2000 ford taurus morning start problem

I have a 2000 Taurus SE that refuses to start first thing each morning. After about 3 start attempts (in 15 minute intervals), it starts up and then runs fine all day. It will also re-start on the first attempt for the rest of the day. This situation occurs in both cold and warm weather.

I have changed spark plugs, ignition wires, fuel filter and air filter. The security/theft light goes out immediately when I turn the key. I can open the fuel filler and hear the fuel pump run.

Does anyone have an idea what the heck is going on here? Thanks.

Symptoms of a cold hard start could be a dirty or bad MAF sensor.

Wouldn't that throw off a code? I have no check engine light or codes.

Were the plugs, wires, and air and fuel filters changed in an attempt to solve this problem, or did the problem start shortly after these were changed? Does it help if you turn the key to the Run position for about 2 seconds, then off for about 5 seconds, back to Run, then back off for about 5 seconds, to Run for 2 seconds, then to start? Or, do you have access to a fuel pressure gauge with the Ford adapter?

-Rod

Thanks. All these parts were changed in an attempt to resolve the current problem. I tried cycling the start as you mentioned but it made no difference in starting. I can hear the fuel pump each time that I turned the key to run.

AutoZone has a fuel pressure test set that can be checked out. But theere is not much room between the schrader valve and the alternator. I couldn't get it connected up. Looks like it would take an adapter with a 45 degree bend.

So far, here are the items that have been suggested as causing the problem: fuel pump. MAF sensor (dirty or defective), IAC motor or coolant temperature sensor.

A MAF sensor only seems a throw code, when it's a hard fault.
How may miles are on this car?
If a fuel pressure test is good, try doing a compression test on all cylinders.

The IAC probably wouldn't explain why it will start after three attempts, but would be pretty easy to troubleshoot by just holding the throttle open slightly with the throttle pedal the first start of the day. That would serve basically the same function as the IAC.

Are you sure you're looking at the valve for the fuel pressure tester and not one for the A/C? That close to the alternator sounds more like one of the A/C lines.

-Rod