How to tell if immobiliser is screwed?

ChaseTheAce

Hi,

I cannot start my 07 Nissan Almera SXE.

When I turn the key to start the engine:
- the doors lock and unlock themself
- the battery, oil and engine lights come on
- the engine does not turn over

The battery isnt dead because the radio and headlights will come on.

I believe it may be a problem with the immobilser, is there a way to tell this?

Thanks

Avns1s

Have you tried the spare key??

ChaseTheAce

Avns1s wrote: »

Have you tried the spare key??

Thanks for the reply.

No, I don't have the spare key with me.
Is there a chance the spare key will work?

Avns1s

I dunno, but I would think it prudent to rule out anything to do with the transponder in the key before pulling out the engine management system / immobiliser.

ChaseTheAce

Thanks, that wasnt my intention, I'm just trying to diagnose the problem

Any other ideas?

Mr Benevolent

It's possible the fob transponder is the problem. It could also be the battery, regardless of the radio and lights coming on. I'd really suggest getting an auto electrician out to have a look.

Also, is there a 'click' when you turn the key to 'Start'? If there is it's more likely the battery imo.

ChaseTheAce

Cheers for the reply.

It does sound like a click when I turn the key but its hard to single it out from the clicks of the doors locking.

Thanks, I'm going to take it to a mechanic on Monday, was just trying to diagnose the problem so I could gauge the cost.

ianobrien

I'm open to correction but I thought the immobiliser killed the fuel pump and/or the coil packs. I think the immobiliser has nothing to do with the starter motor circuit. It was that way on the older Nissans anyway.

OP is the starter turning at all? I'd be looking at the starter motor circuit and also do the headlights dim when you try to start the car? Can you hear any relays opening and closing?

ChaseTheAce

Starter not turning at all.

Doesnt seem to be any difference in the head lights either when turning the key.

ianobrien

Then I'd be looking at the starter motor circuit or starter solenoid. If you can reach the starter, a slight tap with a hammer might free the solenoid. If you break it off, you'll need a new starter....

5500

I had people onto me before with nissan sunnys with the same problem you seem to have when they thought it was either a nat's fault or an aftermarket alarm immobilisor issue but it turned out to be the starter pr battery combination as said above.

If you have access to jump leads try starting with them attached

ChaseTheAce

Thanks for all the help, fair play to ye

Esel

ChaseTheAce wrote: »

The battery isnt dead because the radio and headlights will come on.

Do not take this as an indication that the battery has enough power to turn the engine over.

The door lock/unlock sequence is often an indication of low battery too.