ever since I had to replace the engine in my 2000 MPV, the starting of the vehicle is very, very erratic--turning the keys (at times) does absolutely nothing--I have to drop in it Drive, turn the key (still nothing), then in Neutral, which more times than not starts it right on the first turn of the key---I've gone a week or 2 with it being able to start in Park every time as well---any ideas as to where to begin troubleshooting this?

 

not sure if anyone cares anymore since I posted this over 6 weeks ago, but I ended up having to get the neutral safety sensor replaced---can't f*&%&^ stand this piece of crap!!

 

Hey MJ,

Sorry to hear you have had a time with your MPV. I bought mine new in 1990. I had the transmission fail after 95 thousand miles. The muffler rusts out every three years or so, fortunately I got a midus muffler and I love their lifetime warranty. they have replaced my muffler 5 times and theyreally hate me.

The water pump was replaced at 160k when the timing belt failed. The alternator (voltage reg) failed last Oct. I have put one set of plugs and one set of wires. And I have pulled my Harley to Daytonaevery year for bike week since 1992. 221k later and I am getting ready to pull my new Ultra Classic behind thatugly as hell 1990 MPV with the terrible blue paint (what's left anyway)to Daytona.......................

 

Well your not comparing apples to apples. Your 1990 is a true Mazda product. Our's are a Ford. I too hate my freakin van. Once I get it running again it's gone! I'm going back to Chevy and getting a thirsty V8. I rather pay for gas then a mechanic every month.

 

FYI...There is very little (if any) Ford in your 2000 MPV. They were all made in Japan. (Your VIN# begins with a J)

 

Sorry but you're wrong! The engine is supplied by Ford! It is a 2.5 liter V6 From model year 2000-2002. The same engine is share with the Ford Contour and Mercury Cougar. Also my original spark plug wires said Motorcraft on them and the coil pak.

 

The engine is similar (not identical) to the one used in the Cougar.(stroke is slightly shorter) The vehicle is manufactured in Japan, by Japanese workers, utilizing mostly Japanese domestic parts.

It having a Ford engine has nothing to do with the issues you are seeing. FWIW....Ford's quality is better than Mazda's. Take a look at JDPower or Consumer Reports if you think I'm incorrect.

 

I am having a similar problem. Replaced engine this summer. Now it is having trouble starting. It seems to be a wiring issue. Lights come on and key will turn in engine and you can hear the relay click, but nothing else happens. Occasionally, it will start if the steering wheel is moved some. Right now it is completely out of commission and in a parking lot. Any ideas are appreciated. I haven't tried trying to start it in gear.

 

HELP I have a 2000 MPV whith a fuel problem , car wont start . It started the other day and stopped ( twice ) cant locate the fuel pump or is there a cut out switch on the fuel system .