Starting 2006 M35 problem

[Vinny2010]

I was test driving a 2006 infiniti M35x with 124,000 miles and when I stopped the car in a parking lot it wouldnt start back up, I charged the key and left it in the slot and when I pressed the button 3 more times all I got was a key symbol on the odometer dash. On the 4th time their was no light but the nav system screen turned on along with not being able to lock or unlock the car with the remote or button on the doors.

What kind of problem is this? I called the dealership and they said it started fine when they went to pick up the car, I don't believe them because they charged the battery when they picked us up and it still wouldnt start.



Also, I will be taking this car for a mechanic to look at, any questions or concerns I should ask him to check specifically?

Thanks

[Larz]

Welcome to NICO!
First, that slot in the dash for key fob is not a charger. There is no way to charge the key fob - it takes a regular battery and must be replaced when it dies. That slot simply allow you to place the dead key fob inside and will allow you to start the car. The symptoms you are describing sound like a dead / low battery, or loose battery cables. As you know, the car battery might have enough of a charge to light up the dash, etc but not enough cranking amps to actually start the car. Our Ms do some pretty weird things when the car battery is low or the cables are loose.

My suggestions:
First, check to be sure the battery cables are very tight - even 'almost tight' connections can cause weird issues with these cars and change the batteries in both key fobs - I do mine on my birthday each year. They are available at CVS, Walmart, etc for a few dollars. If the dealer doesn't offer a CarFax report, buy one online (all you need is the VIN) to make sure there is nothing alarming in it's history.

Have your mechanic check the electrical system - make sure the alternator is charging and the battery is in good shape. Also have him check the A/C, radiator, suspension, all fluids, brake pads, belts, and hoses.

I'm sure you already know this, but I'm going to say it anyway. Any car, even one as high quality as the M, will need repairs and these cars are expensive to repair. The technology and electronics on these are very costly when they fail. I'm assuming you are not buying this from an Infiniti dealer as they don't usually keep a car this old on their lots. Make sure there is some sort of warranty from the seller and that it covers whatever your mechanic determines is need of replacement or repair. If there is no warranty, be prepared to make some rather expensive repairs in the near future - spark plugs, suspension, air con, etc.

I also always say this: The only place I buy a used car is CarMax. They have no processing fees, they don't keep cars that are in poor shape, and they usually offer an extended warranty that covers bumper to bumper, allowing you to drive off without any worries.