Car has difficulties starting

[Exxon]

Hi guys,

 

First off, I don't know if this is the right place to put it or if there's a topic for this.

If there is, please let me know and I'll move my question elsewhere.

 

The problem I'm experiencing is that my Ford Focus 1.6 (1999) has difficulties when I try to start the engine.

Thing is, it's not always, it's really random. It usually happens when the car hasn't been used for a few days.

I went to a garage today, and the battery is fine, and the engine started without a hitch multiple times (hadn't used the car for 3 days).

 

The car sometimes makes a fairly high pitched noise when I start it, as recorded here.

https://drive.google.com/file/d/0BymV1-yaZWsJSktjQlB4ekZkSzQ/view?usp=sharing

 

Once in a while, it just barely wants to start, though it starts without a hitch if I try again.

I was able to record it a few days ago. This is how it usually sounds, but it sometimes lasts for 3 seconds or so.

https://drive.google.com/file/d/0BymV1-yaZWsJbnZvRDZjb3VtQlU/view?usp=sharing

 

It's worth noting that the fuel pump has been replaced by a second hand one 2 weeks ago.

The noises after startup where always there, though the rough start has only been occuring since around the new replacement pump.

If I recall correctly, I've had the problem with the rough start once every few months in the past year.

 

Thanks in advance,

 

Exxon

Edited October 12, 2016 by Exxon

[PeasantGaming > U]

Whining sounds like the alternator is about to go out if it hasn't already. Also you may have corroded ground wires which will cause those symptoms of intermittent starting too.

 

You've already determined the Battery is good. The next step is to check all the components and wiring related to the battery system. It could also be something as simple as a loose fuse. I would have the wiring checked on the recently installed Fuel Pump as well.

 

Good luck.

Edited October 14, 2016 by PeasantGaming > U

[Exxon]

Thank you very much!

 

I made a 2 hour long trip a few days ago, and it hasn't had a rough start since (though the whining sound stays).

Seeing that I'm going to make a 1000 km trip in a few days with this car, would you recommend not going?

The car will have a MOT check in a few months, so it will get looked at.