Operation CHARM: Car repair manuals for everyone.

Hard Start

DEFINITION: Engine cranks fine but does not start immediately. Does eventually run, or may start but stalls immediately.

Check normal Scan tool readings of:
^ Engine coolant temperature (ECT) sensor
^ Mass air flow (MAF) sensor
^ Throttle position (TP) sensors
^ Intake air temperature (IAT) sensor

Check:
^ Fuel pressure and fuel quality
^ Throttle plate carboned up
^ Engine mechanical problems (e.g., low compression, sticking lifters, worn valve train)
^ Carbon deposits in intake manifold
^ Worn spark plugs