starting problem

[pfc]

Hello

I have 2005 X-Trail, 105,000 km.
Sometimes i have trouble starting it. As i turn the ignition ON, it makes ratling noise. The best to discribe it is like chain dragging on the steel mash, if that makes any sence? I drive it every day and it happened three times in past 7 days. Once cold start and twice after few driving hours. No check engine light. Normally i just wait a minute, open the hood, look, try fgew more times and it starts. Could it be starter? Any ides!

Thank you.

[pfc]

Another problem! today i drove it for about an hour and when i pulled in my driver and put it in park (automatic) the revs went up and down constantlly . Up to about 2200rpms for a second then down to 1500rpms. It keeps going up and down untill i put it in Drive position. Any idea what could cause such isue? Thanks

[ripper143]

Your starting issues are very familiar to me and my 2005 X-Trail. This problem began for me the first week i purchased this vehicle. To make a very long story short, after changing the starter 3 times in the past 4 years I took it upon myself to do some troubleshooting as this starter replacement was getting ridiculous. It appears that there is a linkage under the engine that connects to the drive selector lever and the smooth operation of this linkage is subject to deterioration as it is open to the elements. When the vehicle is put in park the linkage does not go in all the way and thus the gears do not make full contact and we get the grinding noise during startup. There are 2 things you can do to prevent this, either keep the linkage well lubricated monthly, or as I do, train yourself to start your vehicle in neutral all the time, minimizing wear on your gears. Nissan is aware of the problem and I have yet to hear of a recall regarding this. I hope this helps.

John

[pfc]

Thanks a lot John,

Realy appreciate your help. I will defenetlly follow your advice.

Cheers