lanman1219

I have a 2001 accord in which I am experiencing starting problems. 6 months ago I started experiencing a "long cranking" situation were the engine would crank 5 or 6 times before firing when cold. Every once in awhile, it would cough but not fire. I would then have to recrank and then it would take 10-12 turn overs before firing. It would then run like crap for about 5 seconds, then level out. The long cranking has progressively gotten worse in the past month. It is getting cold outside. Today was -15F and I had a real bugger of a time getting it started for work (in garage). Cranked for about 2 minutes on and off until it finally fired. It would turn 4 or 5 times, cough, 4 or 5 times, cough, etc. After sitting outside for 8 hours at work, she just would not start tonight. Killed the battery trying to get her to go. Got a jump and worked on it for another 5 minutes before she started. Warmed it up for 10 minutes and drove home. Noticed that when I got on the gas, the engine would misfire, so much as to throw a flashing CEL. Let off the gas and engine would return to normal and flashing CEL would then change to solid. After car is warmed up, it will start every time after 2 or 3 turnovers. I have already replaced the fuel pressure regulator. Oh and BTW the low fuel indicator light intermittently works. I'm really thinking its the fuel pump, but would like a bit of reassurance. Anyone experience this problem?

goldsy

Similar issue with my CR-V recently and this one seems to be coming up a lot lately as this seems to be the year for ECT sensors malfunctioning and they have a HUGE effect on cold starts. So I suggest that sensor first because it's a cheap replacement part but you can test it first.

I didn't have any misfire issues but I was clearly running lean on startup because the bad sensor was telling the ECU that the engine was warmer than it actually was.

Generally with a fuel pump going bad, the starting issue would make no difference if the engine was warm or cold.