Starting issue

[BrianC]

1998 I30 starting issue Car will not start sometimes, will just turn over but not fire, is this an ignition issue or something else, dont want to start throwing parts at it.
Modified by BrianC at 1:38 PM 8/28/2008

[BrianC]

Car will not start sometimes, will just turn over but not fire, is this an ignition issue or something else, dont want to start throwing parts at it.

[BrianC]

Changed starter after the initial no start tested and it was indeed bad. Mechanic mentioned possible ignition switch as key feels kind of sloppy and may be interfereing with security but not sure and doesnt want to start throwing parts at it. a sshort time ago code would come up EGR, would this cause this problem?

[SteveTheTech]

Hey there, A 97 I does not have a NATS system so if the engine is cranking you are mostlikely something else causing your no start, although the IGN cylinder is something you should address. If you are not getting spark and you know this for a fact, you may be missing your crank position or signal from the ECM. More information is needed to further assist you.The EGR code will not cause a no start it will however cause running issues, a PO400 is very common on this vehicle and usually signifies that there is no flow from your EGR valve and the temperature sensor is not detecting a change in temperature, due to a blockage but that's a separate issue.

[BrianC]

My bad it is a 98 and it does indeed have a factory anti theft system. Initially when we talked to mechanic about the issue of starting as it became more frequent he said crank sensor, then car would not start, tried to jump but that was not it, towed to shop and found bad starter replaced and now it will start but will act up now and again almost seems like first time in morning or after it has sat all day. Took to an electrical shop but of course would not act up, started every time and they seem to think that it is not electrical. Mechanic not sure as it is not giving up any codes. Dont need to start throwing money at it needlessly but need to correct the problem, what other information could I give?

[SteveTheTech]

Well the fact that it starts is pretty significant. How does it run, and you said that there were not DTCs store was the CEL on before this started? The difference between a 97 and 98 is pretty big, next time this happens take a look at the security light and see if it is on steady. There could also be a wiring harness problem which is not uncommon.While it's acting up you are going to have to see what your missing of the four basic elements required to operate an internal combustion engine. You are missing something either fuel (fuel pump, filter), air (MAF sensor, loose intake piping), Timing (engine speed sensor,position circuit), spark (coils,plugs,ignition signal).

[maxnix]

Mechanic mentioned possible ignition switch as key feels kind of sloppy and may be interfereing with security but not sure and doesnt want to start throwing parts at it.

If you have additional keys on your key ring, this will wear out the cylinder much quicker than just ignition key and remote fob. The more the quicker the ignition switch will fail.

[BrianC]

I have just gotten a code of P0600, any ideas. Being told something to do with wiring in colum possibly. If so where do I start?

[SteveTheTech]

A PO600 is an AT communication code. Somewhere in the wiring harness you are loosing contact between your ECM and TCM. You need to get it looked at by someone with some diagnostic skills, this is not a job for a rookie, no offense implied. It may be something like a broken harness but harnesses are expensive and you don't want to get it wrong.

[maxnix]

Did you remove your TCU for any purpose? If so, you might start by checking that connection first.

I agree with Steve, no shade tree mechanics nor unqualified technicians even.

[BrianC]

No not that I am aware of, there was a time when you put the car into gear it would not move, almost like you were pulling a ton of something. Stop shut off and restart then would be fine. But has been good.

[SteveTheTech]

In my opinion you need to take it to the dealer, the severity of your incident should get you a master or specialist, the diagnostic charge would be worth it in this case. You will cause damage to components such as your engine and transmission that will cost thousands of dollars to repair if you neglect this issue.

[BrianC]

Does this need to be an infiniti dealer? The closest is about an hour away, but there is a nissan dealer here in town.

[SteveTheTech]

It would not hurt to call them and ask.

[maxnix]

An I30 is basically a tarted Maxima.

[BrianC]

I have just had a diag test at dealer and they have come up with a couple of codes 0400 and 0446. Said to replace the evap cannister and solenoid. Is this a possibility for starting before I purchase the parts?

[SteveTheTech]

Neither of those codes will cause a no start.

A PO400 is an EGR function function DTC meaning the ECM is not detecting an increase in EGR temperature. There is a tube that needs to be removed and cleaned, and maybe replace the sensor.

The PO446 is an EVAP purge control valve DTC. In MA as I know from previous experiences that the purge volume control valve can sieze this is not uncommon.

Both of these codes will require proper diagnosis but they will not cause a No-Start condition.

How many keys do you have and check them and see if any of them are damaged in any way or the small RFID chip in the (bottom near the blade)?

Who replaced your starter? (maybe a loose connection, or loosing starter signal, or battery supply voltage)