My 2001 expo (175k) just developed an intermittent starting problem. Sometimes when trying to start it just cranks acting like a lack of gas or spark. I try to start several times and the same thing occurs. Now the strange part. If I turn the key all the way to off, and then try to start it, it starts right up. Of the dozen or so times this has happened over the last week two of the times the engine died within 5 seconds of starting.

It sounds like it is an electrical issue, I disconnected the battery to reset the ECM but no change. I do have a check engine light, says vacuum.

What do you guys think?

 

What is the actual code ex: P0300

A vacuum leak could describe your symptoms, so that needs to be addressed first.

Inspect the pcv valve and the lines that run to the back of the intake plenum. There is a 90 degree rubber elbow in the back (pcv line) that was known to crack and fail. Also, clean your IAC valve. Use the search funtion for the pcv elbow and cleaning the iac. You will find what your looking for.

 

So it's an 01 Explorer ? Yea, what DTC is "vacuum" ?