I've been having some trouble for a while with starting my car, but nothing major - it would struggle to start and then idle somewhat high for the first couple minutes. This struggle to start only happened the first time I'd start it for the day. Any other time, it would start fine.

Today, it is struggling to start - sometimes it would catch, idle somewhat low for a bit and then the engine will stop. I try to rev it after it catches, but the engine doesn't respond to the pedal. Or barely does so. When I pump the pedal, it chugs to the point of almost backfiring, but it still shut down. Any ideas on what's going on with it?

 

Check the ECU for codes,http://techauto.awardspace.com/ecu.html, if none then move on to checking the ignition system, http://techauto.awardspace.com/ignition.html.

Don't pump the pedal when starting a fuel injected car. If you feel the engine is flooded with fuel floor the pedal and then turn the key to start. This will help clear the engine.

 

just sayin, but make sure you have gas..... do you know if your fuel pump is working correctly? you can take a test light to the fuel pump connector, just pop the trunk, lift up all the carpeting untill you see a circular "door" that is on the right side just before ur back seat. just unscrew the three screws. pop the door to the side, unplug the connector, then stick ur test light in each hole one at a time, while one of ur buddies turns the key to the on position. the test light should "stay lit" while on one of the prongs, "i forget the order", light up then turn off on the second, then not light up at all on the third. if you dont see these results then i'd say faulty fuel pump. you could also try replacing ur main relay, which also controls the fuel pump among other things.

 

Tune up items are up to date, correct?