hey guys,

my mustang has a hard time starting up EVERY time, and its very frustrating. it takes turning the key twice to start it up... its throwing a code, cam shaft positioning sensor, i replaced the sensor and its still throwing the code... any thoughts?

2002 Mustang GT 4.6L V8 W/ 128,xxx miles

 

The obvious answer is probably the correct answer here...
These cars have overhead cams, but I can't remember if they are chain or gear driven. Either way, it sounds like the cam slipped a gear and isn't running quite in synch with the rest of the engine.

 

@ FlamingoGT...they are chain driven. You might be right about the cam slipping a gear.

@ Sean W. ...you say it's still throwing the code but is it still having the rough start also? Did you clear the code after you replaced the sensor? Maybe check the sensor wires?

 

cam code after sensor swap is most likely a bad alternator, assuming the sensor wheel on the cam isnt messed up, and the timing is correct. P0340?

Also, did you check for proper fuel at the rail?

 

@ Sean W...Did you ever get this issue resolved? I believe I am having the same issue. I was having to turn the key twice to get the car to start. First turn it would try to fire and then die immediately. I was also getting the code for the cam sensor which I did replace and cleared the code but this did not resolve it. I fear I have allowed this issue to go on too long and just this morning the car will not run.

Any help on where to start looking would be appreciated!!

 

Change alternator and sensor as Whitefox said, if it continues the sensor is doing its job and you have an issue in the valve train.