Q: Doesn't start in the morning when the engine is cold. What's the problem? 2000 Dodge Van Ram 2500

asked by on October 23, 2016

My 2000 dodge ram van 2500 5.2L V8 doesn't start in the morning when the engine is cold. It starts only when the engine gets warm after it is being exposed under the sun. What's the problem?

Fuel Pump Replacement $145.32 - $1299.70 Get a Quote
Car is not starting Inspection $94.99 - $114.99 Get a Quote

Hi there. This can be caused by a number of things. Most of the time, it is necessary to check for fuel and spark when this occurs. This will let me know where to start with the diagnostics. Most of the time this is caused by an issue with the main relay or a fuel pump circuit issue. When this occurs due to temperature, it is almost always electrical. A full electrical diagnostic will need to be done. If you are planning on having this checked, consider YourMechanic, as a certified technician can come to your home or office to pinpoint the cause of the cold start problem and advise you on repairs.

The statements expressed above are only for informational purposes and should be independently verified. Please see our terms of service for more details

Get an instant quote for your car

Our certified mechanics come to you ・Backed by 12-month, 12,000-mile guarantee・Fair and transparent pricing


Experienced Mechanic?

Earn up to $70/hr

What others are asking

What does the overdrive off light mean?
The overdrive off light is located on the instrument panel. This light will illuminate when the overdrive system on the transmission has been turned off. Tips The overdrive off light will briefly illuminate when the vehicle is turned on. The...
Over overheating, car won't start
If the vehicle overheated on the highway there is a high possibility that major engine damage has occurred, which gives reason as to why the vehicle won't start now. If it did overheated, the chances of the head gasket being...
the idle surges when it comes to a stop or is in park
I would need to know more information about the year, make, model, and engine of the vehicle for more precise help since the car surging could be caused for a number of reasons. The Check Engine Light is the first...
My car engine just started knocking or pinging
If you have been overheating your engine over and over, then it will cause damage to the heads and engine. Look at the oil to see if the oil has coolant in the oil. It sounds like you now have...
What means error fault code p1978
The trouble code (https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/how-to-read-and-understand-check-engine-light-codes-by-jason-unrau) you listed is a manufacturer specific code, designated by the P1xxx. I have searched my files and cant find that DTC trouble code. Can you please verify that the code is P1978? However, if you'd like...
Transmission defaults
Hi there. The problem you are having with your transmission 1-2 shift/2-1 shift could be a shift solenoid issue (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/electrical-components-are-not-working-inspection). The shift solenoid could be operating intermittently. The dealership, that originally diagnosed and sold you the repair, should be repairing...
My car will not start. It won't start even after multiple jumps. But the lights still comes on, even though they're dim
This may be a result of a weak battery (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/battery-replacement) or a failing alternator (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/alternator-replacement). As you may know, your alternator is what is responsible for keeping your car's battery charged. When this is not working properly, this may result...
Looking for a new battery 2006 Chevy Aveo
Hello - the original battery (https://www.yourmechanic.com/question/checking-a-car-s-battery-by-ron-g) group for this vehicle is a Group 86. I would recommend battery replacement with that specification battery (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/battery-replacement) by a mobile, professional mechanic, such as one from YourMechanic, who will come to your location,...
My 2005 acura tl tries to start when turn the key but it wont actually crank. Autozone said strter, alt, batt are good
Be sure the engine immobilizer system is not activated (https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/how-to-shut-off-the-anti-theft-device-in-your-car-by-jason-unrau) thus preventing the car from starting. If the engine is not turning over (cranking) with the key held in the start position, that means that there is a problem...

Related articles

2012 Toyota Sienna vs. 2012 Dodge Grand Caravan: Which One Should I Buy?
The battle of the minivans: Toyota Sienna versus the Dodge Grand Caravan. Both of these comfy people-movers provide options galore, and the minivan is meant to get everyone where they need to go safely and quickly, at a reasonable cost...
How to Buy a Good Quality Car Battery
Turning Turning the key and hearing, well, nothing – or at best a weak attempt at cranking – can be very stressful. Oftentimes this is the result of a dying or already dead car battery, the unit under your car’s...
How to Get Dodge Dealership Certified
Dodge car dealerships offer automotive technician jobs to mechanics who are certified through the MOPAR CAP (Career Automotive Program).