Car won't start when it is cold outside?

Tiny
2002_FOCUS
  • MEMBER
  • 2002 FORD FOCUS
  • 4 CYL
  • FWD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 140,000 MILES
Has a problem starting when it is cold outside. It doesn't have to be Freezing, just chilly (below 50 degrees F). When it is warm outside, it starts just fine. I replaced the battery and cables, but it still takes about 10 minutes to a half an hour to start the car when it is cold?
Tuesday, August 11th, 2009 AT 3:15 PM

1 Reply

Tiny
SQM
  • MECHANIC
  • 6,383 POSTS
Hello,

It sounds like you might have a sensor that is preventing the car from starting when it's cold.
Are you getting any trouble codes?
When the vehicle starts does it run normal?
Does it crank when you turn the key?

When you turn the key to on position, can you hear your fuel pump cycling?

You could have an issue with the crank sensor or the mass airflow sensor. When its cold the internals of those sensor might create an 'open' circuit and does not allow the car to start.

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

Please let me know of any questions.

Thank you.
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Wednesday, August 4th, 2021 AT 12:26 PM

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