Engine is hard starting

DANNYANG24

MEMBER
2006 HYUNDAI MATRIX
122,298 MILES

Hi, when I try to start my car it cranks 1st about 3 seconds before starting. The mechanic have checked and said the battery is good, starter is good and claims that fuel relay is spoilt but the problem still persist. I have also changed battery and workshop to get better opinion. Its taking a toll on me financially.
please help, thanks.

1 Reply

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
109,650 POSTS

Hi,

The most common cause of a delayed first start is fuel pressure drop off. What happens is this. When the engine is turned off along with the fuel pump, pressure drops too fast or too low. Then, when you try to start the engine, there is a slight delay in the pressure rebuilding.

Try this procedure and let me know if it makes a difference.

1) Turn the key from off to the on position (engine off) and count to 5.

2) Turn the key off and repeat step 1 two more times.

3) on the fourth time, see if it starts easily.

____________________________

If it does, then I recommend checking fuel pump pressure along with fuel pressure drop off. Here is a link that explains in general how to check fuel pressure. You will need a pressure gauge, but oftentimes a parts store will lend or rent one to you.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-fuel-system-pressure-and-regulator

Do this and let me know the results or if you have other questions.

Take care,
Joe