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Home/Cars/Ford/F-150/13th Generation (2015-2020)/my Ford F-150 13th Generation (2015-2020) has a hard time starting in cold weather

my Ford F-150 13th Generation (2015-2020) has a hard time starting in cold weather

Ford F-150 13th Generation (2015-2020)

Severity: highDifficulty: medium2-4 hours
4 min read
614 words

⚠️ Safety Warning

This issue requires immediate attention. If you are not experienced with automotive repairs, consult a professional mechanic. Working on critical systems can be dangerous.

Problem Statement

Learn how to diagnose and fix cold start issues in Ford F-150 (2015-2020). Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair instructions.

Component
Electrical
Repair Time
2-4 hours

Safety Warnings

  • ⚠Disconnect battery before working on electrical systems.
  • ⚠Allow engine to cool before inspecting or working on the fuel system.

Symptoms

  • •Engine cranks slowly or not at all
  • •Check engine light may illuminate
  • •Battery warning light appears on the dashboard
  • •Increased engine cranking time before starting
  • •Rough idle or stalling after starting
  • •Unusual clicking noises during starting attempts

Diagnostic Steps

  1. 1Check Battery Health: Use a multimeter to measure the battery voltage. A healthy battery should read around 12.6 volts or more.
  2. 2Inspect Battery Connections: Ensure battery terminals are clean, tight, and free of corrosion.
  3. 3Test Starter Motor: Use a multimeter to check the starter motor for proper voltage and functionality while attempting to start the engine.
  4. 4Examine Fuel System: Verify fuel pressure using a fuel pressure gauge to ensure the fuel pump is functioning correctly.
  5. 5Scan for Error Codes: Use an OBD-II scanner to check for any error codes that may provide clues to the starting issue.
  6. 6Inspect Engine Oil: Check the engine oil viscosity; cold weather may thicken oil and affect engine cranking.

Solution

Solution

1. Preparation

  • Tools Required: Multimeter, OBD-II scanner, fuel pressure gauge, socket set, torque wrench.
  • Disconnect the negative battery terminal to ensure safety while working on electrical components.

2. Battery Replacement (if necessary)

  1. Remove Old Battery:
    • Use a socket set to loosen and remove the battery terminals, starting with the negative terminal.
    • Remove any battery hold-down brackets.
    • Carefully lift the battery out of the tray.
  2. Install New Battery:
    • Place the new battery into the tray.
    • Reinstall any hold-down brackets and secure them.
    • Connect the positive terminal first, followed by the negative terminal. Ensure connections are tight and clean.

3. Fuel System Inspection

  1. Test Fuel Pressure:
    • Connect the fuel pressure gauge to the fuel rail Schrader valve.
    • Turn the ignition to the "ON" position (do not start the engine) and check the fuel pressure reading; it should meet manufacturer specifications (usually around 30-60 psi).
  2. Replace Fuel Filter (if clogged):
    • Locate the fuel filter and relieve fuel pressure by removing the fuel pump fuse and starting the engine until it stalls.
    • Disconnect fuel lines and remove the old filter. Install the new filter, ensuring proper orientation.

4. Starter Motor Test/Replacement

  1. Inspect Starter Motor:
    • Locate the starter motor and check connections for any corrosion or looseness.
    • If the starter is faulty, remove it by disconnecting electrical connections and unbolting it from the engine.
  2. Install New Starter:
    • Position the new starter and secure it with bolts to the engine.
    • Reconnect the electrical connections.

Verification

After completing the repair, verify that the issue has been resolved:

  • Test the affected component to ensure it functions correctly
  • Check for any error codes or warning lights
  • Monitor the vehicle for a few days to ensure the issue does not recur

Prevention Tips

To prevent this issue from occurring again:

  • •Follow the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule
  • •Address warning signs early before they develop into major issues
  • •Use quality parts and fluids recommended for your vehicle
  • •Keep detailed records of all repairs and maintenance

Tools & Equipment Required

  • Multimeter
  • OBD-II scanner
  • Fuel pressure gauge
  • Socket set
  • Torque wrench

Parts Required

  • New battery (if faulty)
  • Fuel filter (if clogged)
  • Starter motor (if defective)

Additional Information

Component

Electrical

Repair Time

2-4 hours

Difficulty

medium

Severity

high

Tools

5 items

Parts

3 items

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