You’ve turned the key in your f150, but your engine won’t start. For a way out, you’ve changed the key multiple times. You have even tried starting it with a remote starter. But none of your steps seem to work at all.
So, what is the reason behind the f150 starting system fault?
Usually, the starting system fault is either mechanical or systematic. You can check if the battery has any problems. Sometimes the starters or ignition relays malfunction. Blown-up fuses also stop your vehicle from starting. You might also be stumped with an anti-theft security code. Even your camshaft position sensor can weaken over time.
Got a few minutes? We’ve got an entire article mentioning the reasons and their solutions.
What are you waiting for? Dive right in.
Why Is F150 Showing Starting System Fault
System malfunctions can show you a starting system fault. It can be a mechanical glitch or a systematic glitch. Ford, unfortunately, has made this warning code very hard to diagnose.
And the good news? We have collected all the possible reasons that can cause this problem. Moreover, we have guided you to fix it so that you can do it by yourself.
Reason 1: Dead Battery
If you don’t get electric power by turning the key, you’re having a battery problem. It means your battery is not powering any of the circuits.
Generally, this can happen if the battery cells are used for more than six years. Corroded connections can also snatch life from a battery. Either way, the battery should be diagnosed.
Solution
To fix this, first, check if the wires have any loose connection with the battery. If there are any loose connections, tighten the wire with the nut with a wrench. If the wire cap is old, scrub it with a metal scrubber or change it
If that’s not the problem, there might be a damaged cell. Take your battery to a mechanic and have it diagnosed. If it’s dead, replace the battery by yourself or by the mechanic.
Reason 2: Damaged Fuse
This applies if you turn the key and get access to the accessories (Fan, Light, Radio, etc.). This indicates that you’re having a damaged ignition relay or starter relay.
A blown-up fuse or damaged PCM (Power-train Control Module)relay can also cause this problem.
Solution
Check if the fuse is blown with a fuse tester. The basic solution is to change the blown fuse or relay.
For ignition switch problems or damaged starter relays, it’s hard to check from outside. However, you can try changing it. If the problem is not solved, take a look at the other reasons.
The PCM is less likely to be repaired. If it is damaged, you will need to replace the PCM after being identified by a mechanic.
Reason 3: Misleading Security Code
Sometimes if you have anti-theft mode enabled, you might face this problem. You’ll know this because your ‘THEFT’ light will keep flashing continuously.
Here, your vehicle system thinks that the truck has been stolen. So, it disables the ignition, causing it not to start.
Solution
Sometimes faulty fuses or relays can mislead the vehicle computer system to receive theft signals. For that, the fuse should be diagnosed as mentioned in the solution in [Reason 2].
If that’s not the case, the system will automatically email you a theft code. When this happens, you can email against the theft code. After a short verification, this problem should be solved.
Reason 4: Camshaft Position Sensor Impairment
The camshaft position sensor can weaken over time. It transmits signals to the vehicle’s ECM (Engine Control Module). As the sensor weakens, the signal that it sends also weakens.
In due course, the signal weakens so much that the ECM switches off the engine.
Solution
Unfortunately, there’s no repair for a damaged or weak camshaft position sensor. You’ll have to replace it with the help of a mechanic. You can expect to pay $95-$200 to replace a camshaft position sensor,
If you’re confused about getting a new camshaft position sensor, don’t worry at all. We’ve got you covered. The following are our favorite camshaft position sensors.
Both of these sensors are promising and durable. But the final choice is yours about which one you want to buy.
We hope your problem will be fixed once you’ve gone along with the steps mentioned above. It’s very unlikely for the starting system fault to be caused by anything else.
Tips To Avoid Uncertain F150 Engine Start Problems
Here are some quick tips about keeping your vehicle in good health. Sometimes complex problems have the simplest solutions.
- Check your fuses occasionally. It can be once a month. Faulty fuses or nearly damaged ones can blow up suddenly. This can stop your vehicle from running anymore.
- Never let the wiring harness corrode. It can cause unexpected problems to your vehicle.
- Always use the original key. Duplicate keys can sometimes cause the vehicle to not recognize them.
Taking care of an f150 is like taking care of a family member. If you love your truck, you should definitely follow the above steps.
Frequently Asked Questions
Question: What happens if you put a relay in backward?
Answer: Putting in the wrong relay or putting the relay backward can cause voltage spikes. This can cause an internal short circuit. Moreover, functional issues or even the vehicle computer system can be damaged by this.
Question: Can 3rd brake light cause my vehicle to turn off?
Answer: Any moisture in the third brake light can be responsible for an error message on the display. However, it is not responsible for the vehicle to not start.
Question: Can you bypass the starter relay?
Answer: Yes, you can. You have to place the metal blade of an insulated screwdriver over both metal contacts. By this, the solenoid will be bypassed. It will be directly connected to the starter motor and ignition switch.
Conclusion
Ford vehicles are extremely hard to diagnose. Yet, we have tried to apprize all the causes behind the f150 starting system fault. Fill us in if your vehicle is showing other starting problems.
Also, let us know in the comments section if this article came of any help.
Till then, best regards.
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