V6 02 Elite reluctant to start

[Malcolm_D]

Past couple of mornings the engine has not wanted to fire, turns over fine but not even a hint of life. Battery is new so I don't have the previous issue of it dying after turning the engine over 3/4 times. After trying about 15 times the engine splutters to life, picks up and then is fine. Runs nice and smooth, no indication any any issues. Parked at work yesterday for 10 hours and then she started on the first turn of the key but this morning same reluctance.
My thoughts - crank sensor or fuel pump, any ideas / advice please? Can codes be checked for using the paperclip method?

[Elite Pete]

Check for codes using the pedal trick on a 2.6

[Elite Pete]

Hmmm what made me think it was a 2.6

Anyway an 02 V6 will be pedal trick

[Malcolm_D]

Thanks Pete, it is a 2.6, I will try this and see what codes it throws up.

[Andy B]

Hmmm what made me think it was a 2.6
......

because on Autotrader/eBay, 2.6 cars are almost always described as a V6 whereas when people are selling a 3.2, they want everyone to know it's a 3.2 & not 'just' a V6   

[Malcolm_D]

Constant flashing without pauses so no codes.  I think I will monitor and record the symptoms to see if they provide any further clues. Must remember not to park it in front of other cars just in case it decides not to play!! 

[tunnie]

Crank sensors can often go with no codes, seen quite a few cases here 

[Malcolm_D]

Yes, it sounds like it may be that. I will leave it a while, see how it goes and then get one ordered. Thanks for the help as usual guys.

[TheBoy]

Try this (next time you suspect it will be grumpy starting)

Floor the throttle all the way, engaging kickdown switch.
Turn engine over for about 3s (it shouldn't start, but obviously if it does, be quick to get off the throttle).
Take your foot off the throttle, and attempt a normal start.

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