What Are the Reasons for a Car Requiring Multiple Attempts to Start?
2 Answers
Normally, a car should start with just one ignition attempt. If the car is difficult to start and requires multiple attempts, the possible reasons include: 1. Low concentration of the air-fuel mixture; 2. Poor gasoline atomization; 3. Insufficient ignition energy; 4. Battery issues; 5. Damage or aging of the ignition coil and spark plugs; 6. Dirty throttle, intake, or exhaust; 7. Use of substandard gasoline, etc. The steps to start a car are as follows: 1. Ensure the gear is in the P or N position, as automatic transmission cars cannot start in other positions; 2. Turn the key to the ON position and wait about 10 seconds for the circuit self-test, checking if all indicator lights on the dashboard display normally; 3. If the self-test is normal, proceed to start the engine; 4. Once the RPM drops below 1000, the car can idle, and normal driving can commence once the water temperature rises; 5. When starting the car, first press the foot brake, then shift the gear to D position, and slowly release the foot brake and handbrake.
When I used to drive my old car, I often encountered the issue of needing multiple attempts to start the engine in cold weather. The main reasons were likely the aging or insufficient charge of the battery, especially in winter when low temperatures cause battery performance to degrade quickly, reducing its ability to hold a charge. Worn starter gears could also prevent the engine from turning over, and excessive carbon buildup on the spark plugs could lead to unstable ignition, making it difficult to start on the first compression. Another factor could be an aging fuel pump causing insufficient fuel pressure, unable to keep up with the starting speed. It's advisable to first use a multimeter to check the battery voltage—normally, it should be above 12 volts. If it drops below 11 volts, it's risky, and replacing the battery at a shop can solve the problem. Prolonged neglect can damage fuses or even lead to breakdowns on the road, compromising safety. Don't skimp on those few bucks—fix it early for peace of mind.
