Hard Start

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Hard Start

Inspection/Test	Action
DEFINITION: Engine cranks OK, but does not start for a long time. Does eventually run, or may start but immediately dies.
Preliminary	Refer to Important Preliminary Inspections Before Starting in Symptoms - Engine Controls . Inspect the powertrain control module (PCM) grounds for being clean, tight, and in the proper locations. Refer to Power and Grounding Component Views in Wiring Systems and Engine Controls Schematics . Search for bulletins. Verify that the driver is using the correct starting procedure as described in the owners manual.
Sensor/System	Inspect for an engine coolant temperature (ECT) sensor that has shifted in value. Refer to Temperature vs Resistance . Inspect the mass air flow (MAF) sensor for proper installation. Refer to Mass Air Flow (MAF)/Intake Air Temperature (IAT) Sensor Replacement . A damaged MAF sensor may cause a hard start. Inspect the camshaft position (CMP) sensor for proper mounting and/or a bad connection. An extended crank occurs if the PCM does not receive a CMP signal. Verify proper operation of the manifold absolute pressure (MAP) sensor. Refer to Manifold Absolute Pressure (MAP) Sensor Diagnosis (With Supercharger) or Manifold Absolute Pressure (MAP) Sensor Diagnosis (Without Supercharger) . Inspect the exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system for proper sealing/connections and operation Refer to Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) System Description .
Fuel System	Verify there is adequate fuel. Inspect the fuel pump operation. The fuel pump should turn ON for 2 seconds when you turn ON the ignition. Refer to Fuel Pump Electrical Circuit Diagnosis . A faulty in-tank fuel pump check valve allows the fuel in the lines to drain back to the tank after the engine stops. Refer to Fuel System Diagnosis . Test the fuel injectors. Refer to Fuel Injector Balance Test with Special Tool , Fuel Injector Balance Test with Tech 2 , and Fuel Injector Coil Test . Inspect for incorrect fuel pressure. Refer to Fuel System Diagnosis . Inspect for a restricted fuel filter. Refer to Fuel System Diagnosis . Inspect for a contaminated fuel condition. Refer to Alcohol/Contaminants-in-Fuel Diagnosis (With Special Tool) or Alcohol/Contaminants-in-Fuel Diagnosis (Without Special Tool) .
Ignition System	Inspect for proper ignition voltage output with the J 26792 Spark Tester. Refer to Electronic Ignition (EI) System Diagnosis . Remove the spark plugs and inspect for the following conditions: Correct heat range Wet plugs Cracks Wear Improper gap Burned electrodes Heavy deposits Refer to Spark Plug Inspection . Determine the cause of the conditions before replacing the spark plugs. Inspect for bare or shorted ignition wires. Refer to Spark Plug Wire Inspection . Inspect for loose ignition coil grounds. Inspect the ignition control module (ICM) for proper ground connection. Inspect the ignition coils for cracks or carbon tracking. Soak the secondary ignition wires with water may help locate an intermittent problem. Ignition voltage will arc to ground when a secondary component is faulty.
Engine Mechanical	Inspect for the following conditions: Excessive oil in combustion chamber or leaking valve seals-Refer to Oil Consumption Diagnosis in Engine Mechanical. Cylinder compression-Refer to Engine Compression Test in Engine Mechanical. Improper valve timing Combustion chambers for excessive carbon buildup-Clean the chambers using top engine cleaner. Follow the instructions on the can. Incorrect basic engine parts-Inspect the following components: The camshaft-Refer to Camshaft and Bearings Cleaning and Inspection in Engine Mechanical. The cylinder heads-Refer to Cylinder Head Cleaning and Inspection in Engine Mechanical. The pistons, etc.-Refer to Piston, Connecting Rod, and Bearings Cleaning and Inspection in Engine Mechanical.
Additional	Inspect for a restricted exhaust. Refer to Restricted Exhaust in Engine Exhaust. Inspect the air intake ducts for being collapsed, damaged, loose, improperly installed, or leaking, especially between the MAF sensor and the throttle body.