Nissan Rogue Won’t Start: What Could Be Wrong With Your Car?

There are several reasons which might be causing the problem “Nissan Rogue won’t start”. Tracking any of these problems can be extremely difficult. Nissan Rogue just like every other vehicle is prone to problems, the engine not starting is the most common problem reported by Rogue owners. Various things should be considered before you purchase a new/old Nissan Rogue. Issues like a defective battery, and problems with the starter might be a potential cause for the engine not being able to start.

• Nissan Rogue Overview
• History Of The Nissan Rogue
• Common Causes Why It Won’t Start
• Other Nissan Rogue Issues
• Final Conclusion

Nissan Rogue

When the Honda CR-V launched in 2007, Toyota’s RAV4 had been a significant contender (still, it’s worth paying attention to the 2007 Toyota RAV4 problems). The Rogue was debuted by Nissan in the later part of 2007 as a rival in the market. The Sentra, which was a sedan served as a foundation for the Rogue, which was built on a design that had already proven itself in the marketplace.

Nissan has been kind enough to focus on the safety features in the Rouge since the beginning, being generous enough to give it features like ABS, traction control, and electronic brake-force distribution among others.

Customers with new and young families as well as people who wish to switch from a sedan to a Compact-SUV/Crossover can choose the Nissan Rogue. Three trim options were offered when the Rogue was first launched in 2007, with the S being the basic model. Aircon, electrically operated windows, cruise control, a car stereo, and keyless entry were all included in the standard equipment offered.

History & Overview

The Nissan Rogue, Nissan’s best crossover, debuted in 2007 and is Nissan’s most successful model. In the intervening years, there have already been three variants of the Rogue. Later on, it was refreshed in 2013 after the initial launch in 2007, and the latest facelift was given in 2020.

It was a 2.5L 4-cylinder internal combustion engine that powered the majority of the Nissan Rogue’s models. There was just a 2.0L hybrid variant of the car available in the 2nd generation. A CVT gearbox is used on all models, irrespective of whether them having an internal combustion engine or are hybrid.

The 2.5L edition of the Nissan Rogue generates 170 bhp, while the hybrid powertrain generates 141. In most cases, they were offered in three distinct trim levels (to learn more, check out our guide on what does SE mean on a car), each with a varying level of original equipment. Aside from that, the Rogue is available with front-wheel drive or four-wheel drive. It all depends on the preferences of the buyer. An option of third-row seating is also available with a ‘family package’ offered by Nissan.

According to the first impressions, the Nissan Rogue seems to be a completely decent small SUV that can be used for everyday transportation. There have been several concerns with the Nissan Rogue, that we shall go into in greater detail later.

First Generation (2007-2013)

2007 was the year when Nissan entered the crossover segment with their car the Nissan Rogue. The Rogue was based on the extremely successful Nissan Sentra, a vehicle in the sedan segment that has already won over the market.

When talking about the exterior, some of the styling features of the Rogue are taken from its big brother, the Murano. The feature that stands out the most is that the front grille is painted in body color. The tall and beautiful headlights were something that caught everyone’s eye. The idea behind this design was to show that the Rogue was different from the other cars.

When we talk about the interior, the Rogue was well equipped even when we talk about the base trim. There are several storage compartments in the roomy interior, including a compartment under the trunk’s floor. The Rogue came equipped with a Bose audio system. It featured a CD player and a 3.5mm Aux port.

When we talk about the engine of 2007, there is only one engine option, a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine. The Rogue was offered in front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive (also, check out our list of the best all wheel drive cars). It came equipped with a standard CVT (continuously variable transmission)

Second Generation (2013-2016)

The Nissan Rogue was Nissan’s weapon to take over the SUV market. The new model of the Rogue came with an option of adding an optional 3rd row (7 seats), an all-new cargo system, and several more features like a surround-view camera for easier parking.

