Where is the starter relay on this type of vehicle?

Hey! If your 2002 Nissan Xterra attempted to start without the keys in the ignition after replacing the starter, there may be an issue with the electrical system or the starter installation. Here are a few things you can check:

1. Wiring connections: Double-check the wiring connections on the starter. Ensure that the positive and negative cables are securely attached to the appropriate terminals on the starter. Make sure there are no loose or exposed wires.
2. Starter solenoid: The starter solenoid is responsible for engaging the starter motor when the ignition key is turned. It's possible that the solenoid is malfunctioning or wired incorrectly. Check the solenoid connections and wiring to ensure they are properly connected and in the correct configuration.
3. Ignition switch: It's unusual for a vehicle to attempt to start without the keys in the ignition. There could be an issue with the ignition switch or the wiring related to the ignition system. Inspect the ignition switch and its wiring for any signs of damage or loose connections.
4. Security system: Some vehicles have a security system that can prevent unauthorized starting. If your Xterra is equipped with a security system, ensure that it is not causing the issue. Refer to the vehicle's manual or contact a Nissan dealership for instructions on troubleshooting the security system.
5. Starter replacement: If all the wiring connections and components appear to be in order, it's possible that the replacement starter is faulty or incompatible with your vehicle. Consider double-checking the specifications of the new starter to ensure it is the correct model for your Xterra.

If you are unsure or uncomfortable with performing these checks yourself, it is recommended to consult a professional mechanic or contact a Nissan dealership for assistance. They will have the expertise and tools necessary to diagnose and resolve the issue with your Xterra's starting system.

didnt state type of vehicle ---check power to starter if no power need to check relays -ignition system-key,switch,wiring [some cars key fob]-if power to starter have starter tested solenoid possible bad ,starter short.

Battery cable connections ? Battery , Starter ? Do a starter system voltage drop test ! Starter Voltage Drop Also do a pin point test at the starter relay ! VEHICLE RELAYS Operation Diagnosis VEHICLE RELAYS Testing from the relay base

Testing the electrical circuit's for the starter is how to find test type problem's . Voltage drop testing . How to voltage drop test starter motor circuit Looking at a wiring diagram to see what all is involved in your vehicle's starter system would be the first step .Free wiring diagrams here http://www.bbbind.com/free_tsb.html
Enter vehicle info. Year , make , model , an engine size . Under system click on engine , then under subsystem click on starting . Click the search button ,then the blue link .
Is the vehicle SECURITY light lit on the instrument cluster .

There are two starter relays in this vehicle. One is in the fuse box, the other right on the starter. Pull the fuse box starter relay. Check for battery voltage on two of the cavities in the socket when you turn the key to the START position. If you see that, then check for ground on one of the other two cavities. If you see all those readings, try swapping the starter relay with another one of the same size and type.
Car starter clicks but wont start the engine

Depending on the year and vehicle type that you are asking about. The starter solenoid that sits on top of the starter is considered the starter's relay.

Your is easy,but there are 2 types they used in this year,do you have factory alarm or aftermarket, If its factory you will need a toothpick,if its aftermarket you will need to cancel the relay.let me know what you have. If you have one of the factory alarm the activation and deactivation is the door lock and unlock,it only disables the starter, go to the starter relay take it apart, when this relay collapse it engages the starter,with a key or without a key, stick the tooth pick in there so the relay is always closed.Go to the vehicle start it up.You defeated the alarm,With this type you need to becareful you have two different types I only gave you the easy one, if this is a manual transmission and you collapse the starter relay and the key is on away the car goes without you,so care need to be taken dont just do this without some with you put someone in the car stepping on the brake wheel block e brake on you not standing in the front and vehicle not in gear.becareful

To get the vehicle to crank use a remote starter switch or jump the starter relay,Use the starter relay as a tool only,till you wire the vehicle correctly,in the engine junction fuse box is a relays,from those relay is a starter relay,open the cover and access the mechanism, istall the relay back in its socket,key on engine off, vehicle in park wheels block , e brake on collapse the relay vehicle will crank. from here do your troubleshooting

Look for a Bose type relay lead from the small (control) wire from the starter.
A good installer will hide this relay in the inner side of the firewall.

I short this relay is connect between the alarm and the starter control cable.

Bypass the relay and you are done.

sure, but morel ikely you have a short (partial short) in the main wire to the starter. I believe those have a fusable link someone inline on the battery wire to the starter. find that fusable link and replace it that should clear up the lose in voltage problem you appear to be having.

As for a relay, the relay shouldn't be much more then a few 20-30 bucks and it is good practice to replace the relay when replacing the starter anyway.