Hard start in the mornings?

CARMEN DEE STYLES-GROSSE

MEMBER
1996 FORD RANGER
2.3L
4 CYL
2WD
MANUAL
200,000 MILES

In the mornings, especially when it's cold, I have to pump the gas pedal a whole bunch before I can get it to start and it'll backfire once or twice before it will start what's wrong with it I've changed the oxygen sensors put a new throttle positioning sensor on there I don't know what to do new wires and plugs too. And new starter.

3 Replies

KEN L

MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
47,643 POSTS

When it is cold the fuel pump sounds like it is not providing the pressure needed to start the engine, or the fuel filter is clogged. I have included the location of the filter and a video to help show you how to change it out.

https://youtu.be/Boi0DPXVHbM

If the fuel filter is new, you can use starting fluid to see if that makes a difference and if so, we can check the fuel pressure which you can rent a gauge set for cheap or free and follow this guide to help you. I have also included how to change the pump out.

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

Key On Engine Off 35 - 45 psi
Key On Engine Running 30 - 40 psi

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Sunday, January 22nd, 2023 AT 11:36 AM

CARMEN DEE STYLES-GROSSE

MEMBER
2 POSTS

Thank you for the info. I have the new fuel filter I just have to put it on. Codes it reads are p1443 and p0141.

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Sunday, January 22nd, 2023 AT 11:52 AM

KEN L

MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
47,643 POSTS

P1443 - EVAP with low or no flow so that will not make it hard starting
P0141 - O2 Sensor Heater Circuit Malfunction (Bank 1 Sensor 2) this can cause the problem you are having, here is a generic guide to help you with instructions to fix your car in the images below with the location of the sensor as well. Please replace the fuel filter as well.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-replace-an-oxygen-sensor

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