When we talk about what’s under the hood of the second generation of the Rogue, it came equipped with an 182 HP 2.5-liter engine that could be hooked up to an all-wheel-drive system or a four-wheel-drive system. The second-generation Rogue comes equipped with an Xtronic CVT transmission which is a huge upgrade from the previous generation.

The second-generation Nissan Rogue came out with two trim options, the S and the SV. The S came standard with features like cruise control, air conditioning, 16-inch wheels, a trip computer, and a well-featured audio system. Customers could also go for the optional package which added alloy wheels, fog lamps, an audio system with BlueTooth, steering-mounted controls, and a 4.3-inch audio screen.

The SV or the top model had all of the features that are mentioned above. Instead of the 16-inch alloys, the SV gets upgraded to 17-inches alloys. Not only that but it gets upgraded upholstery and keyless ignition.

Third Generation (2016-2020)

The competition in the SUV segment forced the Japanese automaker to give a refresh to their most-selling model, the Nissan Rogue. Nissan added several safety options to make the Rogue a sweeter deal. New technology like pedestrian detection, rear cross-traffic alert, lane departure warning, and many more. Alongside that, a forward emergency braking system was also introduced in the third-generation Rogue. This helps avoid rear-ending accidents.

When we talk about the exterior, the biggest difference can be seen at the front. The front grill consists of two big different chrome bars and a redesigned bumper. The third generation Rogue came featured with daytime running lights. New redesigned rectangular fog lamps in the fake air-intakes. The LED taillights are very similar to the old generation, but not exactly the same.

The five-seater variant of the Rogue has a driver-oriented dash and an SUV driving position. The instrument cluster also got a huge upgrade, i.e. a 5” color display for various functions on the car. The audio system was upgraded to a 7” touch-screen infotainment system which was standard on the Sport SL trim level.

The third generation also came with a huge engine upgrade. It is available in a front-wheel-drive option as well as an all-wheel-drive variant. There are 2 options available, i.e. a 2.5-liter and a 2.0-liter hybrid system. Both their versions come equipped with an X-Tronic CVT transmission.

Nissan Rogue Won’t Start

Several problems may cause the Nissan Rogue to not start. Considering a methodical approach, it is possible to establish the root cause of the automobile not starting in a short period of time. Most of the time, if you follow the guidelines, you may get the automobile back in working order with only some simple steps. There essentially are two main reasons as to why your Nissan Rogue won’t start.

Either the engine just won’t turn over when you turn the key to start the car, or the engine does turn on after engaging the starter but does not ignite. It is much simpler to diagnose the problem when the engine starts but there is no ignition. To put it in simpler terms, if the engine cranks, it is simpler to diagnose the problem.

Here is a list of problems that might be causing the problem “Nissan Rogue won’t start”.

Nissan Rogue Won’t Start, Causes #1. A Dead Battery

A dead battery is among the most often encountered automobile troubles. What is the correct time to change your Rogue’s battery? Here are some instances wherein you should get your battery checked/changed. To learn more, you can check out our explainer on how to charge a completely dead car battery.

We’ve all been over this, you left your lamps on or didn’t fully shut a door, you left the stereo on for an extended period without turning on your motor. This might cause the electricity in the battery to diminish. This might be the reason why your Nissan Rogue engine won’t crank at all.

Nissan Rogue Won’t Start, Causes #2. Low Battery Fluid Level Or Oxidation On The Battery

If there is a low level of fluid in the battery, it is necessary to have the battery health thoroughly examined. Make sure you’re not experiencing any fluid leakage or degradation of the battery. It’s reasonable that severe corrosion might occur as a result of battery fluid and other fluid leakages, which would be a clear indication that the battery requires to be replaced.

With time, oxidation will build up and might be removed to extend the lifetime of your Nissan Rogue battery. A prolonged engine cranking issue occurs when the car is started, and it takes more time to roll over than usual. If your Nissan Rogue’s current battery capacity is depleted, the check engine light will illuminate regularly.

