2002 Nissan Sentra GXE, Stalls While Driving, Won't Start

by Kate
(Calgary, AB Canada)

Hello!
I've been having some problems recently with my Nissan Sentra. The check engine light has been on for a while. There have been about 3 incidents in the last few weeks, but for the most part, my car is running fine. The first was when I was exiting from a ramp, and had just accelerated to 80km/h. All of a sudden, I noticed my rpm dropping rapidly, then the dashboard lights came on, indicating the engine had shut off. I pulled over safely, turned the key in the ignition, and it started up fine. I didn't have another problem until last Saturday.
On Saturday, I was driving on the highway and we had been driving for about an hour, when the same thing happened. RPM dropped, engine shut down, just like before. I pulled over, and when I attempted to start it, it wouldn't start. The engine would make noise when I turned the key, but would stop short of starting. We spent nearly 45 minutes attempting to contact a ride or a towing service when I figured I'd try it again. Lo and behold, it started just fine. I drove it home with no problems, and hadn't seen any other issues until today.
I was on a stakeout outside a residence for work, and had just the accessory on in my car (I think it's the accessory... basically I had turned it like I was turning on the engine, but didn't put in the clutch to get the engine going) so I could use the radio. After an hour I started the engine to make sure the battery didn't die. No problems. Continued to wait with the engine off for another hour and a half. All of a sudden, the electrical all cut out (fan, radio, lights, etc). The electrical came right back, but when I tried to start it, it wouldn't start. It would just make some weird flicking sound. I turned everything off and waited another 15 minutes, at which point, the car started fine. I've since driven it home, and had no problems there.
I shamefully must admit that it has definitely been too long since my last oil change, and even then, they were unable to replace the filters because the lube shop didn't have the proper models in stock. I'm booked to have an oil change at the dealership tomorrow, so I can ensure they are able to replace the filters, and also to have them check out the check engine light.
I'm just hoping to get an idea of what could be causing this. I'm hoping that the filter change will clear anything up, but from what I've read, I also suspect it may be something in the alternator or the catalytic converter. But I'm far from a car expert, so I really don't know. Any light you could shed would be GREATLY appreciated!
Thank you!

Steve Says,

Hi Kate. Thanks for asking me your question. There are quite a few possibilities that might be the cause of your problem. Since you had all the electrical components cut out I would definitely recommend having your battery and alternator load tested to see if they are in good condition. Also be sure to have them check the battery cable connections.

The fact that you haven't had your oil changed in a long time should have no bearing on this problem. It is highly unlikely that these types of problems are caused by the condition of the oil.

The code also needs to be checked asap. This should give them and you a good clue as to what might be going on. It could be anything from a fuel pump problem to a sensor problem. There really is no way for me to know without being able to test it.

Once you know what the code is you can search for it on my website or online and see what might be causing it. If you have any other questions after the dealer looks at it you can ask them here.

I hope this has helped.