tempermental starting

[mplock]

I have a 2001 Ford Taurus with a 3 L DOHC. It periodicaly won't start for my daughter. Only twice has it not started for me. The first time I checked the spark on one of the plugs. As my wife was cranking it over it began to spark after about 10 seconds and started. When it started sparking, the sparks started slow and became more frequent until it stated. Yesterday was the first time in about 5 weeks that it has not started. There are no codes. The theft light is not on. The check engine and transaxle lights pulsated as it turned over. There wasn't any spark at the three plugs to the front of the car. Tonight it starts fine. It has not started about 8-10 times for my daughter, but by the time I get to it the car usually starts. Any suggestions of what to check first next time it won't start?

[behlinla]

Replace the battery.

[Breeves002]

Welcome to TCCA!

I agree, I would be replacing the battery. You'll notice how much faster it will crank when you put the new battery in.

[Jeff K]

When you replace the batt, be sure the cable ends are in good shape and tight, and major grounds are clean and tight.

[mplock]

The battery was replaced four months ago.

[Breeves002]

Then I would check the battery cables and ground. It's possible their is a lot of corrosion or they are not connected well.

[behlinla]

Originally Posted by mplock

The battery was replaced four months ago.

The battery might still be bad (you got a dud or your alternator is failing), so check the connections and if it's still pulsating the light's you'll have to fully charge or replace the battery.