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 Beginning 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 . Test for proper operation of the manifold absolute pressure (MAP) sensor. Refer to Altitude vs 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 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 (w/o Special Tool) or Alcohol/Contaminants-in-Fuel Diagnosis (with 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: Correct heat range Wet plugs Cracks Wear Improper gap Burned electrodes Heavy deposits Spark plugs are of the correct type. Inspect for proper secondary ignition voltage output with J 26792 HEI Spark Tester. See Special Tools . An improper spark plug gap will cause a driveability condition. Gap the spark plugs using a wire gauge gap tool. If the spark plugs are found to be fouled, determine the cause before replacing the spark plugs. Inspect for damaged or misaligned spark plug boots.
Engine Mechanical	Inspect for the following conditions: Excessive oil in combustion chamber or leaking valve seals-Refer to Oil Consumption Diagnosis in Engine Mechanical. Low cylinder compression-Refer to Engine Compression Test in Engine Mechanical. Improper valve timing. Broken or worn valve springs Combustion chambers for excessive carbon buildup-Clean the chambers using top engine cleaner. Follow the instructions on the can. Proper camshaft actuator system operation-Refer to Camshaft Actuator System Description . Incorrect, worn, or damaged basic engine parts-Inspect the following: The camshaft-Refer to Camshafts 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.