My engine is hard starting?

Hello,I'm Danny,

That means that the engine has a code stored in your vehicles computer.You need to have the codes checked to have us properly diagnose your vehicle.If you don't have access to a code reader/scanner your local auto parts stores have a tool loaner program and can rent you one. I've attached a tutorial showing what is involved on how to check codes.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/checking-a-service-engine-soon-or-check-engine-light-on-or-flashing

this guide can help as well

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/engine-cranks-excessively-before-starting

Once you have this done and get back to us with the information (codes) we can help diagnose your vehicle.Hope this helps and thanks for using 2CarPros.
Danny-

Good morning,

Thanks for coming to see us today.
The P0172 and P0175 are both indicating the engine is running too rich on both banks. And are both a symptom and a cause of what else is going on here.
The next code P0445 indicates a "gross" vacuum leak in the Evaporation Emission Control system. And this one is accompanied by the P0446 which is a Evaporative Emission Control System Vent Control Circuit Malfunction.
The final code you gave is the P0420 which indicated the catalytic converter efficiency is below threshold (Bank 1)

So, the first two codes are the result of extra fuel being added to your intake system through the charcoal canister system that is used to store fuel vapors while the vehicle is sitting. The longer you sit, the more it stores which explains the reason why you have hit the accelerator pedal to start it.
See this links below:
Evaporative Emission Control System Vent Control Circuit Malfunction

Since the the code mentioned that it is a gross leak, I suspect that the solenoid that regulates how much fuel vapor gets added to the induction system us stuck open.

Here are some links to explain the system and some fixes:
https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-emission-control-systems-work
https://www.2carpros.com/articles/evap-system-code-repair

The last code deals with the catalytic converter. P0420 means Catalyst System Efficiency Below Threshold (Bank 1).
This is probably because of the rich running that has been going on but can also be caused by:
Running on Leaded fuel (I doubt it)
A damaged or failed oxygen/O2 sensor downstream oxygen sensor (possible)
exhaust leaks.
A weak or degraded catalytic converter (probable).
Retarded spark timing (unlikely).
Leaking fuel injector or too high of fuel pressure .
Misfires.
Engine has been burning oil for a while.

Can you tell me how long (in terms of miles) has this been going on? The longer you run a catalytic converter under bad conditions the change of clogging and degrading their performance increases.

Let me know
Jon

Good morning.

Good video.

The first thing I would do is check the fuel pressure when it is cold and the issue is present. The fuel pump may be draining down overnight and there is no pressure present and the system has to prime.

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

I see the crank sensor is working as the tachometer is showing RPM when it does not start.

The 172,175 codes are for rich running. the 455,456 are evap codes which could be related to the first two codes.

The 420 is a catalytic converter code. You need a catalytic converter.

P0172-175

P0172
Descriptor
Probable Causes
Air Filter
Air Intake System
Crankcase Ventilation System Leak
Engine Oil Condition
Evaporative Emission (EVAP) Canister Cracked
Evaporative Emission (EVAP) Control System
Evaporative Emission (EVAP) Pipes, Lines and Hoses
Exhaust System
Fuel Injector
Fuel Level Low
Fuel Pressure Low
Fuel Quality
Injector O-Rings Vacuum Leak
Intake Manifold Vacuum Leak
Oil Dip Stick Unseated
Throttle Body Assembly
Vacuum Hose/Line
Vacuum Leak

The evap system is part of this possibility.

You need a scan tool that can read live data to monitor the long term trims of the O2 sensors. That will help diagnose the correct failure for this issue.

Roy

Did you check it first thing in the morning when this issue is present?

What was the exact fuel pressure?

Roy

You said you even checked it yourself? Do not understand.

Roy

Okay, I need the exact numbers as fuel pressure is critical in trying to help you.

Roy

If you can without too much trouble go ahead and get the FRP for Roy. But based on what you have going on lets focus on the Evap system.

Regards
Jon

That is the system that does not allow the vapors into the air.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/evap-system-code-repair

If you have no idea, I would take it to a shop and have them do a smoke test to look for any leaks. That would be the easy way to find the issue. Once you have an answer, get back to us so we can further help.

Roy

You are welcome.

We re always glad to help.

Roy

Glad to hear is running good.

I am concerned. Resetting does not fix anything, it just makes the pcm forget the codes and issues. I hope it does not come back but I would prepare yourself for the fact the codes will return.

Roy

Okay, got it. So repairs have been made and will be made to get rid of the 420. 420 has nothing to do with O2 sensors. It is a worn out catalytic converter.

As far as the alcohol, why did it change? Something had to make it change. I disagree with the fact it was flooding. Something change to get to that percentage.

Roy