Problem starting the engine Nissan Qashqai often causes panic among owners, especially if the car is on the road or during the cold season. Many people immediately assume that the starter itself has failed or the battery has been discharged, but one of the most common and easily fixable causes is a malfunction of the control relay. Without supplying a control signal to the starter traction relay, the engine simply will not be able to turn over, despite the serviceability of all other components.
Crossover owners are often faced with the fact that they cannot find this small element in the engine compartment, since it is not always clearly marked on the body. The location of the relay depends on the year of manufacture, engine type (petrol or diesel) and platform version (J10 or J11). In this article, we will look in detail at where exactly to look for this component, how to diagnose it, and what to do in the event of a breakdown.
Understanding the trigger circuit is the key to a quick and correct diagnosis. Before removing the expensive starter, it's worth taking a few minutes to check the fuse and relay box. This will save you significant money and time, since replacing the relay costs pennies compared to repairing or replacing the starter. In addition, knowing the exact location of the element will help to avoid unnecessary manipulations with the wiring.
Starter relay location depending on model
By car Nissan Qashqai The first generation (J10) starter relay is most often integrated into the main fuse box located in the engine compartment. This unit is located closer to the battery, usually on the left side (when viewed in the direction of travel), behind a plastic protective cover. Inside this block you will find several rows of fuses and black plastic cubes called relays.
For second generation models (J11), the situation may be slightly different depending on the engine type. On 1.6 and 2.0 liter petrol units, the relay is often located in the same block under the hood, but its position may be changed compared to its predecessor. The 1.5 dCi and 1.6 dCi diesel versions have a more complex control system, and sometimes the relay can be placed in a separate unit or integrated into the engine control module, although in most cases it remains in the main safety unit.
It is important to consider that on some versions with the Start-Stop system or hybrid modifications, the logic of the relay operation may be different. In such cases, the search for an element should begin by studying the service documentation specifically for your VIN code. However, for classic versions Nissan Qashqai Without complex hybrid systems, the main unit under the hood remains the main testing point.
How to determine if the starter relay is faulty
Diagnosis begins with characteristic signs. If you hear a distinct click when you turn the key in the ignition or press the Start button, but the engine does not turn, the problem may be in the starter itself or in the relay. If there is absolute silence and the battery is fully charged, the likelihood of a malfunction of the control relay increases.
One common cause is sticking contacts inside the relay. Over time, the electric arc, when switching high currents, ignites the contacts, and they stop passing current. As a result, the voltage from the ignition switch reaches the relay coil (hence the click), but is not transmitted further to the starter power contacts.
Another reason could be a broken coil inside the relay or oxidation of the contacts in the block. In this case, the relay may not operate at all, without making any sounds. To accurately determine the problem, you need to check for voltage at the appropriate contacts when you try to start.
⚠️ Attention: Before starting diagnostics, be sure to disconnect the negative terminal of the battery to avoid short circuit when working with the fuse box. Use only a working multimeter with working probes.
Diagnostic Chart and Circuit Test
To accurately understand the operation of the system and troubleshoot problems, it is useful to consult the diagram. Below is a table describing the main relay contacts and their purpose, which will help you when testing with a multimeter.
| Relay contact | Purpose | Expected value | Action in case of fault |
|---|---|---|---|
| 85/86 (Coil) | Ignition switch control | 12V at start | Check the wiring to the lock |
| 30 (Login) | Battery powered | Constant 12V | Check power fuse |
| 87 (Exit) | Power supply to starter | 12V when triggered | Replace relay or check starter |
| 87a (Normally closed) | Not used in starter circuit | No voltage | Ignore |
When checking, it is necessary to take into account that in some cases the relay can be replaced with a jumper (using the “throwing” method), but this must be done extremely carefully. If after applying power directly to the starter the engine starts, then the relay is definitely faulty. This is the most reliable way to confirm the diagnosis.
It is also worth paying attention to the condition of the contacts in the relay connector. Often the problem lies not in the plastic cube itself, but in the oxidation or burning of the plates inside the block where the relay is inserted. In this case, replacing the relay will not work, and the connectors will need to be cleaned or replaced.
- Low battery
- Faulty relay
- Starter wear
- Problems with the ignition switch
Step-by-step replacement instructions
The relay replacement process does not require complex tools and can be done independently in 10-15 minutes. The first step is to open the hood and find the fuse box. Remove the plastic cover by unclipping the latches around the perimeter. On the inside of the cover there is often a diagram of the location of the elements, where you need to find the starter symbol or the inscription “Starter Relay”.
If the diagram is missing or illegible, use the tweezers that came with the block (usually attached to the cover or block) to carefully remove the relay. Do not try to pull it out with your hands, as you may damage the legs or connector. After removal, carefully inspect the contacts for carbon deposits or melting.
Install the new relay strictly in the same position, observing the orientation of the legs. Insert it until it clicks, making sure it fits tightly. Try starting the engine. If the problem was in the relay, the car will start instantly.
☑️ Preparing to replace the relay
⚠️ Attention: Never use sharp metal objects such as screwdrivers or knives to remove the relay. You can damage the contacts in the block, which will lead to costly wiring repairs.
