2019 Rogue 2.5 SL AWD - Intermittent Hard Start & No Start

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Mike T. · rep 0 · May 25, 1:52 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2019 Nissan Rogue 2.5 SL AWD

My 2019 Nissan Rogue SL AWD has been having intermittent starting issues. Sometimes it cranks for a long time before finally firing up, and a couple of times it just wouldn't start at all. No Check Engine Light is on, which is weird.

I've tried listening for the fuel pump prime, and it sounds like it's working. The battery is relatively new, replaced about a year ago.

Could this be a fuel pressure issue, a sensor problem, or something else entirely? It's really frustrating not knowing when it's going to happen.

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ClearTheCode Admin

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ClearTheCode admin answer:

Intermittent hard starting or no-start conditions, especially without a Check Engine Light, can be particularly tricky to diagnose on your 2019 Nissan Rogue. The lack of a CEL suggests the primary issue might not be an emissions-related fault, but rather something affecting the engine's ability to achieve proper combustion.

Common Causes for Hard/No Start (No CEL):

  1. Fuel Delivery Issues: Even if you hear the fuel pump, low fuel pressure, a clogged fuel filter, or failing fuel injectors can prevent proper fuel delivery to the engine.
  2. Ignition System Problems: Weak spark from a failing ignition coil, spark plug, or even a faulty ignition switch can lead to poor combustion.
  3. Crankshaft Position Sensor (CKP) or Camshaft Position Sensor (CMP): These sensors are crucial for telling the engine's computer when to fire the spark plugs and inject fuel. If they send intermittent or incorrect signals, the engine might crank but not start, or start only after prolonged cranking.
  4. Engine Air Intake: A restricted air filter or a mass airflow (MAF) sensor issue could potentially contribute, though often these would trigger a CEL.
  5. Battery/Charging System: While your battery is new, ensure terminals are clean and tight. A weak starter or alternator could also cause issues, though usually a weak battery would manifest as slow cranking.

Diagnostic Steps You Can Take:

  1. Scan for Pending Codes: Even without a CEL, a professional-grade scanner might reveal pending codes related to misfires or sensor issues.
  2. Check Fuel Pressure: This requires a fuel pressure gauge connected to the fuel rail. Compare readings to factory specifications during cranking.
  3. Verify Spark and Fuel: If you're comfortable, check for spark at a spark plug and ensure fuel is reaching the cylinders (e.g., by checking for fuel smell after cranking).

When to See a Shop: If basic checks like ensuring battery terminals are clean and checking for obvious loose connections don't resolve the issue, it's best to take your Rogue to a qualified mechanic. Diagnosing intermittent starting problems often requires specialized tools to monitor fuel pressure, sensor signals, and ignition timing in real-time, which can be challenging without professional equipment.