Hard Start

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2007 Chevrolet Cobalt. 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 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 Versus Resistance . Inspect for a skewed manifold absolute pressure (MAP) sensor. Refer to Altitude Versus Barometric Pressure .
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 Diagnosis (w/J39021 or w/Tech 2) or Fuel Injector Diagnosis (w/CH47976) . Inspect for incorrect fuel pressure. Refer to Fuel System Diagnosis . Inspect for a contaminated fuel condition. Refer to Alcohol/Contaminants-in-Fuel Diagnosis (w/o Special Tool) or Alcohol/Contaminants-in-Fuel Diagnosis (w/Special Tool) .
Ignition System	In order to properly inspect the spark plugs or to correct a condition, refer to the following procedures: Ignition System Specifications Spark Plug Inspection Spark Plug Replacement Remove spark plugs and inspect for the following conditions: Correct heat range Wet plugs Cracks Wear Improper gap Burned electrodes Heavy deposits Verify that the spark plugs are of the correct type. Inspect for proper ignition system output. Refer to Electronic Ignition (EI) System Diagnosis . An improper spark plug gap will cause a driveability condition. Gap the spark plugs using a wire gage gap tool. Determine the cause of the fouling before replacing the spark plugs. Inspect for damaged or misaligned spark plug boots. Inspect the electronic ignition (EI ) module for proper ground connection.
Engine Mechanical	Inspect for the following conditions: Excessive oil in combustion chamber or leaking valve seals-Refer to Oil Consumption Diagnosis . Low cylinder compression-Refer to Engine Compression Test . 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 Cleaning and Inspection . The cylinder heads-Refer to Cylinder Head Cleaning and Inspection . The pistons, etc.-Refer to Piston, Connecting Rod, and Bearings Cleaning and Inspection . Inspect for excessive crankshaft endplay that will cause the crankshaft position (CKP) sensor reluctor wheel to move out of alignment with the CKP sensor. Refer to Crankshaft and Bearings Cleaning and Inspection . This could result in any of the following conditions: A no start A start and stall Erratic performance
Additional	Inspect for a restricted exhaust. Refer to Restricted Exhaust . Inspect the air intake ducts for being collapsed, damaged, loose, improperly installed, or leaking.