mav194

Hi all, new here, and also a new Mustang owner! Bought a 2001 Bullitt a few weeks ago. Having two minor issues of recent.

1: Slight popping/knocking noise from passenger side rear. Only happens every once in a while, and only when in first or second gear. 1 - 2 'pops' then it's gone. Never when going over bumps. I am thinking the rear sway bar end link?

2: Twice I have had issues starting the car, most recently tonight. Took 3 tries before I got it to catch, and even then it barely did. Battery looks great, clean, can't account for age, but turns are not slow so I am thinking the fuel pump? Seems to be a common issue for the 2001.

Mods of relevance: 03-04 Cobra IRS.

Thanks!

Burtonsnow157

have you run the computer for dtc's? my 2003 was having some trouble starting and on a whim i ran the computer for codes and it was throwing a code for the passive anti theft system thinking the car was being stolen (does not light up check engine light). i reset it and didn't have any problems starting anymore. if that's not it then maybe change the fuel filter and then have the fuel pressure tested.

mav194

Interesting...I've seen someone mention PATS being a possibility but they didn't explain how. I'll keep my eye on the check engine light each time I start, and when I have an issue, I'll see if it lit up.

Tomorrow AM I'm taking it in to a shop near work to get it looked at. Will post findings just in case it helps anyone else too.

Thanks for the reply.

Burtonsnow157

keep in mind, that the check engine light will not turn on if youre having a PATS problem. . . its a "non-MIL" code that will be stored in the computer. there is a way to use the THEFT light to tell what is going on with your PATS system if you do a quick google search you'll find it.

mav194

Update in case it can help others:

The popping noise was in fact a loose rear sway bar end link. The ignition issue was also just PATS.

Thanks all!

mav194

Update 2 and don't want to start a new thread but hoping to get input: ignition issue came back. Car cranks quickly/normally, just won't catch. It does this maybe 1/20 starts....and BARELY catches when this happens. I cannot figure out what it may be. Maybe the transceiver? I started using a fresh new key, so it's not the key....the quick cranking makes me think it isn't the starter or battery. Shop said fuel pump was okay, but still have a suspicion that could be it. Ideas?