If you’re a Ford Expedition owner, you might have encountered an intermittent starting problem.
It can be frustrating when your vehicle doesn’t start as expected, especially when you have somewhere important to be.
This problem can occur due to various reasons, including battery, alternator, starter motor, fuel pump, ignition system, or electrical issues.
In this blog, we’ll discuss the symptoms, causes, and solutions to help you address the intermittent starting problem in your Ford Expedition.
Common Ford Expedition starting problems
If you own a Ford Expedition, you may experience problems starting your vehicle. Some of the most common reasons why your Expedition may not start include:
Dead Battery
A dead battery is one of the most common reasons for starting problems in Ford Expeditions.
A battery is responsible for supplying electrical power to start the engine.
When the battery is dead, there is not enough power to turn the engine over, causing starting problems.
Faulty Starter
A faulty starter can cause your Expedition not to start or make a clicking sound when you turn the key.
The starter is responsible for turning the engine over when you turn the key in the ignition.
If it’s not working correctly, it won’t be able to do this, and you won’t be able to start your vehicle.
Clogged Fuel Filter
A clogged fuel filter can prevent fuel from getting to your engine, causing your Expedition not to start.
Fuel filters remove dirt or debris from the fuel. The filter can become clogged, preventing the fuel from reaching the engine.
Bad Ignition Switch
A bad ignition switch can cause your Expedition not to start or start and then stall.
The ignition switch is responsible for sending power to the starter and the fuel system.
If the switch is faulty, it won’t be able to do this correctly, and your vehicle won’t start.
Symptoms of an intermittent starting problem in the Ford Expedition
Intermittent starting problems in the Ford Expedition can be frustrating and challenging to diagnose.
Here are some symptoms to look out for that may indicate an intermittent starting problem:
Engine Cranks but Won’t Start
One of the most common symptoms of an intermittent starting problem in the Ford Expedition is the engine cranking but not starting.
When this occurs, the engine may turn over several times but fail to start.
This may be due to a problem with the fuel system, such as a clogged fuel filter or fuel pump failure.
No Sound When Turning the Key
Another symptom of an intermittent starting problem is no sound when turning the key.
This could indicate a problem with the battery, starter, or ignition switch.
A dead battery or faulty starter motor can prevent the engine from turning over, while a bad ignition switch can prevent the starter from receiving power.
Clicking Sound When Turning the Key
If you hear a clicking sound when turning the key, it could indicate a problem with the starter or battery.
A clicking sound typically means that the starter motor is not receiving enough power to turn the engine over.
This could be due to a weak battery, corroded battery terminals, or a faulty starter motor.
Engine Starts but Stalls
If the engine starts but stalls shortly after, it could indicate a problem with the fuel system or ignition system.
A clogged fuel filter, fuel pump failure, or bad ignition coils can cause the engine to start but then stall shortly after.
Intermittent Starting
If your Ford Expedition starts sometimes, but not always, it could indicate an intermittent starting problem.
This could be due to a failing component in the starting system that is not consistently functioning correctly.
Causes of the Ford Expedition’s intermittent starting problem
Intermittent starting problems in the Ford Expedition can be caused by various factors. Here are some of the most common causes of intermittent starting problems:
Bad Battery Connections
Loose or corroded battery connections can cause intermittent starting problems in the Ford Expedition.
When the battery connections are loose or corroded, they can prevent the battery from providing the necessary power to start the engine.
Faulty Starter
A faulty starter can cause intermittent starting problems in the Ford Expedition.
If the starter is not working correctly, it may not be able to turn the engine over consistently, causing intermittent starting issues.
Failing Fuel Pump
A failing fuel pump can cause intermittent starting problems in the Ford Expedition.
When the fuel pump is not working correctly, it may not be able to provide the necessary fuel pressure to start the engine consistently.
Clogged Fuel Filter
A clogged fuel filter can prevent fuel from reaching the engine, causing intermittent starting problems.
When the fuel filter is clogged, it can restrict the flow of fuel to the engine, leading to intermittent starting issues.
Bad Ignition Switch
A bad ignition switch can cause intermittent starting problems in the Ford Expedition.
When the ignition switch is faulty, it may not be able to provide power to the starter consistently, leading to intermittent starting issues.
Failing Crankshaft Position Sensor
A failing crankshaft position sensor can cause intermittent starting problems in the Ford Expedition.
The crankshaft position sensor is responsible for providing the engine’s position to the vehicle’s computer, which then controls the ignition and fuel system.
When the crankshaft position sensor is failing, it may not be able to provide a consistent signal to the vehicle’s computer, leading to intermittent starting issues.
fixing the intermittent starting problem in Ford Expedition
Once you have identified the cause of the intermittent starting problem in your Ford Expedition, you can take the necessary steps to fix the issue.
Check Battery Connections
If the battery connections are loose or corroded, you can clean and tighten them.
This can ensure the necessary power to start the engine is consistently provided by the battery.
Replace the Starter
If the starter is faulty, you may need to replace it. A new starter can turn the engine over consistently, helping to resolve intermittent starting issues.
Replace the Fuel Pump
If the fuel pump is failing, you may need to replace it. A new fuel pump can provide the necessary fuel pressure to start the engine consistently, resolving intermittent starting problems.
Replace the Fuel Filter
If the fuel filter is clogged, you can replace it. This can help ensure that fuel can flow freely to the engine, helping to resolve intermittent starting issues.
Replace the Ignition Switch
If the ignition switch is bad, you may need to replace it.
A new ignition switch can provide power to the starter consistently, helping to resolve intermittent starting problems.
Replace the Crankshaft Position Sensor
If the crankshaft position sensor is failing, you may need to replace it.
A new crankshaft position sensor can provide a consistent signal to the vehicle’s computer, helping to resolve intermittent starting issues.
FAQs
How Much Does It Cost To Fix An Intermittent Starting Problem In A Ford Expedition?
The cost varies depending on the cause of the problem and the necessary repairs or replacements.
It’s best to get a quote from a trusted mechanic or dealership.
Can I Fix An Intermittent Starting Problem In My Ford Expedition On My Own?
It depends on the cause of the problem. Some solutions, such as cleaning battery connections, can be done at home, but others, such as replacing the fuel pump or starter, may require professional assistance.
Can An Intermittent Starting Problem In A Ford Expedition Be Dangerous?
Yes, an intermittent starting problem in a Ford Expedition can be dangerous because it can prevent the engine from starting when needed, especially in an emergency situation.
It’s important to address the issue as soon as possible to avoid any potential risks or hazards.
Conclusion
An intermittent starting problem in a Ford Expedition can be frustrating and potentially dangerous.
Diagnose and address the root cause of the issue as soon as possible to ensure the vehicle is safe and reliable to drive.
Regular maintenance and inspections also help to prevent starting problems from occurring in the first place.
