I have a 2 litre 2002 petrol Mondeo with a starting problem. Car engine turns over a number of times before eventually starting. Once engine is running the car drives perfectly. Problem isn't just related to cold starting given that after approximately 15 mins engine will prove difficult to start again. Been to Ford and had an engine diagnostic check. They claim that the inlet manifold gaskets needed replacing and would resolve problem. Given that Ford wanted to rip me off to the tune of £400 asked a competent mechanic to fit these but the problem still exists. Does anyone have any ideas?

Mark Burns, April 2008

most mondeo's of this year have this problem 1.8 and 2.0 i work for ford and have run a 02 1.8 which did the same it would appear that the more miles that they have done the worse they are first place to check is your cat is it getting blocked put your hand over tail pipe with a glove on with someone revving the engine for you should blow your hand away if all is ok

old x19, April 2008