Help!! Truck won't start!

[ExCon]

I have 2c idiots who are detailing my new used Explorer. They power washed the engine compartment and now they can't start the engine. Its a 5.0 liter motor. The fuse panel is bone dry and even the plug wires don't appear to be wet. Anyone have ANY SUGGESTIONS?

 

[aldive]

Never, never pressure wash an engine compartment.

Did they cover the electrical components? Its possible once things dry out the motor will start.

Good luck .......

 

[ExCon]

Thanks!! heres the new issue, the "theft" light continues to flas on th cdash. How do I clear this?

 

[SteveO2569]

yea i almost went to get mine power washed but stopped myself thinkin it wouldnt be worth it if something messed up so i just get a few wash clothes, wet em up and gently clean it that way, no problems so far....but that sucks man, hope everything works out for u

 

[TTG]

I'd imagine with that kinda force the water is exerting they broke one or more wires and sensors. Depends how much force they used. I'd take it to an advance auto parts and ask them to hook it up to the computer and see if its giving out any codes or anything. That's usually a free service.

 

[gijoecam]

The only catch is that there's nothing under the hood that ties in with the PATS system. That module resides inside the left rear side of the truck between the plastic trim and the inner body panel just ahead of the jack compartment.

Did they try to use a different key? Did they try to re-program a key or two? If they're using a key you gave them that was already programmed in the system, there's no reason it shouldn't start the car.

If the PATS system was tripped, the theft light should be blinking when you try to crank it. It should also crank, just not run. If it's not cranking, I'd suspect they blew the trigger wire off the starter solenoid. If the theft light's blinking and none of your keys work, it could be time for a trip to the stealership.

-Joe

 

[Demon1974]

Hi All
let me save you some time and alot of agravation ,I had same problem spent $300+ and a lot of time and research to figure out why my truck woul start , I knew the damm thing was'nt gettin fuel replaced all the basics hopeing it wasn't the fuel pump!!! 2 days to no availe towed it to the Mech. all was fine ..... execpt the code that poped on his computer .. said THEFT DET FAILURE .. Ill have to take to Dealership!!! DAMMIT pay out more$$$$ and tow again ???? so I called a locksmith he came to Mech. shop pickup new PATS system made 2 new keys WALAAAAA my 98 xlt fired rightup!!! charged me $140 hell of a deal the dealership would charge triple that!!! So good luck to alll Hope this helps!!!!