Troubleshooting Ford Explorer Starting Problems

Always start with the obvious. Make sure you have fuel in the tank; maybe the fuel gauge has stopped working. After that, turn on the headlights. They should be bright, a quick and easy way to check for battery power.

Then check for faulty components in the fuel and ignition systems. If you have not changed it in the past 12 months or so, the fuel filter might be clogged, obstructing the flow of gas; after years of service, the fuel pump might have failed as well. Examine the ignition system; look for broken, loose or disconnected spark plug wires or a failed ignition coil.

Check the timing chain. A worn-out or defective chain will fail to synchronize cylinders and valves, making the engine unable to operate. Finally, check cylinder compression.

If your engine seems to give you trouble only when cold, there are some specific components to look at. Using a voltmeter, check for battery power. Make sure fuel is reaching the injections and the fuel filter is not clogged. Also, check the condition and gap of the spark plugs--clean and recalibrate the plugs if necessary. Then troubleshoot the engine coolant temperature sensor and engine control system.

If the starting system only gives you trouble when the engine is hot. check the fuel filter and make sure the fuel injection system is receiving fuel. In rare cases, the fuel system may be experiencing vapor lock. This is caused by engine heat transferring to the fuel and creating bubbles. You will notice the engine stalls, lacks power or it is hard to start or does not start at all. Inspect the feed and return lines and see if any are touching a hot engine part.

Sometimes, the starter motor will operate but the engine will not turn. The problem might be in the starter motor itself. The most common problem is a worn or broken starter pinion or drive plate. Remove the motor for inspection.

Maybe the starter motor itself does not turn. Check that the battery terminals are tight and clean. Then check the battery charge. When attempting to start the engine, make sure the transmission is in Park (P) or Neutral (N). Also, check the starting circuit for broken, loose or disconnected wires and cables from the battery to the starter solenoid, the ignition switch and the starter motor.

Next, check components in the starting system like solenoid, ignition switch and starter motor. It is possible the pinion on the motor is jammed. Remove the starter motor. Finally, check the Transmission Range (TR) sensor. The sensor may need adjustment or replacement.