Why won't my car start?

Question

I have a 2004 Nissan Maxima SE 6-speed Manual with 82k miles on it. Nissan put a new clutch in it, change the oil and brake pads 1 month ago. They said it need a tune-up but I wasn't trying to give them another $500-$700 dollars on top of my $1500 bill.

My girl was driving it all yesterday. She parked it on a hill with the front up. Turn the ignition and it wont start. It has a very strong turn and all the lights work but it wont turn. Its barley any gas (thanks Tiff) in it. She put only $5 in it 1 Mile away from our home.

I know its nothing major (well I hope so). Before I tow it to Nissan and they tell me something crazy is wrong with it that cost $1000-$2000, I wanted to ask a couple people. No Check engine lights or anything else is on. What could it possibly be or should I check something? Please help.

Answer 1

Might sound silly but have you tried turning it so it's facing downhill, wait for a few minutes, and then try again? It's just possible the fuel pickup isn't seeing any fuel there as it's all at the back of the tank while it's facing uphill.

Answer 2

Either you are using a unprogramed Key or it is out of gas. Red Key light will turn on with an unauthorized key and after four attempts the car will go into lock mode and not start untill nissan gets ther one hour check out. Have the tow truck take it to a gas station first. Using a known good key (hers) start the car

Answer 3

personnaly I'd try popping the clutch...one of the great advantages of having a manual transmission....you can do it in reverse too ya know.( If its turning, probably not the starter/battery...if you have power but it's NOT turning ...could be the seliniod/starter...also I'd check the plugs to be sure they're securly fastened and that they are firing) chances are iyt's something simple...like needing gas :O)
good luck.

Answer 4

I had similar situation in a Corolla. Floor mat bunched up under clutch pedal so it didn't think it was fully depressed and locked out starter.