Hesitation starting first time in the Morning?

Tiny
RO83AA
  • MEMBER
  • 2015 HYUNDAI SANTA FE
  • TURBO
  • 2WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 90,000 MILES
Our SUV has been having these hesitations when starting for the first time in the morning or after it has sat for a few hours.
Friday, September 6th, 2024 AT 4:59 PM

7 Replies

Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 109,732 POSTS
Hi,

This could be the result of a few things. For example, there could be a leaking injector allowing fuel pressure to drop off after it sits, it could be ready for a tune up at this point and so on.

Once it starts, do you have any problems? If not, try this and let me know the results.

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

2) Turn the key off and repeat step 1 a total of 4 times.

3) On the 5th try, see if it starts normally.

Try this and let me know the results. Also, let me know if you have replaced spark plugs yet. They are due at approximately 100,000 miles, so we are close if you haven't.

Take care,

Joe
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Friday, September 6th, 2024 AT 8:54 PM
Tiny
RO83AA
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  • 40 POSTS
Sorry, this is a push-button start. So what would be your recommended step? Push the button on without starting the engine 4 times and then on the 5th time start the engine.
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Sunday, September 8th, 2024 AT 8:47 PM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
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Hi,

Yes. With your foot off the brake pedal, push the start button (maybe twice) to put it into the run mode.

Let me know.

Joe
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Monday, September 9th, 2024 AT 7:23 PM
Tiny
RO83AA
  • MEMBER
  • 40 POSTS
Okay, so I did the steps as directed. When I did the normal start, the car hesitated twice and then started.
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Monday, September 16th, 2024 AT 1:16 PM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 109,732 POSTS
Hi,

Was that an improvement or not? If it was, we need to do a leak down test on the fuel system. If it did improve, that tells me cycling the ignition on and off has allowed the pressure to build up again.

Take a look through this link. It explains how to test pressure and fuel pressure drop off.

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

Let me know if that is something you feel comfortable performing. You will need a fuel pressure gauge, but most parts stores will lend one to you. Also, note that this vehicle has two fuel pumps. One is located in the fuel tank and produced a lower pressure. It functions more as a lift pump to get the fuel moving.

Once it makes its way to the engine, it reaches a high-pressure fuel pump. That one will require a special gauge for testing, or it should be done using a scan tool that can communicate with the vehicle.

Let me know.

Joe
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Monday, September 16th, 2024 AT 8:02 PM
Tiny
RO83AA
  • MEMBER
  • 40 POSTS
Yes, it is starting better. Haven't had any hesitation. I might be able to the leak test.
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Wednesday, September 25th, 2024 AT 2:17 PM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 109,732 POSTS
Hi,

That is what I would recommend doing. See if the fuel pump is within the manufacturer's pressure specifications and if it drops pressure too quickly.

I attached the specifications below for you. Note the extreme pressure from the high-pressure pump. You can't use a traditional fuel pressure gauge with that. It should be done with a scan tool.

Let me know.

Joe

See pic below.
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Wednesday, September 25th, 2024 AT 8:16 PM

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