to seek advice from a reliable auto mechanic in your area or online, prior to ever trying this. If you think it might be the alternator, it’s best to ask a mechanic online or near you.

How to Identify and Solve Starter Motor Failures in a Nissan Stanza

Nissan Starter Motor Failures

If you hear the clicking sound when you try and start the vehicle by turning the key, but the engine doesn’t crank, then its probably a problem with your starter motor. In this case, the solution is to have the starter motor changed for a new one by a professional mechanic.

How to Fix Fuel System Problems in a Nissan Stanza

Nissan Fuel System Repair

If you suspect the issue to be due to a fuel system problem, try and listen for the fuel pump when you turn the key to the “on” position, before starting up the Car. You ought to hear a humming sound for a few seconds. If you are not able to hear this sound, then it may be there is cause for concern with the fuel pump. If you observe your Nissan is difficult to start, it stalls, or it has bad acceleration, it could possibly be down to a clogged fuel filter. Both of these will likely need a reliable auto mechanic in order to correctly repair. This is because may require a fuel pressure test kit and mechanic’s tool set to fully diagnose and repair fuel system problems.

How to Fix Electrical or Wiring Problems in a Nissan Stanza

Nissan Electrical or Wiring Repair

If you think it’s an electrical wiring or electrical system problem, initially check the fuses associated with the ignition system, and change any that have blown. If your Nissan Stanza starts after this, then it was an effective, simple and low-cost fix! If the Car doesn’t start, even intermittently, it might be a problem with the ignition switch itself. It may be a faulty sensing unit if different warning lights are visible on your dashboard. These problems can be very complicated and a professional Nissan mechanic is most likely required to diagnose and repair it. 

Preventive Steps

As my dad always said “Prevention is better than cure”, so here are some preventative measures to make sure you can avoid any Nissan Stanza starting pains again!

Regular Upkeep of Your Nissan Stanza:

Regular Nissan Maintenance at Home

Routine upkeep of your Nissan Stanza is key to avoiding future difficulties. This includes things like routine oil changes, checking your vehicle’s battery, cleaning up the terminals, changing the fuel filter as advised/required, and having your vehicle inspected by a professional auto mechanic regularly. You can speak with a mechanic locally or online if you are unsure or needing further clarity about the routine upkeep jobs required for your specific Car.

Drive Your Nissan Stanza Frequently:

Drive your Nissan Regularly

If you happen to leave your Nissan Stanza in your garage for extended periods of time without driving it, the battery will run out of charge as it’s not receiving any electrical charge from the engine running being in use. Try to drive your vehicle regularly to keep the battery full of juice. If you remember you haven’t driven your vehicle in a while, take it for a spin to make certain there is still a charge in the battery. Worth noting: letting the battery totally drain, is also damaging to the longevity of the battery, try not to do this.

Pay Attention to Warning Signs:

Nissan Warning Lights on Dash

If you notice anything weird like uncommon sounds, changes in driving and performance, or alert lights are now visible on the dash, do not ignore them. These are usually early warnings of a problem and are best being resolved ASAP so that they don’t end up being much bigger issues later. Talk to a mechanic locally or online about these problems and get advice on if they need to be attended to.

When to Ask a Nissan Mechanic Online

If you’re either limited on time, want a professional Nissan mechanic on hand to guide and to advise you, or you’ve attempted to resolve it yourself, but regardless of your best efforts your vehicle will not start, then talking with a Nissan mechanic online can be a terrific option. It certainly beats googling things like “Nissan cranks but wont start no spark” all day and still getting nowhere.

Advantages of an Online Nissan Mechanic

When to ask a Nissan Mechanic Online

Online mechanic services offers a number of advantages. You can get expert Nissan mechanic suggestions 24×7 and without leaving your house, which is particularly useful if your vehicle won’t start and is stuck in the driveway. You can also save money as online mechanic consultations are more affordable than a physical visit to a local mechanic near you. Plus, you can get answers rapidly, which is excellent if you’re in a rush, require a 2nd opinion, or you just like having an expert Nissan mechanic on hand.

How Solutions Like MechanicAnswer.com Can Help You

Car Wont start help online
Image Credit: MechanicAnswer.com

Our Nissan mechanic question and answer service connects you with accredited specialist mechanics who can supply immediate aid, guidance and advice with all issues and all Nissan models. It doesn’t matter if your Stanza is having trouble or your Nissan Stagea won’t start, we’ve got the Nissan mechanics online that with a little bit of information over a chat box, can solve anything for you.

You’re able to explain the problems you are having with your vehicle, ask Nissan mechanics limitless questions, and even submit photos and videos so you are able to show the mechanic what you mean. You can speak to them through online chat or by telephone call, whichever you prefer. The Nissan mechanic will help you diagnose the problem, advise you on the best course of action for your individual circumstance and even assist you through basic maintenance and repair work every step of the way.

