Hi I have a Ford explorer 2008 which does not start. They changed the starter, and spark plugs and still no response.. Now they say I should change the rear engine chain! There was no abnormal sound in the engine when it was running. Iam suspicious that they are just working by trial and error!! Would be grateful for any ideas. Thanks

Hello, Hope more Experts will join in on this. It does not seem to match the symptoms with the cure. You need to tell the Experts whether your motor is turning over or not. There is no rear chain inside the motor but there is a timing chain behind the front timing chain cover.

The engine can crank as long as the starter is not restricted by some of the safety features, the starter is good and the battery has a charge. Spark plugs are usually not evaluated until the engine is running.

Many defects show up with dash warnings "check engine light". These can be learned by using a scanner even with the engine not running.

I can tell you a common problem with Ford products not turning over is a switch on the brake pedal which gets hit by the drivers feet. Often the brake lights will not light up when the brake pedal is pressed. Another safety switch in the trunk or front kick-pad is called an inertia switch. It prevents power reaching the fuel pump. Your engine will crank but not fire or run.

It sounds like you might be in a situation where you can be taken advantage of by age or inexperience fixing a car problem. You need an advocate to help you with this. A repair facility should display the Mechanics license or the Garage should be licensed. Once you leave your keys and vehicle it is hard to prevent tampering. Be nice, make no threats, find out your rights and then show the business that you know your rights. An advocate can be a friend or a lawyer. Some States have a hotline for complaints.

Sometimes a misdiagnosis can be adjusted or you can go to court for the disputed amount. This is why some States require replaced parts to be returned to the owner.

I have given a few common solutions for Ford products and I hope this works out for you.

Whats a rear engine chain are they talking about timing chain --is truck turning over and not starting -can see reason for replacement of starter --is it turning over and not starting or spitting can see plugs replaced but dont see both ---and as to chain a timing chain skipping tooth can cause no start but usually engine turns over --but broken or severly damaged can also cause engine to seize --I would not let shop continue bring somewhere else