Fuel pump could be failing-check/monitor the fuel pressure-start here

Answered by rasmataz
68 questions asked

Have the same problem -- have changed the starter, replaced the coil-pack/ignition module, have no trouble codes (incl. in memory; also no freeze-frame). Strange to see no answer after almost 4 weeks?!

Answered by Absolutely
1 question asked

As stated above, check fuel pressure. You could be experiencing what's known as "vapor lock" where the fuel pressure is too low to overcome the heat of the engine compartment and the fuel vaporizes in the lines.

Answered by rivermikerat (expert)
5,494 answers provided

Rasmataz and Rivermikerat are experiencxed Ford technicians? The engine in the '99 Contour will NOT CRANK at all -- What could not cranking have to do with fuel and fuel pressure? The problem is not even one of ignition, but a starting issue (but NOT the starter). Also, obviously this is a known Contour 2.4L problem -- so where is previous experience?

Answered by Absolutely
1 question asked

Yes, we're both very experienced Ford techs. But, I misread your original post. I missed the "it doesn't crank" part and presumed it cranked, but wouldn't fire.

Check starter draw. Both when it is cold, and when it gets hot. Also, when hot, verify that there is power to the starter, and that the solenoid is activating. Also check battery voltage and electrolyte level. And yes, you CAN do that on supposedly 'maintenance free' batteries.

Also, since I used to OWN a 2.4L Contour myself and never had this problem, I wouldn't consider it a 'known issue'. Just because one or two people have the issue, doesn't make it a common or known one.

Answered by rivermikerat (expert)
5,494 answers provided

I also have a 1999 Ford Contour with the same starting issue. We are fine for the first errand. We have to wait 30 to 40 minutes for the engine to cool. We put on our seatbelts so we can hear if there is a humming sound so we know the engine will start. We call this car the one trip wonder. I am soooooo sick of wainting around so we can start the car. If you try to start it too early you have to wait another 30 minutes. So I think this is a problem with this model since my husband has a 2000 Ford Ranger that starts all of the time. Do we need to change the fuel pump or filter? Please help. Thanks

Answered by kater
0 questions asked

Check to see if the fuel pump is receiving power when the problem occurs. Kater, will it crank when the problems occurs, or does nothing happen when it occurs?

Absolutely, what's the verdict on power to and from the starter solenoid when the problem occurs?

Answered by rivermikerat (expert)
5,494 answers provided