Conclusion

To sum it all up, when your Nissan Stanza can’t start, it will likely be a total downer and an enormous inconvenience. However, having an understanding of what might be triggering the problems, being able to troubleshoot them, and knowing what steps are needed in each case, when and where to get help if needed, will be a big benefit. Remember that regular upkeep is essential for preventing the majority of vehicle issues.

I hope this guide helps you get your Nissan started again, and have a great day!

Frequently Asked Questions When a Nissan Stanza Won’t Start (FAQs)

What should I do if my Nissan Stanza will not start?

First off, don’t panic. Attempt to identify any signs that could suggest a problem, such as unusual noises, warning lights on the dash, or changes in performance. The reason for the issue is likely one of the typical causes discussed in this guide. If you can’t find the issue yourself, you will need the aid of a Nissan mechanic locally or online.

How to tell if my Nissan Stanza won’t start because of the battery?

Signs of a battery issue in a Stanza include the engine being slow to crank, dim headlights, and lit battery warning lights on the dash. You can also check the battery terminals to see if they are clean, not corroded, and securely connected. It may be best to simply swap it out for a new one if the battery is weak or old.

How can I prevent my Nissan Stanza not starting issues?

In order to ensure this inconvenience never ever takes place again, regular maintenance is key. This consists of things like oil changes, examining the battery and cleaning its terminals, changing the fuel filter as recommended/needed, and having your Nissan Stanza inspected by a mechanic often. It’s also a fantastic idea to drive the vehicle frequently so the battery stays charged.

Can I ask a mechanic online if my Nissan Stanza fails to start?

Yes, you can. An online mechanic service like ours can offer instant specialist Nissan mechanic assistance and recommendations, without you having to leave your home. This is specifically helpful if your Car can’t start and is stuck in the driveway.

How can services like MechanicAnswer.com help if my Nissan Stanza fails to start?

We link you with certified professional Nissan mechanics who can supply recommendations on your particular situation. You can tell them about your Car issues, ask unlimited questions, and even upload images and videos so you can appropriately show the issue and explain it. The mechanic will be able to help, troubleshoot, diagnose the problem, recommend the best course of action and guide you along the way.

Chat With a Mechanic?

24/7 Expert Mechanics To Help Solve Any Issues Your Having.

 

Which Mechanic Suits You?

  1. Chat with an Online Mechanic to get instant, unlimited help and advice for 1 full week, for just $5.
  2. Get in-person help from a Mobile Mechanic. We recommend YourMechanic. They will come to you and fix your vehicle at a time that suits you. Instant free quote online below. We recommend the online mechanic first, as it’s cheaper, and you may not need an in-person mechanic.

Which Mechanic Suits You?

  1. Chat with an Online Mechanic to get instant, unlimited help and advice for 1 full week, for just £5.
  2. Get help from a Mobile Mechanic. We  recommend Fixter. They will come to you and fix your vehicle at a time that suits you. Instant free quote online below. We recommend the online mechanic first, as it’s cheaper for you, and you may not need an in-person mechanic.

Which Mechanic Suits You?

  1. Chat with an Online Mechanic to get instant, unlimited help and advice for 1 full week, for just $5.
  2. Get in-person help from a Mobile Mechanic Near You. They will come to you and fix your vehicle at a time that suits you. If there are none near you, you will be redirected to the online mechanic.

Which Mechanic Suits You?

  1. Chat with an Online Mechanic to get instant, unlimited help and advice for 1 full week, for just $5.
  2. Get in-person help from a Mobile Mechanic Near You. They will come to you and fix your vehicle at a time that suits you. If there are none near you, you will be redirected to the online mechanic.

Which Mechanic Suits You?

  1. Chat with an Online Mechanic to get instant, unlimited help and advice for 1 full week, for just £5.
  2. Get help from a Mobile Mechanic. We  recommend Fixter. They will come to you and fix your vehicle at a time that suits you. Instant free quote online below. We recommend the online mechanic first, as it’s cheaper for you, and you may not need an in-person mechanic.

Which Mechanic Suits You?

  1. Chat with an Online Mechanic to get instant, unlimited help and advice for 1 full week, for just $5.
  2. Get in-person help from a Mobile Mechanic. We recommend YourMechanic. They will come to you and fix your vehicle at a time that suits you. Instant free quote online below. We recommend the online mechanic first, as it’s cheaper, and you may not need an in-person mechanic.

Where Can I Find My VIN?

Your vehicle’s unique Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) can be found on the title document, the vehicle registration, and the insurance policy. It is a series letters and numbers like this as example: WAUGC0896JA235262. The VIN can also be located on the following locations on the vehicle itself:

how to find VIN on vehicle