Nissan Repair: car will not start, 2002 nissan altima, nissan altima

Question
2002 Nissan altima will not start, the battery is charged, but nothing is turning on it dead silence when key is turn. what should i check?
Thanks

Answer
Hi Phil -

First I am assuming that the battery is OK under load (it could read 12V and dtill not start the car). The way to check this is to turn on the headlights and start the car. If the lights suddenly turn off, or go really dim, then it could be the battery or battery connections. Please ensure these are checked before going on.

If the lights remain strong and there still is no sound, check the starter. You will need a probe type 12V light tester. Find the starter at the end of the positive cable from the battery. there should be 2 wires, a large one and smaller one connected to the starter. Touch the probe to the terminal of the small wire while someone tries to start the car. If there is power, then replace the starter. If there is no power, it could be a loose or missing connection, fusible link, or the ignition switch.

Let me know if you get to this point, and I will take you further -

Hope this helps -
aloha
calvin