Nissan Rogue Won’t Start, Causes #3. Problem With The Battery Connectors

Even though the battery connectors/cables are not always the most probable source of the Rogue’s inability to start, they are among the most straightforward to identify. It’s possible to examine the battery electrodes, which serve as the points where the wires are connected. If there looks to be greenish-white rust surrounding it, cleansing it may be beneficial in getting you to start your Rogue again.

An average battery life of three to five years is expected for your 2021 Nissan Rogue, although this may vary greatly based on the battery cell type, environmental factors such as temperature and humidity, and even the driving style. Even if your battery is not completely depleted, that doesn’t imply it’s working at its peak performance.

When you approach a repair shop, it’s thrilling to get your batteries checked out. Battery and battery connector inspection is a necessary step in this procedure. Leaving your Nissan Rogue’s battery unattended might put a strain on that starter or alternator to increase power if it’s not performing at ideal levels.

Excess power drawn from the battery pack to make up for the loss of power might cause your motor to operate in an unsuitable manner. Fixing this will wind up costing you additional bucks in the long run. It’s a thrill to see the Nissan battery perform so well, provided the service is flawless and timely.

Nissan Rogue Won’t Start, Causes #5. A Dead Starter Motor

You can’t get your automobile to start, and you have no idea why? One possibility is that the starter is faulty. To get the engine going, the starter uses power from the battery. If an old part is wearing out and if there is a technical flaw, the starter might be harmed.

Starter motor failure could very likely be the cause of the Nissan Rogue’s inability to start or generate clicking sounds. The starting motor ideally lasts at least a hundred thousand miles (give or take), if not even more, so it shouldn’t go bad quickly.

However, if the issue stems from a faulty starting motor, there is no easy solution, and you must get your car towed to the closest service center and have the starter motor changed. It’s uncommon for starters to fail without notice. The typical “hack” that you can start your Rogue by beating the starter motor with a hammer isn’t just a thing people say with no substance. It has the potential to have one final go at it.

A clicking noise indicates a faulty starter. A manual transmission car may frequently be restarted with no need for a starter, however, the Rogue Rogue does not have a stick shift (if you know how to drive manual), so you’re out of chance here. There is no way for you to fix the starter motor on your own. The closest repair garage is only a short walk away.

If the motor is cranking but just not running, it is quite probable that an OBDII message has been thrown. Checking for problem codes using an OBDII scanning machine is well worth the time and effort. If your Rogue still doesn’t start, it’s quite probable that there are warnings. The software’s message will inform you what is amiss with your machine if you see one of these warnings.

Nissan Rogue Won’t Start, Causes #6. A Broken Key Microchip

Numerous new cars no longer come equipped with an ignition lock. Alternatively, a push-button is used to turn the engine on. When a car compromises an ignition lock, there is yet another conceivable reason why it won’t start: When you turn the key to start the engine. No feedback occurs in a malfunctioning ignition lock. You don’t absolutely have to blame everything on the ignition locking directly; a microchip in the key may have been broken.

In a little while, if the immobilizer is to blame rather than the ignition lock, the motor should start and not just crank. In this scenario, repairing the problem is not as simple as one would hope. Consider replacing the ignition lock with something like a working component at a repair shop. To get a replacement part if yours is faulty, you must ask the supplier.

Smart keys, which have alarm systems integrated within, are standard equipment in the majority of current automobiles. Criminals will have a harder time stealing them because of this. There seem to be times when the Rogue would not start because of this security precaution. A security warning will appear whenever you attempt to start the car.

Nissan Rogue Won’t Start, Causes #7. Broken Or Faulty Fuel Lines

The effects of extreme cold on your Nissan Rogue are numerous. In the majority of cases, it interferes with the circulation of any liquids in your car. For instance, if there are any fractures or problems in the fuel lines, the gasoline may freeze in the pipelines. To avoid having to cope with this scenario, you should make sure that you’ve been traveling a lot in cooler areas to examine the gasoline lines often.

