My 02 Explorer was having trouble starting sometimes. It would just crank but wouldn't start until I tried a couple times. I understand that this may have been due to the fuel pressure. Just the other day it finally won't start at all. The engine just turns but never fires. I can still hear the fuel pump hum when I cycle the key, which leads me to believe it is not a fuel pump issue. Any ideas on what might be happening? Could the fuel filter be preventing fuel from making it to the engine?

 

It could be the filter or the fuel pump regulator. The problem could also be spark related. What engine do you have?

 

look at the fuel rail (the 3/8 steel line) above the injectors. should see a schrader valve somewhere. it looks like the valve on a tire that you put air into. with motor off, take a small screw driver and push slightly on the valve pipe. you should see a shot of gas come out. will have about 40 psi pressure so be careful. if you get a drop and no pressure, then your pump is not working, or your leaking fuel thru the regulator back to tank. even with a leak, you should get enough fuel to startup. try cycling the key on and off about 10 times to run the pump and build up pressure, trry the valve again to see if you have any pressure. if so, it will start, or you have no electrical fire.