First start

[David Crisford]

Good day Gentlemen,
I'm glad to back in the land of the living. I've been out of it since February with 4 back operations and generally just trying to get my strength back.
On a much better note I'm asking for a little knowledge and a solution.
I bought my 99 Red&Tan in March of 2005 with 37K. It now has 57K.
I've noticed, and it's always been a problem that when I first start it, whether the engine is hot or cold that the first crank, or starting attempt is usually not successful. If I first just crank it for a second and then turn off the key and try again it start right up...........?

Thanks,
David

It is about time to change the timing belt also, isn't it?

[altiain]

Good day Gentlemen,
I'm glad to back in the land of the living. I've been out of it since February with 4 back operations and generally just trying to get my strength back.
On a much better note I'm asking for a little knowledge and a solution.
I bought my 99 Red&Tan in March of 2005 with 37K. It now has 57K.
I've noticed, and it's always been a problem that when I first start it, whether the engine is hot or cold that the first crank, or starting attempt is usually not successful. If I first just crank it for a second and then turn off the key and try again it start right up...........?

Thanks,
David

It is about time to change the timing belt also, isn't it?

Yes, it is. Sounds like you might want to change plugs and wires as well.

[tailchaser]

The starter issue sounds like a fuel pump/filter problem. I'd change the filter to start and see if that helps things. If it doesn't beg/borrow/steal a pressure gauge and see if fuel pressure is in spec when you first turn on the car.

[Treibenschnell]

Welcome back!

[trackdog]

We have seen the same issue on several customers cars and don't know the answer. My guess is perhaps the fuel pressure setup has a sender that tells the ECU it now has ample fuel pressure to start, but is not registering properly. When you turn the key off and back on it see the pressure now and starts. I am guessing a little here, but we have not pursued to find the problem. It is not a fuel delivery issue such as a fuel filter. It is not an issue that is going to strand you on the side of the road.

Hey, if it starts and runs, go drive.

Gary