Hi everyone,
My 2004 Freestar has me ready to jump off the ledge. I just cant figure out what's wrong.
I get in, turn the key, and nothing. No crank, no starter noise, nada. I figured it was the starter but sometimes it works fine. When its wet out, nothing. When its dry out, it'll take turning the ignition about 15 times before "something" decides to work properly, and magically it starts. I have no idea what the issue is. I thought it was the starter, the ignition, the battery, who knows. I cant afford to just replace everything and hope something works. The only code my car is throwing is the fuel rail sensor. But can this cause this issue, considering I dont hear the starter?

 

Don't jump, just yet !
What is supposed to happen is,,,,,,,,,,,,,
If your coded key is good , it is supposed to tell the computer you are not attempting to steal your vehicle. If there is any problem with the key or the anti-theft syst you get nothing when turning the key to start. That is one possibility and to get that out of the way , try your second key.

Now there could be a problem with a signal (power) from the ign switch sent through the neutral safety sw on to the starter, that involves the battery cables and connections , which should be clean and tight. The way that is verified is to use either a test lite or volt meter to confirm power is getting to the starter solenoid. If it is , problem is the starter motor itself. Sometimes a rap or two on the starter will allow it to operate, Depending on how long the starter has been on the vehicle will affect if it should be replaced . If in doubt replace it.
Suppose you have the suggestions checked out and lets see what is found, OK ?

 

I bought the van used a year ago. It came with only one key and one clicker. Shortly after buying the van it started doing this intermittently. Mainly when it was cold or wet out. Now it's a full on issue. I can almost guarantee it wont start if its wet out and takes me awhile to start when its dry out. I thought it might be the key too but the key itself doesnt have a battery in it, right?
Do you have any relatively cheap suggestions for starters that arent garbage?

 

You gotta know this,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,cheap IS garbage !!!

If I were to say buy this or do this without doing some important checking , "I" would be wasting your had earned $$$.
In the long run have someone check your vehicle and confirm what could be the problem. It could be something simple or cost a few dollars to repair, but at least you are not shooting in the dark. Maybe someone will come up with something more along the lines of what you would like to hear or read , but just trying to be understanding here.
I would suggest , if you are planning on keeping the vehicle , get a second key made and coded to your vehicle.
Dealer or qualified locksmith(who is usually cheaper).