When it comes to reliability and performance, Nissan vehicles often come to mind. However, even the most dependable cars can have their off days, and many Nissan Rogue owners have experienced such a situation, particularly with the 2019 model. You approach your vehicle, ready to start your day, only to find your Rogue stubbornly refuses to start, and the lights are frantically flashing. If this scenario sounds familiar, don’t worry. I’ll show you what might be causing this issue and how you can address it.
Understanding the symptoms
Before talking about the potential fixes, it’s crucial to accurately diagnose the problem. Is the car completely unresponsive when you try to turn the key or press the ignition button? Are the dashboard lights flickering, or do they come on brightly only to fade away? Is there a clicking noise accompanying the flashing lights? Each of these symptoms can point to a different underlying issue.
Troubleshooting the problem
Check the battery
The most common culprit for a car not starting is a dead battery. But, it’s also the easiest to diagnose., and here is how you can do that.
Symptoms of a dead battery
- Your vehicle will not start, and there is no engine cranking.
- The dashboard lights may briefly come on but then fade.
- The interior lights or headlights are dim or won’t turn on at all.
Solutions
- Try jump-starting your car. If your Rogue starts with a jump and keeps running but dies again after you turn it off, then the battery is not holding a charge and may need to be replaced.
- Check the battery terminals for corrosion. Clean the terminals with a mixture of baking soda and water, then attempt to start the vehicle again.
Faulty alternator
If your battery seems to be in good shape, the next potential issue could be the alternator. Keep in mind that the alternator charges the battery while your car is running. So, if it’s not doing its job, the battery will drain, even while driving.
Symptoms of a faulty alternator
- The car starts but then dies while you’re driving.
- You notice a squealing sound from the engine – which could be a belt driving the alternator slipping.
- The battery warning light on the dashboard is illuminated.
Solutions
- If you have the technical knowledge, use a multimeter to check the alternator’s output. You should see around 14 volts.
- Take your Rogue to a professional mechanic for a diagnostic and potential alternator replacement.
Starter motor issues
Another potential reason your Nissan Rogue won’t start could be a problem with the starter motor. This is especially likely if you’re hearing a clicking sound when you turn the key or press the start button.
Symptoms of a bad starter motor
- A clicking noise upon trying to start the vehicle.
- The engine does not turn over, but the lights and radio may still function.
Solutions
- Gently tap the starter motor with a tool like a wrench or hammer. Sometimes, this can free up a stuck gear and allow you to start your car.
- If the problem persists, the starter motor may need to be replaced. This is best done by a professional.
Key fob or immobilizer issues
Modern vehicles use complex electronics to ensure security, and the Nissan Rogue is no different. If your key fob battery is dead, or there is a problem with the car’s immobilizer system, it might prevent the car from starting.
Symptoms
- The car’s dashboard might display a security warning.
- Your car doesn’t respond when you press the key fob’s buttons, or the response is inconsistent.
Solutions
- Replace the battery in your key fob and try again.
- If you have a spare key, try using it to start the car. If it works, your primary key fob might need replacing.
- If you suspect an immobilizer issue, contact a Nissan dealer or a qualified locksmith who can advise on reprogramming or resetting the system.
Software or electrical problems
Modern cars rely heavily on software to function correctly. If there’s an issue with your Rogue’s computer system, it may lead to various problems, including the failure to start.
Symptoms
- Inconsistent or unusual behavior from the car’s electronics.
- The vehicle was recently jump-started, which can sometimes cause power surges that disrupt the car’s computer.
Solutions
- A hard reset of the vehicle’s systems can sometimes resolve these issues. This is done by disconnecting the battery for a few minutes and then reconnecting it.
- Take your Nissan Rogue to a dealer for a diagnostic test. They can check for software updates or deeper electrical problems.
Preventative measures
To minimize the chances of your car having starting issues, regular maintenance is key. Ensure that your car battery is checked regularly, and replace it every 3-5 years as necessary. Also, keep an eye on the health of your alternator and starter motor during regular checkups.
Conclusion
Your 2019 Nissan Rogue refusing to start with lights flashing is concerning, but often, the problem can be diagnosed and fixed with relative ease. So, start with simple solutions like battery and key fob checks, then move to more complex areas like the alternator, starter motor, or electronic systems. And remember, regular vehicle maintenance can keep many of these problems at bay. Should these troubleshooting steps not resolve the problem, seeking professional help is always a safe and wise decision for getting your Nissan Rogue back on the road.
