2000 Taurus is hard to start

My problem is that I have trouble starting the motor. I have to turn the key 3 or 4 times befor it will start.It will sometimes crank for a long time before it starts. How can I check for possable problems before I spend lots of cash takeing it to the dealer.I read another post about fuel pressure. Is there a way I can check this myself?
Thanks

yeh for fuel presure you need top attach a guage to it that will measure the delivery towards the engine. Usually can find at any parts store run about 30 bucks I think. If there are any lights on on the dash you can get a unit from like autozone or what not and have a diagnostics run on it for alot less then the cost at the dealer.