Intermittent no crank no start issue

RIAN WRIGHT

MEMBER
2002 FORD E-SERIES VAN
7.3L
V8
TURBO
2WD
AUTOMATIC
250,000 MILES

Hey there, my car occasionally will not start or turn over. Sometimes wiggling the starter relay will get it to start but when that doesn't work then sometimes putting it in neutral will start it. Also, sometimes it randomly shuts off when changing from drive to reverse and vice versa. I feel like it's the neutral safety switch, but I've heard things about the throttle body that could be the issue. My batteries are brand new AGM and the terminals are fine. Not sure what the issue is.

1 Reply

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
109,747 POSTS

Hi,

Two of the things you mentioned could be causing the issue. First, the idea that moving the starter relay around helps at times could indicate there is corrosion or a loose connection where it's mounted. Check to make sure none of the pins are pushed in or loose.

Next, the neutral safety switch could be faulty also. Start by checking the wiring and connector there is tight and clean. There are two different transmissions this could have come with, but they are both located on the driver's side of the transmission. (See pics 1 and 2).

As far as the throttle body, that won't prevent it from cranking. Let me know what you find as far as the wiring mentioned.

Here is a link you may find helpful when checking:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-wiring

Let me know what you find or if you have other questions.

Take care,

Joe

See pics below.

Images (Click to make bigger)