Problems with car starting in the morning when it's cold.
Asked by lynnsadal Jan 13, 2014 at 12:54 AM about the 2002 Nissan Altima 3.5 SE
Question type: Maintenance & Repair
In the morning when the car is cold, I turn the key and the car doesn't want to start. After
turning the key attempting to start the car several times it starts. When the engine is
warm/hot it starts with no problem. What is causing this problem?
3 Answers
The fuel pressure regulator might be the problem. the fuel system should have a higher pressure when cold to help warm the system. after that it is ok until cold again. Ever notice how the engine runs slightly faster when cold then slows down, this is why.
Or you might have moisture in your tank and lines... or if this is a high mileage motor. You could have carbon deposits built up on the pistons and intake valves... the make also cause rough idling. Hesitation when you jump on it. And hard starts... look into some seafoam...
It could be a temp sensor. If the fail safe is 170 and it's a cold start the engine wont get enough fuel. When you try to crank it a few times the temp goes up.
