i have a 2007 ranger 4 liter engine with automatic transmission. i recently tried to start it, barely turned the key and didnt think i turned it enough, so i turned it again in the same initial attempt. with the second turn i heard a clanking sound, like the starter or flywheel grinding for half a moment. all further tries of starting had the engine actually start, but then stop by itself.

the fuel guage was at E, so i added a few gallons from an extra container and tried again. it did the same thing. motor started then stopped a half second later.. the instrument cluster showed the low oil pressure light, as well as the battery light. the battery is about a month new. i checked the oil level and it is properly between the two dots on the stick.

i dunno what else to do here. if it was the starter, i dont see how the engine would start at all. it cant be the battery, as the battery is literally new. fuel tank was empty, but i added about 2 gallons. but still nothing. i even checked for diagnostic codes, and there was nothing

i needa get my truck working, please help.

 

i found the problem. a vacuum cap was missing. i replaced it, and the engine started and stayed on. all is good now.