2006 Altima 2.5 hard start

[Q451990]

Asking for a friend with a 2006 2.5L Altima. A/T

When he first tries to start the car, the starter engages, but it won't start... it just turns over and over like it's not getting fuel (or spark). On the second try it usually starts right up. He says it's starting to get worse. No CEL, but I haven't checked for codes since the car is usally in Nashville and I'm in SC.

The car had an aftermarket remote start installed on it when he first bought the car - and the dealership he took it to for diagnostics blamed it on that. From what I understand, the remote start was removed, but the problem remains.

Does any of this sound like a known issue?

Thanks!

Heath

[PapaSmurf2k3]

I've seen countless Altimas from that generation that have the problem. Almost sounds like a bad fuel pump or severely clogged filter or something.
If he keys-on so the fuel pump kicks on before starting, does it start quicker?

[Q451990]

I'll check with him. I looked through all of the TSBs and there's one that talks about Camshaft Position Sensors, but there's a distinction between hot and cold starts - but his does it either way. Just updated the model year to 2006 if that makes a difference... (and moved it to the correct subforum )

Heath

[Altima2.5SL]

Your friends issue sounds like the cam/crank position sensors, I would start there they are relatively inexpensive at ~$30 a piece at local parts stores. Make sure to tell him when he purchases them to look at them before he pays to make sure they are the new style sensors, the new ones are made with metal where the old ones were all plastic, it is a very common issue on 02-06 Altimas.