how can i stop this?

Question

i have a 1998 nissan maxima, and its been sitting a few months due to needs transmission im about to put it in shop to get that fixed but ive been noticing since its been sitting, everytime it rains or i clean the engine/something with water it gives me a problem starting, what could be getting wet? ive installed a cold air intake since its been sitting but thats not getting touched as i never cleaned the engine then and it did it before, and i had it diagnostic tested and had a valve 5 misfire so i planned on changing all spark plugs and plug wires once the car is mobile again, any other thoughts on what i could do to stop this? and the ignition switch is kinda messed up as in where the original key i can literraly take the key out of the ignition when the car is in drive or anygear and running, so i usually spend a few seconds messing with that to get the key in the right spot to start the car but ive been noticing this in the rain, any answers?

Answer 1

plug wires and distributor cap getting damp change them and spray them with WD40 or any type of silicone this will keep the water out and solve your problem this will not effect your tumbler assembly

Answer 2

You have several issues going on that could be causing the problem, so you need to address them in order to get the car performing properly. First off, assuming that you are going to go ahead and actually do all the fixes you claim, I'd go ahead and change out the plugs & wires now. It's not overly expensive and might help with your starting problem. If you have old wires with cracked insulation, the moisture might be seeping into them and causing your wet weather problem. The bad ignition switch could also be the culprit and not the moisture. It will need to be replaced eventually. I suggest doing so...your starting problem might go away.

Also if water's creeping in under the hood, it could be getting the distributor wet. (When you are cleaning the engine, you should always cover the distributor with plastic to keep it dry. If you haven't been, that could be your problem right there.) Check the distributor cap for cracks, etc. where condensation or moisture could be seeping in, check battery wires to see if they are in good shape, and inspect the starter and wires to it for cracks, damage, or evidence of shorting.

If you are convinced it's a moisture issue, a good way of finding out where the water might be going is to hose down the car, then look under the hood to see if the water is seeping in someplace via a bad hood seal, etc...

Hope this helps a little.

Answer 3

First off, Quit spraying your engine with water,
There are a number of electrical components under the hood that should not get wet.

The reason it won't start after washing the engine is because you're shorting thigs out. Primarily the distributor cap.

If you got water inside the distributor cap, it will take a VERY long time for the water to evaporate. Remove the distributor cap and let it sit and dry out for a day.

As far as the key problem, you will have to replace the tumbler assembly.

Answer 4

Great tip with the WD-40. If the distributor is getting wet, check to see how. If it is from washing the engine quit doing that! You shouldn't be washing it anyway. WD-40 will essentially dry your disrtibutor instantly. (the WD in WD-40 stands for water displacing)
As for the key issue, take it into your dealer and have them fix it. This does not affect how the car starts, but they do wear out and sometimes they can be turned with any object that fits in there.

Answer 5

well all depends on what your missing when it won't start.
do you have spark when it acts up?
if so, are you getting fuel?
If you could give me the answers to those two question, a better diagnosis could be made.

Answer 6

Distributer cap.

Answer 7

Probably what he said (Blunt Honesty)

Answer 8

what?? ok start over