Q: Starter will not turn over, nor engage

asked by on September 07, 2016

When turning my key in the ignition to start the SUV, the starter will not turn over, nor engage. All the electrical systems and the instrument panel lights function properly. I turn the key off and then back on and the car starts. I replaced the battery. The charging system and electrical system are in good condition. What can I do to find the solution for this problem?

Car is not starting Inspection $94.99 - $114.99 Get a Quote

Hi there, thank you for asking about your 2003 Infiniti FX45. The battery replacement has activated the "immobilizer" security feature. Consult your owners manual for instructions on how to disarm the system. Also, after replacing the battery, there is a "relearn" process necessary for the engine’s throttle mechanism in order to re-establish a consistent idle. Some service centers don’t bother with this. If you want to have this checked by a certified mechanic, a technician from YourMechanic can come to your home or office to inspect your starting problem.

The statements expressed above are only for informational purposes and should be independently verified. Please see our terms of service for more details

Get an instant quote for your car

Our certified mechanics come to you ・Backed by 12-month, 12,000-mile guarantee・Fair and transparent pricing


Experienced Mechanic?

Earn up to $70/hr

What others are asking

How do I use the audio system with a navigation system?
If you have an Accord with an in-dash navigation system, there’s good news. Most of your audio system functionality still comes from the standard buttons on the interface. However, there are some things you can only do by using the...
How do I fold down the rear seats?
The rear seats can be folded down to create extra storage space in the rear of the vehicle. Folding the rear seats takes a few steps, but is easy: 1. Latch the center seat belt into the side of the...
Rattling noise on a 2002 Honda Passport
It's a 14-year-old Honda Passport and if you hear rattling sounds, a lot of times it is those little stabilizers bolts where the sway bars go and keep the car nice and tight for cornering. On each side there will...
Engine doesn't start but lights power on - 1986 Ford LTD Crown Victoria
You're thinking in the rigt direction! Something in the electrical power path to the starter motor is malfunctioning: starter solenoid or starter motor itself, ignition switch (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/ignition-switch-replacement), or wiring to either of these components. A professional mechanic, like YourMechanic, can...
1995 BMW 318i starter wiring
The black/yellow wire is the ignition wire, which goes to a small stud on the starter. The large red cables come from the battery and power distribution box. They go to the large stud on the starter. The black/green wire...
How do I reset the trip the odometer to zero in my 2016 Chevrolet Impala
Hi there. Your Impala will still have the button reset on the instrument cluster. It is not easy to see unless you are looking for it. Once you find it you can toggle through until you find the trip setting...
2001 mitsubishi montero limited. Need to calibrate idle air valve.
Hello. In order to properly adjust idle speed on this vehicle you will need a scan tool. The vehicle will need to be put in relearn mode to do so. Over time the computer will adapt on its own if...
Location of thermostat.
Hello, thank you for writing in. While it is strange to think the thermostat (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/thermostat-replacement) can be located on the lower radiator hose, this is common practice for some manufactures. The concept works exactly the same. The coolant entering the...

Related articles

The Best Used Cars to Buy If You Like to Go Off-Roading
Your Your best bet for off-roading is a 4x4 SUV. Depending on the model that pleases you most, though, you might have to shop around a bit to find a good used one. That’s simply because off-roaders typically become very...
Symptoms of a Bad or Failing Ballast Resistor
Common signs are the vehicle not starting or starting but immediately dying. Only a professional mechanic should handle the ballast resistor.
Symptoms of a Bad or Failing Starter
Common signs include the engine not turning over, starter engaging but not spinning the motor, and grinding noises or smoke when starting the motor.