2009 Nissan Cube Starter Relay Location

Alright, let's dive into the often-mysterious world of automotive relays, specifically focusing on the 2009 Nissan Cube's starter relay location. Locating this little electrical component can be crucial when troubleshooting starting problems. It's a common issue, and with a bit of knowledge, you can diagnose and potentially fix it yourself.

Understanding Relays: The Basics

Before we pinpoint the 2009 Cube's starter relay, let's quickly review what a relay actually does. A relay is essentially an electromagnetically operated switch. Think of it as a middleman between a low-current control circuit and a high-current circuit. It allows a small amount of current (e.g., from the ignition switch) to control a larger current (e.g., to the starter motor). This protects delicate circuits from being overloaded.

In the case of the starter relay, when you turn the key to the "start" position, a small current flows to the relay's coil. This energizes the coil, creating a magnetic field that pulls a contact (or armature) closed. This closed contact completes the high-current circuit, allowing the battery to send power directly to the starter motor, which then cranks the engine.

Without a relay, the ignition switch would have to handle the full load of the starter motor, which could damage the switch and potentially create a fire hazard. Relays are a vital safety and functional component in modern vehicles.

Relay Components and Operation

A typical automotive relay consists of these key parts:

• Coil: A winding of wire that creates a magnetic field when current flows through it.
• Armature (Contact): A movable piece of metal that is attracted to the electromagnet when the coil is energized. This is the switch that makes or breaks the high-current circuit.
• Contacts: Two or more electrical contacts that are either normally open (NO) or normally closed (NC). In a starter relay, typically, the contacts are normally open – meaning the circuit is broken until the relay is activated.
• Spring: Returns the armature to its original position when the coil is de-energized.

The relay usually has four or five terminals, each serving a specific purpose. Identifying these terminals is crucial for testing and troubleshooting.

2009 Nissan Cube Starter Relay Location

Okay, now let's get to the specifics for the 2009 Nissan Cube. The starter relay is typically found in one of two places:

1. Inside the Intelligent Power Distribution Module (IPDM) E/R: This is the most common location. The IPDM E/R is essentially a fancy fuse and relay box located in the engine compartment.
2. Inside the Interior Fuse Box: While less likely for the starter relay specifically, it's worth checking if you can't find it in the IPDM E/R.

Let's break down finding it in the IPDM E/R, as that's the most probable scenario.

Locating the IPDM E/R

The IPDM E/R is usually situated on the passenger side of the engine compartment, near the battery. It's a black plastic box with a lid secured by clips. To access the relays and fuses inside, you'll need to release these clips and remove the lid.

Identifying the Starter Relay within the IPDM E/R

Once you've opened the IPDM E/R, you'll see a collection of relays and fuses. Finding the starter relay can be a bit tricky, but here's how to approach it:

1. Consult the Owner's Manual: This is always the best first step. The owner's manual should contain a diagram of the IPDM E/R, labeling each relay and fuse. Look for a relay designated as "Starter Relay" or something similar. Nissan's labeling can vary slightly by year and trim.
2. Check the IPDM E/R Lid: Often, a simplified diagram is printed on the underside of the IPDM E/R lid. This can also help you identify the starter relay.
3. Look for a Specific Relay Type: The starter relay is typically a larger, heavier-duty relay compared to other relays used for things like lights or wipers. It will often have a higher amperage rating printed on its side. Look for something rated at 30A or higher.
4. Consider Relay Swapping (with Caution!): If you're still unsure, you can try a process of elimination by *temporarily* swapping a known good relay (e.g., the horn relay, which is often the same type) with the suspected starter relay. If the car now starts but the horn doesn't work, you've likely found the starter relay. Important: Only swap relays of the same type and amperage rating. Using the wrong relay can damage your electrical system. And *always* disconnect the negative battery terminal before swapping any electrical components to prevent shorts.

Important Note: Relay layouts within the IPDM E/R can vary slightly depending on the Cube's specific options and trim level. The information provided here is a general guide. Always refer to your owner's manual or a reliable wiring diagram specific to your vehicle for the most accurate information.

Troubleshooting Starter Relay Issues

If you suspect your starter relay is faulty, here are some common symptoms and troubleshooting steps:

Common Symptoms

• No Crank: You turn the key, and nothing happens. No clicking, no whirring – just silence.
• Clicking Sound: You might hear a single click or a rapid series of clicks from the starter area when you turn the key. This could indicate a weak battery, a bad starter motor, *or* a faulty starter relay.
• Intermittent Starting: The car starts sometimes, but not others. This can be a sign of a relay that's starting to fail.

Troubleshooting Steps

1. Check the Battery: Always start with the basics. Ensure the battery is fully charged and in good condition. A weak battery is a common cause of starting problems.
2. Check the Fuses: Inspect the fuses associated with the starting system. These fuses are usually located in the IPDM E/R and/or the interior fuse box. A blown fuse can prevent the starter relay from receiving power.
3. Test the Relay: You can test the relay using a multimeter. You'll need to determine which terminals are the coil terminals and which are the switch terminals. Then, you can apply 12V to the coil terminals and check for continuity across the switch terminals. If the relay doesn't click when you apply power to the coil, or if there's no continuity across the switch terminals when the coil is energized, the relay is likely bad.
4. Bypass the Relay (for Testing Purposes ONLY): Use extreme caution! You can temporarily bypass the starter relay by jumping the two high-current terminals in the relay socket. This will send power directly to the starter motor. If the car starts when you do this, it confirms that the relay is the problem. Important: This is only for diagnostic purposes and should not be used as a permanent solution. Jumping the relay terminals bypasses safety features and could damage your electrical system. Wear eye protection, have a fire extinguisher nearby, and ensure the vehicle is in park (automatic) or neutral (manual) with the parking brake engaged.

Replacing the Starter Relay

Replacing the starter relay is a relatively straightforward process:

1. Disconnect the negative battery terminal. This is crucial for safety.
2. Locate the starter relay. Refer to the steps outlined above.
3. Remove the old relay. Simply pull it straight out of its socket. It might take a bit of force, but it should come out without too much difficulty.
4. Install the new relay. Align the pins of the new relay with the terminals in the socket and push it firmly into place.
5. Reconnect the negative battery terminal.
6. Test the car. Turn the key and see if it starts.

By following these steps and using a bit of common sense, you should be able to locate and replace the starter relay on your 2009 Nissan Cube. Remember to always prioritize safety and consult your owner's manual or a reliable wiring diagram for the most accurate information specific to your vehicle. Happy wrenching!