My 1998 Ford F250 Won't Start
- 1). Check your gasoline level. Fuel gauges malfunction from time to time. If your engine isn't turning, you may be out of gas. Add a gallon to see if that's the problem.
- 2). Pop the hood and look at the positive and negative post for signs of corrosion. If you see some debris, loosen the outside nut next to each post (negative first), using your pliers or crescent wrench, and remove the terminals. Clean them and reattach them. Try to start the car again.
- 3). Test the battery for power by jump-starting it. If you've cleaned the corrosion off and it still won't start, get a friend to help you jump-start the truck using a 12-volt power source. If you are jumping from another car's battery, turn the heater fans on in both cars to minimize the risk of surges. If your F-250 roars to life, it's time to get a new battery.
If you have a battery tester, check the power by hooking it up to the battery terminals (positive first). Crank the engine, and wait 15 seconds. Then, read the tester. If voltage remains at or above 9.6, your battery is not the problem. - 4). Turn the key to "On" (but not "Start"). If your dash lights do not come on, you need a new ignition switch. If they do come on, turn the key to "Start." Now, your dash lights should go off. If not, your ignition switch may need changing.
- 5). Turn the key to "Start" -- if the engine clicks, you may have an alternator problem. The best way to check this is to have a friend jump-start the F-250 with you, and head to an auto repair shop (or auto parts store). If the battery is dead again at the shop, you likely need a new alternator.