HELP! Please.... - Ford Forums

KashmirDevi · 05-26-2008, 10:07

I posted this over in the "garage" section too, but I thought maybe someone here could possibly help with a suggestion.

I have a 2004 Escape 4WD.

I ran out of gas totally, put gas into the tank and tried to start it...it won't turn over (battery is fine). I cycled the key a few times (in cycles of 5, then tried to start it, did this about 20 times, over a period of 2 hours) to get the gas pump to fill the lines, but still it won't turn over.

It's stuck 2 towns over in a parking lot.

Anyway, I was told it could be vapor locked. Can anyone give me a suggestion on what to do before I dump $150 to get it towed to the Ford dealer and pay them something that possible I can also do.

Any help would be really appreciated.

**360ci** · 06-01-2008, 19:47

Phoning for a tow isn't fun nor cheap. I know with some models (possibly not the '04 Escape), that in behind a panel around the rear wheel wells there is a button where you can reset the fuel pump. Generally this is used in a roll over application where the computer shuts off the pump and you have to manually reset it. If you have an owners manual it should state if you have that feature and where to locate the reset.

Otherwise, if you don't have the reset I'd try this: disconnect the negative battery cable for a good five minutes to reset the computer, and then try to restart. Be sure you have a good few gallons of fuel in the tank so there is enough for the pump to prime the lines. Bring a friend with booster cables in case your battery gets a low charge and when you turn the key hold it (crank it) for a good 15 seconds. Repeat 2-3 times if necessary. If you require a fourth try chances are that you're out of luck and will require a tow unless someone else posts an alternate solution. I had a similar problem with a TBI car of mine, the gas gauge got stuck and I didn't realize it and sure enough - ran out of fuel. Took lots of cranking to get it to start after putting in a few gallons. Good luck and let us know of the outcome!