Car is hard to start, then sputters, then runs fine... any ideas
#1
Car is hard to start, then sputters, then runs fine... any ideas
I'm trying to help a buddy out with his car and I'm kind of stumped. Here's what happens: On a cold start it cranks longer than it should need to and then sputters to life. Sometimes you need to feather the throttle to keep it running but sometimes it's fine. Upon startup I notice a strong gas smell as well as smoke coming from the tailpipe, more than likely unburned fuel. Once it gets past the sputtering and choking which last only for about 15 to 30 seconds it calms down and runs just fine. Every once in a while all of the sputtering will cause an Check Engine Soon light to turn on for misfire, then it goes out after a few key cycles. Once the car is warmed up it will start right up as soon as you hit the key, but if you let it sit and cool off for an extended period of time it will be hard starting again. Any of you guys have any ideas on what this sounds like? Cold or hot weather doesn't affect this condition either way. It acts the same regardless of the temp outside. Funny enough cold weather might help it slightly.
Any help would be great. It's his DD. Thanks guys.
Any help would be great. It's his DD. Thanks guys.
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not plugs. basically the car is stuck in cold idle or warm idle loop when it isn;t supposed to be. check for codes.
sometimes it's either and air or coolant temp sensor that causes this. sometimes it's just a dirty throttle.
sometimes it's either and air or coolant temp sensor that causes this. sometimes it's just a dirty throttle.
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umm ok .. one more time.
you're having a start up issue related to the fact that the computer does not know if the car is hot or cold... clean the throttlebody and mass air..... check for codes.
you could have a bad intake air temp sensor.
ignition coil> c-mon guys
you're having a start up issue related to the fact that the computer does not know if the car is hot or cold... clean the throttlebody and mass air..... check for codes.
you could have a bad intake air temp sensor.
ignition coil> c-mon guys
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Leaky fuel injector maybe, lets the rail dain into manifold while sitting then the you try to start in an already flooded condition. Try pressing the gas peddle to the floor before you put the key in and hold it there. Then start this is the normal start for flooded engine. Maybe a good injector cleaning will fix it. Good luck
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