Additionally, the winter weather may make it difficult for your oil to flow freely and efficiently inside your engine. As a result, the engine may not get the necessary lubrication, which may have an adverse effect on its general performance. You may need to purchase any additions that may be added to the oil to guarantee that it flows correctly even when temperatures are below freezing.

Nissan Rogue Won’t Start, Causes #8. Engine Timing

The ability of the engine to fire the spark plug at the right time to turn on the engine is called “timing”. There can be something wrong with the plugs, or something wrong could have gone with the camshaft. They might not be working in sync with the crankshaft, and that’s why your Nissan Rogue won’t start.

The are several OBDII codes that are usually associated with timing-related problems. P0013 is a common camshaft problem-related code. The camshaft sensor might also be the reason for causing this issue. A broken sensor can be causing the problem, “Nissan Rogue won’t start.

Nissan Rogue Won’t Start, Causes #9. Battery Performance

Finally, when it is cold outside, your Nissan Rogue battery does not perform as well as it should at maximum capacity. As a result, it is recommended that you refrain from utilizing any excess internal components while starting your car right away. The idea here seems to be that you would really like to lessen the amount of strain on the batteries as much as feasible by enabling the battery to concentrate on generating the electric energy necessary to start the car.

Nissan Rogue Won’t Start, Causes #10. Faulty Ignition Switch

Your Nissan Rogue’s ignition switch, which is distinct from the ignition lock, plays a crucial role in starting the vehicle. If the ignition switch is failing, the car may not detect the key’s turn, preventing it from cranking. Regular wear and tear can degrade this component. If you notice that the dashboard lights don’t illuminate when you turn the key, it’s a clue pointing to a problematic ignition switch.

Nissan Rogue Won’t Start, Causes #11. Malfunctioning Fuel Pump

A working fuel pump ensures that gasoline gets from your tank to the engine. If it malfunctions, fuel doesn’t reach the combustion chamber, preventing your Nissan Rogue from starting. One telltale sign of a faltering fuel pump is if your car struggles during acceleration or if you hear a whining sound from the gas tank.

Nissan Rogue Won’t Start, Causes #12. Bad Alternator

While the primary job of an alternator isn’t to start the engine, it ensures that the battery remains charged. A failing alternator won’t charge your battery, leading to repeated dead battery instances. Dimming headlights or a battery warning light could be signs of a faulty alternator.

Nissan Rogue Won’t Start, Causes #13. Failing Spark Plugs

Spark plugs ignite the air-fuel mixture in the engine. Worn-out or dirty spark plugs might prevent your Nissan Rogue from starting. Usually, a rough idle or decrease in fuel efficiency precedes a total spark plug failure.

Nissan Rogue Won’t Start, Causes #14. Blocked Fuel Filter

A clogged fuel filter restricts the flow of fuel to the engine. If completely blocked, it could prevent your Nissan Rogue from starting. Routinely replacing the fuel filter ensures optimal fuel flow and keeps contaminants from the engine.

Nissan Rogue Won’t Start, Causes #15. Computer System Issues

Today’s vehicles rely heavily on computer systems. If your Nissan Rogue’s onboard computer system experiences a malfunction, it might prevent the car from starting. Often, other warning lights accompany this issue. A diagnostic scan can pinpoint the exact fault within the system.

Nissan Rogue Won’t Start, Causes #16. Damaged Starter Relay

The starter relay is a small electrical component that bridges the starter and the battery, facilitating vehicle startup. If it’s faulty, the connection breaks, and your Nissan Rogue won’t start. Generally, you might hear a clicking noise but no engine crank if the relay is the culprit.

