Crank, hard start rough idle shuts off

RGAON_1

MEMBER
2001 FORD FOCUS
2.0L
4 CYL
2WD
MANUAL
180,000 MILES

So I picked up this car for $800.00. When I went to look at it it didn’t start on spot. As expected. But when I towed it home it started but shut off after like 5 seconds. Ever since then I’ve tried starting it but whenever it does it does unless I give it gas. Whenever I turn on the switch I hear the pump running, and smell fuel. Also I have spark and air. When it does run it runs rough and has a bogged sound to it. Also I checked the timing and it’s good. Have spark on all cylinders. Replaced coil pack and nothing. I’m thinking maybe grounds?

5 Replies

DANNY L

MECHANIC
5,648 POSTS

Hello, I'm Danny.

Have you checked the actual fuel pressure? It could be you have a weak or failing fuel pump even though you hear it running. If you don't have access to a fuel pressure tester most auto parts stores have a tool loaner program and can rent you one.Here is a tutorial showing what is involved:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-fuel-system-pressure-and-regulator

The specification for you car is attached in the pictures below.Hope this helps and thanks for using 2CarPros.

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Thursday, April 30th, 2020 AT 8:03 PM

RGAON_1

MEMBER
3 POSTS

Hi, I have a tester, but my car doesn’t have a place to test pressure. I’ve followed the fuel lines and along the injectors and do not see it.

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Thursday, April 30th, 2020 AT 8:21 PM

DANNY L

MECHANIC
5,648 POSTS

Hello again,

Are you sure there is no schrader valve under the hood on the fuel rail? Also, maybe you can get a scanner that has live data and can show the cars p.S.I. While running. It does seem like you might have a low fuel pressure issue. Hope this helps and again thanks for using 2CarPros.

Danny-

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Thursday, April 30th, 2020 AT 9:21 PM

RGAON_1

MEMBER
3 POSTS

Yea, I checked fuel pressure by removing the two bolts that screw into the rail. And it seems to have good pressure but I don’t have the tester. I pulled the injectors and cleaned them as best as I could and I added another ground to the car but still no luck. When I pulled the valve that goes into the injector, I had a strong continuous stream of gas so I know I’m getting fuel, not a clogged filter. What I did notice is that on the negative battery terminal there is a main ground leading to the motor and transmission. And there’s also two thin wires, when I unplug those wires, the whole fuel pump and everything else cuts off. What could that be?

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Thursday, April 30th, 2020 AT 9:26 PM

KEN L

MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
47,643 POSTS

Can you please shoot a quick video with your phone so we can hear the engine cranking over? that would be great. You can upload it here with your response. This will tell us if the engine is any good before we continue. It sounds like you may have a clogged catalytic converter.

This guide can help as well:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/car-cranks-but-wont-start

Please run down this guide and report back.