Specifics of petrol and diesel versions
On gasoline engines Nissan Qashqai (for example, HR16DE) the starter relay operates in standard mode, closing the power circuit of the traction relay. These engines are less demanding on the quality of contacts, since their starting current is lower than that of diesel engines. However, frequent short trips can lead to oxidation of the contacts due to condensation.
Diesel versions (K9K or R9M) consume significantly more current when starting, especially in winter. This creates an increased load on the relay, which speeds up the process of contact burning. Therefore, it is recommended to check the starter relay on diesel engines more often than on gasoline counterparts, and use only original parts or high-quality analogues with a higher rated current.
It is important to note that some diesel modifications may have an additional start blocking relay or preheating relay, which can also simulate a starter malfunction. In this case, the diagnostics must be comprehensive, with checking all relays in the block.
Features of working in the cold
At low temperatures, the viscosity of the engine oil increases, which requires more force from the starter. This leads to an increase in the starting current and heating of the relay contacts. If the relay is worn out, it may stop working in cold weather due to increased contact resistance, even if it works normally during the day.
Alternative reasons for failure to start
If replacing the relay does not help, the problem may be deeper. Owners often confuse a malfunction of the starter relay with a breakdown of the traction relay itself, which is installed directly on the starter housing. In this case, the relay in the fuse box trips, but the current does not reach the starter solenoid winding.
It is also worth checking the fuses responsible for the starting circuit. On Nissan Qashqai Often fuse F1 or F2 in the block under the hood that powers the control circuit fails. If the fuse is blown, the relay will not receive a signal from the ignition switch and will not operate.
Another reason could be a faulty brake light switch (on cars with a Start/Stop button). The security system blocks the engine from starting if the brake pedal is not pressed. Check if the brake lights come on when you press the pedal. If not, replace the pedal sensor.
Before purchasing a new relay, compare its markings with the old one. Often visually identical relays have different current ratings or the number of contacts. Using an unsuitable relay may result in repeated failure.
The starter relay is a consumable item that is subject to wear. Regular checking of contacts and timely replacement can prevent sudden car failure while on the road.
Selecting original or analogue relay
When replacing a relay, it is important to select the correct component. Original relay Nissan has a part number that can be found in catalogs. It is distinguished by high quality contacts and durability, but is quite expensive. For Nissan Qashqai Relays from Panasonic or Denso are often used and are installed at the factory.
Analogues from well-known brands such as Bosch or Hella can be an excellent alternative if their technical characteristics (switching current, coil voltage, contact diagram) fully correspond to the original. However, cheap Chinese copies often have underestimated parameters and can fail after just a couple of months of use.
Be sure to check the markings on the relay body. The numbers and letters must match the requirements of your vehicle. If you are not sure about the choice, it is better to contact an official dealer or a specialized spare parts store, providing the VIN code of your car.
⚠️ Attention: The use of relays with a lower rated current is strictly prohibited. This will lead to rapid overheating, melting of the housing and possible fire of the wiring in the engine compartment.
Electrical prevention and maintenance
In order for the starter relay to serve for a long time, it is necessary to monitor the condition of the wiring and contacts. Periodically inspect the fuse box for moisture or oxidation. If you live in a region with high humidity or frequent temperature changes, it is worth treating the contacts with a special aerosol to protect against oxidation.
It is also recommended to avoid frequent attempts to start the engine if it does not start the first time. Each attempt loads the relay and starter. If the engine does not start within 3-5 seconds, pause for 1-2 minutes to allow the components to cool.
Regular diagnostics of the vehicle's electrical system, including checking battery and alternator voltage, will also affect relay performance. Voltage surges in the on-board network can damage the relay coil or electronic control components.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions
Is it possible to start the engine without bypassing the starter relay?
Theoretically, yes, you can close the relay contacts with a jumper, supplying power directly from the battery to the starter. However, this is a temporary solution for an emergency situation. This should only be done with the ignition turned off and safety precautions observed, as a spark discharge and overheating of the wires is possible.
Why does the starter relay click but the starter does not turn?
This is a classic sign of faulty power contacts within the relay or the coil itself. A click indicates that the coil is firing, but no current is passing through the closed contacts to the starter. The reason may be burnt contacts or poor contact in the block.
Where is the starter relay located on a 2014 Nissan Qashqai?
On the 2014 model (J11), the starter relay is usually located in the main fuse box under the hood, in the lower right corner of the box (when viewed from above). The exact location can be determined from the diagram on the inside of the block cover.
How to test the starter relay with a multimeter?
It is necessary to check the coil resistance (between pins 85 and 86) - it should be within 50-100 Ohms. You also need to check the flow of current between pins 30 and 87 when voltage is applied to the coil. If the circuit does not close, the relay is faulty.
Can a faulty starter relay drain the battery?
Yes, if the relay contacts are stuck in the closed position, the starter may remain energized even when the ignition is turned off, which will lead to rapid battery discharge and overheating of the starter. This is very dangerous and requires immediate replacement of the relay.