How to Locate the Starter Relay in a 2020 Nissan Rogue

If your 2020 Nissan Rogue cranks slowly or refuses to start, the culprit is often the starter relay. This small but essential component controls the flow of electricity from the battery to the starter motor, and a faulty relay can mimic a dead battery or a broken starter. Before you head to the shop, you can save time (and money) by checking the relay yourself. Below is a step‑by‑step guide that shows exactly where the starter relay lives, how to spot it, and what to do once you’ve found it.

Why the Starter Relay Matters

The starter relay acts like a switch that tells the starter motor when to engage. When you turn the key or press the push‑button, the engine control unit (ECU) sends a signal to the relay, which then closes the circuit and delivers high‑current power to the starter. If the relay sticks open or closed at the wrong time, the engine may not turn over, or it could stay running after you release the key. Because the relay is inexpensive—usually under $30—it’s worth inspecting before replacing larger, costlier parts.

Where to Find the Starter Relay in a 2020 Nissan Rogue

The starter relay in the 2020 Rogue is tucked inside the engine compartment’s fuse box, commonly called the Power Distribution Center (PDC). This box sits on the driver’s side, near the battery, and is covered with a clear or black plastic lid that snaps off.

Steps to Open the Fuse Box

• Safety first: Disconnect the negative battery terminal with a wrench to prevent any accidental shorts.
• Locate the PDC—look for a rectangular box about 8 × 6 inches, labeled “FUSE/RELAY” on the top.
• Release the retaining clips or tabs on the lid and lift it away; the interior will reveal rows of fuses and relays.

Once the box is open, you’ll see a grid of rectangular plugs, each marked with a number and a brief description on the side of the box. The starter relay is typically identified by the label “STRT” or “STARTER” and is positioned in the same row as the ignition and fuel‑pump relays. In the 2020 Rogue, it is usually the third relay from the left in the upper row.

Identifying the Correct Relay

Each relay has a distinct shape—four metal terminals on the bottom and a plastic housing on top. The starter relay’s pins are thicker than those of nearby accessories because they must handle higher current. If you’re still unsure, consult the diagram printed on the underside of the fuse box cover; it maps each number to its function, and the starter relay will be clearly marked.

When you pull the relay out, give it a gentle wiggle. A good relay will feel solid but not stuck. If it’s corroded or the plastic is cracked, that’s a sign it may have failed and should be replaced.

Testing and Replacing the Starter Relay

Before swapping the relay, you can perform a quick bench test. Remove the relay and snap it into a known‑good socket (for example, a working headlamp relay) while the battery remains disconnected. If the relay clicks when you energize it with a 12‑volt source, it’s likely still functional.

To replace the relay:

• Purchase an OEM or high‑quality aftermarket starter relay that matches the part number—usually something like Relay 5A 12V.
• Insert the new relay into the same slot, ensuring the tab aligns with the “+12V” side indicated on the box diagram.
• Re‑connect the negative battery terminal and attempt to start the vehicle.

If the engine turns over smoothly, the problem was the relay. If the issue persists, you may need to inspect the starter motor, battery, or wiring harness. However, many owners find that simply replacing a bad starter relay restores full functionality.

Tips for Preventive Maintenance

Relays are prone to heat‑induced wear, especially in climates with extreme temperature swings. A quick visual inspection of the relay’s contacts every few months can catch early corrosion. Spraying a tiny amount of dielectric grease on the contacts can also prolong life, but avoid over‑lubricating, which might interfere with the electrical connection.

Finally, keep a spare starter relay in your trunk. It’s a cheap insurance policy that can save you from a cold‑morning scramble.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where exactly is the starter relay located in a 2020 Nissan Rogue?

The starter relay sits inside the engine‑bay fuse box (Power Distribution Center) on the driver’s side, typically the third relay in the upper row, labeled “STRT” or “STARTER.”

Can I replace the starter relay myself without special tools?

Yes. All you need is a basic socket set to disconnect the battery, a pair of pliers to pull the relay, and a compatible replacement part. The process takes under 30 minutes for most DIYers.

What are the symptoms of a bad starter relay?

Common signs include a slow or absent crank when turning the key, a clicking sound from the starter area, and the engine failing to start even though the battery voltage looks healthy.

Is it safe to test the relay with the battery still connected?

It’s best to disconnect the negative battery terminal before removing or testing any relay. This eliminates the risk of short circuits and protects the vehicle’s electronics.