Nissan Repair: Nissan Micra 2003 starting problems, nissan micra, rf interference

Question
QUESTION: Hi,

I have a new shape Nissan Micra 2003 (K12) Auto with keyless entry. When I use the keyless entry system and try to start the key again just by turning the knob and without the key the car does not always start straigh away. The word 'Key' appears on the dashboard in green to recognise the key but the starter acts like it is jammed and just will not turn. This is not always but frequently. I thought it may be the battery in the remote running out so changed it and for the first day or so it was fine and starting straight away but now it is tempremental again.

Do you have any idea what it could be?

ANSWER: Andrew,

Interference in recognizing the key is a major concern for Nissan.  If you have a cell phone in your pocket, close to the key, it can cause interference.  If there is another Nissan key on your ring that can too.  Lastly, if you are parked in a strong electro-magnetic field you can have troubles too.  Check these out and email me back.  Also, if you have an aftermarket stereo system that can give difficulty too.  I have a friend, neighbor, that has a Nissan Titan (Big Sport Utility Vehicle) that has the same problem and he ends up puttin gthe phones and other RF interference on the passenger seat to give a clean connection for the car.

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thanks for your response. The stereo is the original and we are only ever using 1 key to enter the car. The strange thing is the doors open with no problems and when I try to start the car the word 'key' appears in green not red meaning there is communication between the car and the key. Sometimes the switch will turn and the car will start straight away other times (even when parked in exactly the same place) you have to try and turn the switch forwards and backwards a few times to get it to turn and start the car.

Could it be a fault with the knob switch that turns to start the car?

Answer
Andrew,

Yes, the knob could be defective, the starter relay, starter itself, the battery cable could be corroded or, if you have an automatic the neutral safety switch or if a manual the clutch switch could be failing.  Thanks for the follow up question.  Let me know if you need more.