I have owned this car for over a year and has had a problem with mostly starting cold, but sometomes when warm.Also, the starter is cranking the engine over! It can be rainy or dry, doesn't matter. I don't thing it is fuel related cause whenthe problem occurs, it sounds like the timing is way off! It would want to start but thenengine turns backwards for a second, like timing was way off. Then after second or third try, it starts and drives perfect, and would start perfect for the day. Then the problem MIGHToccur again the next day. I have just replaced the plugs ,cap and rotor, wires looked good! I have cleaned the connector for the crank position sensor, no help!Cleaned connectors for the main computer, and ignition computer, no help! I have tried a known working main relay and cleaned connections, still have problem.The timing cannot be adjusted, it is computer controlled. I suspect the computer, but would not this happen all the time??? Also the fuel enrichment may be suspect but that is controlled by computer, and again, would not this happen all the time??? There is no cold start valve onthis car. If this problem sounds familiar to anyone, any input would greatly be appreciated. Thanks.

 

Maybe Mass flow sensor.
Is the check engine light ever on?

 

No check engine light, and a couple of months ago I swapped it with a known good used one. But I did pick up a ignition module today and hopefully it will solve the problem. Thanks, I will keep posting.

 

The new ignition module did not work, I will think of something.

 

I've read your original post several times and I believe you're right about it not being fuel related, nor do I think it's mechanically related because you say when it starts it runs perfect. So my best guess is your crank position sensor. I know you wrote that you cleaned it but something is causing your timing to read improperly if the engine sometimes wants to roll back upon start, and pretty much the only thing that I can think of is the crank position sensor is sending erratic info to the engine computer. If it was mine I would replace it, especially if it's original. Good luck and please report back as to what you find is the problem.

Dale

 

I think the problem is solved!! I changed the crank sensor, (very easy to replace) and have started perfect so far. It has only been a week, but it should have happened by now if it was not fixed. Thanks everyone for all your help!

 

Excellent west and thanks for reporting back. It will come in handy if someone else has this same problem.

Dale