Will not start

2004 FORD ESCAPE
48,808 MILES • 6 CYL • 4WD • AUTOMATIC
Avatar
EDDIE5327
  • MEMBER
  • 1 POST
The gas light turned on parked it and the next morning the car would not start. The engine light, oil light, and battery light are on. The battery is fully charged. we put four gallons of gas in the car, but when we turn the key to try and start it, it does absolutely nothing. please help.
May 31, 2022 at 6:22 AM
Advertisement
Avatar
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • Experienced Mechanic
  • 110,240 POSTS
Hi,

If you turn the key and get nothing, either there is a wiring issue, a bad starter, an issue with the park/neutral safety switch, or a power issue. Take a look through this link. It explains what to test when you have a starter not working.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/starter-not-working-repair

Also, see if it will start when you place it in neutral. If it doesn't, we need to determine if or where the power loss is.

I attached the wiring schematic below. First, confirm fuse 19 (40 amp) in the battery junction box is good. If it is, confirm there is power to and from it. Also, check fuse 11 in the central junction box inside the vehicle. It is important to check that both have power. Here is a link that explains how to do it:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-a-car-fuse

If the fuses are good, I need you to check for power at the starter motor. There are two wires we need to check. There is a heavy gauge red wire that should have 12v at all times. There is a thinner wire that is white with a pink tracer that will not have power until the key is in the start position. Have a helper turn the key to the start position while you check for voltage at the white/pink wire.

Let me know what you find.

Joe

See pics below. Note: The schematic was one page. I cut it in half to make it readable but overlapped them so you can follow from one to the next.
May 31, 2022 at 2:26 PM
Join 2CarPros for free, one of the most advanced car repair communities on the internet. From first-time drivers to seasoned mechanics, everyone is welcome to reply, share details, and get better answers. You can add a temporary image or video first; uploads are limited to 20 MB.
Ask a Free Question
Repair Safety Notice: This information is for general instructional purposes only. Vehicle repair can be dangerous. Verify all information, follow manufacturer service procedures, use proper tools and safety equipment, and consult a qualified repair shop when needed.