Hello My 2008 Ford Focus has a 2.0-liter diesel engine. It had traveled 320k km or 200k m. When the engine is cold, it is difficult to start. When the outdoor temperature drops below freezing, it will not start at all. With a hot engine, it starts up quite nicely. I have already replaced the starter motor and glow plus. What might be the problem for me? Despite my strong mechanical aptitude, I can only speculate that the motor might be the problem. Regards ahead of time.
6 Likes
You might be dealing with worn injectors. If replacing them is not an option right now, try plugging in the block heater for a couple of hours before starting. Adding a quality fuel system additive can also help. Some prefer Hot Shots Secret, but I like Howes. Both should provide some benefit.
5 Likes
I am not sure how the engine operates, but I replaced the high performance, high pressure oil pump on my 2002 7.3, and I don’t even need the glow plugs in the winter until the temperature drops to below zero. All of my hard starts were cleared by that oil pump, unless it’s really cold.
5 Likes
There must be a problem with Injectors
4 Likes
Could you explain why? I am eager to learn. 
3 Likes
Although I am not familiar with this particular vehicle’s engine, worn-out injectors are typically the cause of my Ford Powerstroke’s hard start.
3 Likes
Was it difficult to start both when the engine was hot and cold? Did you notice any difference between summer and winter?
2 Likes
Most of the advice here comes from those of us with Powerstrokes. My 6.0 had trouble starting when cold due to worn injectors, but it started and ran great when hot. Diesel atomizes more efficiently in a hot engine, so glow plugs are not as crucial when the entire block is warm, though they still help.
It might be a good idea to get your injectors cleaned and inspected, or even replaced if they haven’t been yet. At 200k miles, that’s a solid service life for them.
1 Like