Nissan Repair: Electrical problems with Nissan Altima., nissan altima, spark plug wire

Question
Hello. I have a 1997 Nissan Altima with ~125K miles that has been working very well. Last weekend, I had some trouble starting the car but when I tried a day later, it started just fine. Today, I noticed the "check emission" was lit on the dashboard. The car stopped in the middle of the road and wouldn't start for 10 minutes. Then, I was able to start and I was able to park it safely. The battery is in good condition (confirmed by the AAA battery tow truck). Any suggestions what the problem could be? Thanks- Gautam.

Answer
Hi Gautam,

Please check the ignition module in the distributor. The best way to check it is when the car is in the no start condition, pull out a spark plug wire, insert a screwdriver into the boot until it contacts against the terminal. Hold the screwdriver point about 1/4 inch from any metal surface of the car. Have a helper turn the engine (do NOT touch any metal surface while doing this) and see if there is a spark jumping between the screwdriver and car. If not, replace the module. One way you can get around this is just change the module as you do not know when the car will die.

If there is a spark, then look for a faulty fuel pump.

Hope this helps -
aloha
calvin