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'02 Explorer EB 4x4 problem starting

Hey all,

This has sort of been covered before, but I can't find a definitive solution. I bought an '02 Ford Explorer EB 4x4 used, but in what appeared to be great condition. Well, the warranty is up and I'm having a little issue I'm a bit concerned with.

Every now and then--maybe 1 in 4 starts--my Explorer has some trouble. It sounds like it is turning strongly, but the RPMs go up and then it seems to stall out. I may have to try one or two more times after that to get it to start. I don't know a lot about cars, but could this mean the spark plugs need to be replaced? I also read something about the IAC valve being possibly dirty. Having little experience fixing vehicles myself, would this sort of thing be costly to take in to get fixed?

Thanks

Reply to
brazzle
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codes pulled from the computer would be a great help to you finding problems.

Reply to
samstone

I'm sorry I don't understand what these are or how to get them, can you elaborate?

Reply to
brazzle

On Tue, 20 Mar 2007 14:22:57 -0700, brazzle rearranged some electrons to form:

The computer that controls the engine stores diagnostic codes when something is wrong. Normally, that will also cause the 'check engine' light to come on (but not always).

However, if you don't understand this, and you really don't know much about cars, then you should probably take it to the dealer.

Reply to
David M

On 20 Mar 2007 14:22:57 -0700, "brazzle" wrote: your vehicle has a computer that stores information : obdII ( obd2) on-board diagnostic system II ( 2) . The information can be read in the form of codes through a code reader. Places like Auto Zone usually pull these codes for free in hopes you'll buy parts from them. Or there are low cost readers available too. My suggestion is go have the codes read for free and come back and give the guys in here the codes. There are alot sites on the web that tell you what the codes mean. Or you can google the code yourself and find out what others have found with that code.

Reply to
samstone

The Check Engine Light should be on if any OBDII codes are present. The OP didn't mention whether the light was on. It might still worth getting checked for free at an auto parts place in case the CEL is malfunctioning. It's harder to track down a problem without the codes. Anyone seen a CEL light that wouldn't come on with codes present?

Stephen N.--->see how spoiled we've become?

Reply to
Stephen N.

Okay, yes I understand what you are referring to, however--as postulated previously--my vehicle does not report any issues...no check engine light, diagnostics check out okay, etc

Any other ideas?

Reply to
brazzle

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