Strange starting problem nobody can fix

[jbernfeld]

Hi. 98% of the time, my 2002 Escape XLT starts fine. But 2% of the time, it cranks and cranks and won't turn over. Happened when it was hot, cold, sunshine, rain (i.e., nothing in particular seems to cause it). Some of the time, if I let it crank long enough, or try a few minutes or hours later, it will start perfectly. Then, it will go weeks and start perfectly every single time.

I've taken it to two places, including the dealer, and they all say the same thing -- as long as it starts fine when it's there, there's nothing they can do. It shows no codes, the batter tests fine (and when it's cranking, all lights, radio, etc. work fine), so they say that they have no idea. I've left it there for 2 weeks now but it starts just fine for them, so they say I can't do anything.

Any tips? I don't want to just start replacing things. From what I've gathered, fuel is not getting in properly sometimes. Maybe a fuel filter, maybe IAC valve, maybe I need a new engine. Maybe I should just replace the batter (I think it's original) and spark plugs and have the fuel system cleaned???

Thanks! Jeff

[wobbie]

Not to pick nits here, but I expect what you mean is that it cranks but won't run (if it's cranking it is "turning over"). Anyway, are you giving it some gas?

Lots of folks have the notion that pressing on the gas while trying to start an injected vehicle is a bad thing, but it is not. The IAC is there to do it for you, but if it is not working correctly or sticking you may find it helps to give a little yourself.

wobbie

[jonmark1985]

Originally Posted by wobbie

Not to pick nits here, but I expect what you mean is that it cranks but won't run (if it's cranking it is "turning over"). Anyway, are you giving it some gas?

Lots of folks have the notion that pressing on the gas while trying to start an injected vehicle is a bad thing, but it is not. The IAC is there to do it for you, but if it is not working correctly or sticking you may find it helps to give a little yourself.

wobbie

very true, some owners manuals even noted to do this if the vehicle wouldn't start the first time.

[Pat has a question]

Had the same issue a few years back and found out the gas I was buying was bad. Went to another place and the problem was resolved. It might be that simple.