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Hard Start

NOTE: If engine starts but dies immediately, see ENGINE CRANKS BUT WON'T RUN diagnostic chart in appropriate COMPUTER ENGINE CONTROL (CEC) article in COMPUTER CONTROLS section.
  1. Check fuel pump relay by probing fuel pump test terminal with a test light to ground. Turn ignition off for 10 seconds, and then turn ignition on. Test lamp should light for 2 seconds. If test light does not light, fuel pump relay is at fault.
  2. Check TPS for sticking or binding. Check for high resistance in coolant sensor circuit or sensor itself. Check for faulty in-tank fuel pump check valve. See the FUEL SYSTEM DIAGNOSIS chart in the appropriate PFI TESTS W/ CODES in COMPUTERIZED ENGINE CONTROL section.
  3. Check for water contaminated fuel. Check EGR operation. Be sure valve seats properly and is not staying open. Check ignition system, particularly the distributor. If problem exists in cold weather, check cold start valve operation.
  4. Check condition of spark plugs. If engine starts and immediately stalls, open distributor by-pass line. If engine then starts and runs okay, replace pick-up coil. If engine starts and then stalls, disconnect MAF sensor. If engine then runs and sensor connections are okay, replace MAF sensor (if equipped)