I'm not Queen, but mine is doing this too (won't start until the 3rd or so try) and I am getting "stop engine now." It's intermittent, and I'm putting off taking it to the dealer until I can give them more info on what seems to cause it/what are the circumstances, etc.

I have the feeling it's related to the 12-volt battery. It was extra-bad tonight while I was trying to jump start another car.

 

You know, back in 2005, most of us were pissed off that the 2005 MY did NOT come with PATS anti-theft system. A $0.99 cut key from the hardware store will run the car just fine. ( Also no blinking light on dash, but the light is there... if just we could "activate" it... )

When pressed... ( and it took substantial pressing ) Ford admitted to us 2005 owners, that they wanted, and intended to have PATS anti-theft in the 2005, but as production time rolled around, they could not get it to work correctly with the other hybrid systems. 2006 and 2007 had PATS anti-theft.

Since 2008 was a redesign of some hardware and software, I wonder if this ugly animal is rearing its head again. Maybe the 2008's weren't quite ready? I think we should all watch this carefully, and see if many others have problems with the keys / theft system and 2008's not starting. We may be on to something here.

 

Likelite, buy a jump start box! I would NEVER use a modern highly computer controlled car to jump start another car 1 good voltage spike and you could do some reall damage I have seen this myself more than a few times. How many miles are on your 08? If you end up taking to dealer be sure to bring BOTH keys and remotes.

 

Has anyone had the issue of the car engine sounding as though it's running with the key removed? I've had it happen a couple of times and it makes a rather odd noise, like traction control kicking in on a rough surface (a kind or rolling "R" noise). Maybe I should just get some ear plugs.

 

When I unlock mine with the remote the brake system does a pressure up and tedst, maybe that is what you are hearing.

 

It may be the HV battery fans because they can run for a few minutes after you remove the key. The outside battery vent door will also make a noise as it opens and closes. Also, a portion of the brake fluid returns to the master cylinder after a few minutes with the key-off to relieve pressure. And don't forget the radiator fans could stay on for a few minutes.

The manual states these noises are normal, so I wouldn't be concerned unless you get warning lights or notice a change in driving.

GaryG

 

Thanks Gary and Mark. I have a tendency to not like car noises--way too many things replaced on my two sedans that started out as little-bitty noises.

 

Well, it's not the hybrid fan/motor. The noise is coming from behind the center stack. I don't think it's climate system related, as the noise happened at start-up today with the climate system off. I may see if I can find a priest to bless the car just in case.

 

The brake system has a motor in front of the passinger floor board in the engine compartment I'll bet you are hearing the brake system going through its pre test

 

My old standby is to turn the radio up a little louder to mask those annoying noises.