hard to start

[explorerdon]

2001 Explorer 4wd with 5.0 engine

Last few weeks the car is hard to start. Normally, I would put my foot on the brake, turn the key, the car would start, whether the engine was hot or cold, winter or summer. Now, the car starts on the first crank, but dies within seconds. On the second start, the car fires up and performs normally. This happens whether I have my foot on the brake, or giving it some throttle.

Any ideas on what is happening?

 

[1997XLTRollover]

My first guess would be fuel pressure. When was the last time you changed your fuel filter? Could be a dying fuel pump too. Next time you start it, cycle the key a few times to the run position without cranking it to prime the fuel system. See if it fires up first shot of the key. If it does it's probably something with your fuel system.

 

[explorerdon]

hard start

Thanks for the reply. Cycled the ignition several times, as suggested, no change. The vehicle starts normally, when cold, but when started 20 or 30 minutes after running errands, it fires up but shuts down after running for a few seconds on the first start. Second start, fires up and runs normally.

I will check the throttle position sensor and the ect sensor.

 

[gatzdon]

Pull the extended codes first. The extended codes will throw a temporary code for the Engine Coolant Sensor long before the MIL comes on.

Also, using an OBD2 reader, you can look at the PID value for engine coolant temp. If it's lower than 190F, then your PCM may be trying to compensate for a cold engine.

A corroded engine coolant temp sensor will give a lower than normal value and cause the issue you are describing. sensor is only $20 and easy to change. Just make sure you change the 2 wire sensor.