Nissan Rogue Won’t Start, Causes #17. Neutral Safety Switch Issues

For vehicles with automatic transmissions, like the Nissan Rogue, a neutral safety switch ensures the car starts only in ‘Park’ or ‘Neutral’. If this switch malfunctions, it might believe the car is in ‘Drive’, preventing a start. A misaligned or faulty neutral safety switch needs immediate attention.

Nissan Rogue Won’t Start, Causes #18. Malfunctioning Sensors

Various sensors, such as the crankshaft or camshaft position sensor, play roles in starting and running the engine. Faulty sensors send incorrect data or no data at all, hampering the starting process. Check engine lights often appear when a sensor starts to go bad.

Nissan Rogue Won’t Start, Causes #19. Security System Malfunctions

Sometimes, your car’s security system might mistakenly believe a theft attempt is occurring. In such cases, it could immobilize the engine or fuel system. Resetting or diagnosing the security system might resolve this issue.

Nissan Rogue Won’t Start, Causes #20. Damaged Serpentine Belt

While not directly responsible for starting the car, a broken serpentine belt can affect various systems, including the alternator and power steering. A squealing noise or visible belt wear points towards an impending failure.

To ensure that your Nissan Rogue starts every time, regular maintenance and timely inspections are vital. By addressing minor issues as they arise, you can prevent more significant problems down the road.

Diagnosing A Nissan Rogue That Won’t Start

Ever since its introduction late in 2007, Nissan Rogue has established itself as a popular crossover among consumers. After years of refinement, the Japanese manufacturer has maintained its position as a top competitor in the segment, according to the company. However, there are some car models of the Rogue which were particularly troublesome.

Before contemplating purchasing a used Nissan Rogue for yourself, it may well be helpful to learn exactly which car models to eschew. True owners have experienced hassles and financial struggles with their Rogues, as they do with many other automobiles. The Nissan Rogue might be a great car, but it has its own set of problems.

In a snapshot these could be the probable reasons which may cause the Rogue to not start:

• Damaged starter
• Damaged ignition coil/ignition lock
• Moisture getting into the engine
• Defective car battery
• No fuel in the tank
• Problems with the alternator
• Issues with the fuel system
• Engine failing
• Marten bite
• Fuel filter issues

What To Do If A Car Won’t Start

Whether it’s a chilly winter morning or a blazing summer day, finding your car refusing to start is a disheartening experience. While the reasons can range from a drained battery to an intricate engine malfunction, there are ways to troubleshoot the issue. Below, we explore common issues and the potential steps you can take to resolve them.

1. Silence When You Turn the Key

If you turn the key and hear nothing, there could be multiple reasons.

Check Your Battery Connections – Corrosion or loose battery terminals can prevent the electric current from passing efficiently. Give the terminals a slight wiggle; if they move freely, tighten them. If they’re corroded, consider cleaning them with a mixture of baking soda and water.

Examine the Lights – A dim or flickering interior light might hint at a dying battery. If the lights are bright and steady, the issue might lie elsewhere.

2. The Dreaded Clicking Sound

A consistent clicking noise when attempting to start your vehicle often indicates a weak battery.

Use Another Car to Jump Start – If you suspect the battery is the issue, using jumper cables to start your car with the help of another vehicle might do the trick. Once started, let your car run for a while to charge the battery.

3. Engine Cranks but Doesn’t Start

When your engine cranks but refuses to roar to life, the root cause may be trickier to diagnose.

Inspect the Fuel Supply – Ensure your car has enough fuel. Sometimes, faulty fuel gauges may deceive you into believing there’s gas when the tank is empty.

Check the Spark Plugs – These are pivotal for ignition. If they’re worn out or malfunctioning, they might be the culprits.

4. The Engine Doesn’t Crank at All

If the engine doesn’t even attempt to turn over, it could be an issue with the starter or related components.

Locate and Inspect the Starter Fuse – The starter system has its fuse in most cars. Find it in the fuse box (usually located under the dashboard or hood) and ensure it’s intact.

