Nissan Repair: 1999 Nissan Sentra wont start, nissan sentra, fuel pump relay

Question
My 1999 Nissan Sentra cranks but will not start. I've been told that it could be my fuel pump or fuel shut off switch or the starter. My husband checked the fuses and said they were fine.
This problem occurred suddenly about 3 wks. ago and the car has been parked since then. I check it daily to see if it starts but it hasn't.
Some guy told my husband to remove the gas cap and turn the key over to listen for a humming sound which would indicate that the fuel pump is working. My husband said he did not hear any hum.
By the way, I just purchased this car six months ago and it has about 74,000 miles on it. Thanks!

Answer
Sharon,

First check the pump by turning the key to on, not start, and have the husband check for noise back near the gas tank.  The pump will make a buzz noise.  If there is no noise I would chekc the fuel pump relay and change it.  If the relay does not correct the problem it looks like the fuel pump is bad.  But, before you change it check for fuel pressure by taking off the line that comes from the tank up to the fuel injectors.  Get a coffee can and have the husband hold the hose in the can and then turn the key to on.  If it pumps fuel into the can you have fuel.  If this is not the problem I would be looking at the ignition.  If no fuel you need a pump.  Be sure to be ready to turn the key off as the can will fill quickly and when he says turn it off be ready.  Also, no smoking or drop lights around the fuel as it will catch fire easy.