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Always cranks, randomly engine is slow to start.

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Old Feb 2, 2017
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Always cranks, randomly engine is slow to start.

I have an 04 coupe ex with about 102k miles. I had a lot things replaced within days of each other so it's hard to pin point this one down for me.

I have a brand new alternator and battery (34 optima redtop).The head gasket went, replaced timing belt, water pump, radiator and thermostat.

Problem: About 2 weeks after the whole headgasket treatment. I noticed and (even months later to this day) randomly I'll get in my car turn the key, almost feels like it's not going to start (you know when you get a couple more cranks than usual) I let go of the key.. and everything starts up fine..

I've tried researching about as much as I can. People seem to point to either the fuel pump or the key tumbler/immobilizer failing.

What really sucks about this is how intermittent the occurrence is. It can go weeks without doing it.

My grounds are squeaky clean and tight. Battery is only a month old.. Just seeing if anyone has experienced this and/or has any advice. Appreciate it.
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Old Feb 5, 2017
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Re: Always cranks, randomly engine is slow to start.

Since it doesn't do it all the time it will be hard to pinpoint. I would say to try priming the fuel pump before starting it and see if it helps.
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Old Feb 6, 2017
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Re: Always cranks, randomly engine is slow to start.

At 102K miles, your due for new plugs. Use only the OEM NGK ones.


Test battery.
Check the fuel pressure.
Test the ignition coils.
Check for low compression.
Check for intake air leaks.
Contaminated fuel or low quality?
Check for weak ignition spark.
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Old Feb 6, 2017
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Re: Always cranks, randomly engine is slow to start.

Originally Posted by NDNV
At 102K miles, your due for new plugs. Use only the OEM NGK ones.
Figure I'd chime in since I need to replace plugs in the future - I've read people fighting about which plugs are actual OE.

NGK or Denso double platinum? The latter appear to be half the price

http://www.rockauto.com/en/moreinfo....433233&jsn=334

OR

http://www.rockauto.com/en/moreinfo....433233&jsn=333

Rock auto says both are OE replacement
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Old Feb 6, 2017
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Re: Always cranks, randomly engine is slow to start.

Originally Posted by RustyShackle
NGK or Denso double platinum?
NGK
PZFR6F-11

OR

DENSO
PKJ20CR-M11

Either are acceptable and both could have been OE plugs in a 1.7 engine.
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Old Feb 7, 2017
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Re: Always cranks, randomly engine is slow to start.

Originally Posted by GolNat
Since it doesn't do it all the time it will be hard to pinpoint. I would say to try priming the fuel pump before starting it and see if it helps.
Agree. Put key in second position and wait until CEL shuts off then crank engine..allows enough time to prime. Also, if you don't know when (if ever) the fuel filter has been replaced..consider replacing it.
Cleaning the throttle body may help as well, and is inexpensive, good maintenance.
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