Nissan Repair: Car wont start, nissan maxima, starter fluid

Question
We own a 1990 Nissan Maxima that we keep in good shape and it runs fair. It started conking out twice last week. Yesterday I tried to start it and I ended up having to use starter fluid to succeed. Today, same problem except that I simply could not start it. It sounded close to start once or twice but no cigar, even though I used an external battery and had plenty of juice available to crank it.

What can cause this?

Thanks,

Jean

Answer
There are computer parts in your Nissan that shouldnt have starter fluid contaminating them, with that said, check your fuel pump by turning the key on in a quiet environment, if you hear a slight hum, your fuel pump is working. Check the fuel filter.