Nissan Repair: Nissan Maxima doesnt start sometimes, Stalls while driving, nissan maxima, positive cable

Question
QUESTION: Hi
I travel a lot and generally come home for the weekend, thats when I get a chance to drive my car, 98 maxima, 35k miles. The car wont start sometimes, no power at all, no lights, no egnine warning. It would start if you connect the jumper. It stalled once before while driving. I thought it might be a bettery problem. I installed a new battery recently.After that it drove fine for a few times.  Now it throws the same problem(not re-starting sometimes) and has started stalling more frequently while driving at normal speeds.  It will stal(no battery power) but the power would come up after some time. The way to start it is to jump it(works every time), or disconnect d battery and reconnect(doesnt work all d time) or wait for some time 5,10,20 mins(random time)  and it would restart.

Would appreciate your help.

Thanks

ANSWER: Nav,

I would have the electrical system checked for proper operation.  Autozone or Checker will check the system for free.  For a car to loose all power intermittently would lead me to think there was a problem with the battery cable since you changed the battery for a new one.  Or the master fuses at the positive cable are corroded where they connect.  That is just me thinking here.  So, have the system checked for free and check those fuses at the positive cable connection and see if everything is tight and not corroded.  Email me back and let me know you find.

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QUESTION: Thanks Von
I went to Pepboys and had a diagnostics done. They did not find any code, he said the car is in very good condition. THe guy drove it around, started it hot and cold but it did not stall. He checked the battery and the alternator, no issues. The MAF sensor, fuel pressure, etc was also fine.  THe mechanic said it could be because of mositure piling up(??) since the car is not driven around much but he is not sure.
Im baffled.

ANSWER: Nav,

I would replace the starter relay since there were no codes present.  That would be the first thing that would come to mind.  Too much moisture is a bogus answer.  Other causes I have mentioned previously.  But, the relay would be my first thought.

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QUESTION: Thanks again Von.
Is the starter relay and ignition relay the same thing. I checked the maxima repair manual by Chilton and checked under the steering inside the car. Theres a blue relay close to the fuse box. Is this what we are talking about? I believe I can replace it myself. Although the stores did not have it I might get it at the dealer.


Answer
Nav,

The ignition is powered via the ignition fuse.  The starter relay should be under the hood and it would be blue in color.  Some parts stores do not stock Nissan specific relays.  What I would do is remove the cover to the relay box, under the hood, and change the relay with the same type from another spot that is not mission critical, like the airconditioner relay and see if the car stops screwing up.  If it does, then purchase a new relay and replace the defective one.