I've had this wagon for about a year now. When I got her, she had a fluctuating idle due to the idle air control valve and the other valve assembly attached to it. I went to a nearby parts yard and took one off an EX coupe, paid $6, and she idles great now. However, cold starting is a problem. Once the car has sat overnight, it takes a few seconds to start. Sometimes if it's below 30F, it will take two tries. However, once the engine is running, the idle is smooth and within range, and warm starts are problem free.

I suspect a leaky fuel injector. I originally thought it was a valve clearance problem, but then wouldn't the idle be off?

Also, when driving over bumps, there is a loud squeaking from the right front wheel. This started to happen after I replaced the balljoints and upper control arms on both sides. I went back and re-tightened all the bolts but it still persists.

Here is a video showing the problems I described. Thank you for any help you can provide.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_6fZBjmNF2Y

 

Did you get the leaky injector fix? As for squeaking, it might be the new bushings of the upper control arms that might need to be greased?

 

I dont get what the first problem is, the car started right up in the vid...

the squeaking sounds like you didnt lube the control arm bushings, spray some white lithium grease on them

 

None of the bushings on this car require grease.

What do the swaybar end links and top shock bushings look like?

My guess is that the shock(s) have seized up

 

Nicefeet is right, there were no zerk fittings anywhere near the control arms. I'll try some white grease and check out the swaybar links when I get a chance.

nus: Are leaky injectors a common problem? Were you suggesting that there is a common fix for this?

Thanks.

 

You may also want to check your spark plugs for the delayed start.

 

Right.....but new ones can make a very loud squeak if overtightened, or just for being new

 

I went to replace the plugs and found all 4 boots soaked in oil. I ordered a new tube seal kit (Amazon, $26 w/free shipping) and will install them and adjust the valves this weekend. This should cure the hard starting when cold.