99 sentra XE starting problem

Try removing the distributor cap and check that all four terminals are bright and clean. Most importantly, check the center of the rotor for a buildup of carbon from contact with the center button of the distributor cap. My 99 Sentra XE wouldn't start after sitting a week or so and it was carbon in the center of the rotor. A light scrubbing with emery cloth fixed it and it's been fine since. Good luck. Al

Did you plug the MAF back in?

my sentra has a problem with starting. the engine starts to shake a lot after sitting for 2 weeks or so. not only does the engine shake but it also has a leakage below the pistons. also the engine sounds like its choked. the major problem is i need the car to move within a week or so. can anyone help me try to fix this problem?

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on 9/17/2007 11:51 PM EA898 said the following:

Nissan service?

One thing simple worth trying: open up the distributor cap (2-3 screws I think), and swing it away. Remove the rotor (one screw), and remove a plastic cover (2 screws) that protect the distributor timing disk. Spray a brake cleaning fluid toward this timing disk and let it dry. Put everything back. In my Sentra, the seal that isolate the distributor from the camshaft area was failing, thus over time engine oil started to migrate into the distributor and started to cover the fine slits of the distro timing disk. This causied the engine to misfire and shake. If the above method solved your problem, then order a replacement from eBay for less than $100 (new) before the old one started to act up again. The dealer wants close to $500. This problem is quite common on GA16DE engines.

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