Operation CHARM: Car repair manuals for everyone.

Hard to Start

DEFINITION:
Engine cranks OK, but does not start quickly. Engine cranks for more than 2 seconds before starting in ambient temperatures above 0°F Engine cranks for more than 4 seconds before starting in ambient temperatures between -20°F and 0°F.

Check Fuel System, looking in particular for:

- Fuel Quality
- Alcohol Content
- Contaminants
- Water Content
- Sour Fuel

- Low Fuel Pressure
- Fuel Pump Circuit Problem
- Plugged or dirty Fuel Filter

- Fuel Injectors
- Not Operating
- Low Flow Rate

- Idle Speed Control
- Faulty ISC Motor
- TP Sensor / Idle Learn Not Complete

Check Ignition System, looking in particular for:

- High Resistance, Open, Shorted, or Arcing Spark Plug Wires, crossfire between spark plug wires

- Contaminated or Damaged Spark Plugs

- Faulty Coil Pack or IC Module

Check Exhaust, looking in particular for:

- Restricted Catalytic Converter or Exhaust



Check for the following mechanical causes:

- Air Induction Restrictions

- Low Engine Compression



Check for possible driver induced causes:

- Improper starting procedure. Refer to Starting Instructions described in Owners Manual.