2003 Explorer Fails to Start (makes a "thud")

[SFOCLT]

Hi,

My 2003 Explorer XLT won't start. I'm trying to nail down what it might be. It's not the battery as I have plenty of juice. When I turn the key, I can power up everything inside. And when I turn it, it does sound like it is beginning to crank but just thuds, instead of turning over. (But it does more than when one merely hears the 'clicking' sounds).

Note the power windows ceases working a week or so ago, and I assumed that might be a fuse but I hadn't checked yet (couldn't get the fuse to pull out easily a minute ago so will try again in a bit). This might not be connected but throwing it out there in case.

I'll probably take to a mechanic on Monday, but I'd love to try to diagnose myself (with help) today.

Cheers.

 

[Number4]

How'd you test the battery?

With a volt meter, you'll only get the surface charge.
You need to test it with a load. (Not one of those metal cheese grater looking testers either)
A 'dead' battery may still run lights, but your window motors would require actual juice.

Take the batter to a store/shop and have them load test it before doing anything else.

 

[D Hook]

There's been a few non-start problems posted lately that have been solved by examining the positive cable that runs to the starter. Bad connection there could be a possible explanation. Cheap, easy fix.

 

[Duranged84]

Your window issue is probably the ground wire broken in the driver door boot between the door and the body.

Also if you have some help and a volt meter, you can test the load on the battery when someone turns the key to start.