Ford F150 Intermittent Starting Problem - Need Help!

Technical Discussions
1

I’ve been having some serious issues with my Ford F150 lately and I’m hoping someone here can point me in the right direction. The truck has developed an intermittent starting problem that’s driving me crazy.

Symptoms:

  • Sometimes it starts right up, other times it just clicks and doesn’t crank.
  • I’ve noticed it’s more frequent when it’s hot outside or after driving it for a while.
  • No dashboard warning lights appear when it’s having this issue.

What I’ve Checked So Far:

  • Battery: It’s brand new, tested at the auto parts store, and the terminals are clean and securely connected.
  • Starter: The starter seems to be functioning because sometimes it starts without any issues.
  • Ignition Switch: I wonder if it might be an issue with the ignition switch, but I’m not sure how to test that.

Additional Info:

  • It’s a 2012 F150, 5.0L V8 with about 75,000 miles on it.
  • I do hear a click from the relay when I turn the key, but I can’t tell if it’s the starter solenoid or another issue.

Questions:

  1. Has anyone experienced a similar problem?
  2. What components should I check next?
  3. Any tips on how to troubleshoot this further?

I appreciate any advice you guys can offer! Thanks!

2

I had a similar issue with my F150. Most of the time, it turned out to be the battery. Even when it seemed fine, it was holding little charge at times. Have you tested yours?

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3

That’s a great point! Batteries can be tricky like that. It’s worth checking the terminals as well for corrosion.

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4

Don’t forget about the starter motor! I had intermittent starting issues due to a failing starter. It would crank sometimes and not others.

5

Exactly! My neighbor faced something similar. You might also want to consider checking the ignition switch.

6

For real, the ignition system can be the culprit, especially if it’s an older model. You could investigate the ignition coils as well!

7

Good idea! Sometimes, just a bad connection in the ignition system can cause issues like that. Have you had any warning lights?

8

I so agree! I’ve dealt with electrical issues that stemmed from faulty wiring, especially if there’s been any wear and tear on the harness.

9

Ah! Wiring can be sneaky! If all else fails, maybe consider going to a professional mechanic to get a complete diagnostic?

10

Or you could just slap it and hope for the best! (Just kidding, don’t try that.) But seriously, don’t overlook the ground connections—those can be surprisingly crucial.

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11

Haha, I love the humor! But really, ground connections are where a lot of problems start. Keeping them clean is so important.

12

I had a similar issue with my F150. Start by checking the battery connections for corrosion and ensure they’re tight. This is often the simplest fix!

13

That’s good advice! I would also suggest checking the starter relay under the hood. Sometimes, it malfunctions and causes intermittent issues. A quick swap can save you a lot of hassle.

14

Don’t forget to assess the fuel system! A clogged fuel filter can also lead to starting problems. It’s worth the check before heading to a mechanic.

15

Absolutely! If you’re comfortable, you might also want to check the fuel pump. A weak pump can cause flickering starts.

16

Make sure to inspect the fuses too! A blown fuse can sometimes lead to weird electrical issues that affect starting. It’s an easy and often overlooked step.

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17

Great point! And don’t forget to check the ignition switch. If that’s faulty, it might not send the signal to start even if everything else is fine.

18

I’ve been chasing a similar problem for months! If it’s not electrical, I’m leaning toward a fuel delivery issue. Sometimes it feels like these issues have a mind of their own!

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19

Ha! It’s so true! If only our trucks could talk. Just be patient, and you’ll get to the bottom of it!

20

If I had a dollar for every time my F150 didn’t start, I could buy a new one! Seriously, keep a check on those ground wires; they can be culprits too. It’s laughable how many people overlook them!

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