Weak Start Normal?

[spta97]

I've got a 2000 V8 5.0 AWD with 26,000 miles on the ODO. Every time I start it it just seems weak. By that I mean it seems to take more cranking to start than what I've gotten used to from my other cars (this is my first Ford).

Is this normal? It's only a couple of seconds but my other cars seem to kick over right away. When I was shopping for my X (a few weeks ago) I tried another one in the lot and it did the same thing. It's to the point where sometimes I have to start it twice because I let go of the key too quickly.

I've also got a poor gas mileage (12 MPG) issue that I'm taking it back to the dealer I got it from. I suspect it may be bad plugs, MAF, or O2 sensors. I wonder if it is the plugs if that could be the problem?

 

[Jason_25]

Our V8 Explorer has always started like that since new. But gets about 18 MPG overall.

 

[spta97]

Originally posted by Jason_25
Our V8 Explorer has always started like that since new. But gets about 18 MPG overall.

18?!?! I wish!

 

[Robb]

Yea, you have some issues there with the MPG. With my old wheels on my '96 5.0, I averaged 17.5 overall. Now, with the heavier wheels and severe need of a tune-up, I am still averaging about 15.0 MPG.

 

[spta97]

Originally posted by Robb
Yea, you have some issues there with the MPG. With my old wheels on my '96 5.0, I averaged 17.5 overall. Now, with the heavier wheels and severe need of a tune-up, I am still averaging about 15.0 MPG.

What could it be? The dealer ran the computer on it and said all was ok?

 

[VOATMJ1]

My 2000 turns over twice and it purring, but it is a V-6 vs a V8. My Cadillac starts faster than my X when warm, but both start about equal when cold. Two turnover's and they are both running.