2000 Ford Taurus My car won't start!

BBUMP813

MEMBER
2000 FORD TAURUS
6 CYL
FWD
AUTOMATIC
151,000 MILES

I've been experiencing problems with my car starting. If it's been sitting for a while, I'll try to start it, and nothing will happen. The computer comes on, the radio and lights and all that, but my engine isn't even TRYING to turn over. There's nothing. I brought it to my mechanic, and he said the car started fine for him, so he didn't think anything was wrong. But something is definitely wrong! When I can actually get it to start, it sounds really rough, a really hard start. It seems to be related to rain, as I notice I have more problems with my engine when it rains. I live in Florida, so heat and rain are factor here, and my car doesnt seem to like either. In the past, my boyfriend tried a little trick he learned and sprayed some WD40 on my starter, and for whatever reason, that worked and my car would magically start after that. But that's not working this time. I'm not sure what to do! I've allready had my battery and its terminals replaced and cleaned, but I'm pretty sure this doesnt have anything to do with my battery. Please help!

1 Reply

MERLIN2021

MECHANIC
17,250 POSTS

Could be the PATS (passive anti theft system) Light on the top of the dash with key off or ACCt should flash every 2 seconds. Start or run, should be out after 3 seconds. If the 3 sec provout is OK test like this:
TEST H: THEFT INDICATOR PROVES OUT FOR 3 SECONDS BUT STARTER DOES NOT ENGAGE 1. Turn ignition switch to OFF position. Disconnect Powertrain Control Module (PCM) harness connector C175. Turn ignition switch to RUN position. Measure voltage between ground and terminal No. 44 (Pink wire) at PCM harness connector C175. If voltage is 8 volts or less, repair starting system as necessary. See STARTERS - SABLE & TAURUS article in STARTING & CHARGING SYSTEMS. If voltage is greater than 8 volts, go to next step. 2. Turn ignition switch to OFF position. Connect PCM harness connector C175. Turn ignition switch to RUN position. Using a voltmeter, measure voltage by backprobing between ground and terminal No. 44 (Pink wire) at PCM harness connector C175. If voltage is 2 volts or less, repair starting system as necessary. See STARTERS - SABLE & TAURUS article in STARTING & CHARGING SYSTEMS. If voltage is greater than 2 volts, replace PCM. Reprogram ignition keys. See ERASE ALL KEYS & PROGRAM 2 KEYS under PROGRAMMING.