Nissan Repair: 1996 Maxima - wont start, computer mother board, nissan maxima

Question
Hi Von,

This is a follow-up question to my one below.  My car got to the point where it would take a dozen times before the engine turned over and there was a whiny metallic sound between each attempt.  My mechanic replaced the motherboard yesterday and now the car won't start.  He ran diagnostics on the ignition and fuel injection systems, but came up with no clues.            What do you think?

Thanks, Leila


Expert: Von Sudderth
Date: 4/19/2006
Subject: 1996 Maxima

Question
Hi,

Over the past couple of years, the check engine light on my 1996 Nissan Maxima has switched on and off in hot and cold weather. The car, until recently, has been running fine. My mechanic checked the codes and they were speed and communication sensors.

The car has stalled 1/2 dozen times a day for the past 5 days. Before that 3 times over a ten-day long period. It takes 4 tries before the engine turns over, but it's always started again. Once the check engine light came on and it was a communication sensor. The mechanic suggested replacing the car's computer.

Soon after I bought my used 1996 Nissan Maxima in 1998, the tachometer got stuck at 8000 RPM.

Leila,

The computer could have a bad connection and it is possible the computer could need to be replaced. However, I would have the mechanic disconnect the computer and reconnect it to make sure the connection is seated properly. Drive it for a couple of days to see if this corrects the problem. If not replace the computer.  

Answer
If the motherboard was replaced and the car will not start I would be looking at the connection and to be sure that the new computer mother board is the correct one.  Japanese car production is a evolving process and it is very important to get the correct electronics since they might have changed things in mid production.  I would look there first.