Contour Enthusiasts Group Archives Forums General Troubleshooting I need help, I'm not real good with car problems

Hello,

I have a 98 Contour, 2.5L Duratec engine. Over the past year or so I have been having the same issue repeatedly. Most times I can get my car to start without any problems. Recently, my car has been having a lot of trouble starting. When I turn the key, I usually get a puttering sound like it is trying to start, or like an old man is coughing under my hood, but then it never starts. If it does start, I have to continuously press the gas to keep if rom dying. I used to be able to hear the fuel pump charge up when I first turned the key prior to ignition. Now I don't. I am at a loss. I have had an oil change recently as well as replacing my air filter. Could someone help me? And if it is a fuel pump issue, is there any thing I can do to cut the costs? Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Try replacing fuel filter first. Real easy job.If that doesnt help at all, it's more than likely fuel pump. Mine used to have problems starting in cold weather and then i replaced fuel filter and it started every time.

how old is your battery? Here in Florida they usually last about 4 years before needing a replacement. Stop by an AutoZone or other auto parts store that offers a free charging system check. They'll let you know what the weak link is.

It might be as simple as cleaning the battery terminals...

Thanks Esmizzle and TourDeForce,

I'll try the fuel filter option and let you know how it goes.

As for my battery, it is brand new by a week but the connectors to the post on my battery are corroded. Is there a way to clean this or will I need to replace those as well?

Thanks again