1996 Maxima hard to start
 

My 1996 Maxima (just purchased) is sometimes hard to start. When I turn the key on, everything lights up but it won't even try to start. After a few times the starter will fire and even then it takes 2 to 3 tries to get it to fully start. I just replaced the starter. Also, the Autozone Analyzer said the oxygen sensor and knock sensors were bad. Any thoughts?

RE: 1996 Maxima hard to start
 

Have your battery checked for a bad cell.If yourO2 sensors were bad, your 'check engine soon' light would be on? I had astarting problem with my '99 and found it to be a bad cell. I'd get a rapid clicking noise once in a while especially when it got very cold.I thought it was the startertoo but it wasnt. Anyway good luck!

RE: 1996 Maxima hard to start
 

My check engine light was on, and the computer said I had a bad #1 O2 sensor and another one (the computer erased the light before we could write it down). I changed batteries and it did not fix the problem starting. I have 2 problems. (1) Every few starts it won't even try to crank, eventhough the radio, etc. come on. (2) Sometimes when it does crank it takes way too long to start. Sometimes 2-4 tries. I'm beginning to wonder if I have an ignition switch problem and another problem with the fuel injectors.
Can anyone tell me what the car will do with a bad O2 sensor? Also, how long after the check engine light is erased will it take it to come back on if there is a problem.

Thanks.

RE: 1996 Maxima hard to start
 

In case anybody actually reads this I'll tell you the problem was the ignition switch wiring harness. I tested the spade connectors with an OHM meter per my Chilton's book and determined it had a bad contact from the no. 5 wire. I took the switch apart and saw a burnt contact and cleaned it and reinstalled it. So far it's starting great. Too soon to tell if it took care of my problem on engine cranking but not starting.

RE: 1996 Maxima hard to start
 

Seems like you guys have a bad ignition switch. because ignition switch not only make starter to move it sends a "start signal"also and in absence of start signal you car wont start.
but before you change ingintion switch please let me know whether you have auto/standard transmission so i could send you diagnostics

Thanks