Hard to Start

DEFINITION
Engine cranks OK, but does not start for a long time. Does eventually run, or may start but immediately dies.

PRELIMINARY CHECKS
^ Perform the careful visual / physical checks as described in Diagnosis By Symptom / Preliminary Checks. Testing and Inspection
^ Make sure the driver is using the correct starting procedure.

ADDITIONAL CHECKS
^ Idle Air Control (IAC) operation use CHART C-2B. Refer to Diagnostic Charts / C Charts / Chart C-2B Idle Air (IAC) Control Circuit. Chart C-2B Idle Air Control (IAC) System Check
^ Basic engine problem. Refer to Engine.
^ Service Bulletins for updates.

SENSORS
^ Check Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor using a Tech 1 scan tool, compare engine coolant temperature with ambient temperature on cold engine.

- Check if engine coolant temperature readings is 5 degrees greater than or less than ambient air temperature on a cold engine, check resistance in engine coolant temperature sensor circuit or sensor itself. Compare ECT sensor resistance value to the "Diagnostic Aids" text in Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) 15 description. Refer to Diagnostic Charts / Diagnostic Trouble Code Charts / Code 15 Coolant Temperature Sensor (CTS) Circuit. Powertrain Controls - ECM/PCM

^ Check Manifold Absolute Pressure (MAP) sensor. Check for flooding.
^ Check Throttle Position (TP) sensor for binding or a high TP sensor voltage with the throttle closed (should read between 0.29 volt and 0.98 volt).

IGNITION SYSTEM
^ Check for proper ignition voltage output with spark tester J 26792 or equivalent (ST-125).
^ Check spark plugs. Remove spark plugs, check for wet plugs, cracks, wear, improper gap, burned electrodes, or heavy deposits. Repair or replace as necessary.
^ Check for bare or shorted wires.
^ Check crank sensor resistance and connections.

FUEL SYSTEM
^ Check fuel pump relay operation - pump should turn "ON" for 2 seconds when ignition is turned "ON." Use DTC 54. Refer to Diagnostic Charts / Diagnostic Trouble Code Charts / Code 54 Fuel Pump Circuit (Low Voltage) Powertrain Controls - ECM/PCM
^ Check fuel pressure, use CHART A-7. Refer to Diagnostic Charts / A Charts / Chart A-7 Fuel System Diagnosis. Related Tests, Information and Procedures
^ Check for contaminated fuel.
^ Check both injector fuses.

NOTE: A faulty in-tank fuel pump check valve will allow the fuel in the lines to drain back to the tank after engine is stopped. To check for this condition, perform fuel system diagnosis. Refer to Diagnostic Charts / A Charts / Chart A-7 Fuel System Diagnosis. Related Tests, Information and Procedures