Nissan Repair: Maxima 99 will not start Airbag, seat belt light suddenly flashing, instrument panel dim during rain, neutral safety switch, pouring rain

Question
Von,
I had front tires replaced and drove 5 miles back to apt in pouring rain. Stopped to pick up mail near apt and left hazard lights on. While driving to the apartment instrument panel suddenly went dim, seatbelt and airbag lights started to flash, car began to stall/sputter slightly. After I parked and turned it on again, instrument panel lights up normally, however when I give ignition there is a whirring/clucking noise from driver side under the hood and car will not start. You can see I am pretty much lost here and do not know to even look. Could you tell what is causing the problem. Thanks in advance

Answer
Shawn,

The noise you describe is the starter not working properly.  But, on the subject of the lights and such I would be looking at the alternator first.  So, to check things out properly, Have the battery fully charged and then attempt to start.  If no start run the shifter through the gears to see if the neutral safety switch is defective.  From what you say it is the starter but I want to make sure.  If the car starts go to Autozone or checker and have them check the charging system for free.  Probably going to find the alternator has gone out and is causing most of the problems.  Now, if you drove through really deep water that could have been the cause of the electrical problems in the first place.