Rep Power: 0

I've noticed it taking a few more cranks than normal to start, it's a 2002 civic with about 98-99k miles
I've yet to do any work on the car, any help/thoughts would be great.

Thanks
Aaron

 
Rep Power: 290

If your wondering whether its a timing belt issue at 99k miles then just change the timing belt and water pump any ways. Its time.

 
Rep Power: 0

Yes thank you, I do want to do the belt and pump change, but I was also wondering how critical my situation is. I hate to imagine the repair that comes with a busted belt. But do to my current situation, could I postpone the belt change for another 1-3k mi?
I know this is a gamble and a busted belt could happen tomorrow, but the Civic is a daily driver and doesn't get hot rodded.
For those of you much more experienced with Civics, what are my odds? And am I right in thinking this is a timing belt issue?

Thanks again
Aaron

 
Rep Power: 811

well for the 01+ civic, it says 110k in the service book. so technically you should be fine. ive known people that went 150k and it still didnt break. just depends on the belt condition. and no it shouldnt affect how the car starts unless the belt slipped a tooth (but then the car would run terrible).

 
Rep Power: 290

Looking at this again, it could be numerous things with the timing belt not included. Sensors could be wearing out, grounds could be getting corroded, etc, etc. As gearbox said the car would run crappy if you skipped a tooth. Besides skipping a tooth the only other problem with the timing belt would be it breaking so you should be good to go. Get it changed soon though.

 
Rep Power: 320

its either the spark plugs or starter. I would say spark plugs. Platinium spark plugs have a operating life of around 100-110k. Change the plugs first since its cheap to replace.

 
Rep Power: 266

Why can't it be a weak battery? I had the same symptom before I changed the battery. The starter sounded normal but sometimes it would turn too many times before startup. So the plugs might not have gotten sufficient voltage even though the starter was okay. Eventually, the starter turned slowly.

I wouldn't go out and change the battery, but if it's past 3 years I would suspect it.

Yes check your wires for corrosion and make sure they are on tight. Clean terminals with baking soda.

 
Rep Power: 266

Do it at 110k, you'll be fine.