Test the Ignition Switch – Turn the key to the ‘on’ position. If the red warning lights on your dashboard don’t light up, there might be a problem with the ignition switch.

5. Key Doesn’t Turn in the Ignition

Sometimes, the key might refuse to turn, leaving you stuck.

Adjust the Steering Wheel – A locked wheel can prevent the key from turning. Gently wiggle the steering wheel while attempting to turn the key.

Lubricate the Lock – Spray a dash of electrical cleaner into the keyhole. Insert the key, give it a few turns to distribute the cleaner, and try again.

6. Other Handy Tips

Consider the Environment – Extreme cold can thicken the engine oil, making it harder for the car to start. Using a block heater can help.

Listen to Your Car – If your car has been making unusual noises recently, it’s a signal. Consider getting it checked before it refuses to start one fine day.

Regular Maintenance – Remember, routine check-ups can preempt many issues before they become major problems.

In conclusion, while these tips offer quick fixes, they aren’t permanent solutions. If you find yourself repeatedly facing starting issues, it’s essential to consult a professional. Regular maintenance, staying attuned to your vehicle’s needs, and understanding these common issues will save you both time and unnecessary stress in the long run.

Facts & Trivia

• The most common reasons why a Nissan Rogue won’t start are a dead battery, alternator problem, or failed starter, which account for 38%, 27%, and 20% of no-start issues, respectively.
• The remaining 15% of no-start issues can be caused by other factors not related to the battery, alternator, or starter.
• The battery is considered dead when there is not enough charge to start the engine or run electrical components. This is indicated by dim lighting in the car’s interior.
• The estimated cost of battery replacement is between $343 to $354.
• If the fuel pump leaks or makes a lot of noise, it should be inspected immediately. A failing fuel pump may cause a loss of pressure in the fuel system, which can prevent the engine from starting. The estimated cost of fuel pump replacement is $892 to $1,030.
• When the electrical portion of the ignition switch fails, the car will lose power to some systems and components intermittently or permanently, depending on which position the key is in. The estimated cost of ignition switch replacement is $183 to $224.
• The ignition switch lock cylinder can fail, making it difficult or impossible to turn the key in the ignition. The estimated cost of ignition lock cylinder replacement is $231 to $279.
• When the starter motor fails, the engine will not rotate, and the starter solenoid will click when the key is turned. The estimated cost of starter replacement is $426 to $580.
• When the computer senses that the engine is out of time, the check engine light will turn on, and the engine may stall or not start. The camshaft position sensor or crankshaft position sensor may need replacement. The estimated cost of the camshaft or crankshaft position sensor replacement is $175 to $239 or $185 to $231, respectively.
• To avoid replacing unnecessary parts, it is recommended to have a professional perform a diagnostic test to identify the root cause of the problem when a vehicle does not start.

In Conclusion…

The Rogue was introduced by Nissan in 2007 as a bid for them to enter the crossover market. Since then, it has been a favorite for several people in the market.

It can be extremely problematic and frustrating when your vehicle would not start. Moreover, and especially if you live in a place with extreme conditions or if you are rushing to reach your meetings on time.

There can be several reasons why your car might be facing this problem. If your Nissan Rogue is having similar characteristics or potential symptoms for this problem, we have provided the information you will need to diagnose this problem and come up with a proper solution. This will help get rid of the problem temporarily or permanently. There are usually two main reasons why your Nissan Rogue will not start.

The first reason, which is usually more common is when the car won’t turn over. This means that the engine does not respond to the key being turned. On top of that, the second reason why your Rogue will not start is when the engine turns on when the starter is engaged, but it would not fire or run on its own.

Nissan Rogue just like every other vehicle is prone to problems, the engine not starting is the most common problem reported by Rogue owners. As a whole, the Nissan Rogue is a good vehicle with several pros, so if you are in the market for a Nissan Rogue you need to take into consideration all of these problems that are listed above.