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2020 Altima No Start - Just Clicking, Intelligent Key Issue?

0

Jennifer H. · rep 0 · May 22, 2:49 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2020 Nissan Altima SR

Hi all,

My 2020 Nissan Altima SR, with about 45,000 miles, suddenly won't start this morning. When I press the start button, I just hear a rapid clicking sound, and the dashboard lights flicker. The intelligent key also seems to be acting up; sometimes it won't unlock the doors right away, and the 'key not detected' message pops up.

I tried replacing the battery in the key fob, but that didn't help. I also tried jump-starting the car, but it still just clicks. Could this be a main car battery issue, or something more complex with the intelligent key system or starter? It was working perfectly fine yesterday.

Any ideas on what to check next? I'm stranded!

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 22, 2:49 AM

0

ClearTheCode admin answer:

The symptoms you're describing – rapid clicking, flickering dash lights, and a no-start condition even after a jump attempt – strongly suggest a severely discharged or faulty main 12V car battery, or potentially a problem with the battery terminals or starter.

Here's a diagnostic approach:

  1. Check Battery Terminals: Ensure both positive and negative battery terminals are clean, tight, and free of corrosion. Loose or corroded terminals can prevent proper current flow, even with a good battery or jump start.
  2. Test the Battery: Even if you tried a jump, if the donor vehicle wasn't connected long enough or if your battery is internally shorted, it might not take a charge. A local auto parts store can test your battery's health (CCA - Cold Cranking Amps) for free. A battery that reads below its rated CCA, or has a low voltage (below 12.0V), needs replacement.
  3. Intelligent Key System: While the 'key not detected' message can be concerning, it's often a secondary symptom of low battery voltage. The car's systems need adequate power to properly communicate with the key fob. If the battery is confirmed good, try placing the key fob directly against the start button when attempting to start, as this uses an RFID chip for closer proximity detection.
  4. Starter Motor: If the battery and connections are confirmed good, and you still only hear clicking, the starter motor itself could be failing. However, this is less likely to also cause the 'key not detected' message unless the voltage drop is extreme.

When to See a Shop:

  • If you've replaced the battery and checked terminals, and the issue persists.
  • If a professional battery test indicates the battery is good, but the car still won't start.
  • If you suspect a starter motor issue or a more complex electrical problem with the intelligent key system or immobilizer. These require specialized diagnostic tools.
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