cold weather starting

[fenwayjim]

Hello everyone...

I've got a 2001 Explorer XLT AWD 5.0 that I just can't kill (260,000 miles). I'm hoping someone can shed some light on a problem...

When the weather gets cold it is very hard to start. I have not had a problem since March 2012, but prior to that it was touch and go all last winter. This past Friday the overnite temp dipped into the mid-30's and Saturday morning it took about 4 tries before starting. I had it at the dealer last year and they checked everything: battery, fuel pressure, starter, etc. and all checked out fine. I'm at a loss since it is just fine during warm weather.

Ideas? Suggestions? My son is taking it back to college and I don't want him having issues going back and forth to class, and I'm not ready to buy a new one.

Thanks!

 

[koda2000]

have you checked/replaced your control temp sensor (CTS). this sensor tells the ecu the coolant temp. if it's cold, the ecu puts additional fuel into the motor to help it start (kinda works like an automatic choke on a carbureted engine).

 

[fenwayjim]

have you checked/replaced your control temp sensor (CTS). this sensor tells the ecu the coolant temp. if it's cold, the ecu puts additional fuel into the motor to help it start (kinda works like an automatic choke on a carbureted engine).

Nope...haven't even thought of that. Sounds like a pretty simple job...hope it is the answer.

Thanks for the help...sure do appreciate it.

 

[koda2000]

Nope...haven't even thought of that. Sounds like a pretty simple job...hope it is the answer.

Thanks for the help...sure do appreciate it.

sorry, i meant to say COOLANT temp sensor. make sure you ask for and get the SENSOR and not the SENDER. it should have 2 wires. i don't think it's too hard to change on the 5.0. let us know how it goes.

 

[1Aauto]

If the battery is over 5-6 years old I'd probably replace it for starters. Also make sure you clean the battery posts with a wire brush along with the terminal ends, that way at least any battery issues will be taken care of.