Could still be a number of things. If the jump works, first order would be to get the system checked. That would eliminate a couple of possibilities of alternator, battery, and wiring. It allows all the items listed to be tested under a non-load and loaded condition.
If those are good then start leaning towards the starting system. Starter/starter solenoid, ignition switch on column.
Never hurts to have a battery charger around or one of the new starter amps that are available.
I had the same problem, my friend told me to hit the starter as another person turns the key. If the car stars after you hit the starter than it's sticking. You will need to re-places your starter. I also have a 2001 ford expedition, but i re-places the factory battery with two Optimas Yellow top. I had to change out my alternater to a 220 high powerone. I hope this help out.
Battery cable ends need to be absolutley clean. Also check the ground (negative battery cable where it goes to the vehicle body or engine). Needs be clean and have a tight connection there as well. Always eliminate the easy stuff first.
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I did not have the charging system checked prior to replacing the battery. I've been trying to start my truck since 8:45 this morning and it's now Noon. It was fine yesterday, no problems at all and I haven't had any in the past few days. I replaced the battery 3 weeks ago and for 2 solid weeks I had random starting issues. This past week I didn't have any until this morning which was colder than previous days here in Atlanta (go figure, Atlanta cold?) My starter and alternator seem to be fine. I had a mechanic tell me to unhook everything I touched when installing the battery and hook it up again and I've done that to no avail. I hope this is a little clearer description of what's going on.
Thanks,
Leigh
This is the first day that it just didn't turn on at all. It won't won't turn all the way over. I haven't done anything with the solenoid. I'm having a friend come by and give me a jump to see if that works. Would it be wise to pick one of those battery chargers?
You could be back to still having a battery issue. But it could be an ignition switch or starter solenoid problem, though I know you said the starter system appears to be ok. I'm currently in Atlanta and it hasn't been cold enough to be a detriment to your battery. It isn't impossible just improbable. A healthy battery wouldn't have been effected. Do you get the solenoid click everytime? You said intermittent, do the SUV turn over sometimes and not others?
Prior to replacing the battery, did you have the charging system checked? This can be accomplished at most auto stores for free and only takes a few minutes. If your alternator is not charging your system properly or intermittently, it could cause the starting issue. Also, keep in mind, a new battery may still have a bad cell and may not work properly. I once purchased a battery from a major auto parts store that had me troubleshooting other issues before I had the battery checked and found to be bad in less that 24 hrs. We checked a total of 6 batteries before finding one that did work as it was supposed to and could hold a charge. These were brand new, off the shelf batteries. I now have batteries tested before I leave the store.
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