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gabrielfeuer81

Interstar immobilizer issue

I'm tearing my hair out here! My 2006 Nissan Interstar diesel van cranks but won't start. Sometimes it'll fire up for a second and then die immediately. I hooked it up to a code reader, and it's throwing up an immobilizer error. Now, I'm thinking it might be the key programming gone haywire. Anyone else had similar gremlins? Any tips before I set it on fire?

4 comment(s)

heinzheld1

Sounds familiar. I had similar starting issues with my old Peugeot. The symptoms were identical; engine would briefly start and then cut out. The error codes pointed towards the immobilizer as well. It might be the key losing its signal, or a fault in the immobilizer module itself. Have you tried using a spare key, if you have one? That could rule out a faulty transponder chip in the key you're currently using.

gabrielfeuer81 (Author)

Yes, I did try the spare key, and it's doing exactly the same thing. That points away from a dodgy key, or at least both keys being dodgy which I doubt. Where would you suggest I look next? Is there anything I can easily test before I have to admit defeat and hand it over to a mechanic?

heinzheld1

Okay, if both keys are exhibiting the same behavior, it pretty much rules out a simple key issue. It's more likely a problem with the immobilizer system itself. Since you've already scanned for error codes, and it's showing an immobilizer fault, the next step usually involves more in-depth diagnostics. This is where things get a bit tricky without the right tools. There could be a wiring issue, a faulty immobilizer module, or even a problem with the ECU (Engine Control Unit) that's preventing it from authorising the engine to run. My opinion: the best thing to do is take it to someone with the proper diagnostic equipment. They can delve deeper into the car's electronics.

gabrielfeuer81 (Author)

Thanks for the advice. Sounds like I was barking up the wrong tree. Bit the bullet and took it to a garage. Turns out the key needed re-programming, like I first thought, but it was a deeper issue than I could fix at home. Cost me 45€, but at least it's running again!

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