How do you fix a 2005 Ford Explorer that cranks but won't start?

Answer 1

In order to effectively fix something, you need to know what to fix. See, there are multiple possible reasons why it won't start, and you need to do diagnostics in order to figure out which of those reasons is your winner. Of course, there's compression, mixture, and spark, but in an electronically controlled engine, you also have to consider that the ECM plays a role in all of this, as well. I'd suggest two things... first, get a Haynes or Chilton manual for that vehicle, follow the steps in the troubleshooting section of it. Yeah, they're about $25 or so, but there comes a point where you're going to have to suck it up and accept that there's going to be some money which goes into this repair. The other thing I'd suggest is that you get OBD codes pulled. Since you can't start it, you obviously can't drive it somewhere to get them pulled, so maybe make a post in Craigslist, Nextdoor, etc. for someone with an OBD scanner to come by and check your DTCs. Yes, they'll probably expect some compensation for their time, but myself and most people I know who have them are usually good with $5/$10, or a couple beers, or whatever.

Answer 2

You have to do some detective work to determine why it won't start before you can fix anything. Check for spark and fuel. You are probably missing one of those.