Nissan Versa is a popular model because it’s both affordable and good-looking. However, for some people, Nissan Versa won’t start because of various issues. It can be a huge problem with a significant impact on the owner’s life, particularly if they use the car frequently.

Nissan Versa cars may not start for various reasons: for some, it will not turn over, whereas for others it will not start when the engine turns and they engage the starter. The car may be cranking or not cranking, and this could help diagnose the issue. A dead battery, corroded battery cable, and faulty starter could all be reasons why your Nissan Versa will not start.

If you’ve been dealing with this issue, then you should read on to determine the reason.

Nissan Versa Engine Cranking But Not Starting

When the Nissan Versa cranks but doesn’t start, there are a few things that may be causing the problem. To function, an engine will need fuel, air, and a spark – otherwise, it will not run. A Nissan Versa not starting but cranking may be an issue caused by the engine timing, security system, ignition, or fuel.

To diagnose the exact issue, you should use an OBDII scanner to check the OBDII code if there is one. A code will most likely show up when the car won’t start. Each problem has a specific code, so what code you see will allow you to find out what’s wrong with your Versa and what you should do next. You can even search the code online and get more details.

We have compiled a list of some of the most common reasons why your Nissan Versa engine cranks but won’t start:

1. Ignition Problems

No ignition means there is no spark. This is one of the most common issues that make cars crank. Despite this, they won’t start. Usually, problems with the ignition are caused by bad spark plugs, bad plug wires, bad coil packs, and other things.

When there is no ignition, you will most likely get a code related to misfire, like P0300, P0301, or another.

2. Fuel Problems

You may be unknowingly dealing with a bad fuel pump, bad fuel injectors, or faulty fuel filter. In this situation, your car will not get the fuel it needs or may not get any at all. If the combustion chamber doesn’t receive sufficient fuel, your Versa’s engine will crank, but you won’t be able to start the car.

3. Security Problems

Modern Nissan Versa models may have electronic protection, designed to prevent thieves from stealing the vehicle. Although a smart design sounds very convenient, it may cause issues at times, such as not letting the Versa start. When you try to crank your engine, you will get a security warning if this is the issue.

4. Timing of the Engine

Engine timing is the engine’s capability of firing the spark plug at the proper time. When your Versa will not start due to a timing issue, it means that either something made the camshaft no longer synchronize with the crankshaft or the plugs aren’t firing at the right code.

Sometimes, OBDII codes will point to this issue. If you see the P0013 code, then it means the problem is related to the engine timing. This specific code could be related to the camshaft position or a faulty crankshaft sensor. However, there will not always be a code.

Nissan Versa Doesn’t Crank

A Nissan Versa that doesn’t start but won’t crank may be caused by problems with the alternator, battery, or starter. Some common issues are:

1. Battery Charge Issue

Nissan Versa models will not start when there is not enough power in the battery to turn the car’s starter. The cranking amps of the vehicle will decrease as the battery gets older. As such, starting the vehicle will become a challenge.

You should take the battery up to a parts store in your area. If the battery still holds charge, then it’s essential to check the cables of the battery and make sure none of them is corroded. But if the battery is dead, yet it can charge back up and has positive test results, you must do some other tests. The alternator and battery terminals should be checked. This will show you whether the alternator can charge the battery properly.

Many times, faulty alternators cause Versa models to lose too much charge, preventing the car from starting.

2. Corroded Battery Cables

Battery cables are rarely the ones causing your problem, but it’s worth checking. Fortunately, it’s not difficult to diagnose them.

To check them out, look at where the cables connect to the battery poles. If there is any white or green corrosion, you should clean them properly so you can start the car.

3. Starter Problems

Lastly, you should check the starter of your Nissan Versa. You will not be able to start your vehicle if the starter isn’t working anymore. When your battery is fully charged and the cables are not corroded, then you may want to look into a new starter.

The Bottom Line

It can be quite frustrating to have a Nissan Versa that will not start. However, you should not give up. Check the battery, battery cables, and the starter in case the car doesn’t crank. If it cranks, you should check the OBDII code. The issue can be diagnosed more easily after you establish whether the engine cranks or not.

If you cannot diagnose the issue yourself, ask a mechanic for help. They should be able to help you fix the issue, and make sure your car is functional again.

FAQs

How long will Nissan Versa batteries last?

Usually, Nissan Versa batteries will last between 3 and 5 years, but this can also vary depending on how old your Versa is, the type and size of the battery, your driving habits, and the weather conditions.

How to tell if your battery or alternator is the reason for your car not starting?

If the car’s engine takes too long to turn over or will not turn over, you should try a jump-start with the jumper cables. When the car stalls immediately, the alternator may be causing the issue. But if the engine starts, keeps running, and doesn’t start again after a while, the battery might be the problem.