2001 Ford Explorer won't crank when cold

[dwestcorp]

My 2001 Ford Explorer Sport 4.0 2 dr starts ok when it's in garage, but if left out when it's around 0 degrees or colder it will not engage starter when you turn key, if you get out and let it set for a few minutes then get back in it will start right up, never happens when it's in garage even at -15 below. It has full power, Theft control, Elect seats, keyless entry, etc, just turned over 18,000 miles yesterday.

[B33p3r]

If it's the original battery, you may be in need of a new one. Next time it's left out, try turning the headlights on for 30 secs or so. Turn off and try to start. Sounds stupid, but once you start drawing amps from battery, it warms it just a wee bit.

[dwestcorp]

Originally Posted by dwestcorp

My 2001 Ford Explorer Sport 4.0 2 dr starts ok when it's in garage, but if left out when it's around 0 degrees or colder it will not engage starter when you turn key, if you get out and let it set for a few minutes then get back in it will start right up, never happens when it's in garage even at -15 below. It has full power, Theft control, Elect seats, keyless entry, etc, just turned over 18,000 miles yesterday.

When it first happened I thought it was the battery so I turned lights on, they were fully bright, but it did start after that, I will try new battery.
Thanks

[bratt]

sometimes the starters go bad

my brothers car had a bad starter that would work sometimes and sometimes it wouldnt

if you turn the key and nothing happens i would guess it was the starter.

but i dont live in 0 degree weather and i dont know what 0 degree weather does to cars and the parts

im just merely stating a problem i had

i changed the starter and he never had problems again

[brattzzzzz]

i did some more research on car batteries and freezing temperature conditions and found this

Another culprit could be the weather. Extreme cold or heat can affect battery performance--especially cold, which can freeze the electrolyte solution inside. If your battery has removable vent caps (located on the top), remove them and look inside to see if this is the problem (remember to always replace the caps tightly). If the solution is frozen, you'll have to wait for the weather to warm up, or tow the car into an enclosed area.

Finally, your battery might simply be old and ready to retire. If this is the case, go to your auto supply store and buy a quality model that's right for your car and climate (some types are better for hot climates; others are better for cold--consult the merchant).

so maybe a special cold battery would help you alot

or i uno some fibergalass insulation around the battery? hehe

[brattzzzzz]

probably your fluids are gettin close to or are somewhat frozen and when you try to start the car you warm them up and they come back