You checked the fuses, right? I don't have my schematic handy this
minute, but I think Nissan has this large fuseable link for ignition
(probably 80Amps or so). They usually look like square blocks in the
fusebox under the hood - this particular one is probably labled IG or
IGN. Make sure they are all seated well.
It could be your starter or the ignition switch -- I wouldn't replace
either until you determine which is the problem because they are both
fairly expensive parts. Often no starts like this are directly related
to the starter but not always so it pays to check.
You should take both connections off the starter and battery and clean
both sides well. Also clean the thinner lead to the starter. Clean the
lugs with some fine sandpaper -- it could be that you have an
intermittent contact.
Be sure to disconnect your battery before cleaning as you could easily
short something and make huge sparks, possibly get hurt.
If your contacts are clean and If your fuses are ok you'll need to
probe around the starter for voltages.
I am assuming you know how to use a multimeter. Obviously, you have to
do this when the car doesn't start.
This is a live test -- the battery has to be connected so be careful
not to short anything, because there's tremendous power potential in
that area. Perhaps wear safety glasses to protect your eyes in case of
an inadvertent short.
The starter has two leads: the fattest lead should always have VBat
(12-14.5V) on it.
The thinner lead should only have VBAT on it when you turn the key to
the start position.
Clearly you'll need help checking for that voltage, so have a friend
turn the key while you check if that voltage appears.
If you don't see a voltage there when you turn the key, your ignition
switch might have an issue. If you see both voltages on the starter,
your starter most likely has to be replaced. You might be able to find
a local repair shop that could fix your starter - it is a fraction of
the cost of a new unit.
In the case of your ignition switch, it could be that it worn out if
you have a lot of keys on your key ring. The extra weight can wear out
the switch to where it eventually becomes intermittent. It could also
be that a connection on the switch is not properly crimped and has
become intermittent.
Post back here if you need more help.
Remco
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