2003 ford exploerer. Won't start on first try.

try this link.
Car Won Start Copyright AA1CarYOU TRY TO START YOUR CAR BUT IT WON...
or this one.
Problem 5 Engine Cranks But won Start
or this one.
Troubleshooting Car That Won Start dummies

Are you saying the engine cranks but won't start, or the engine won't crank ?
If the engine does not crank, you would check for voltage at the starter, the neutral safety switch, and the key switch as well as the ground connections.

sounds like the battery is dead. Try recharging the battery or try jump starting from another vehicle using jumper cables.

you need to have the battery connected in order to get voltage to the starter to start the vehicle

Many possible causes....Too little info to make an intelligent suggestion. Try charging the problem vehicle's battery with jumper cables for 2 minutes with the supply vehicle running at fast idle (or about 1500-2000 RPM, if it is tachometer equipped) before you try to crank the problem vehicle on a cold morning. If it starts right up, you likely have a weak battery that needs replacing.

Hi

This typically indicates an issue with your VSM (Vehicle Security Module) which is located HIGH UP in the PASSENGER KICK PANEL... Or your key not being recognized by the VSM.

Try your spare key. Otherwise it's going to need a trip/tow to the dealer, as there is not a bypass that will allow the vehicle to start.

Thanks

STARTING / IDLING PROBLEMS / MISSING

Your problem may be one of the following:
First check or just replace the fuel filter. Usually located under the car in front of the rear axle, drivers side.
Next, the fuel pump may be worn out. Usually they just stop working (running).
Next, check the fuel pressure regulator. Usually located on the front fuel rail, drivers side.
Is the vacuum line attached? Not leaking or rotted?
Also, do you smell a strong fuel odor when it won't start? May be one or more stuck-open injectors, or the coil pack is bad.
Checking these in the order listed will more than likely fix your problem.
The clicking noise indicates the battery can no longer run the starter, which also means the fuel pump won't run either.

It could be a fuel issue. How old is the fuel filter? Can you hear the pump run for a few seconds when you turn the key on? Try turning the key to ON without trying to start engine three times waiting for the pump to stop running each time. Then try to start the engine. If it starts, Its a form of Vapor lock caused by the extreme heat we have had lately.

If none of this works, try a new fuel filter first. From there have someone check the fuel pressure regulator and then the pump. If you are in need of a new pump, take my word for it and spend the money to get one from FORD, and not from your favorite parts store. Most parts store parts are made in China and they are JUNK.
Have you hooked a scanner to the computer and checked the oxygen sensor(s)? If they are bad they could lean out the engine.

VAPOR LOCK
Check the following:
Cooling system working properly including fans.
Under hood fuel lines touching coolant or heater hoses.
Fuel lines under vehicle close to or not shielded from exhaust pipe, converter, muffler. Fuel lines pinched or crushed.
Fuel filter changed recently.
Fuel pump pressure.
Cheap(Bad) gas.

If you try to start the vehicle and there is a click when you turn the key, but does not start, you may have a solenoid problem. This is usually about 3 inches long and 1.5 inches in diameter and attaches to your starter. Try giving it a sharp tap with a hammer as this is often enough to loosen contact points inside.
Cheers

Are you able to use jumper cables and jump it off? If so, take it to your local auto parts store and have them test your battery and alternator (usually free). One of those should be the problem.

ricks63toy, I believe that Ford still uses what is called an inertia switch even in the hybrids. This switch will shut off in the event of an accident shutting off the fuel pump. This is a safety feature built into the vehicle. Seeing that this is a newer vehicle I trust that you still have the manual. If not, the switches are usually located in the trunk. Look on the side walls of the trunk and see if you can locate it. It is usually marked by a sticker. When you find the switch, push the red button down until you hear a click. This will reset the switch and allow power back to your fuel pump. Good luck with this.