2007 V36 - Suspect Starter Motor, Where To Go?

[Haxorz]

Hey all!

I noticed some problems starting up my 2007 V36 and thought it was the battery. Took it to Super Cheap Auto in Yarraville, Vic and they used their battery tester on my car (big shout to those guys - very helpful! - I almost went and bought a battery I didn't need).

The original 2007 battery isn't in the best condition, but it's still fine. The Century Test Tool said 'check starter motor' and showed it wasn't putting out enough power.

So my question... I live in inner Melbourne. Haven't had a mechanical problem with my car yet (great Nissan reliablity!) so am not sure where to go.

There is a Auto Elec just up the street - but obviously they won't know the car well. There is also City Nissan close by, but they might want to sell me a starter motor that I don't need.

Where would you guys take it?

[The Max]

Starter motors aren't a dark art and it's more likely a starter motor will fail rather than a component in your IPDM.

Given the test results, I'd say the starter solenoid on the motor has either died or just the positive feed into it isn't making good contact due to the bolt shaking loose for whatever inexplicable reason. I remember the solenoid in my old Maxima dropped its guts after 17 years of excellent service. It was easy to start cold but not immediately after driving (ie. hot).

Hopefully someone from your neck of the woods will chime in with their recommended auto sparky.

Edited November 28, 2013 by The Max

[scotty nm35]

It could well be the battery still, these cars have way too much electronics in them to like even a slight voltage drop.

What is it doing on startup?

[PN-Mad]

Yup, I have had batteries that have held volts, but wouldn't provide a bees dick of amperage. Perhaps borrow a battery out of something just for a test. Then you can really rule it out.

[Haxorz]

It could well be the battery still, these cars have way too much electronics in them to like even a slight voltage drop.

What is it doing on startup?

Basically, I'll push the start button, and it'll start up (it revs up automatically) and then after about a second revs drop to 0 and it conks out. Not all the time, but maybe 1/10 starts, and esp if I have the heated seats on. If this happens, I usually just start it and give the throttle a little squirt and it's fine.

[scotty nm35]

Sounds like it just needs the throttles cleaned, or perhaps there is a vacuum leak? Then you could try a throttle relearn.

What engine do you have?

[The Max]

Definitely doesn't sound like a battery nor starter motor problem. You'll need a mechanic for this one, not an auto electrician. Scotty's started you off on the right path. Take it from there.

[Haxorz]

Sounds like it just needs the throttles cleaned, or perhaps there is a vacuum leak? Then you could try a throttle relearn.

What engine do you have?

Can this problem cause the Century Battery Tester readout to report 'check starter motor'?

I have a 3.7L. I also have some throttle body cleaner...

[scotty nm35]

It could, it is only saying the battery voltage is fine and something else (starter) is at fault.

If you plan to attack the throttles on your own, make sure you don't open the throttle plate when you clean them, and don't turn the key on until you have plugged them back in.