My 2001 Zetec 4/4 has suddenly developed a starting problem. Up to few days ago it would fire up at the first turn of the key. Now it frequenly turns over and does nothing. Then ten minutes later it will start at the first turn of the key. Minutes after that, nothing. I've changed the relays and checked the fuses. The onyl thing that I have as a pointer is that the red Light emiting diode in the centre of the instrument panel which flashes on and off slowly when the ignition is off, goes off when I turn the key and when the car is runnng normally it stays off. But now when the car fails to start it flashes much more quickly even without turning the key. Anyone had something like this?
You say you changed the relays? On my black top Zetec there is a relay that relates to the immobiliser (only just found this out from Bradley at Berrybrook)
So I think that the 4 in the under bonnet fuse box are: Flasher; Immobiliser; Fuel Pump; Cooling Fan.
The latter three being interchangeable.
As for the key, my keys do not have any batteries fitted, (remote locking!! I don't even have exterior door handles)
but as Richard says, trying the spare key would rule out any key related issue.
Good luck
