My Nissan Primera has been stood for some time,the engine turns over but will not fire.I have recharged the battery and put 2 gallons in the tank,but although the starter whips the motor over it will not start.What do I do to reactivate the engine?

Gordon Dickinson {74yrs), May 2008

sometimes when cars are left lying up especially in damp conditions there electrical componants are affected.if you have tryed to jump start it a few times the engine control modual may be damaged.check spark,fuel and fuses and earths first then try a garage with a fault code reader.a main dealer would be best and quickest.

Paul, May 2008

Is there any sound of the electric fuel pump running, Mr. Dickinson? I think I'd be disconnecting the fuel line that runs from the tank to the fuel injectors and see if there is any fresh fuel present. Then, I would be checking to see if there are sparks available at the plugs. There may be an immobiliser problem here, if the car has been stood for a long while - but I would expect a light on the dashboard to be lit if that was the case. If you are an AA member, you could always call them, and say the car has just conked out.....!

John, May 2008