Non-starting issue

I can’t start my 2006 Ford Fusion 1.6 TDCI with 116,000 miles. It has a weak battery, so I tried to start with jump leads and a spare battery, to no avail.

I changed the battery, but the car still wouldn’t start. I checked all the fuses and relays, and changed the crankshaft position sensor and cam sensor, which had no effect. I tested the starter motor and it is okay. Basic diagnostic tools have found no stored codes, but there are pending faults: ‘P0500 vehicle speed sensor A’ and ‘P1934 please refer to vehicle service manual’. These two faults shouldn’t prevent the car from starting, so what could the problem be?

Gino Pinar

I am assuming that the engine is turning over correctly and at a reasonable speed. If this is not the case, then I would check the engine and body earth connections. If the engine is turning over correctly, there are quite a few points to consider.

You have not mentioned if the engine was running correctly before the failure, which may have a bearing on the problem. The fuel system needs to be checked to ensure fuel is getting to the engine. If the exhaust is emitting smoke when the engine is cranked over, this is an indication that fuel is entering the cylinders. It may be worth trying a quick spray of Bradex Easy Start into the induction system. If the engine then fires and stops, it would be a good indication that the problem is fuel-related.

As you say, both codes refer to the vehicle speed signal and should not prevent the engine from starting.