1997 Nissan Altima died while driving

Asked by Jason Dec 26, 2018 at 11:08 AM about the 1997 Nissan Altima GXE

Question type: Maintenance & Repair

My 1997 Nissan Altima died while I was driving. I
know the car is old and is need of a tune up but I
was told by my friend who has a bit more
knowledge on card and he said it could be the
alternator. But after purchasing a new alternator
my car ended up starting up again and I was able
to drive it too but I don’t want to risk getting stuck
somewhere if I decide to drive and it dies mid way
to my destination

1 Answer

103,445

First have the charging system tested (battery and alternator). Most parts shops can do this for free, or pay a nominal fee to have it done by a mechanic. Check the overall condition of the battery cables. Check the battery hold down is keeping battery securely in place. Frayed ends and loose or corroded connections can kill power easily, especially when you are driving and things can move around. Trace those battery cables to their end points, such as the starter, starter relay, alternator, and chassis and engine grounds. Open the fuse box and check for loose fuses. Basically on an older vehicle like yours you have to look for wear and tear on those wiring harnesses.

Your Answer:

CarGurus Experts

  • #1
    Gene Arnett
    Reputation
    3,270
  • #2
    GuruB42YD
    Reputation
    2,460
  • #3
    GuruSY3ZL
    Reputation
    2,380
View All

Find great deals from top-rated dealers

Search

Related Models For Sale

Used Honda Accord
55 Great Deals out of 995 listings starting at $2,000
Used Toyota Camry
60 Great Deals out of 1,072 listings starting at $3,995
Used Nissan Maxima
7 Great Deals out of 166 listings starting at $4,378
Used Nissan Sentra
65 Great Deals out of 1,744 listings starting at $1,995
Used Honda Civic
195 Great Deals out of 4,054 listings starting at $440
Used Toyota Corolla
151 Great Deals out of 2,438 listings starting at $4,295
Used Chevrolet Malibu
54 Great Deals out of 1,092 listings starting at $1,495
Used Hyundai Sonata
44 Great Deals out of 1,074 listings starting at $2,495
Used Hyundai Elantra
156 Great Deals out of 4,214 listings starting at $100
Used Ford Mustang
58 Great Deals out of 1,366 listings starting at $4,995
Used Ford F-150
309 Great Deals out of 13,933 listings starting at $1,712
Used Jeep Grand Cherokee
109 Great Deals out of 3,136 listings starting at $3,995

Content submitted by Users is not endorsed by CarGurus, does not express the opinions of CarGurus, and should not be considered reviewed, screened, or approved by CarGurus. Please refer to CarGurus Terms of Use. Content will be removed if CarGurus becomes aware that it violates our policies.