I have a 02 explorer that has a intermittent cranking problem. About once a month the when you turn the key the starter will not turn. All the lights burn and don't go dim while trying to crank the veh. I have the warranty repair for this vehicle and it shows that it was having the same problem from almost the begining the veh. has 49000 miles now. I have owned the veh. for 15months and it has done this about 5 or 6 times any suggestions. I had it in the shop on one ocasion but nothing was found.

 

Check the small signal wire on the starter. These are known for corrosion and will intermittantly cause a "no crank".

 

I just replaced the starter and cable in my '92. I would look at replacing the cable from the battery to the starter (which includes the signal wire mentioned by Mulletman). You can order one from AutoZone. I was experienceing some periodic weak starts. Since replacing the items, the starts have been nice and strong.

 

what about the anti theft system could it cause this problem?

 

Only if the theft light flashes real fast when it don't start. Then try moving the tilt column around and try again. I have seen the transponder that goes around the ignition to recieve the programmed key go bad.