2000 Ford Taurus starting problem

[pudge88]

Im having problems with my 2000 taurus starting after ive been driving it for a while. When I try to start it after its been running, it wont start or crank. Does anyone know what the problem could be?

[Ipanema]

Test the starter solenoid. That's probably the reason. The solenoid usually does a "click"noise when it's working properly. Next time it happens, check the voltage at the solenoid's terminals. There are usually 3. One in the top, where the thick battery cable goes, which is suposed to give constant 12V reading. One in the middle, where the wire from ignition goes, which is suposed to give a 12V reading only when you turn the key to start the car, and a third for the cable that goes from the solenoid to the starter. If the second one gives you a reading when you turn the key and the third one doesn't, the problem is probably the solenoid.
Good luck.

[KHansen]

I am having the same problem. I have replaced the Started Relay hoping that would have been the cause. After I did the car started fine. However, after I picked my kid up from school and we were at the stop light my car sputtered and died. It would not start. My husband pushed the car to a garage (which we have used for his car) which just so happened to be on the same corner my car stopped working at.

The owner of the garage could not get it to start so we left it there over night. When I talked to the owner in the am he said it started fine but wanted to take a look to see what could have cause the problem. When he got to the car later in the day it would not start for him. He was totally lost on that one.

The battery works fine. Starter relay is fine (and new). Fuel pump relay is working. Fuel pump checked.

Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

[Kell31]

Might be the Temp sensor. There are two. one sends signal to the guage the other to the engines computer. It adjusts the fuel ratio for the coolant temp. I.e. when it is cold it will run the fuel rich to get a good spark. When warm it leans it back down. Try that. I am having trouble strating in the morning when cold. the book suggests the sensor be replaced. GOOD LUCK!