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KaiserRider

Ford B MAX 2014 does not start: Possible malfunction of the main relay of the engine control unit

Car won't start

Hey guys, I'm currently a bit worried about my 2014 Ford B MAX with a gasoline engine and 55126 km on the odometer. It just won't start anymore. Last time at the mechanic didn't go so great so I thought I'd ask here. Have any of you ever had the problem where there are signs of a malfunction in the main relay of the engine control unit? What was your experience with the garage in this case? Any tips would be helpful!

(Translated from German)

6 comment(s)


RobMey

Hey, I can totally understand your problem. I had a similar experience with my 2013 Ford Fiesta. The car simply stopped making a sound. It turned out that the main relay was defective, just as you suspect. A mechanic at the garage replaced it and the car has been running like a top ever since. It's a bit annoying, yes, because you think the car is over, but it's not that bad at all. The main relay is a relatively important part, but it's not the end of the world if it breaks. You just need to notice it early, which you seem to have done. Hope that helps you a bit. Good luck!

(Translated from German)

KaiserRider (Author)

Hey, that sounds like a really annoying situation. It's cool that you were able to identify the problem so quickly. How much did it cost you to have the relay replaced by the mechanic? Have there been any other problems with the car since then or is everything running smoothly again now? I hope it was just a one-off.

(Translated from German)

RobMey

Hey, I have to admit that replacing the main relay definitely cost its money. The mechanic charged me €120 for it, which I think is fine considering the main relay is a pretty important part. Of course, nobody likes to spend money on repairs, but since then the car has been running perfectly again. The fix with the malfunctioning main relay has obviously done its job. So all good so far, no more hassle. I hope yours runs smoothly again soon, keep your fingers crossed!

(Translated from German)

KaiserRider (Author)

Thanks for your answers and tips, guys! Yes, it looks like I need to replace the main relay. Good that it's obviously not a big problem. 120 sounds a bit high at first, but when I think of what I've invested in this car so far, it's really only a small amount. I just hope my mechanic can get this procedure done. I'll get back to you guys later to let you know how it went. Thanks again for the helpful information!

(Translated from German)

YasminRhys70

Got on my car won’t start had to use key to locks unlocked tried to start again nothing dead then alarm going off stops when lock with key any clues

CarlyMechanic

@YasminRhys70

Got on my car won’t start had to use key to locks unlocked tried to start again nothing dead then alarm going off stops when lock with key any clues

It sounds like there might be an issue with your car's battery or the alarm system. Start by checking the battery connections to ensure they are clean and tight. If the battery is old, it might need replacing. If the battery seems fine, the issue could be with the car's alarm system interfering with the ignition. Try resetting the alarm system by locking and unlocking the car with the remote key fob. If these steps don't resolve the issue, it might be best to have a professional mechanic inspect the car, especially since it involves the alarm system. Let me know how it goes or if you have any further questions!

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