Tough to get it started - 2002 S40

Caseystuff · Post by **Caseystuff** » 13 Jan 2009, 11:36

I have 116k miles on my S40 (2002) and it has been doing great until about three weeks ago. Usually, the thing starts strong and runs great at all speeds. But that day (and every time I start it since) it cranks OK, but acts like it isn't getting a spark. Finally, it will start, but idle at a very low level and struggle. The plugs were changed about 10,000 miles ago, along with the timing belt. Oil is synthetic and new. I thought maybe it was bad gas and put a gas drying agent in and then an injector cleaner a couple of tanks later. Finally, I thought maybe the battery just wasn't strong enough to crank it fast enough - it was a little weak, so I changed it out - but the same thing is happening. The weird thing is that once started, it runs great and the gas mileage has not changed. Any suggestions out there - PLEEEZ

Post by **MadeInJapan** » 13 Jan 2009, 16:22

Welcome to MVS.
Did you gap your plugs correctly?
Did you use the correct plugs?
Your owners' manual tells you (on page 124) to use Champion RC8PYP or equivalent and to gap them at 0.03" (0.75 mm).

Caseystuff · Post by **Caseystuff** » 13 Jan 2009, 16:38

Thank you. Yes, they are the right plugs and gapped correctly. I don't think it is a fuel problem, but since it takes so long to start, the injectors have been working overtime, and there is a strong odor of gas. But, as I said, once it starts, there is no hesitation and it runs smooth and low and high speeds.

Post by **MadeInJapan** » 13 Jan 2009, 17:00

This is a tough one...have you replaced your fuel filter?

Caseystuff · Post by **Caseystuff** » 14 Jan 2009, 05:24

Thank you. That's the next thing I'm going to try, although it seems like a dirty fuel filter would allow it to start, but would affect the idle and driving performance. I'm off to get a fuel filter and will let you know when it is in.

WernerT4 · Post by **WernerT4** » 23 Jan 2009, 22:41

Before u change ur fuel filter please try this, I suspect it may be ur fuel regulator. Start the car when hot and let it run for approx 20secs, switch it off and take off the fuel regulator feed pipe and suck on it but dont wait to long before sucking on the pipe after u switched the car off, so prepare first. If u get gas in ur mouth its the fuel regulator that is faulty. 98% sure... If it isnt the problem let me know.

Caseystuff · Post by **Caseystuff** » 26 Jan 2009, 06:09

Thank you -- I have been out of town for a few days and just got back. I'll try the fuel regulator test and let you know how that works. Sounds like you are probably right.

Neubygetsdeals · Post by **Neubygetsdeals** » 25 Jun 2009, 14:20

I have the same vehicle but mine is a tank at 205k miles

I have had similar issues...kind of slow to turn over and the strong gas smell. Unfortunately I'm not car-educated, and many of the mechanics I've tried look at my car like it's from another planet! That's why I'm looking to educate myself a bit before I try another mechanic. The last guy told me it was probably an injector issue...and the problem comes and goes- I'm going to try some of the tips above though!