Help! Intermittent Non-Start! Cause?
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Help! Intermittent Non-Start! Cause?
This problem just popped up suddenly today on my 1997 Expedition 5.4 EB-4. You put the key in the ignition and turn it and absolutely nothing happens, as if the trans is not in Park (but it is). Then sometimes if you really hold the ignition/key turned for 3 or more seconds, it will suddenly start turning over!
What is the problem? Seems to be independent of key so I don't think it's the anti-theft. Seems more like just a bad ignition switch. Does anyone out there know what this likely is before I take it to the dealer and assume The Position? Thanks!!
What is the problem? Seems to be independent of key so I don't think it's the anti-theft. Seems more like just a bad ignition switch. Does anyone out there know what this likely is before I take it to the dealer and assume The Position? Thanks!!
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Thanks for the ideas
I "assumed the position" with the local Ford dealer service department today. They say that the problem is a bad DTR (Digital Tranmission Range) sensor, otherwise known as the"neutral safety switch. Man, I HATE devices that are supposed to protect us from ourselves!
Anyway, the total cost - diagnosis, part, and replace labor is going to be about $180. In the brief research I performed it looks like it's a common problem for that sensor to go out of adjustment, but it's rare that the sensor itself goes bad. So, I will be asking more questions about it tomorrow & hopefully they can answer.
I checked and the sensor is mounted relatively low, down on the side of the transmission. Since we experienced some flooding from hurricane Isabel, I may be able to file a claim on my insurance for its repair. So I MUST get the old sensor when they remove it!
Anyway, the total cost - diagnosis, part, and replace labor is going to be about $180. In the brief research I performed it looks like it's a common problem for that sensor to go out of adjustment, but it's rare that the sensor itself goes bad. So, I will be asking more questions about it tomorrow & hopefully they can answer.
I checked and the sensor is mounted relatively low, down on the side of the transmission. Since we experienced some flooding from hurricane Isabel, I may be able to file a claim on my insurance for its repair. So I MUST get the old sensor when they remove it!
